Morocco Walking Holiday

Let’s hike in Morocco! We will begin our holiday by flying into Marrakech Airport. From there let’s meet our local expert guide and will travel to our charming riad accommodation in the centre of Marrakech. A riad is a traditional large house in Morocco, built around a central courtyard or garden and often converted into a hotel. A riad stay will give you an authentic local experience together with simple home comforts.

Riad in Marrakech (1 night)

Let’s travel to the Atlas Mountains! This majestic range stretches across North Africa, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, traditional Berber villages, beautiful valleys, and snow-capped peaks.

This morning we will travel to Oukaimeden the highest ski station in North Africa via the beautiful Ourika Valley. From here with our expert local walking guides let’s visit some local ancient rock carvings before embarking on a trek to ascend the Tizi n'Addi Pass (2800m) surrounded by rough gravel paths and wild scenery and stunning views at the top.  Let’s continue our hike down a mule path to to Tachdirte village (2314m) from where we will continue on to the beautiful village of Imlil located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains and our home for the next 3 nights. A common base for those hiking in Morocco this village is a great place to relax, enjoy the magnificent scenery, and experience the local way of life.

Difficulty: Moderate / Distance: 9 km / Ascent: 400m / Descent: 600m / Duration: approx 4 hours

Riad in Imlil (3 nights)

Let’s immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Atlas Mountains with another day of exploration on foot. Today’s trek begins from our riad in Imlil, leading us up to the col of Tizi Mzik (2,500m). As we ascend, let’s marvel at the changing colours of the landscape, transitioning from lush fields and forests to scree and open rock. Along the way, let’s gain insights into the life of the Berbers, the indigenous people of Morocco. Their rich traditions and customs have withstood the test of time, continuing to influence daily life in Morocco.

We’ll pass through some of the Berber local villages of Argan and Mazik, providing a firsthand glimpse into Berber life. Our journey includes a stop for a packed lunch atop the col, offering stunning views of the nearby Azzaden and Ait Mizane Valleys. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, we'll return to our accommodation in Imlil.

Difficulty: Moderate / Distance: 8 km / Ascent: 750m / Descent: 750m / Duration: approx 5 hours

Let’s embark on another exciting adventure in the Atlas Mountains as we trek through the Mizane Valley. Our route begins with a journey towards the village of Aremd (1,900m), the largest village in the valley. Aremd is a fascinating place, characterized by traditional terraced farming, gites, and streets bustling with goats and cattle. For generations, the Berber villagers have cultivated this harsh landscape, producing corn, potatoes, and walnuts.

Crossing the flood plain, our path takes us along mule tracks and up into the high rocky cliffs above the valley. Our destination is the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, a spiritual site perched on a moraine spur overlooking the valley floor. Attracting both tourists and pilgrims, the shrine is a unique place (although only Muslims are allowed to cross the stone bridge to visit the shrine itself). The village surrounding the shrine is a charming cluster of houses set beside a picturesque waterfall. After lunch, we’ll return to Imlil.

Difficulty: Moderate / Distance: 8 km / Ascent: 550m / Descent: 550m / Duration: approx 4 hours

Today, we bid farewell to Imlil and continue our journey through the stunning Atlas Mountains. Let’s travel towards towards Mattat from where from where we'll embark on a climb up the Tizi Oudid Pass (2,200m). This pass offers breathtaking views of the Azzaden Valley, known for its diverse landscapes and terraced crops. After crossing the villages of Aïd Aissa and Tizi Oussem our trek continues with a walk through a lush garden of cultivated terraces, walnut trees, and vibrant ochre houses. Let’s stop to enjoy our packed lunches amidst this picturesque setting before driving towards Ouirgane. This beautiful valley features green vegetation, rugged terrains, and Ouirgane Lake, making it a tranquil getaway for nature and adventure lovers. We will have some stops along the ways to snap pictures and enjoy the mesmerizing views that will be waiting for us.

Difficulty: Moderate / Distance: 9 km / Ascent: 500m / Descent: 500m / Duration: approx 4 hours

Riad in Ourigane (1 night)

Today let’s explore more of the Ourigane Valley, hidden at the foot of Mount Toubkal. Let’s uncover and see more of its beautiful countryside and serene lake, passing through landscapes adorned with olive groves and forests. As we journey through local Berber villages, we'll have the opportunity to chat with residents and learn more about their rich culture and way of life. Our route will also take us through the ancient Jewish village of Anraz, offering a glimpse into the region's diverse heritage and return to our starting point.

Difficulty: Moderate / Distance: 5 km / Ascent: 200m / Descent: 200m / Duration: approx 3 hours

Next let’s travel onwards to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Prepare to amazed by the sights and smells of this exciting city amidst winding streets and green gardens. Let’s check in to our riad, our home for the next two nights. We highly recommend a visit to the lively Djemaa el Fna Square, one of the highlights of Marrakech, where storytellers, acrobats, medicine men, musicians, and even snake charmers vie for your attention.

Riad in Marrakech (2 nights)

This morning, let's delve deeper into the wonders of Marrakesh with our knowledgeable local guide on a walking tour of this captivating city.

Marrakech is home to impressive mosques, imposing palaces and beautiful gardens. The medina, a densely packed, walled medieval city dating back to the Berber Empire, is a maze of alleys and bustling marketplaces. Let’s wander the green cooling gardens surrounding the Koutoubia mosque and marvel at the Bahia Palace and Museum, a masterpiece blending both Islamic and Moroccan architectural styles.

Next, we’ll explore Marrakesh’s world-famous, colourful souks where trade and barter reign supreme. Our walking tour will culminate in the lively Djemaa el Fna Square, a vibrant hub where the city never sleeps, teeming with traders, musicians, and life at all hours of the day.

In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting city.

Today marks our final day in Morocco. We’ll travel to the airport for our return flight home to Dublin, carrying with us wonderful memories of our time in the Atlas Mountains and Morocco.