Best of Morocco's Atlas Mountains

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Atlas Mountains

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Atlas Mountains Essentials

Morocco's traditional hammams offer relaxing treatments within stunning, distinctive historic buildings

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Morocco

Morocco can offer newlyweds one of the most unique honeymoon experiences on earth, thanks to this country's distinct culture that sets it apart from any other destination in Africa or Europe. Take your pick from beautiful ancient cities, 1550 mi/2500 km of coast, lonesome mountains and storybook desert. Stroll the streets where one of the world's most romantic movies, Casablanca, was set, let things get steamy in historic hammams, discover an entire valley dedicated to cultivating roses, soak up the 300 days of annual sunshine on the beach or roam the highest dunes of the Sahara by camel. Here are the most romantic destinations in Morocco, and the best things to do in each.

Unique Cultural Experiences in Morocco

Morocco's distinct and authentic culture (unchanged in many ways) is perhaps the primary reason to explore the country. You'll find traditional villages that still live today as they have throughout history. Cities like Casablanca and Chefchaouen lift the veil and let you see the way locals live day-to-day. Visit small towns and Berber villages in the mountains, peruse artisan collectives, and get off the beaten path to discover Morocco's incredible countryside.

Top Active Experiences in Morocco

Morocco is an ideal destination for active travelers and adventure seekers, offering unique experiences, like kitesurfing in Essaouira, riding horses through the desert, climbing Northern Africa's tallest peak, and carp fishing alongside the locals. With diverse outdoor environments, you'll find nearly every activity in Morocco. From the top of the Atlas Mountains to the bottom of river gorges and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, the country is an ideal location for adventures!

View of the famous tanneries in Fes, Morocco

Best Things to Do in Fes

Fes is home to the world's largest Old Town, meaning there's plenty to keep you entertained in this historical city! You'll find a maze of energetic streets twisting through the medina, filled with shops, architecture, and unique workshops, like brass etching and bookbinding. But one of Fes' highlights is its surroundings, which offers several cultural day trips, like a Jewish heritage tour in Sefrou or visits to Berber villages in the mountains. Additionally, Fes is home to several music festivals each year, including the famed Sacred Music Festival in July.

Top Family Experiences in Morocco

Morocco is an exciting destination for families, with endless excursions in nature, days at the beach, cultural activities, and more! Kids and parents alike love wandering the bustling medinas, searching for spice towers and wooden keepsakes, or spending the day walking through the Atlas Mountains and chatting with local families. Embrace experiences for all ages by riding horses or camels through the desert, discovering waterfalls and natural pools, and tasting delicious Moroccan cuisine.

Atlas Mountains Itineraries

Hiking Morocco's Mount Toubkal

Located in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, the summit of Mt. Toubkal presents a worthy challenge. The climb takes two to three days, and you'll be rewarded with views of the ruggedly beautiful terrain. Whether you're an experienced high-altitude hiker or prefer a more leisurely trek to the summit, choose the itinerary that works best for you.

A Berber woman in the mountains of Morocco

Volunteering in Morocco: Marrakesh & the Atlas Mountains - 6 Days

On this brisk six-day excursion through Morocco, you'll not only visit highlights like the bazaars of Marrakesh and the villages of the Atlas mountains, but you'll do so while volunteering. Working with NGOs and non-profits throughout this trip is a great way to give back while also enjoying the adventure of a lifetime in one of Africa's most exotic, diverse, and culturally distinct countries.

Luxury Marrakech & Atlas Mountains - 7 Days

Explore Marrakech and the surrounding Atlas Mountains in this week-long itinerary. Spend four days exploring ornate palaces, winding medina alleys, and the vibrant Jemaa El-Fna market. Continue into the High Atlas Mountains to visit ancient Berber villages, breath crisp mountain air, and relax at the luxurious Kasbah Tamadot.

