Have you ever dreamed of a Moroccan adventure that veers off the beaten path? One where you trade crowded tourist traps for authentic encounters, mountain springs for Atlantic waves, and medina hustle for pottery-wheel hum?
The journey from Beni Mellal to Safi offers exactly that. It’s a route that connects two of Morocco’s most genuine cities—each with its own personality, charm, and story to tell.
I’ve traveled this road more times than I can count, and let me tell you—it never gets old. The landscape shifts beneath your wheels. The air changes. The pace of life slows down in the best possible way.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about traveling from Beni Mellal to Safi. We’ll cover transport options, hidden gems, where to eat, where to sleep, and all those little tips that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
Ready? Let’s hit the road.
Why Travel from Beni Mellal to Safi?
This isn’t just a transfer—it’s a journey through Morocco’s diverse soul. Here’s why this route deserves a spot on your itinerary.
A Shift in Scenery Like No Other
Starting in Beni Mellal means beginning your journey at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains. You’re surrounded by olive groves, citrus orchards, and the sound of flowing spring water. It’s green, peaceful, and grounded.
As you travel west toward Safi, the landscape gradually opens up. The mountains soften into rolling hills, then flatten into coastal plains. By the time you reach Safi, you’re breathing in salty Atlantic air, watching fishing boats bob in the harbor .
This transition—from mountain freshness to coastal breeze—happens over just a few hours. It’s like experiencing two different Moroccos in one day.
Cultural Contrasts That Fascinate
Beni Mellal feels authentically inland. Its culture revolves around agriculture, mountain traditions, and a slower pace of life. The medina here serves locals first, tourists second .
Safi tells a different story. Its identity is shaped by the sea and centuries of trade. The Portuguese left their mark on its fortifications. The pottery traditions here go back generations, with artisans shaping clay on hillsides overlooking the Atlantic .
Traveling between them, you witness how Morocco’s geography shapes its culture. It’s fascinating stuff.
Fewer Tourists, More Real Moments
Let’s be honest—Marrakech and Fes are incredible, but they can feel overwhelming. The constant hawking, the crowds, the “friendliness” that always leads to a shop.
This route offers refuge from all that. Beni Mellal sees few international visitors. Safi attracts travelers who’ve done their homework . You’ll share streets with locals going about their daily lives, not other tourists comparing Instagram shots.
That’s the kind of travel that stays with you.
Perfect for Slow Travel
The Beni Mellal to Safi route rewards those who take their time. You could rush it in half a day, but why would you?
Stop at mountain viewpoints. Detour to waterfalls. Wander through small towns. Pull over when you see a roadside stall selling fresh olives or warm bread.
This isn’t a journey to tick off—it’s one to savor.
Travel Options & Pricing: Getting from Beni Mellal to Safi
Now for the practical stuff. How exactly do you get from Beni Mellal to Safi? Let me break down your options.
Private Transfer: The Comfort Choice
For most travelers, a private transfer offers the best balance of comfort, flexibility, and value.
Why choose private transfer:
- Door-to-door service from your accommodation
- Flexible departure times
- Ability to stop for photos, snacks, or sightseeing
- Air-conditioned comfort
- No baggage limits or struggles
- English-speaking drivers available
The drive covers approximately 438 kilometers and takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes of pure driving time . With stops factored in, plan for 5-6 hours total.
Vehicle options typically include:
- Economy Sedan: Perfect for solo travelers or couples. Comfortable, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly.
- Family SUV: Ideal for small families or groups of 3-4. Extra space for luggage and legs.
- Minibus: Great for groups of 5-7. Everyone stays together, and there’s room for all the souvenirs.
- Luxury Vehicle: For those special occasions. Travel in style with premium amenities.
Pricing varies based on vehicle choice, season, and booking time. Generally, expect to pay between $190 and $240 for a private transfer .
Book your private transfer from Beni Mellal to Safi here
Bus: The Budget Option
If you’re traveling on a tight budget, buses connect Beni Mellal and Safi—though not directly.
