Walking in the Moroccan Mountains

One of the many things that can be done in Morocco is the sheer variety and scope for walking in the mountains. These reach over 4000m (13000ft) and due to differing height and proximity to the desert, it is possible to find something to do at any time of the year.

The options range from simple walking and scrambling, multiple day treks and highly technical climbing. In winter there are opportunities for climbing, simple snow walks and ski mountaineering.

The main mountain areas can be split into four rough groups and each is ideal at different times of the year.

Perhaps the best know area is around the High Atlas around Djebel Toubkal (the highest mountain in North Africa). These mountains can be seen from Marrakesh and are snow capped throughout winter and early spring. Their relative height makes them ideal for trekking in the summer and early autumn when lower areas are too hot.

Other options are places such as the Todra gorge with high sheer rock walls (this is probably the best technical climbing area in Morocco). There are possibilities for multiple day walks leading through the mountains to the North and into the Middle Atlas. Other options include linking the gorge with the nearby Dadas (Roses) gorge.

To the north and east of the High Atlas is the Middle Atlas. In the main these are slightly lower and the scope for trekking and walking is vast (it is also a bit quieter than some of the more popular regions). The northern slopes are covered by forests and some stunning waterfalls.

To the south of the main mountain range lies the Anti Atlas range near the small town of Tafraoute. The lower height and proximity to the Sahara makes them too hot in the summer but ideal for winter and spring walking. A further advantage to going in spring is the local almond festival. The local options include rock climbing, scrambling and multiple day walking.

Further to the east and even nearer the Sahara is the Jebel Sahro. These remote limestone and volcanic hills give superb walking. The difficulty is a lack of water and the proximity to the desert means you are best to visit during the winter.

Overall Morocco allows for snow free mountain walking at any time of the year. If you travel in the winter the southern ranges are ideal and in the heat of the summer the High Atlas are the perfect location.