Morocco is fortunate to have a diverse range of mountain massifs among the most beautiful in the world, and a climate that is ideal for hiking year-round. Indeed, some mountains remain accessible when the High Atlas is impassable due to snow. Join us as we explore trekking ideas in Morocco and share tips on how to make the most of them.
Where to trek in Morocco?
Djebel Toubkal
The ascent of Djebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa (4,167 m), is one of Morocco's flagship treks: you can set off directly from Imsil, south of Marrakech, for a direct trek to the summit (just over 60 km), or do a circuit around Toubkal (6 to 10 days depending on the route chosen). The ascent presents no major technical difficulties, and the assistance of muleteers and their mules spares considerable physical effort, allowing you to fully take in the panorama. Moreover, as the altitude barely exceeds 4,000 metres, acute mountain sickness is rarely a problem. Summer is the most favourable season as snow and snowfields are absent, although brief but violent storms can occur. From the summit, a sweeping panorama rewards the effort — vast expanses of the Atlas and the deep south stretch out before you, and the peak of the Oukaïmden ski station is also visible.
The M'Goun Massif
Still in the High Atlas, Ighil M'Goun is Toubkal's lesser-known sibling, peaking at 4,071 m and offering a glacier-free ascent that is well within reach for many hikers with a solid level of fitness. Treks of 3 to 6 days are organised around this summit and deliver landscapes of incredible diversity, moving from arid gorges to lush valleys.
The Rif Range
In northern Morocco, close to the Mediterranean, the Rif range comprises the country's lowest mountains — ideal in spring but also walkable in the depths of winter. Lush oak forests and slopes covered in wildflowers dot the landscape. A multi-day trek through the Talassemtane National Park is a real gem: from Berber villages to the spectacular rock formation of the Bridge of God, moments of pure joy are guaranteed after the effort of the walk.
Djebel Sarhro
Djebel Sarhro sits between the High Atlas and the Dadès valley. The landscapes here are arid yet grand and majestic. Many treks of 4 to 7 days are organised there, offering a particularly rewarding terrain for exploration in winter.
The Anti-Atlas
The Anti-Atlas is the last Moroccan mountain range before the Sahara. Still a relatively off-the-beaten-track massif, it offers a variety of treks for experienced hikers. You can spend a week climbing the volcanic peak of Djebel Siroua or do a 5-day trek through the villages of the Ammeln valley to Djebel L'Kest. The Anti-Atlas delivers genuine authenticity underfoot and a total change of scenery — guaranteed.
Hiking maps for treks in Morocco
Topographic maps of Morocco are generally produced at a scale of 1:100,000 and sometimes 1:50,000.
The Direction de la Cartographie in Rabat is the best place to buy maps in Morocco: the ANFCC website (Agence nationale de la conservation foncière, du cadastre et de la cartographie) lists all maps available for purchase (https://www.ancfcc.gov.ma). Many maps can also be found for sale online through the usual retail sites.
Clothing for treks in Morocco
Summer or winter, you'll need sturdy hiking shoes that are already broken in, and a waterproof windproof jacket, as the weather can change very quickly. Go for a lightweight, packable option. Whatever the season, always pack a hat, a high-SPF sun cream and a good pair of wraparound sunglasses.
In summer (June to August), loose, lightweight trousers and long-sleeved shirts are best. As nights can be cool even at low altitude, a fleece or warm sweatshirt is recommended.
In winter (November to March), warm clothing, a wool beanie and gloves will be essential in the High Atlas. Be prepared for very low temperatures wherever you go hiking in the country, and especially at night. The Rif range does offer milder temperatures in the depths of winter thanks to its proximity to the Mediterranean, but beware of wind chill in strong winds.
Trekking guides in Morocco
For hiking in Morocco, using the services of a guide is essential. Bear in mind that a self-styled multilingual guide you meet in Marrakech will not have the same expertise as a guide from the region who knows your hiking area inside out.
Official guides carry an official photo ID card. Your guide must be accredited by the Fédération royale marocaine de ski et montagne or the Association nationale des guides et accompagnateurs en montagne du Maroc. They must hold the status of "mountain guide", obtained after six months of training at the Centre de formation aux métiers de montagne, a school based in Tabant, in the Aït Bouguemez valley. Do not confuse a "mountain guide" with a "tourist guide": they do not have the same skills and expertise.
If you book through a tour operator, your guide will be provided by them; otherwise it is up to you to find one, in particular through the Association nationale des guides et accompagnateurs en montagne du Maroc.
If a guide is reluctant to show you their official card, it probably means they don't have one or that it has expired (it is renewed every three years).
In conclusion, Morocco offers a wealth of trekking possibilities with a remarkable diversity of landscapes and atmospheres. And even today, when tourism there has slowed somewhat, the country still provides excellent conditions in terms of safety and hospitality for long-distance walkers.