Family Trip to Morocco: Marrakesh, Imlil & Agafay - 7 Days

Discover the best of Morocco on this family-friendly highlights tour that whisks you from dazzling Marrakesh to the peaks of the Atlas mountains and an unforgettable night beneath the stars in the Agafay Desert. Along the way, you'll cook Moroccan cuisine with the family, create your own mosaics, and take a hot air balloon ride over Marrakesh. As you and the kids ride camels across the desert sands and experience Berber hospitality firsthand, you'll come away with memories to last a lifetime.

Moroccan mint tea set on the table in the Agafay desert, Marrakesh

Marrakesh, Imlil & Agafay: Best Itinerary Ideas

Five to eight days is a great length for a Morocco trip, with stops in Marrakesh, Imlil, and Agafay. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in four days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favored itinerary extensions include Essaouira or Fes. Get inspired with kimkim's Marrakesh, Imlil, and Agafay trip ideas below.

Medina entrance tower and old city walls in Essaouira, Morocco

Explore Marrakech, Atlas Hiking & the Coast - 5 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this quick 5-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakech, hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, share a meal with a local Berber family, and explore centuries-old seafront fortifications.

Typical intricate Moroccan tile artwork; a fountain in Rabat, near the Hassan Tower and Mohamed V Mausoleum

A Taste of Morocco: Marrakesh, Atlas Mountains & Desert Glamping - 5 Days

This five-day Moroccan journey combines the best of buzzing Marrakesh with the quiet of the High Atlas mountains and the Agafay desert. Start in the city with a culinary tour, traditional hammam spa, and guided tour before heading out to the breathtaking Atlas mountains. Explore Berber villages, hike peaceful mountain valleys, and join a local family for lunch. Ride camels and ATVs in the rugged Agafay desert, and spend the night under the starlit sky.

Experience the quiet of the barren Agafay Desert at a luxury camp

Morocco Luxury Escape: Marrakesh, Imlil, Agafay & Essaouira - 10 Days

Luxury knows no bounds with this opulent 10-day Moroccan escapade. This curated journey embraces the buzz of Marrakesh before winding through the High Atlas to Imlil. Embrace the peace of the mountains before descending to the surreal Agafay Desert. Finally, escape to the coast at Essaouira, where fresh sea breezes and a cooking class await. Throughout the voyage, you'll stay at 5-star hotels and riads and enjoy exclusive tours, workshops, and experiences.

Jemaa el-Fnaa square and market place at dusk

Explore Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains & Essaouira - 6 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this six-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakesh, including hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, learn about traditional cuisine, and share a meal with a local Berber family. Explore centuries-old seafront fortifications and visit an argan tree cooperative where you can learn all about oil extraction while watching the goats graze up in the branches.

Morocco's Hidden Gems - 11 Days

See the best of Morocco on this compact voyage that takes you off-the-beaten-path from south to north. Feel the energy emulating from Marrakesh as you discover its souks. Head inland to the Atlas mountains for peace and serenity. Descend from the mountains to the coast of Essaouira to discover its laid-back vibe. Follow the coast up to Tangier, the gateway between Europe and Africa. Be amazed by the stunning blue city of Chefchaouen before finishing your trip in Rabat, the country's capital.

Discover Morocco: Imperial Cities to the Atlas Mountains and the Coast- 11 Days

This tour combines the bustle of vibrant imperial cities with tranquil rural retreats, starting and ending in the coastal city of Casablanca. Travel to the cities of Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech in search of buzzy medinas and souks, plus guided walking tours, delicious food tours, ancient sites, and lessons on traditional arts and crafts. Adopt a slower pace by visiting the Atlas Mountains, where you'll enjoy charming Berber villages, lunch with a local family, visits to almond and argan groves, and discover the Roman ruins in Volubilis.

Experience the remote beauty of the Agafay Desert from a luxury camp

Lavish Moroccan Adventure: Marrakesh, Atlas Mountains, Agafay Desert & Essaouira - 7 Days

This luxury journey across Morocco squeezes cityscapes, mountain vistas, desert horizons, and coastal charm into a single week. Beginning and ending in Marrakesh, you'll traverse the rugged beauty of the High Atlas mountains, stay at a luxury desert camp in the Agafay Desert, and ride a horse across the pristine beaches of Essaouira. This fast-paced itinerary ensures every moment is an adventure with 5-star comforts.