Bus routes and schedules:
Two main operators service this route:
- Tcheks Tour: Departs Beni Mellal at 13:30, arrives Safi at 20:30. Standard AC, $11.01 .
- Tcheks Tour Inter: Departs Beni Mellal at 13:30, arrives Safi at 19:00. Standard AC, $14.37 .
Travel time by bus is approximately 7 hours .
Bus pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable ($11-15) | Only one departure daily |
| Air-conditioned | No flexibility for stops |
| Safe and reliable | Luggage restrictions |
| Fixed schedule | |
| No door-to-door service |
Train + Bus Combo: The Complex Option
For the adventurous traveler, combining train and bus offers another possibility—though it’s more complicated.
Route option:
- Bus from Beni Mellal to Khouribga (1h 40m, $6-9)
- Train from Khouribga to Berrechid (1h 56m, $5-11)
- Train from Berrechid to Ben Guerir (1h 25m, $7-14)
- Train from Ben Guerir to Safi (2h 2m, $7-15)
Total time: 10 hours 14 minutes
Total cost: $26-49
This option involves multiple transfers and coordination. Only recommended if you really love train travel or need to connect from other cities.
Driving Yourself: The Independent Option
Renting a car and driving yourself gives maximum independence.
Drive details:
Considerations for self-drive:
- Roads are generally good
- Navigation is straightforward
- You’ll need an International Driving Permit
- Parking in cities can be challenging
- Watch for speed bumps (they appear suddenly)
My Recommendation
For most travelers, I suggest booking a private transfer. Yes, it costs more than the bus. But the flexibility, comfort, and ability to stop at attractions along the way make it worth every dirham.
Plus, with Sinai Taxi, you get professional drivers who know the route, speak multiple languages, and genuinely care about your experience.
Best Attractions in Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal surprised me the first time I visited. I expected a forgettable transit city. What I found was a place with genuine soul and stunning natural beauty.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.
Ain Asserdoun Spring
This is Beni Mellal’s crown jewel—a natural spring that cascades down from the mountains into beautifully maintained gardens .
The hike up to the spring is part of the experience. Stone steps wind through fragrant trees, with benches perfect for catching your breath and soaking in views over the city. Locals come here to walk, picnic, and escape the afternoon heat .
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Beni Mellal, the surrounding plains, and the edge of the Middle Atlas Mountains. There’s a small café serving mint tea with that view. Don’t rush past it.
Pro tip: Visit late afternoon when the light turns golden and families gather in the gardens below.
Kasbah Ras El Ain
Perched above Ain Asserdoun, this 17th-century fortress was built to protect the vital water source below . Today, it offers incredible views and a glimpse into Morocco’s defensive architecture.
The kasbah itself is modest—thick walls, stone pathways, lookout points. But standing there, looking out over the valley, you understand why this spot mattered. The position is strategic. The views are commanding .
Visit during golden hour for photos that’ll make your friends back home jealous.
Bin El Ouidane Lake
About an hour from Beni Mellal, this turquoise reservoir is stunning. Surrounded by hills and mountains, the lake offers kayaking, boat trips, and lakeside lunches .
The water color is almost unreal—that bright turquoise you associate with tropical islands, not inland Morocco. It’s popular with Moroccan tourists on weekends, so visit mid-week for more tranquility.
Several lodges and eco-retreats dot the shoreline if you want to extend your stay.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
Just under two hours from Beni Mellal, these are among Morocco’s most spectacular waterfalls . Multiple tiers cascade into a lush canyon where you can hike, swim, or take small boats right up to the base.
The falls drop from 110 meters, creating rainbows in the spray. Cliffside cafés serve fresh orange juice with waterfall views. Wild monkeys roam the trails, entertaining visitors with their antics .
Plan a full day here. Bring sturdy shoes, swimwear, and a camera.
Insider tip: The monkeys are wild animals, not performers. Keep your distance and don’t feed them, no matter how cute they look.
Beni Mellal Medina
Unlike the famous medinas of Fes or Marrakech, Beni Mellal’s old town serves locals first . You won’t find tourist trinkets or relentless shopkeepers pulling you into stores.
