Morocco Walking in the Atlas Mountains

Walking in the Atlas Mountains

Lac d'Ifni, High Atlas © Judith Duk

Travellers to Morocco find it hard to resist the lure of the distant Atlas Mountains, which arc southwards from the Mediterranean coast for 1,000 miles (1,609km), providing a trekker's paradise. Numerous guided walking tours and treks are on offer, generally starting from Marrakech or the village of Imlil, destined for the spectacular High Atlas to hike beneath forbidding peaks, through deep canyons, and past remote and ancient Berber villages. Do-it-yourself trekkers will find locals willing to act as porters and guides, and hikers can also hire mules to carry equipment. The adventure opportunities in the Atlas are varied, and range from challenging, like the ascent of Jebel Toubkal, the highest summit in North Africa, to a tranquil stroll through the wild landscape of Jebel Sahro region, where rocky plateaux are interspersed with oases where exotic creatures congregate in crystal clear pools.