The verdant foothills of the High Atlas mountains

Exploring Around Marrakech, Hiking & the Coast - 8 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this 8-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakech, hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, learn about traditional cuisine and share a meal with a local Berber family, and explore centuries-old seafront fortifications.

Spring Tour of Morocco: Cities, Deserts, Valleys & Roses - 13 Days

Discover the beauty of Morocco in spring on this guided tour that takes you from urban cities to the vast dunes of the desert. Start in the busy hub of Tangier, where you'll explore the sights and sounds of the kasbah and stroll the Corniche de Tanger. Then, it's off to the city of Fes for bustling souks and a visit to the Marinid Tombs. Sleep in Bedouin tents under the night skies of Merzouga, experience the fragrant rose fields of the Dadès Valley, and hike the rugged peaks of Toubkal National Park before concluding your trip in the vibrant city of Marrakesh.

Luxury Grand Tour of Morocco - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary checks off Morocco's top urban and natural landmarks. See medieval architecture in the capital of Rabat, walk the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and tour 9th-century Al Quaraouiyine University in Fes. Continue to the Sahara for a night of glamping, visit the desert citadel of Ait Benhaddou, and explore colorful Marrakech markets and ornate palaces before ending in the quiet coastal city of Essaouira.

Spend two nights under desert skies in a luxury camp near Merzouga

Moroccan Splendor: Luxury City, Desert, Coast & Mountains Tour - 14 Days

Experience the many sides of Morocco with this luxury 14-day tour that encompasses the coast, desert, mountains, and cities. Start in Tangier and Chefchaouen, then unearth history in Fes and Meknes. Journey to the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert, and pause at Berber mountain villages before your descent to buzzing Marrakesh. Chase thrills with private horseback riding, hot-air balloon flights, and camel rides, and indulge yourself with fine dining, spa experiences, and stunning 5-star stays.

See desert towns such as Ouarzazate, known as the door of the desert

South Morocco Adventure: Marrakesh to Essaouira, Imlil, Skoura & Erg Chigaga - 14 Days

Discover southern Morocco's deserts, mountains, and coastline on this two-week tour that starts and ends in buzzing Marrakesh. You'll journey into the Atlas mountains to meet Berber locals and hike the Imlil Valley before descending into the Sahara Desert. Ride a camel into the vast Erg Chigaga dunes, where you'll camp under the stars and spend a day with the region's nomads, then head to the coastal city of Essaouira for seaside relaxation and a Moroccan cooking class.

Small villages dot the foothills of the Atlas Mountains

Marrakech, Grand Desert Tour & Hiking in the Atlas Mountains - 7 Days

Discover the grandeur of Morocco with this seven-day itinerary. Spend the night under the stars in a Bedouin-style tent, traipse through narrow passageways in ancient kasbahs, and hike the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. You'll ride a camel, swim in an oasis, share a meal with a Berber family, and wander exotic souks and bazaars.

Moroccan Desert & Hiking in the Atlas Mountains - 8 Days

This 8-day trip mixes culture and adventure in Marrakech, the desert, and High Atlas mountains. Start and end in Marrakech and explore the historic medina's souks, timeworn tombs, old madrasas, and secret gardens. Pass over the High Atlas mountains into Morocco's desert and discover medieval kasbahs, caravan routes, and the Saharan dunes. Finish with a two-day hike through small villages in the Atlas foothills, enjoying a meal and overnight with a local family.

Camels with typical Berber saddles in a Palmeraie near Marrakesh, Morocco.

Moroccan Adventure, Culture & Relaxation - 9 Days

Combine desert adventure, High Atlas hiking, cultural experiences, and relaxation with this 9-day trip with something for every traveler.