What you will find: narrow streets lined with tailors, spice shops, open-air produce markets, and cafés where old men sip tea and discuss life. The smells hit you first—olives, fresh bread, mint, grilled meat.
Wander without an agenda. Let curiosity guide you. Stop when something catches your eye. This is medina exploration at its most authentic.
Taghbalout Natural Park
Just outside Beni Mellal, this forested park offers shaded picnic areas and easy walking trails . It’s popular with local families on weekends, peaceful during weekdays.
The park showcases the region’s natural beauty without requiring serious hiking ability. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with a book and a picnic.
Regional Museum of Beni Mellal
Small but informative, this museum showcases artifacts, traditional dress, and exhibits on Amazigh (Berber) heritage . It provides context for the region’s traditions and history.
Entry is free or very low cost. Allow an hour to explore.
Place Al Massira
As evening falls, this square comes alive. Locals gather for ice cream, mint tea, and strolls with friends and family. Street performers add energy without the chaos of bigger cities .
It’s the social heart of Beni Mellal and a lovely spot for people-watching.
Best Restaurants in Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal won’t win awards for fancy dining. What it offers is honest, delicious Moroccan food at prices that’ll make you smile.
Family-Run Tagine Spots
The best meals in Beni Mellal happen in small, family-run restaurants where recipes pass through generations. Look for places with plastic chairs, local clientele, and no English menu.
What to order:
- Chicken with preserved lemon and olives
- Lamb with prunes and almonds
- Vegetable tagine with seasonal produce
These tagines cook slowly, developing deep flavors. The meat falls off the bone. The vegetables melt on your tongue. Served with fresh bread for soaking up every drop of sauce .
Grilled Meat Stalls
As evening approaches, grill smoke rises from street stalls across the city. The aroma is irresistible.
Try:
- Kefta (spiced minced meat)
- Brochettes (skewered meat)
- Merguez (spicy lamb sausages)
Served with bread, grilled tomatoes, and a sprinkling of salt and cumin. Simple. Perfect.
Café Culture
Moroccan cafés offer more than coffee—they’re community living rooms. In Beni Mellal, you’ll find them on every corner.
Don’t miss:
- Mint tea (hot, sweet, poured from height)
- Fresh orange juice (ubiquitous and delicious)
- Almond milk (a local specialty)
- Pastries filled with almond paste
Where Locals Eat
For specific recommendations, ask at your accommodation. Better yet, ask someone in the medina. Beni Mellal residents take pride in their city and happily share food tips.
Pro tip: Look for lunch spots busy with workers. That’s the sign of good food at fair prices.
Best Hotels in Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal offers straightforward accommodation rather than luxury resorts. Think clean, comfortable, and welcoming.
City Center Hotels
Staying in the city center puts you close to the medina, restaurants, and public transport. Several simple hotels offer:
- Clean rooms with private bathrooms
- Air conditioning (essential in summer)
- Breakfast included
- Helpful staff
- Reasonable rates ($40-70 per night)
Near Ain Asserdoun
For a more peaceful setting, consider accommodation near the spring and gardens. These options offer:
- Green views
- Walking access to Ain Asserdoun
- Quieter evenings
- Easy taxi access to the center
Bin El Ouidane Area
If you’re extending your stay to explore the lake, several lodges and eco-retreats offer:
- Lakeside locations
- Kayak and boat rentals
- Restaurant on-site
- Nature immersion
- Higher rates but unique experience
What to Expect
Moroccan hotels outside major tourist cities emphasize function over frills. Don’t expect spa facilities or gourmet restaurants. Do expect:
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Clean rooms
- Hot showers
- Solid breakfasts (bread, jam, coffee, juice)
- Good value
Best Attractions in Safi
After your journey from Beni Mellal, Safi welcomes you with salt air and ocean views. This city has character in spades.
Ksar El Bahr (Portuguese Fortress)
This 16th-century fortress dominates Safi’s coastline, standing guard over the Atlantic like it’s been doing forever . The Portuguese built it during their occupation, and it remains remarkably intact.
