Planning Your Time

There is so much to see in this region, and since the roads are narrow and serpentine, slopes are steep, and terrain is bumpy, allow plenty of time for getting around. Seven to 10 days is recommended to really see the mountains and to get a good trek in. Start off in either Ourika or Tahannout to get acquainted with the region, while any mountain hike will truly begin in Imlil. The village of Tacchedirt is worth the five-hour trek, as is the more demanding two-day ascent to the great Toubkal. Afterward, explore the route to the pretty village of Ouirgane, and, to complete a circle back in the Marrakesh direction, stop at the barrage of Lalla Takerkoust, a pretty settlement with some pleasant eateries and accommodations.

Alternatively, you can take Route 210 out of Marrakesh, heading toward the Ouzoud Falls, before continuing on to the reservoir Bin el-Ouidane. From here, head back down through Azilal and farther south to the magnificent valley of Aït Bougmez, which can serve as a base for trekking. Whatever you do, definitely don't miss out on getting up to the mountains themselves; even a short, half-day hike on a day trip from Marrakesh is well worth it. Imlil is just a 1½-hour drive from Marrakesh, making a day trip quite doable.