Location
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The reservoir lake of Bin el Ouidane, about 150 Km east of Marrakech in the Atlas mountains is known for it’s big carp fishing but also a great get-a-way from summer heat in a mountainous scenery. But not only that, the lake is the biggest reservoir in Morocco and essential for the agricultural sector and electricity supply east of Marrakech.
Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake in the Atlas mountains in Morocco
The reservoir lake of Bin el Ouidane sits at approximately 750 meters in the Middle Atlas mountains in Morocco. To reach the lake one has to cross 1300 / 1400 meter mountain passes, which in winter time can be closed due to snowfall. Even in May it can be shivering cold up there, which is quite a change from the hot soaring plane of Marrakech.
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| Bin el Ouidane reservoir and carp fishing paradise near Marrakesh in morocco |
Approach to Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake
The quickest, steepest and also highest ascent to the Bin el Ouidane lake goes from the power station located in Afourer. It’s a scenic route with a magnificent view over the flat agricultural valley east of Marrakech. A slower and less steep ascent is possible from Marrakech over Kehmis Mahjden from Marrakech.
The scene at Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake
Tourism hasn’t started off on a mass scale in this area. There are a few hotels at the lake but most of the lake area is still pretty much unspoiled. The Bin el Ouidane reservoir dam and power station, built by the French, is a strategic military object and can’t be photographed or be park at, even in 2010.
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| Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake near Marakesh in Morocco |
The reservoir dam is the largest hydro electricity dam in Morocco. Construction was completed in 1953. Near the dam there are 2 single track tunnels with 5.5 meter height clearance.
Carp Fishing at Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake
Bin el Ouidane lake is know for it’s huge carps. It’s possible to book facilitated fishing trips to this area, with gear and everything you need to stay at the lake for several days.
Though during summer (holiday) season the lake area is quite popular with Moroccans as well.
Have a look at the biggest reservoir lake in Europe - the Alqueva reservoir
Camping at at Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake
The lake has 1 official campsite “Camping Du Lac” just behind the impressive reservoir dam in a narrow gorge. Also near Hotel Chems Bin el Ouidane there is limited and tight parking (4-5 camper vans) on the grounds of a private owner.
In 2010 water level at Bin el Ouidane reservoir lake was at it’s maximum due to excessive rainfall in January. The yellow pin shows the water line in 2010 compared to 2008 levels.
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| Bin el Ouidane reservoir 2010 water line (pushpin) compared to 2008 water level. |
For those with 4x4’s it’s possible to camp at the lake at location N32° 06' 48.06” W06° 24' 11.59”. This spot is a public place and also material depot for a electricity company with 1 depot manager on site. The dirt road descents from the asphalt road to the lake. There’s 1 asphalt road also, though it’s private property.
In summer the track is doable with 2x4’s as well – though not for vehicles with little ground clearance or large rear overhang . The red clay ground can get very slippery when it’s raining. Walking the road will get you sticky red clay plateau soles.
Looking for tradition in Morocco?
Have a look at:
- Traditional Moroccan organic argan oil
- Ceramic Pottery store and factory in Fes
- Tiznit, traditional berber jewelry town
- Handicraft center Ensemble Artisanal in Marrakech.
