Encompassing majestic mountains and sublime desert landscapes, Morocco is a trekker's paradise. The country’s lush cedar forests and tranquil valleys will transport you to another world while the close-knit rural villages of the mountains welcome visitors with some of the warmest hospitality you’ll ever experience. Whether you’re into short hikes or multi-day treks, there are hikes for every skill level.
While mighty Jebel Toubkal (North Africa’s highest peak) attracts hordes of hikers to its slopes, some of the best treks in Morocco remain blissfully crowd-free. These hidden gems showcase landscapes every bit as breathtaking as Toubkal but without the crowds.
So get ready to lace up your boots and venture off the beaten path to discover North Africa’s spectacular terrain on some of the best hikes in Morocco. At the end of each day, you’ll find cosy refuges and village homestays to rest your head and hearty tagines as your reward.
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Jebel Toubkal
27km/2 days
The High Atlas Mountains of Morocco are a trekker's paradise, with snow-capped peaks, remote villages and sweeping views. Known locally as Idraren Draren, this rugged range runs diagonally for nearly 1,000 kilometres across the country, with the crown jewel being the 4,167-metre Jebel Toubkal - North Africa’s highest peak.
Those who brave the steep zigzag path to its summit will be rewarded with incredible views stretching all the way to the Sahara on a clear day. If you’ve got more than two days up your sleeve, tackle the challenging Toubkal Circuit, a six-day hike that takes in Amazigh villages, rocky ridges and breathtaking passes. Dotted along the circuit are several trekking refuges and homestays where you can overnight.
The mountain town of Imlil is the gateway for most expeditions. Be sure to hire an experienced guide, as they are mandatory in Toubkal National Park. Conditions in the Atlas Mountains are best for trekking in spring and fall, with the snow cover in winter adding another set of challenges.
To summit Jebel Toubkal over two days, join this small-group adventure beginning in Marrakech, which includes overnight accommodation and all meals. Alternatively, you can catch glimpses of North Africa’s highest peak on this one-day trek through Toubkal National Park.
Jebel Saghro Circuit
90km/5 days
Wedged between the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert's ever-shifting sands lies the starkly beautiful Saghro Massif. This rugged region is characterised by deep canyons, flat-topped mesas and otherworldly rock formations, as well as some of southern Morocco’s most spectacular desert landscapes.
The five-day Saghro Circuit begins at Tagdilt near Boumalne Dades and ends at Kalaat M'Gouna - the gateway to the Valley of the Roses. Although there are steep ascents and descents, the trails are generally lower-lying and less challenging than those of the High Atlas. The highest peak, Amalou n'Mansour, stands at 2,712 metres while most of the mountain passes range from 1,500 to 2,500 metres in elevation. Add an extra day to reach the 2,595-metre summit of Jebel Kouaouch, which boasts views rivalling those of Toubkal.
The stony tracks of the Saghro Circuit are traversed more by the semi-nomadic Aït Atta tribe than by tourists. Without a guide, you'll need excellent navigation skills and be sure to stock up on supplies before embarking. Shorter out-and-back trails and one-way walks also abound in this region (see the section on Dades and Todra gorges below).
This guided Jebel Saghro Circuit trek begins and ends in Marrakech and includes guides, all accommodation and most meals.
Best hikes in Morocco
M’goun Circuit
60km/6 days
Forming part of the Central High Atlas mountains, the verdant Aït Bougmez Valley lures intrepid trekkers with its untouched beauty and warm hospitality. Each spring, this hidden gem comes alive as nomadic Ait Atta tribes make the arduous two-week journey to graze their herds in the valley's lush pastures and crystalline rivers.
The scenic village of Agouti (four hours from Marrakech) marks the start of the valley's crown jewel: the 6-day trek to the towering M'Goun Massif, Morocco's second-highest peak. Not only will you summit this impressive mountain, but you'll also discover the idyllic valley of Ait Bouguemez, affectionately nicknamed the "Happy Valley." Along the way to Ait Bouguemez, take an optional detour to the stunning Ouzoud waterfalls and visit the historic grain store of Sidi Moussa.
The ideal time to trek the M’goun Circuit is spring through autumn before winter snows cloak the valley. Be sure to hire an experienced mountain guide, who will help you navigate your way between the valley’s trekking refuges and homestays. They’ll also handle mules, meals and more as you immerse yourself in the raw splendour. With its thoughtful pacing and wealth of natural and cultural wonders, this trek promises an unforgettable Moroccan experience.
Talassemtane National Park Circuit
50km/4 days
While the famous High Atlas draws most trekkers to Toubkal, the lesser-known Rif Mountains in northern Morocco offer a hidden gem: the Talassemtane National Park Circuit. This scenic five-day route immerses you in the heart of the Rif Mountains, with experiences both in the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen and the park's serene forests and hills.
