Al Hoceima National ParkAbout Al Hoceima National Park
Al Hoceima National Park is a protected coastal and marine area on Morocco’s Mediterranean north coast, established to conserve local marine and coastal ecosystems. It lies in the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region near the city of Al Hoceima.
The park contains rocky headlands, small sandy coves and offshore islets that support coastal flora and marine life; coastal trails and short sea crossings provide access to snorkeling and diving spots. Beachside villages and viewpoints along the coastal road are common starting points for excursions.
The area was designated a national park by Moroccan authorities to protect Mediterranean coastal habitats and maritime biodiversity. Protection measures focus on habitats and species characteristic of the Rif coastline.
The park sits immediately north of the city of Al Hoceima on Morocco’s Mediterranean shoreline, occupying coastal and nearshore waters and rocky promontories in the Rif mountains. The nearest urban center is Al Hoceima, with access by road and boat from the town.
- Access: Boat trips from Al Hoceima town give the easiest access to the park’s coastal islets and are the main way to reach good snorkeling and diving sites.
- Best season: Best time for sea activities and calmer weather is late spring through early autumn, when Mediterranean waters are warmest.
Best Time to Visit Al Hoceima National Park
Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and wildlife watching; summer is best for sea activities but can be busier.
Weather & Climate near Al Hoceima National Park
Al Hoceima National Park's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with warm summers (peaking in August) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 6°C to 30°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Good | 6° - 15° | 10° | 56 mm | partly cloudy | 79% | 3.8 m/s | 0.4 low | 9.9h |
| February | Very Good | 7° - 16° | 11° | 54 mm | partly cloudy | 77% | 4.0 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 10.8h |
| March | Very Good | 8° - 18° | 13° | 59 mm | partly cloudy | 73% | 4.7 m/s | 1.1 high | 11.8h |
| April | Very Good | 11° - 20° | 15° | 50 mm | partly cloudy | 71% | 4.3 m/s | 1.5 high | 13.0h |
| May | Excellent | 13° - 23° | 18° | 31 mm | some cloud | 65% | 3.8 m/s | 1.8 very high | 13.9h |
| June | Ideal | 16° - 26° | 21° | 9 mm | mostly sunny | 55% | 3.6 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 14.4h |
| July | Ideal | 18° - 30° | 24° | 1 mm | mostly sunny | 43% | 3.6 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 14.1h |
| August | Ideal | 19° - 30° | 24° | 3 mm | mostly sunny | 44% | 3.6 m/s | 1.9 very high | 13.3h |
| September | Ideal | 17° - 27° | 22° | 11 mm | some cloud | 58% | 3.8 m/s | 1.4 high | 12.3h |
| October | Excellent | 13° - 22° | 18° | 22 mm | partly cloudy | 67% | 3.7 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 11.2h |
| November | Very Good | 10° - 18° | 14° | 34 mm | partly cloudy | 76% | 3.7 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 10.2h |
| December | Very Good | 7° - 16° | 12° | 55 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 3.5 m/s | 0.4 low | 9.7h |
How to Get to Al Hoceima National Park
Al Hoceima National Park is centered around the city of Al Hoceima on Morocco’s northern coast. Regional buses and private cars connect Al Hoceima with larger cities like Tetouan and Nador; from the city, local roads and trails give access to park sites.
Tips for Visiting Al Hoceima National Park
- If planning marine wildlife watching, coordinate with local guides who can point to seasonal cetacean and seabird hotspots.
- Visit the park's coastal trails for views of dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean‑Atlantic mixing waters.
- Respect protected zones-some stretches are marine reserves with restricted fishing and anchoring.