Although best known for its desert landscapes and labyrinthine souks, Morocco is actually home to some of the most stunning mountainous scenery in the world. Those who venture away from the country’s bustling medinas will find dramatic mountain ranges, high snow-covered peaks and lush green valleys. Best of all? Hiking remains a largely unexplored activity by foreigners here, leaving you to enjoy Morocco’s natural landscape all to yourself.
Whether you’re just taking your first hiking steps or you’re a seasoned professional, Morocco’s mountains and valleys have the perfect challenge for you. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with unique historical sites, picturesque villages and incredible panoramic views. Read below to find the 5 best hikes in Morocco.
Jebel Toubkal
Reaching a whopping 4,167m in height, the summit of Jebel Toubkal is North Africa’s highest, making it one of the best hiking adventures in Morocco. Many multi-day hikes start from Imlil (a two-hour drive from Marrakech) and while reasonably fit hikers can ascend Toubkal is just two days, it’s best to take a longer trek to allow your body to acclimate more easily. If you’re looking for a real challenge, the Toubkal Circuit, which takes about a week to complete, is a grueling but rewarding trek. In the winter months, as the trails get covered thick with snow, Toubkal becomes a serious beast requiring specialist gear and skills. But that final view? So worth it!
Ifrane National Park
Known as Morocco’s “Little Switzerland”, this area in the Middle Atlas Mountain range is a favorite skiing destination in the winter. While altitudes here aren’t as high as those in the High Atlas Mountains, the region is filled with hiking trails that are easy to walk and not overly strenuous. Hikers will be rewarded with unique scenery, walking among huge Atlas Cedar forests, and a wealth of birdlife that is unparalleled elsewhere in Morocco.
M’Goun Massif
Morocco’s second highest peak, M’goun Massif offers a great scope for hikers at 4,071m tall in the heart of the High Atlas. Best known for its beautiful gorges and dramatic ridges, this region remains largely unexploited and quite remote making it ideal for hikers looking to explore an essentially untouched area. Trekkers can look forward to walking through (or sometimes wading through) M’Goun Massif’s deep gorges for a memorable, if somewhat chilling, experience! However, keep in mind that, due to its remote location and adverse weather conditions, hiking here is largely restricted during winter months.
Jebel Saghro
A true hidden gem in Morocco, Jebel Saghro is the perfect destination for the less seasoned hikers looking to enjoy Morocco’s wintry landscapes with fewer challenges. Milder temperatures and more level trails make this an excellent alternative to Toubkal’s more strenuous tracks. The views are just as rewarding though: volcanic peaks, ancient kasbahs and deep gorges are just some of the highlights to look forward to.
Rif Mountains
For a more off-the- beaten path experience, skip the popular High Atlas trails and head to the Rif Mountains instead. Here, cedar forests, bird’s eye views of the Mediterranean and lush green landscapes await. Base yourself in Morocco’s blue-washed town of Chefchaouen and your day trip options will be endless. For overnight hiking trips, the Talassemtane National Park is where you’ll want to spend the night. Families will love heading down the Moroccan Blue Pearl trail which can take you through different parts of the mountain range depending on the trek you choose.
If you’re a really novice hiker – you can always walk on one of Morocco’s beautiful beaches!
We love getting outdoors and seeing the natural side of Morocco and think you will too. It is always advisable to do so with a guide who knows the area and terrain. We would be happy to help set up a holiday that includes hiking for you! Give us a call today to start planning.
