Do you intend to travel to Morocco? While there are many things to do in this stunning nation, hiking in the Atlas Mountains is something you should not miss if you’re an avid hiker.
Read More: Trekking in Morocco Atlas Mountains
Not sure where to begin? This tutorial was made specifically for you. We’ll cover the benefits of hiking this mountain range, how to get there, what paths to take, when is the ideal time to go, and other details.
Why Take a Hike in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains?
The Atlas Mountains are a magnificent mountain range that spans Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia in North-Western Africa.
Trekkers from all over the world go to Morocco’s High Atlas region because of its stunning scenery. Mount Toubkal, the highest point in North Africa and one of the greatest mountains to climb in Africa, is located in this region.
Trekking in the High Atlas area ranges from easy strolls through lush valleys and Berber towns to strenuous climbs up Mount Toubkal’s peak.
The Atlas Mountains are a fascinating addition to any hiker’s bucket list because of their diversity and close proximity to the energetic city of Marrakech. It’s an excursion that’s equally rich in culture and breathtaking scenery.
How to Travel to Morocco’s Atlas Mountains
The most popular place to start is by driving 64 kilometers from Marrakech to the town of Imlil. You may rent a car and go at your own speed, or you can hire a private driver.
You may also take a cab; a shared taxi (Grand Taxis) costs around 50 MAD per person, while a private taxi costs about 350 MAD. Grand taxis congregate at designated spots, typically outside bus stops, large plazas, or the edge of the city. Grand Taxis, for instance, are located at Bab Doukkala, close to the medina in Marrakech. However, you may have to wait until the taxi is full with people who are also going in that way.
Although there aren’t any buses that go directly from Sidi Mimoun in Marrakech to Imlil, you may take bus number 35 from Sidi Mimoun in Marrakech to Tahnaout and then take a cab from there to Imlil.
Quick Travel Tip: If at all feasible, have precise change (in local currency) and always agree on the price before setting off. Large expenses can be unchangeable for your driver.
Optimal Time to Trek in the High Atlas Mountains
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco is best done in the spring (March, April, and May) or fall (September and October).
With their warmer temperatures and clearer sky, these seasons provide the best weather for trekking and taking in the breathtaking sights of the Sahara Desert.
Morocco’s lowlands can see summer temperatures reaching as high as 40°C (100+°F), while the High Atlas has average temperatures that are typically 10-15°C lower. It’s still feasible to go trekking in July and August, although it gets more hotter.
For those hoping to climb Toubkal in the winter, the snow-covered High Atlas presents a new obstacle, requiring a basic understanding of winter climbing techniques. Winter runs from November to February.
The Middle Atlas’s rivers are at their fullest in the spring and late fall, although skiers may find good skiing conditions in the High Atlas in January and February.
To escape the busiest travel seasons and to catch beautiful views of the rising sun over Africa, you may also visit the Todra Gorge in the Eastern High Atlas in the spring, summer, or fall.
Location: High Atlas Mountains Accommodation
The Atlas Mountains provide a variety of lodging options, from opulent hideaways to homey cottages. Top hotels in the Ouirgane Valley include the L’Amandier Hotel, which has opulent villas with private balconies, infinity pools, and Egyptian cotton linens.
The mid-range options, such as Kasbah Bab Ourika, provide a panoramic view of the mountains together with a combination of contemporary conveniences and traditional Moroccan décor.
For a more genuine experience, cozy stays in Berber villages are provided by refuges and gite like Tizi Mizik near Imlil, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the traditional way of life. These cozy, community-focused guesthouses are managed by families and provide home-cooked Berber food.
Recap
Our top recommendation if you’re visiting Morocco soon is to schedule a visit to the Atlas Mountains. This area offers a wealth of experiences, including breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments, whether you choose to walk to the summit of Toubkal or simply visit the numerous Berber communities and culture.
Make a reservation with Amazing Tubkal Trek right away to get started! You get everything, including trekking in the Sahara desert region of the Atlas Mountains and mountaineering to high peaks.