A Day In The Berber Valleys
Just beyond Marrakech lie the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, where snow-capped peaks, green valleys and traditional Berber villages offer a complete change of scenery from the bustling city. The beautiful Imlil, Ourika and Zat Valleys are all within easy reach of Marrakech, with many of the most popular mountain excursions taking just around an hour to reach by road.
Marrakech itself is an unforgettable place to explore, from wandering through the historic Medina and haggling for bargains in the colourful souks to experiencing the storytellers of Djemaa el Fna and enjoying delicious Moroccan cuisine in an atmospheric open-air setting. But when you’re ready to venture further afield, the Atlas Mountains provide countless opportunities to discover a more peaceful and authentic side of Morocco.
The High Atlas forms part of the great mountain range stretching across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Around Marrakech, the mountains are home to dramatic landscapes, fertile valleys and traditional Berber communities, making them ideal for walking, hiking and cultural experiences. Here are some of the best day tours and excursions you can enjoy from Marrakech into the High Atlas Mountains.
These treks run all year round and can depart on any date to suit your plans.
We usually have several treks departing each week, which you are welcome to join. Please get in touch for more information!
All our Morocco mountain treks can also be combined with other tours, including trips to the Sahara Desert, Morocco’s Imperial Cities or the Atlantic Coast.
Pick Up & Drop Off
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Marrakech city, many riads don't have access via car so the driver will park nearby and come to get you.
You will be dropped off at the nearest point to your riad/hotel. Our driver can call your riad to meet you if needed.
Route Details
Day 01
Imlil & Toubkal Valley
Depart Marrakech at around 9.00am and travel towards the spectacular Atlas Mountains. After approximately 45 minutes, you’ll pass through beautiful olive groves before reaching the entrance to the Ourika Valley at the village of Tnine Ourika. If you’re visiting on a Monday, you can explore the village’s lively weekly souk, where local people from the surrounding area come to shop for their weekly supplies – a fascinating glimpse into everyday Berber life.
From Tnine Ourika, set off on a two-hour walk through traditional Berber villages and cultivated terraces, following scenic trails towards the village of Timalizine. From here, cross the bridge and return to the main road, where you’ll meet your vehicle and continue further up the Ourika Valley. The journey takes you through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery to the beautiful village of Setti Fatma, which marks the end of the tarmac road.
On arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before setting off on a further 45-minute walk to explore the nearby waterfalls. After visiting the waterfalls, return to your vehicle and begin the journey back to Marrakech, arriving at around 5.00pm. Depending on time, there may also be an opportunity to visit a traditional Berber home along the way.
Please note: The walking sections are optional, so if you prefer not to take part in the longer walks, you can enjoy shorter walks along the road and stop at scenic viewpoints for photographs.
Note: This itinerary is intended as a guideline and may be changed to suit local conditions
Equipment
Please ensure you have packed all safety essentials. See the Equipment List here if you're unsure of what to bring. Our guides will conduct a final gear check in Imlil before we commence the ascent to the higher altitudes of the Toubkal massif.
Good walking boots and socks / good trainers
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Personnel First aid Kit
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Day sack/backpac
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Lightweight waterproof over-trousers / rain-pants
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Water bottle or camel back (recommended)
Most of those equipment can be rented locally from our equipment shop in Imlil
Tour Rates
Flexible Pricing
1 person : On request
2 - 3 people : 85€/person
4 - 7 people : 65€/person
8 - 12 people : 50€/person
What Is Included?
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English speaking guide.
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Lunch
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Ground transfers by minibuses / taxis: ( hotel - trek - hotel
What Is Not Included
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Travel insurance.
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Soft/alcoholic drinks
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Tips and personal expanses
Start Your Journey
Ready to explore the Atlas Mountains? Reach out to us for detailed trek inquiries, tailor-made itineraries, or any questions about our Berber-led adventure tours.
Email: aztat.trek@gmail.com
Phone: +212 668-760165
Location: Imlil, Morocco
Personal baggage, cooking equipment and food are carried by the mules, leaving you to carry only a rucksack with whatever you need close at hand for the day. NB: Left luggage or unnecessary luggage can be left safely in our storage in Imlil till you come back from the trek.