Trekking is one of the best things Morocco has to offer. In the High Atlas, Middle Atlas and the Anti-Atlas, the country boasts some of the most rewarding mountain ranges in the world, for sheer variety and scenery.
Unlike the Alps or the Pyrenees, these mountains are scarcely changed in a thousand years. The world of the Berber tribes who inhabit these mountains is remote and unaffected by Western influences. Berber shepherds still lead their flock on the mountain side, women gather at the village wells and mule treks carry the villagers’ produce to the local souk.
A number of long-distance Atlas routes can be followed. You can opt for the “Grand Traverse” of the full range at the High Atlas, the Middle Atlas or the Anti-Atlas. However, you’ll find that most people opt for less-strenuous treks.
In the High Atlas, the most popular and promising treks are around Djebel Toubkal – best in spring and autumn, as conditions can be treacherous in winter. Other promising trekking areas include the Western High Atlas, Djebel Sirwa and Djebel Sarho.
In the Anti-Atlas, treks are available in winter in the Tafraoute region.
The Middle Atlas boasts much attractive walking too, in such areas as Taza, Azrou, Kerrouchen and the Djebel Ilbane range.
We will feature each of these areas in more detail in the relevant sections of this guide. Follow the links for more in-depth information about the different trekking routes.