Abaynou Hot Springs Near Guelmim, Morocco
The hot springs near Guelmim are at Abaynou, an oasis village about 15 kilometres from the city. Guelmim, often called the Gateway to the Desert, is the capital of the Guelmim-Oued Noun region in southern Morocco.
Quick facts
- Location: Abaynou rural commune, about 15 to 16 km from Guelmim
- Water temperature: about 38 to 40°C, according to different sources
- Facilities: thermal pools, hotels and campsites
- Region: Guelmim-Oued Noun
- Another spring in the region: Lalla Mellouka, about 113 km away towards Tata
About the springs
For a long time the thermal site at Abaynou was run in a simple, traditional way. Thermal pools, hotels and campsites have since grown up around it, and the oasis is the first stop for many travellers passing through the region.
The water is reputed locally to help with skin and rheumatic conditions. A Moroccan travel writer reports that the Moroccan Health Department has tested its mineral content, which includes calcium, sodium, magnesium, chloride, potassium and sulphate.
Planned upgrades
In July 2026 the Guelmim-Oued Noun regional council launched a 480,000 dirham contract for technical studies and supervision of a planned wellness centre and mid-range hotel at the site, as part of a plan to make Abaynou one of the region’s main wellness destinations. Expect building work or changes at the site in the coming years.
Other hot springs in the region
Aïn Lalla Mellouka, in the Aday rural commune about 113 km from Guelmim towards Tata, is the other thermal spring in the area. Like Abaynou, its water is locally valued for skin and rheumatic conditions.
Tips for visiting
- Bathing arrangements vary. One traveller reported in 2017 that entry for Europeans was after 7pm and that couples could use the same pool. Ask on site about current times.
- Guelmim is not on Morocco’s rail network, so plan to arrive by road.
- Combine a visit with Plage Blanche, a long, largely undeveloped beach on the coast nearby.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against the sources below in November 2026. Opening hours, prices and access change, so confirm with the operator or local authority before you travel.
- Guelmim-Oued Noun launches project for the Abaynou baths (Médias24, July 2026)
- Les sources thermales d’Abaynou au coeur d’un projet de modernisation (TelQuel)
- Itinerary from Guelmim: the hot springs of Abaynou (Portail Sud Maroc)
- Top 5 therapy destinations and thermal spots in Morocco
- Berber hospitality in Bouizakarne (OurTour)
- Guelmim travel guide (Kupi)