Walk along the ramparts for panoramic ocean views. Watch waves crash against ancient stone. Imagine the ships that once arrived at this port, carrying goods and influences from across the sea .
The fortress isn’t polished or curated. It’s worn and real—and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Colline des Potiers (Potter’s Hill)
This is Safi’s soul. On this hillside, artisans shape clay using techniques passed down through generations .
The scene stays with you: potters at wheels, kilns smoking, unfired pots drying in the sun. The scent of earth and smoke hangs in the air. Every piece tells a story.
Visit in the morning when artisans are working and friendlier before the heat sets in. Watch them transform lumps of clay into beautiful objects. Ask questions. Show genuine interest, and they’ll likely share more than you expected.
Don’t miss: Buying directly from the makers. These aren’t souvenirs—they’re pieces of Safi’s living tradition.
National Museum of Ceramics
Housed in another Portuguese fort, this museum showcases Safi’s finest pottery . The collection spans centuries, revealing how techniques and styles evolved while maintaining deep roots in tradition.
The building itself deserves attention—thick walls, arched doorways, strategic windows framing sea views.
Allow an hour here. The museum isn’t huge, but it tells a complete story.
The Medina and Rue du Souq
Safi’s old town winds through narrow streets that open unexpectedly onto squares. Unlike Marrakech’s medina, this one serves local life first .
Rue du Souq runs through it like a lifeline. Stalls sell everything from saffron to sardines. Metalworkers hammer in tiny workshops. Grilled seafood smells drift from street vendors. Old men sip mint tea in cafés, watching time pass .
Get lost here intentionally. Turn down alleys that catch your eye. Follow sounds that intrigue you. The medina rewards curiosity.
The Fishing Port
Safi’s port remains active—one of Morocco’s oldest. Morning brings fishing boats returning with catches, gulls screeching overhead, and the bustle of the fish market .
Watch fishermen mend nets and unload their boats. The work is hard, the rhythms ancient.
For lunch, follow the smell of grilled fish. Simple stalls serve the day’s catch with bread and salad. It doesn’t get fresher than this.
Portuguese Architectural Influence
Throughout Safi, you’ll spot traces of Portuguese occupation—in fortifications, building styles, and the city’s layout. This European-African blend gives Safi a unique character .
Look for it in doorways, window frames, and the way buildings meet the sea.
Best Restaurants in Safi
Safi’s dining scene revolves around the ocean. If you love seafood, you’re in for a treat.
Seafood by the Port
The port area offers the freshest fish in town. Simple grills cook whatever came in that morning.
What to order:
- Grilled sardines (Safi specialty)
- Whole fish (choose what looks good)
- Calamari (tender and fresh)
- Seafood tagine (coastal twist on a classic)
The setting is informal—plastic tables, paper plates, ocean views. The food is unforgettable.
Medina Eateries
Small restaurants tucked into the medina serve traditional Moroccan dishes with local character.
Try:
- Fish tagine with preserved lemon
- Seafood pastilla (savory pie)
- Stuffed sardines
- Harira soup (especially in cooler months)
Rooftop Cafés
Several cafés offer rooftop seating with views over the medina and sea. Perfect for mint tea as the sun sets and the call to prayer echoes across the city.
Street Food
Safi’s streets offer edible adventures:
- Grilled sardine skewers
- Fresh bread from community ovens
- Olives and pickled vegetables
- Moroccan sweets with almond paste
Best Hotels in Safi
Safi isn’t a resort destination. Accommodation here is functional and friendly, with a few charming exceptions.