Merzouga in the Sahara Desert in Morocco

Southern Morocco Luxury Tour - 8 Days

Exploring the highlights of Southern Morocco on this adventure-packed trip. Spend your first night in the Sahara, then visit the famed Ait Benhaddou and explore the dunes of Erg Lihoudi with a comfortable night in a luxury camp. Continue to Marrakech to visit ornate palaces, the serene Majorelle Gardens, and vibrant city markets. Finish your trip in the charming coastal city of Essaouira, where 18th-century artist studios and quiet coastal charm await.

The Sqala du Port, a square defensive tower in Essaouira

South Morocco Adventure: Marrakech to Essaouira - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary takes you on an exciting adventure through the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. Fly into Marrakech and explore its gardens and spice markets before heading to the High Atlas for hiking and great views. Then cross into the desert to wander through kasbahs and oases. Loop back toward the coast to check out the artsy, breezy town of Essaouira before finishing off with a hammam experience and food tour back in Marrakech.

Experience Morocco's mountains, dunes, and beaches on this guided tour

Southern Morocco Adventure: Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains & Atlantic Ocean - 16 Days

Let a private driver take you through the epic landscapes of southern Morocco on this 16-day tour. Starting and ending in the "Red City" of Marrakesh, you'll trek through the picturesque Toubkal National Park and wander the winding alleys of Aït Benhaddou. Then, ride a camel to a luxury camp in the Sahara and sip mint tea with villagers before heading to the palm trees of Zagora. Soak in the sunny beaches of Essaouira and end with a traditional hammam experience back in Marrakesh before departing.

Discover the deserts and kasbahs of Morocco

Marrakesh, Grand Desert Tour, Hiking & the Coast - 10 Days

Featuring a combination of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this 10-day itinerary will have you discover the Imperial City of Marrakesh, explore the Sahara and surrounding desert towns, hike the Atlas mountains, and relax along the coast. Enjoy traditional music around a desert campfire, spend a night with a local Berber family, and hike between small villages in the Atlas foothills. Finish the trip by eating fresh seafood by the Atlantic in charming Essaouira.

Morocco North to South: Cities & Atlas Hiking - 9 Days

A perfect blend of culture and adventure, this 9-day route has you traveling across Morocco from Tangier to Marrakech. Immerse yourself in Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakech as your wander souks, markets, and local artisan workshops. Explore the modern cities of Rabat and Casablanca along the Atlantic coast. End your stay hiking between rural villages in the High Atlas foothills where you will share a meal and spend the night with a local family.

Morocco Summer Adventure: Marrakech, Atlas Mountains, Desert Glamping & the Coast - 9 Days

A visit to Morocco in summer offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing on beaches, exploring windswept deserts, and relaxing in shaded gardens. On this laid-back, nine-day trip, you'll see some of Marrakech's most scenic sights, enjoy an easy hike in the Atlas mountains, ride a camel through the Agafay Desert, and cool off in coastal Essaouira—making for the perfect summer break.

Town of Boumalne Dades in the Dades Valley

Morocco Grand Tour: Cultural Cities, Sahara Desert & Atlas Hiking - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary offers a great mix of culture and outdoor adventure. Start in Casablanca and explore imperial cities and medieval medinas, ride across dunes and spend a night by a campfire listening to traditional music. Follow old caravan routes through hidden oases and hike through small villages dotting the hillsides in the Atlas mountains. Share a meal with local families and enjoy the evening spectacle of Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech.

Enter the Rissani kasbah and find the donkey "parking lot"

Imperial Cities, Moroccan Deserts & Hiking the Atlas Mountains - 12 Days

This 12-day grand tour is a perfect mix of culture and adventure. Start in Casablanca and wander the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh. Explore desert towns, oases, and old kasbahs, ending with two days of hiking in the foothills of the Atlas mountains, spending an evening with a local family.

