The Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas Mountains form the rugged spine of Morocco, rising just south of Marrakech to snow-capped peaks including Toubkal, the highest summit in North Africa. Their green valleys are terraced with fields and dotted with mud-brick Berber villages, walnut groves and rushing streams, offering a cool, dramatic escape from the cities and some of the finest trekking in the country.

What you actually see

• The Berber villages - the mud-brick villages in the terraced valleys.
• Mount Toubkal - the highest peak in North Africa, a serious trek.
• The valleys - the Ourika and Imlil valleys of fields and streams.
• The mountain passes - the dramatic roads like Tizi n'Tichka.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the best trekking weather and green valleys; summer offers cool relief from the city heat, while winter brings snow to the high peaks. The Toubkal summit needs snow gear in the colder months.

Honest expectations

The high peaks like Toubkal are serious mountains needing a guide, fitness and proper gear, not a casual stroll; the valleys, though, offer gentle walks. A guide is recommended and often required for treks. The roads are winding and slow. Villages are traditional, so dress and behave respectfully.

Nearby

Marrakech is an hour or two north; the desert and the kasbah of Ait Benhaddou lie over the passes.