"The wild peaks, dramatic canyons and ravines, and striking fertile valleys of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains provide a wonderful opportunity for travellers to experience the quieter – and cooler – parts of the country. For those after some adventure and exercise, there are ski slopes, stunning multi-day hiking trails and some rock climbing routes too, while kasbahs (citadels) scattered across the ranges and Berber villages means a chance to connect with Morocco’s culture and people is never far away. March to November is usually considered the best time to explore the Atlas Mountains; skiers will want to be here in January and February.”
- Narina Exelby
Atlas Mountains
The Atlas is a range of rugged mountains that stretches for 2500km, right through Morocco and into Algeria and Tunisia. The mountains form a dramatic barrier between the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, and the vast Sahara Desert, and offer incredible opportunities for travellers who thrive on visiting wide, wild open spaces. From spring until late autumn in particular, the Atlas is a favourite destination for hikers.
Within the borders of Morocco there are three subranges: the Middle Atlas, High Atlas and Anti Atlas. The Middle Atlas, the northernmost section of the Atlas Mountains chain, lies between Fes and Marrakesh – a very green part of the country where holm oak and cedar forests coat many of the slopes. The Middle Atlas is celebrated for its biodiversity; the region is also home to European polecat, wild boar and, in particular, is known as home to the endangered Barbary macaque. It’s in the Middle Atlas that you’ll find the Switzerland of Morroco, Ifrane – built by the French as an Alpine-style resort town almost a century ago – which has lakes and ski resorts nearby.
The High Atlas Mountains run diagonally across Morocco for about 1000km. It is their jagged peaks that you can see – often snow-covered between September and May – from Marrakech. In the summer months fertile valleys like Ourika provide a welcome haven for those wanting to escape the city’s summer heat, and are an absolute delight from February to April when wildflowers, cherry and almond orchards are in bloom. It is in the High Atlas that you will find Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. The mountainside village of Imlil is the starting point for the trek to the summit (the round-hike will take three to five days), and there are day walks that can be done from here, too.
The arid, ochre-coloured Anti Atlas mountains seem to rise from fertile oases and valleys, but these dramatic, rocky mountains in southwest Morocco are not often visited by travellers. That said, there are some great places to go rock climbing and mountain biking – you just need to put in a little more effort to get there.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
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A great time to visit if you prefer to travel away from crowds, allowing you to see Moroccans going about their daily life more authentically than during the hotter months. It is generally sunny and mild, but there is the chance of rain (good for wildflowers), and snow in the mountains. The desert is perfect for visiting now but gets very cold at night.
A great time to visit if you prefer to travel away from crowds, allowing you to see Moroccans going about their daily life more authentically than during the hotter months. It is generally sunny and mild, but there is the chance of rain (good for wildflowers), and snow in the mountains. The desert is perfect for visiting now but gets very cold at night.
The weather in March is much like the start of spring in any country. With flowers coming out and the sun shining, the weather is generally between 10°C and 20°C depending on the region, although it can become cooler. Snow and rain become rare at this time of year, but it would be best to pack clothing for all scenarios, as it can be unpredictable.
This is a popular time to visit due to the favorable spring weather of between 15°C and 35°C from the High Atlas Mountains to the desert. Given the diversity of the landscape, weather can differ significantly from place to place and this is particularly true in spring when showers are common. Labour Day is held on the 1st of May. This can lead to the closing of some shops, banks, and local schools, which can mean the main sites are busier with locals.
This is a popular time to visit due to the favorable spring weather of between 15°C and 35°C from the High Atlas Mountains to the desert. Given the diversity of the landscape, weather can differ significantly from place to place and this is particularly true in spring when showers are common. Labour Day is held on the 1st of May. This can lead to the closing of some shops, banks, and local schools, which can mean the main sites are busier with locals.
June is one of the hotter months in Morocco, however, different regions like Essaouira and Tangier still stay relatively cool because they’re situated on the coast. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, Morocco is great to visit in June because tourism is relatively low compared to some of the other months. This is the last month to visit the desert region before there's an influx of insects and snakes in July and August, as well as often unbearable heat.
July and August are the hottest months in Morocco so are not the ideal months to visit; however, they should not be ruled out. If you’re looking to escape the unpredictable British summers then this is a great time to visit. Coinciding with the school holidays makes this a popular time for families; as such, many hotels and riads do get booked up in advance, particularly those with swimming pools.
Daytime temperatures can reach the mid-40°Cs, so exploring and sightseeing is best done in the morning or evening, making this is a good time to combine activities and relaxation. This is also a great time to visit the Atlantic coast, which at other times of year can feel on the chilly side.
Whether you are seeking water sports or delicious seafood, Essaouira is a summer highlight. The Atlas Mountains are cooler than the cities, although still very hot. While summer is not ideal if you're wanting to do serious trekking, it is great for short morning walks and lying by a pool with panoramic mountain views.
July and August are the hottest months in Morocco so are not the ideal months to visit; however, they should not be ruled out. If you’re looking to escape the unpredictable British summers then this is a great time to visit. Coinciding with the school holidays makes this a popular time for families; as such, many hotels and riads do get booked up in advance, particularly those with swimming pools.
Daytime temperatures can reach the mid-40°Cs, so exploring and sightseeing is best done in the morning or evening, making this is a good time to combine activities and relaxation. This is also a great time to visit the Atlantic coast, which at other times of year can feel on the chilly side.
Whether you are seeking water sports or delicious seafood, Essaouira is a summer highlight. The Atlas Mountains are cooler than the cities, although still very hot. While summer is not ideal if you're wanting to do serious trekking, it is great for short morning walks and lying by a pool with panoramic mountain views.
Cooling down after the hot summer months, September is an ideal time to visit Morocco as you can enjoy the pleasantly warm weather and clear blue skies the country offers as it heads into autumn. The beaches are not as busy from local holidaymakers, the cities welcome gentle breezes, and exploring the desert becomes pleasant again.
October is one of the best months to visit Morocco, as temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. This is a great month for hiking in the mountains and visiting the Atlantic coast, with temperatures dropping in November and Essaouira becoming very windy. As such, October is a month that books up quickly, and trips for this time of year should be organised far in advance.
The latter months of the year are a great window to explore the imperial cities of Morocco. The sunny but cooler days provide a comfortable climate to discover the colourful sights and sounds of Marrakesh and Fez. Other regional centres, such as the coastal town of Essaouira and the High Atlas Mountains, are not to be missed either, but coastal winds and potential snow in the mountains will naturally bring colder weather; particularly in the evenings. One thing to bear in mind when considering travelling during the winter months is that not all riads — particularly not those in the north of the country — have adequate heating, so it's advisable to bring warm layers of clothing.
The latter months of the year are a great window to explore the imperial cities of Morocco. The sunny but cooler days provide a comfortable climate to discover the colourful sights and sounds of Marrakesh and Fez. Other regional centres, such as the coastal town of Essaouira and the High Atlas Mountains, are not to be missed either, but coastal winds and potential snow in the mountains will naturally bring colder weather; particularly in the evenings. One thing to bear in mind when considering travelling during the winter months is that not all riads — particularly not those in the north of the country — have adequate heating, so it's advisable to bring warm layers of clothing.
Explore Atlas Mountains Properties
Kasbah Tamadot
Kasbah Tamadot
Le Farnatchi is a lavish and exotic hideaway that is owned and run by the ambitious hotelier, James Wix. Renowned for being one of the first Riad hotels in the Medina, this traditionally designed and decorated Moroccan home ..
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