Minarets of Fes seen throuth Bab Bou Jeloud Gate

Imperial Cities, Desert Grand Tour & Hiking in the Atlas - 13 Days

This 13-day grand tour is the perfect blend of culture and adventure. Start in the coastal city of Casablanca and wander the medieval medinas of Fes and Marrakesh. Spend a few days exploring desert towns, oases, and old kasbahs, finish with two days of hiking in the foothills of the Atlas mountains, spending an evening with a local Berber family.

The Merenid Tombs overlook the imperial city of Fes

Imperial Cities, Desert Grand Tour & Hiking in the Atlas - 12 Days

Explore Morocco's cities and desert on this 12-day grand tour. Begin and end in modern Casablanca and travel around to the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakesh, as well as the hillside town of Chefchaouen. You'll trek into the Sahara, camp under the stars, visit desert towns and kasbahs, and hike the Atlas mountains foothills.

The sun sets over the Ouarzazate River and Aït Benhaddou

Imperial Cities, Desert Adventures & Atlas Hiking - 11 Days

This 11-day grand tour mixes culture and adventure, featuring Morocco's 4 Imperial Cities, several days exploring the Sahara and surrounding desert, and hiking in the High Atlas mountains outside of Marrakech.

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities and Natural Landscapes - 11 Days

This all-encompassing tour highlights the best of Morocco, from cultural stops in imperial cities like Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and Fes, to natural exploration in desert landscapes. You'll discover Roman ruins, hike in the wild north of Morocco, ride a camel in the Sahara for sunset, visit old kasbahs, and experience a traditional Hammam treatment. End the trip by driving over the magnificent Tizi n'Tichka Pass over the High Atlas Mountains and explore the bustling city of Marrakech.

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities and Natural Landscapes - 12 Days

Combining culture and outdoor adventure, this 12-day tour features the best of Morocco, starting with the markets and monuments of the imperial cities Casablanca, Fes, and the famous "Blue City", Chefchaouen. Next you'll explore the country's natural side in the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, sleeping in Bedouin-style tents and high alpine Berber Towns. Experience cultural delights like riding camels at sunset, meandering ancient Roman ruins, visiting old kasbahs, and enjoying traditional Hammam treatments in the bustling city of Marrakech.

Roof view of the beautiful architecture of Marrakesh, Morocco

Exploring Morocco's Imperial Cities & Natural Landscapes - 13 Days

Match Morocco's unique culture with its stunning nature in this country-wide tour that explores the charms of its bustling imperial cities—Casablanca, Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakesh—and its rural landscape. Meander the old town medinas, meet local craftsmen, and barter at bazaars before heading out into the Sahara Desert and up into the High Atlas mountains to hike through dense forests and deep river canyons. Continue your adventure by summiting the highest mountain pass, visiting historic Berber towns and Roman ruins, riding camels into the sunset, and relaxing in a traditional Hammam.

Morocco Grand Tour: Cities, Mountains, and Desert - 14 Days

Enjoy culture, history, adventure and relaxation on this 2-week Morocco grand tour. Explore the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Casablanca. Venture into the desert a few days exploring kasbahs, caravan routes, and the Saharan dunes. Cross up and over the high atlas mountains and spend a couple days hiking between small villages, spending the night with a local family. End your trip by relaxing in Essaouira before continuing along the coast back to Casablanca.

Moroccan Cities & Nature: Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech & the Sahara - 15 Days

Experience Morocco's urban and natural highlights in this 15-day tour. Spend time wandering the maze-like medinas of Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. Admire the intricate beauty of Arabic architecture as you visit important mosques, historic gates, and other significant landmarks. In between, experience the overpowering beauty of Moroccan nature by camping in the Sahara Desert and hiking to the peak of Mount Toubkal.

Other popular travel destinations in Morocco
Marrakesh · Fes · Moroccan Desert · Chefchaouen · Merzouga · Casablanca · Rabat · Essaouira · Ouarzazate · Aït Benhaddou · Boumalne Dades · Tangier · Meknes · Todra Gorge · Imlil · Agafay · Zagora · Asilah · Taroudant · Skoura · Agadir · Bin El Ouidane · Agdz · Kalaat M'Gouna · Draa Valley

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