The journey begins and ends in Chefchaouen's picturesque maze of blue-washed streets, but soon transports you into Talassemtane's wilderness, where rushing streams tumble through dense cedar and fir forests. As you hike beneath these endangered trees, watch for mischievous Barbary macaques playing in the canopy.
Throughout the trek, you’ll camp wild beneath the stars and stay in local gîtes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rural Moroccan lifestyle. The Talassemtane Circuit offers the perfect blend of culture and nature for those seeking a memorable Moroccan trekking experience beyond the crowded High Atlas trails.
If you only have one day up your sleeve, I recommend this full-day excursion to Mount Lakraa, the highest peak in Talassemtane National Park.
To learn more about visiting Chefchaouen, including getting there and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Chefchaouen.
Best treks in Morocco
Monkey Trail
7.4km/2.5 hours
Just a short drive from Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” Ifrane National Park entices outdoor enthusiasts with its rugged natural beauty. Spread across 800 square kilometres of the Middle Atlas Mountains, this vast park protects endangered Barbary macaques and the largest cedar forests in the country.
Though once widespread, these cheeky Barbary macaques now cling to survival in the northern mountain ranges of Morocco and Algeria. Hike the aptly named Monkey Trail for your best chance at spotting them in the wild, along with other forest-dwellers like foxes and wild boar. The shade of soaring oak and cedar trees makes the trail ideal for runners and mountain bikers too.
While the hiking is relatively easy, hiring a local guide will enrich your experience. Not only will they explain the park's diverse flora and fauna but also shed light on the threats these unique macaques face. Though human interaction and the exotic pet trade endanger the species, Ifrane National Park offers hope for their future in Morocco's forests.
This full-day tour from Fes includes a visit to Ifrane and its cedar forests, with the chance to spot Barbary macaques.
Cascades d’Akchour + Bridge of God
14km/5 hours
Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is well and truly on the map thanks to its blue-hued architecture. Once you've wandered its cobbled lanes and people-watched in the lively square, trade the urban hustle and bustle for the great outdoors in nearby Akchour, home to one of Morocco’s best day hikes.
From the village of Akchour, stroll through evergreen forests and past moss-laden rock formations en route to the Cascades d’Akchour. Located within Talassemtane National Park, this series of picturesque waterfalls includes several emerald pools, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Afterward, make the steep scramble up to the Bridge of God, an impressive natural archway spanning two cliffs. At the end of your trek, reward yourself with a well-earned tagine at one of the roadside stalls near Akchour.
Beginning and ending in Chefchaouen, this tour to the Cascades d’Akchour includes a short but memorable trek through Talassemtane National Park.
To learn more about visiting Chefchaouen, including getting there and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Chefchaouen.
Best treks in Morocco
Erg Zahar
75km/4 days
Journey to the legendary Erg Zahar dunes on this epic four-day trek across the Moroccan desert. These imposing golden hills earned their fearsome nickname, the "Screaming Dunes," from a chilling local legend. Far more remote than the popular Erg Chebbi dunes, Erg Zahar promises an unforgettable adventure into an untouched wilderness.
Beginning in the oasis town of M’hamid, follow the path of the Draa River, passing swaying palm groves and ancient villages baked from mud brick. Crossing over stony plateaus, the landscape transforms into a surprising riverside oasis, with desert flora drinking from an underground water source.
After days of hiking through this desert wonderland, the rolling waves of Erg Zahar finally come into view - a sea of golden sand extending as far as the eye can see. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trek for intrepid travellers seeking to go beyond the well-trodden camel treks of Merzouga.
Todra and Dades Gorges
Varying lengths/durations
Carved by the Todra and Dades rivers over millions of years, these sandstone gorges in the Atlas Mountains provide the perfect playground for day treks. Hike through date palm oases and traverse the gorges’ rocky cliffs on winding trails that offer breathtaking views.
One of the most popular treks in the area is the 3.5-hour hike from Aït Oudinar to Tamlalt along the eastern side of the Dades Valley. It takes in crumbling kasbahs and ancient fortified villages, as well as the dramatic rock formations known as the “Monkey's Fingers”.
Begin early to avoid the midday heat and bring sturdy boots and plenty of water. With an expert guide, you can venture off-trail without worrying about getting lost - the trails here aren’t particularly well-marked.
This guided Monkey Finger’s canyon hike in Dades Gorge takes in 7 kilometres of spectacular scenery over its three-hour duration.
To learn more about visiting Todra and Dades gorges, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Todra + Dades + Skoura.
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