Tour description

Hiking in the Middle Atlas - Discovering plateaus and lakes

Visit Middle Atlas is a mountain range stretching some 350 km from southwest to northeast Morocco, between the Rif and the High Atlas mountains, covering a total area of 2.3 million hectares, or 18 % of the country's altimontane domain.

This range is made up of the vast high plateaus of the Upper Moulouya. These plateaus stretch from Midelt (Khnifra province), home to Jbel Ayachi (3,747 m), to Imilchil. This range belongs to the Atlas massif, and more precisely, to one of the three elements of the Moroccan Atlas - the other two being the High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas.

Our 8 days takes you to discover the magnificent landscapes of the Middle Atlas, with its high plateaus, natural lakes and waterfalls. A tour for all levels easy accessible to all nature lovers.

Tour highlights

  • Discover the vast high plateaus of the Middle Atlas mountains
  • Visit to Lake Aguelmane Azigza and the surrounding area
  • Exploration of the "40 springs" and their waterfalls
  • Hiking around Lake Aguelmane Ouiaouene
  • Immersion in the unspoilt nature of the Middle Atlas
  • Homestays for an authentic experience

Detailed Itinerary - 8 Days

Day 1

Marrakech

Arrival at Marrakech airport, welcome and transfer to your accommodation. Check-in and overnight stay in a traditional Riad.

Day 2

Marrakech - Khnifra - Aguelmane Azigza (1550m)

Departure from Marrakech towards Khnifra and then on to Lake Aguelmane Azigza. 5 to 6 hours by car to cover about 400 km. Set up camp for the night.

Day 3

Aguelmane Azigza - The 40 springs (1400m)

Day hike to the famous "40 sources" and their magnificent waterfalls. Discover the local flora and fauna. 5 to 6 hours walking.

Day 4

The 40 springs - Aguelmane Ouiaouene (1769m)

Hike through the verdant landscapes of the Middle Atlas to Lake Aguelmane Ouiaouene. Magnificent panoramas of the surrounding plateaus. 5 to 6 hours walking.

Day 5

Ouiaouene - Zaouiate Ifrane (1260m)

Continuation of the hike through cedar forests and pastures to the Ifrane region. 5 to 6 hours walking.

Day 6

Zaouit Ifrane - Ain Louh (1600m)

Last day of hiking to the Ain Louh spring, through varied, unspoilt landscapes. 6-hour walk.

Day 7

Ain Louh - Marrakech

Return by vehicle to Marrakech. Free time to discover the ochre city, its souks and monuments. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8

Airport transfer

Breakfast and transfer to Marrakech airport for your return flight, with wonderful memories of this Middle Atlas adventure.

What's included

Included

  • Pick-up on arrival at the airport
  • Airport - Hotel - Hiking - Hotel - Airport transfers
  • The assistance of a qualified guide and muleteers
  • Nights in a hotel or Riad in Marrakech
  • Nights in tents and with local people during the hike
  • Full board during the tour

Not included

  • Cancellation and assistance insurance (Compulsory!)
  • Beverages and personal expenses
  • Meals in town

Tour details

Duration

8 days / 7 nights

Level

Easy

Period

October to May

Participants

From 2 persons

Type of hike

Plateaux and lakes

Price

On request

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is this hike?

This is an easy hike, accessible to anyone in good health and normal physical condition. Walking time varies between 5 and 6 hours, with moderate ascents and descents.

Why is the recommended period from October to May?

The Middle Atlas has hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The period from October to May offers the most pleasant climatic conditions for hiking, with moderate temperatures and lush green landscapes.

What type of accommodation are you looking for?

During the trek, you'll stay in tents or with local people for an authentic immersion in the region. In Marrakech, you'll stay in a traditional Riad or hotel.

What's the best way to prepare for this hike?

It's a good idea to do a few training walks with your backpack before you set off. Make sure you bring clothing suited to temperature variations and good hiking boots. A detailed equipment list will be provided upon reservation.