High Atlas Mountains
Off the beaten path are Barbary Monkeys, endangered bird species, and rare glimpses of the black panther keep legends alive. The lush forests await anyone who is willing to take a chance on something a little different from a “normal” vacation. A Morocco holiday will be different than any other place many travelers have ever been.
Morocco can be about sandy beaches, sun, and fun. Or, it can be about trekking the High Atlas Mountains to the tallest peaks and massifs of Northern Africa. The Jbel Toubkal is the highest summit of Morocco, reachable only by two to three day trek well into the mountain range. A hike such as the Jbel Toubkal requires stamina and grit. It is not for everyone. In fact, it is also not available all year round.
If you are vacationing during the winter months of Morocco you still have plenty of trekking Morocco experiences to enjoy. The Ourigane and Tin Mal Mosque is just one example of experiencing more of Morocco than a trek through the mountains can provide.
The Tin Mal Mosque dates back to the 12th century. Its history is rich, and one of importance for the people of Morocco. Furthermore, it is open to the public to share in a heritage landmark. While there are certain dates the mosque will be closed to the public you are still allowed to venture near its outside to see the architecture.
This Morocco tour will take you on a drive for five hours round trip, with two and a half hours of trekking. You will begin at Marigha. It translates into the Salty Place. It is known for the salt mining industry which supports some parts and villages of Morocco.
From Marigha you will travel to Ourigane near where a new dam has been built. You can walk along the dam watching the waters flow into the area from the High Atlas Mountains rising above you. After driving to Ijoukak you will trek to the villages of Ait Berihi and Imawnan.
Your tour will take you to the Tin Mal Mosque just before lunch, where you will have a meal with a Berber family. They will welcome you into their home sharing their cuisine. Once lunch has been attended to the tour picks up again to help you travel to N’Fiss Valley. The valley is well known for its gorges. They are spectacular due to the vibrant colors of the surrounding land. The red clay earth intermixed with the green of the forests is welcoming. The end of the tour brings you back to Marrakesh, where you can relax and meet friends for a dinner at the famous Jma El Fna square.
By Sam Mitchell