City Center Hotels
Several hotels in the center offer:
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Walking access to medina and port
- Helpful staff
- Breakfast included
- Rates from $50-80 per night
Riad Options
A few traditional riads have opened in Safi’s medina, offering:
- Authentic Moroccan architecture
- Interior courtyards
- Personalized service
- Character and charm
- Higher rates but unique experience
Coastal Options
For sea views, look for hotels along the coast. These offer:
- Ocean-facing rooms
- Easier access to beaches
- Quieter evenings
- Need for taxis into the center
What to Expect
Safi hotels prioritize comfort over luxury. You’ll find:
- Clean rooms
- Working bathrooms
- Friendly staff
- Simple breakfasts
- Good value
Pro Travel Tips for the Beni Mellal to Safi Route
After multiple trips along this route, I’ve gathered tips that make the journey smoother and more rewarding.
Best Time to Travel
For the journey itself: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal conditions . Temperatures are pleasant for stopping and exploring. The light is beautiful for photos.
Summer brings heat, especially inland. The drive remains doable, but afternoon stops become less appealing. Coastal Safi offers relief with Atlantic breezes.
Winter can bring rain and cooler temperatures. The mountains near Beni Mellal may show snow dustings—beautiful to see, but roads remain passable.
For surfing in Safi: Late autumn offers prime waves. The city’s right-hand point break draws surfers who’ve discovered this secret spot .
Booking Tips
- Book private transfers in advance—especially during peak seasons
- For bus travel, arrive early to secure seats
- Ramadan affects schedules—restaurants close during daylight, and transport fills as people travel for family visits
- Friday mornings bring prayers and some closures
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes for medinas and hills
- Layers—temperatures change with geography and time of day
- Sunscreen and hat—Moroccan sun is strong
- Swimwear for Ouzoud or Bin El Ouidane
- Camera with extra batteries
- Cash in Moroccan dirhams—smaller places don’t take cards
- French phrasebook or app—French helps enormously
Local Customs to Respect
- Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees, especially in older areas
- Ask before photographing people—most will say yes if you ask politely
- Remove shoes entering someone’s home
- Use right hand for eating—left hand has traditional associations
- Ramadan requires discretion—don’t eat, drink, or smoke publicly during daylight
Money Matters
- Cash is king in smaller establishments
- ATMs exist in both cities but carry enough for remote areas
- Bargaining expected in souks—be respectful and keep it friendly
- Tipping appreciated for good service (10% in restaurants, small amounts for helpers)
Language Tips
- Arabic (Darija dialect) is official
- French widely spoken and very helpful
- English less common but growing, especially with younger people
- Learn a few words: Shukran (thank you), Salam alaykum (hello), La shukran (no thank you)
Health and Safety
- Tap water not safe for drinking—stick to bottled
- Street food generally fine—look for busy stalls with high turnover
- Sun protection essential
- Travel insurance recommended
- Safi is generally safe but watch belongings in crowds
- Emergency number: 19 (police), 15 (ambulance)
Photography Tips
- Golden hour (just after sunrise, before sunset) transforms both cities
- Ask permission for people shots
- Potter’s Hill in Safi offers incredible photo opportunities
- Ain Asserdoun at golden hour = magic
- Kasbah views demand wide-angle lenses
Making the Most of Your Journey
- Build in buffer time—Morocco runs on its own schedule
- Stop when something catches your eye—those unplanned moments become favorite memories
- Talk to people—Moroccans are genuinely warm and curious
- Slow down—this route rewards relaxed pacing
- Embrace imperfection—trains might be late, shops might close, and that’s okay
Book Your Beni Mellal to Safi Transfer Today
Ready for this unforgettable journey? Don’t leave your transport to chance.
Why book with Sinai Taxi:
- Professional, licensed drivers
- Modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- Door-to-door service
- Flexible scheduling
- Competitive pricing
- English, French, Arabic, and Spanish speakers available
- Flight monitoring for airport pickups
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours
The road from Beni Mellal to Safi connects mountain freshness with coastal character. It shows you Morocco beyond the postcards—real, raw, and deeply rewarding.
Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls in the Atlas foothills, watching potters shape clay on a Safi hillside, or simply watching the landscape change outside your window—this journey stays with you.
Book your Beni Mellal to Safi private transfer here
Your Moroccan adventure awaits. The mountains are calling. The ocean is waiting. And the road between them holds moments you’ll treasure forever.
