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The Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer a wide variety of exciting and cultural things to do. The Atlas Mountains of Morocco are famous for traditional Berber villages, colorful landscapes, and active adventures such as hiking to waterfalls and other trekking opportunities. With so many things to do in the Atlas Mountains, an Atlas Mountains day trip is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Our Atlas Mountains excursion was one of my favorite tours during our visit to Marrakech.
Where are the Atlas Mountains Located?
The Atlas Mountains are part of Morocco’s North African mountain range and are located 60 kilometers south of Marrakech. The mountains in North Africa exceed 4,100 meters, creating an epic place for adventure.
Getting to the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech
Based on the close proximity of Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains, a day trip is easy. Plenty of Atlas Mountains guided tours offer a full day of exploring the Atlas Mountains. You can also hire a private guide or a taxi service to take you to the Atlas Mountains for the day. With breathtaking scenery around every hairpin turn, a day trip to the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech should be on your must-do list.
Exploring the Atlas Mountains in Morocco
A day trip to the Atlas Mountains or even a half-day trip to the Atlas Mountains is worth adding to your Marrakech itinerary to see the North African mountain range, three valleys, and waterfalls. The pure beauty and cultural experiences in the Atlas Mountains will surely be memorable.
Where Should I Stay in the Atlas Mountains?
While a day trip to the Atlas Mountains is a relatively short ride, there are hotels in the Atlas Mountains. For those who prefer luxury accommodations, look no further than Sir Richard Branson’s Atlas Mountains phenomenal retreat – Kasbah Tamadot. The award-winning hotel includes 28 rooms and suites individually decorated to reflect the beautiful natural surroundings. While staying at Kasbah Tamadot, guests can enjoy the spa, take a cooking class, or even play a round of golf! While there are other Atlas Mountains accommodations, if you have the budget, Kasbah Tamadot is the place to stay.
Things to do in the Atlas Mountains
There are so many things to do in the Atlas Mountains. Popular activities include hiking the Atlas Mountains, visiting a Berber village, and skiing the Atlas Mountains in the winter. Regardless of which option you choose, the Atlas Mountains are sure to leave you yearning for more. Here are some of the most popular things to do in the Atlas Mountains.
Atlas Mountains Hiking Adventures
Hiking is one of the best things to do in the Atlas Mountains.
When is the best time to hike the Atlas Mountains?
The best time of year to hike the Atlas Mountains is from April to October because the weather is dry and mild. In the winter, the Atlas Mountains can be covered in snow, roads are closed, and trails can be closed or inaccessible.
Atlas Mountains treks and hikes
You can choose from several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties while trekking in the Atlas Mountains. Popular hiking trails include:
Imlil Valley
This popular valley is located about 60 kilometers from Marrakech at the foot of the highest peak in North Africa – Mount Toubkal. The valley is surrounded by mountains. You can hike or trek through the valley to the Berber villages to learn more about the Berber culture and enjoy a traditional Berber lunch or shop in the local markets. Based on the short drive, a trip to Imlil is an easy day trip from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains and one of the best things to do in the Atlas Mountains.
Toubkal National Park
Trekking in the Atlas Mountains is a bucket list adventure! The Toubkal trek is one of the more famous Atlas Mountains treks. Standing at 4,167 meters tall, Toubkal National Park is the highest peak in North Africa. The hike to the summit takes two to three days and is recommended for experienced hikers. The majestic views from the summit draw hikers from around the world.
Ourika Valley
Located about 30 kilometers from Marrakech, Ourika Valley is another famous valley in the Atlas Mountains and is perfect for a day trip. Ourika Valley is known for its beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking scenery. You can hike to the waterfalls and enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the views of the Atlas Mountains and the valley below.
Hiking the High Atlas Mountains may include trekking across a 10,240-foot pass where hikers can view Mt. M’Goun, North Africa’s third-highest peak. Hikers may also encounter goat and camel herders. However, hiking the high Atlas Mountains is not for the faint of heart. Some places have a gorge with 4,000-foot walls just 10 feet apart!
What should I wear when hiking in the Atlas Mountains?
Bring sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water when hiking the Atlas Mountains. The temperatures can drop significantly at night, so pack warm clothes.
I also recommend hiking pants, a moisture-wicking shirt, and Smartwool socks.
It’s also a good idea to bring lots of water and snacks because finding necessities becomes more difficult the further you go into the Atlas Mountains.
Pro Tip: A local guide to help you navigate the terrain so you don’t have to think about it. A guide can also provide you with local insight into the culture and history of the area.
If you have time, I highly suggest you hike the Atlas Mountains. Hiking in the Atlas Mountains can be a memorable and rewarding experience.
Mule or Camel Riding in the Atlas Mountains
For those who prefer a leisurely pace or little to no exercise, you can ride a mule or a camel. Both are used in the Atlas Mountains to transport people and goods. Exploring the Atlas Mountains by mule or camel is a great way to take in the views without hiking the terrain. A guide can take visitors through the mountains to see some of the most stunning Atlas Mountain views.
Mountain Biking in the Atlas Mountains
Another popular Atlas Mountains day trip is mountain biking. The Atlas Mountains are home to several off-road trails almost made for mountain biking. The uneven, rocky terrain can be technical along steep single and double-track trails with loose and rutted-out trails. For those who love mountain biking, this is one of the coolest things to do in the Atlas Mountains given the varied terrain and the beautiful scenery.
You can join a guided mountain biking tour through the Atlas Mountains, or if you are an excellent navigator and experienced mountain biker, you can rent a mountain bike and explore the mountains on your own. However, a guided tour is recommended for those unfamiliar with the region, as the terrain can be extremely challenging.
