Morocco has a diverse range of mountain ranges, among the world’s most beautiful, and weather that makes hiking possible year-round. Some mountains remain accessible when snow makes the High Atlas impassable. Explore our ideas for treks in Morocco, along with tips to make the most of them.
Where to trek in Morocco?
Mount Toubkal
Climbing Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak (4,167 m), is one of Morocco’s best-known treks. You can set off directly from Imsil, south of Marrakech, for a trek to the summit (just over 60 km), or take a circuit around Toubkal (6 to 10 days, depending on the route). The ascent presents no major technical difficulties, while the help of muleteers and their mules saves considerable physical effort and lets you take in the views. As the altitude only just exceeds 4,000 metres, acute mountain sickness is relatively uncommon. Summer is the best season, when snow and lingering snowfields are absent, though brief, violent thunderstorms can occur. At the summit, sweeping views reward the climb: you can look out over the vast Atlas Mountains and the far south, and see the summit above Oukaïmeden ski resort.
The M’Goun massif
Also in the High Atlas, Ighil M’Goun is Toubkal’s smaller sibling, reaching 4,071 m. Its glacier-free ascent is within reach of many experienced hikers. Three- to six-day treks around the mountain take in remarkably varied landscapes, from arid gorges to lush valleys.
The Rif Mountains
In northern Morocco, near the Mediterranean, the Rif range contains the country’s lowest mountains. They are ideal in spring and can also be explored in midwinter. Lush oak forests and slopes covered in wildflowers dot the landscape. A few days’ trekking through Talassemtane National Park is a delight, with Berber villages and the spectacular God’s Bridge rock formation to discover along the way — welcome rewards for your walking efforts.
Mount Sarhro
Mount Sarhro lies between the High Atlas and the Dadès Valley. Its arid landscapes are vast and striking. Numerous four- to seven-day treks are organised here, offering particularly pleasant terrain to explore in winter.
The Anti-Atlas
The Anti-Atlas is Morocco’s last mountain range before the Sahara. Still relatively quiet, it offers varied treks for seasoned hikers. You could spend a week climbing the volcanic peak of Mount Siroua or take a five-day trek through the villages of the Ammeln Valley to Mount L’Kest. Walking in the Anti-Atlas offers an authentic experience and a complete change of scenery.
Hiking maps for treks in Morocco
Morocco’s topographic maps are generally at a scale of 1:100,000 and sometimes 1:50,000.
The Cartography Department in Rabat is the best place to buy maps in Morocco. The ANFCC (National Agency for Land Conservation, Cadastre and Cartography) website lists all the maps available for purchase (https://www.ancfcc.gov.ma). You can also find many maps for sale through the usual online retailers.
Clothing for treks in Morocco
Summer or winter, you will need sturdy, well-worn-in hiking boots and a waterproof windproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly. A lightweight, packable jacket is one option. Whatever the season, bring a hat, high-factor sunscreen and good, wraparound sunglasses.
In summer (June to August), loose, lightweight trousers and long-sleeved shirts are best. Nights can be cool even at low altitude, so a fleece or warm sweatshirt is advisable.
In winter (November to March), warm clothing, a wool beanie and gloves are essential in the High Atlas. Be prepared for very low temperatures wherever you hike in the country, especially at night. The Rif range has milder temperatures in midwinter thanks to its proximity to the Mediterranean, but beware of the wind chill in strong winds.
Guides for treks in Morocco
For hiking in Morocco, it is essential to use a guide. Bear in mind that a multilingual self-styled guide you meet in Marrakech may not have the same expertise as a local guide who knows your hiking area inside out.
Official guides carry a photo ID card. Your guide should be accredited by the Royal Moroccan Ski and Mountain Federation or Morocco’s National Association of Mountain Guides and Leaders. They must hold mountain guide status, gained after six months’ training at the Mountain Professions Training Centre in Tabant, in the Aït Bouguemez Valley. Do not confuse a mountain guide with a tourist guide: they have different skills and expertise.
If you book through a tour operator, they will provide your guide. Otherwise, you will need to find one yourself, particularly through Morocco’s National Association of Mountain Guides and Leaders.
If a guide is reluctant to show you their official licence, they probably do not have one or it has expired (it must be renewed every three years).
In short, Morocco offers many trekking options, with a wide variety of landscapes and atmospheres. Even with tourism currently a little quieter, the country still offers good conditions for safety and hospitality to long-distance trekkers.
