Morocco can almost be called a hikers paradise. Whether you prefer a mountain hike or a desert hike, the options are endless and the scenery breathtaking and often awe inspiring. Hikers almost boast an elite club, in search of different things on their journey of discovery. Some search for solace, while others demand an adrenaline rush. With Morocco being a unique combination of Sahara and Mountains, there is definitely something to suite everyone.

Saharan Hike

The Saharan sand dunes are an idyllic place to hike, either on foot or sitting astride a camel, while watching the sun set. To the south, the Sahara desert feeds the dunes (also called ergs). An isolated cusp of a hard stony barrier called Hammada, with close proximity to the rest of the country, combined with a varied scenic experience makes this one of the most popular desert hikes. Additionally, Erg Chebbi, at Merzouga, and Erg Chigaga, 55km (34 miles) south of M’hamid are also easily accessible and very popular hiking destinations. M’hamid (Lehoudi and Messouira) and Zagora (Nakhla and Tinfou) also provide smaller dunes, perfect for hiking. However for an enthusiast, really looking to experience the Sahara this may prove disappointing as the dunes aren’t as vast.

Dependent on your needs, exploring the desert can be organised for merely a few hours or a few days. Personally if you are a novice then it is best to organise an overnight desert hike, which will allow you to meet some wonderful people and really experience the Sahara and its indescribable sunsets. For more avid hikers then a multiple-week caravan hike, which incorporates both camel and 4×4 experiences, will allow you to discover multiple dunes, which all present varied experiences.

I would strongly advice not doing a Desert hike during July and August. The heat can be overwhelming, and extremely unenjoyably. However, Erg Chebbi provides a great hiking option due to the choice of auberges at the dunes’ edge.

Mountain Hike

Morocco boasts four distinct mountain ranges, High Atlas, Middle Atlas, Anti-Atlas, and the Rif offering a variety of scenery, climate, and terrain. Within the mountains are the Berber people, who live in the valleys and lower slopes. With the wealth of hospitality and tradition, ensures that you will not only experience the mountains but authentic Moroccan culture. Many families will welcome you in for a meal and some mint tea, sharing tales of their history. Their picturesque Kasbah villages, surrounded by fruit and nut trees always add an unexpected element to your overall experience.

The possibilities are endless when exploring the mountains, with a variety of terrain and varying degrees of access; you could be hiking through an aromatic forest or clambering over granite boulders.

The ascent of Jebel Toubkal (4,167m/13,671 ft.), North Africa’s highest peak and part of the Western High Atlas is one of the most popular hikes in Morocco. The mountain acts as the centrepiece of the Toubkal National Park. The hike starts at a small village called Imlil. Other popular areas include the Aït Bou Guemez Valley in the Central High Atlas which is Morocco’s third highest peak. Ighil Mgoun (4,071m/13,356 ft); Jebel Sarhro and Jebel Siroua, two ranges on the south side of the High Atlas. Ilfrane, in the Middle-Atlas is located 2 hours from Fes or Meknes, and boasts some glorious cedar forests, lakes and craters. Tafraoute in the Anti-Atlas cliffs provides fertile palmers, so it delivers a truly relaxing experience.

For a more detailed look at hiking in the Atlas Mountains Mountains, check out this article

The Rif Mountains are located in Chefchaouen, also known as the blue city, due to all buildings being painted this breathtaking hue. Both Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains will provide the best Moroccan experience for hikers who are looking to relax and be immersed in all things Moroccan.

For a more detailed look at hiking in the Rif Mountains, check out this article.