Nador

The Marchica lagoon and the gateway to eastern Morocco

Nador lies on the Marchica lagoon, the largest on Morocco's Mediterranean coast, separated from the sea by a long sand bar. The lagoon is the focus of a major development programme, with a rebuilt seafront and leisure areas. Around it, Mount Gourougou, Cape Three Forks and the coastal beaches fill two or three days before you continue east to Saïdia or west to Al Hoceima.

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best season: May – Oct
Budget per day: from 300 MAD
Region: Mediterranean coast
Travel style: Nature, Family, Summer, Budget
Best for: Travellers exploring eastern Morocco, family stays, a stop on the way to Saïdia or Al Hoceima

Why go

The Marchica lagoon, its birdlife and its seafront
Little-visited coastal scenery such as Cape Three Forks
An airport and a train station that make it a good gateway to eastern Morocco

Lagoon & nature

Marchica lagoon
Walks along the seafront, birdwatching and seasonal water sports.
Mount Gourougou
A forested mountain above town with views over the lagoon and the sea.
Cape Three Forks
A wild headland and lighthouse north of the peninsula; narrow road, car recommended.

Beaches

Marchica sand bar
Sandy beaches on the sea side of the bar that closes the lagoon.
Charrana (Kariat Arekmane)
A family beach east of the lagoon.

On the map

Food

Fish and seafood from the lagoon and the Mediterranean, and Rif home cooking.

Where to stay

Nador seafront
City hotels close to the lagoon.
Lagoon shores
Newer accommodation linked to the Marchica developments.

Getting around

Nador-Al Aroui airport. Nador station is connected to the ONCF network via Taourirt. By road, Saïdia lies to the east and Al Hoceima to the west along the Mediterranean coast road.