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Hiking the High Atlas Mountains, A Village Delight
15/05/07 11:40
Morocco’s High
Atlas Mountains are the highest of
the ranges that begins near the
Atlantic Ocean and stretch all the way
to Algeria. They serve as a natural
barrier keeping the Sahara
Desert from infiltrating
completely over Morocco. These
mountains also serve as a weather
barrier. The high peaks of the High
Atlas range keep clouds on the
Moroccan side, resulting in the ample
rainfall necessary to give the
mountains lush green valleys and
enough snow in the winter for winter
sports. Snow in the High Atlas lasts
well into spring. Many untapped
mineral resources of gold, silver,
lead, zinc, iron, manganese, antimony,
phosphates and petroleum are waiting
to be discovered. The High Atlas
Mountains are home to several million
people, mostly Berbers.
Mount
Jebel Toubkal, or Jebel Toubkal,
is the highest peak in the High Atlas
Mountains. With a summit at 4176
meters above sea level, it is the
highest mountain in North Africa.
Different trails will take hikers to
the top. While the summit of the
mountain is not considered attractive,
the views of the sunrise from the top
are spectacular. Views of Jebels
Saghro and Siroua are decent, too. The
mountain and its park are great for
birdwatchers, especially February
through May.
Setting in Mount Toubkal National Park is the village of Imlil, an attractive village with houses unevenly placed and many trees lining the hillsides. It is a busy and colorful place. Located nearly 2000 meters above sea level, it is a good place to begin a trek in the High Atlas Mountains. From Imlil, you’ll be able to walk up to Armed, another Berber village in the area where the trekking really begins. Armed is unique in its layout. Its houses seem to be built one on top of another among walnut and almond trees overlooking ancient terraced fields for barley, vegetables and other crops.
Armed has the distinction of being the highest permanent settlement in the valley.
Written by: Carole Morris
Provided by: Morocco Tours by Journey Beyond Travel
Setting in Mount Toubkal National Park is the village of Imlil, an attractive village with houses unevenly placed and many trees lining the hillsides. It is a busy and colorful place. Located nearly 2000 meters above sea level, it is a good place to begin a trek in the High Atlas Mountains. From Imlil, you’ll be able to walk up to Armed, another Berber village in the area where the trekking really begins. Armed is unique in its layout. Its houses seem to be built one on top of another among walnut and almond trees overlooking ancient terraced fields for barley, vegetables and other crops.
Armed has the distinction of being the highest permanent settlement in the valley.
Written by: Carole Morris
Provided by: Morocco Tours by Journey Beyond Travel