We saw people road biking during our Atlas Mountains day trip. They must have been in terrific shape because the mountains are unforgiving.
Visiting Traditional Berber Villages
The Atlas Mountains are home to many traditional Berber villages. A visit to these villages is a wonderful way to learn more about the Berber culture and support their way of life. The Berber people are an indigenous group of North Africa with a deep history and culture that goes back centuries. They often reside in clay houses and live off the land.
Imlil is a popular Berber village located at the foot of Mount Toubkal. The village is surrounded by stunning mountains and is a great place to learn more about the Berber culture. You can visit local markets, explore the village, and enjoy a traditional Berber lunch. A visit to a traditional Berber village is a quintessential thing to do in the Atlas Mountains.
Pro Tip: Remember to be respectful when entering a Berber village. Consider dressing modestly and asking permission before you snap a picture.
Go Skiing in the Atlas Mountains
Atlas Mountains’ winters provide enough snow to make it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The largest ski resort in Africa is Oukaimeden, located about 78 kilometers from Marrakech or about a two-hour drive. The resort is over 3,000 meters (over 9,500 feet) and has several runs for all levels of skiers.
The best time of year to visit Oukaimeden is in January or February when it gets the most amount of consistent snow. However, depending on the weather, people tend to ski Oukaimeden from December through mid-April.
Visitors can rent ski equipment at the mountain but don’t expect high-tech gear.
The ski mountain doesn’t compare to Western ski mountains in terms of groomed runs and variety. However, skiing in the desert where you can take a donkey from one run to another is one of the most unique things to do in the Atlas Mountains.
Pro Tip: Check the road conditions and whether the mountain is open before you leave for your Atlas Mountain ski adventure.
Explore the Waterfalls in the Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains are home to several stunning waterfalls easily accessible to tourists. A visit to a waterfall is one of the most popular things to do in the Atlas Mountains.
Ouzoud Falls
Ouzoud Falls is one of the region’s most popular tourist attractions. A visit to the Ouzoud Falls reveals a 110-meter waterfall over three tiers. The cascades are a popular tourist attraction that can get busy with other tourists looking to experience the views for themselves. Ouzoud is 156 kilometers from Marrakesh, making it a doable day trip.
Ourika Valley
Another one of Morocco’s popular places to see stunning waterfalls is Ourika Valley. The village of Setti Fatma offers day-trippers a relatively short drive (1 hour and 50 minutes or 64 kilometers) to a hike with waterfalls and panoramic views of mountain peaks and rolling hills. Private guides and group trips are available.
You can also stop for a drink and relax in colorful surroundings along the river bank.
Visit Ait Ben Haddou in the Atlas Mountains
Ait Ben Haddou is an ancient, fortified village and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ait-Ben-Haddou is a famous ksar in the Ounila Valley for a preserved example of southern Moroccan architecture highlighting pre-Saharan construction techniques. Ait Ben Haddou is located in the foothills on the southern slopes of the High Atlas in the Province of Ouarzazate.
You may recognize it from the backdrop of several movies and shows, such as “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.”
Visit an Argan Women’s Cooperative
The argan nut is found exclusively in the Moroccan Atlas Mountains. Many day trips to the Atlas Mountains include a stop at a women’s argan collective where women use the argan nut to earn a livelihood. During the tour, visitors will learn about different argan products and the importance of the products to the Berber economy and villages.
Traditionally, Berber women harvest the fruit by hand. Once picked, Berber women manually remove the nut, which is crushed to develop a highly sought-after oil to make a wide variety of cosmetic and edible products.
While at the collective, you will likely see a demonstration and even try to crush the argan nut yourself. I gave it a try. It’s hard work!
After the demonstration, visitors are served a light snack and traditional tea while learning about the Berber culture and the many products available for sale.
Hot air balloon ride in the High Atlas Mountains
For those who want a little adventure, you might enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains. As you soar through the air, you will be treated to views of Morocco’s deserts and the gorgeous Atlas Mountains. Atlas Mountain hot air balloon excursions may include a traditional Berber breakfast or a memorable camel ride.
Things to Bring on an Atlas Mountains Day Trip
It’s important to be prepared when planning a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. A few essential items include a camera, comfortable walking shoes with tread, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket to keep you warm. The temperature drops significantly as you gain elevation. You should bring water and some snacks because purchasing options become fewer and fewer as you climb the Atlas Mountains.
An Atlas Mountains day trip from Marrakech is an experience that will stay with you forever. From the unique visit to a traditional Berber village to the captivating views throughout your journey, there are many things to do in the Atlas Mountains. So, if you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, I highly recommend leaving a day in your itinerary to explore the Atlas Mountains.
If you are looking for other hiking vacations, check out my blog post about hiking in Banff National Park and Sedona, Arizona.
The Atlas Mountains look incredible! Thanks for sharing what to do and where to stay. I’ve heard Morocco is beautiful.
I’ve always wanted to visit Morocco including the Atlas Mountains. Your post inspired me even more! So much to do!
We love hiking so I am sold on the Atlas Mountains. Hiring a local guide that will share about the history and culture of the region as we hike sounds lovely. Definitely saving for later!
The Atlas Mountains sure are stunning. I love waterfalls, so would have to visit them. I would also like to learn more about Berber culture.
I would have never guessed that skiing would be an option!
I had to pull out of a planned multi-day Atlas Mountain Trek years ago and I’ve thought about doing it almost every year since. I was even in Morocco a few years later, but didn’t have time for the side trip.
I’m going back to Morocco next year and after seeing this post, I’ll definitely make time for the Atlas Mountains on that trip!