The High Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas is the biggest mountain range in North Africa. These striking mountains offer extremely impressive mountain biking trails, hiking trails and photography opportunities. The high peaks result in plenty of rainfall; therefore the High Atlas has many fertile valleys surrounded by rivers and waterfalls. It’s a breathtaking sight that cannot be missed!
The High Atlas features some of the most beautiful regions of Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. These mountains are the highest in the area, with Toubkal stretching to 4.165 meters above sea level. The Middle Atlas reaches heights of 3,350 meters and the highest peaks of the Anti Atlas reach 2.531 meters.
The High Atlas has walks to suit all abilities, but mules and horses are also available in the villages if riding suits you better than walking. The villages in the High Atlas are small but thriving and are home to the Berbers who are enduring, hospitable and very friendly people. The villages offer stylish Moroccan accommodation in the local houses and there are established guides available. The high peaks force the clouds to give high quantities of rainfall; therefore the High Atlas has many fertile valleys surrounded by rivers and waterfalls. Mineral deposits found in the Atlas range include gold, silver, lead, iron, phosphates, lead and zinc.
The following cities, towns and villages are located in the High Atlas :
Marrakech: The very name of this vibrant city brings to mind the many exotic features of Morocco, and it lives up to its reputation.
Tahannaout: capital of Al Haouz Province of the Marrakesh-Safi region. It is located 34.5 kilometres south of Marrakesh, near the foot of the Atlas Mountains.
Aït-Benhaddou: This traditional mud brick city, which is on the UNESCO Heritage List, has been featured in a number of films, often as Jerusalem.
Amizmiz: Often used as the starting point for exploring the High Atlas, this traditional Berber village is the venue for one of the region’s largest Berber souks.
Asni: Situated in the foothills of the High Atlas, this small town lies on the two main routes into the Atlas Mountains and caters for a steady flow of tourist trade.
Imlil: This village in the High Atlas serves as a base for muleteers and mountain guides working in the area of Jebel Toubkal and is a starting point for trekking in the mountains.
Oukaimeden: This is Morocco’s best snow skiing resort which attracts skiing enthusiasts from far and wide during the winter months.
Tinerhir: This small town is a popular access point to the Todra Gorge of the High Atlas.
Armed: Located at 1907 meters, this village is a haven of clean air and peace and quiet in the Toubkal region.
Immouzzer: Located on the edge of Paradise Valley in the foothills of the Atlas Mountain, this town is an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders of the area, including fascinating limestone caves and rock formations.
Al Haouz: Located at an altitude of 1200 meters, this family-oriented community is virtually self-sufficient and is an outstanding example of a Moroccan village which has been unaffected by modern living.
Popular activities in the High Atlas include mountain biking, walking, hiking, rock climbing, mountaineering, peak-bagging and trekking, either on foot or on mules. Visiting Berber villages and experiencing life as a local is a popular activity, allowing tourists to gain in-depth knowledge of the people living in Morocco’s magnificent High Atlas
