The Atlas Mountains are so enormous that they span three countries: Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The Sahara Desert isolates coastal Africa like a gigantic curtain.
20 million years ago, the mountain system was formed. The Atlas was most likely present throughout the initial stages of world development. Mountains have formed over millennia and grown to amazing heights. Their ridges, which are crowned by three peaks, reach for 2092 kilometers. Toubkal, Ouanoukrim, and Jebel M’Goun are the three highest points. Toubkal, at 4167 meters, stands tall in the sky. At different locations, the climate belts shift. One creation contains multiple universes that convey amazing stories about their creator. With their individuality, all mountains are enchanting. They have a magnetic pull for adventurers because of this trait.
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Todra Gorge
The Todra Gorge is located in the East of the Atlas Mountains, 15km from Tinghir. Todra and the whole area around it stand out with its beautiful sandy red hue. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet inside this gorge.
For thousands of years, Todra and Dades Rivers have been slowly making their way through 160-meter high rocks. The road they vacated is tiny compared to the giant cliffs — just 10 meters. The rivers have dried up a long time ago, leaving behind a path for adventurers.
Now the canyons have acquired a well-groomed and walkable appearance: the roads have been filled with soil and there are many hiking trails. Here you can meet cute local mules.
Tinghir — the nearby town which is buried in an oasis and in its authentic beauty. There are many hotels where you can stay overnight surrounded by the local coloring. In Tinghir lives a Berber population, the Amazigh, which means «free and noble people».
Taroudant
Caravans passing over the Sahara and Atlas Mountains stopped in Taroudant. Taroudant has long been known as a trading city, with a thriving market dating back a thousand years.
Saffron and coriander aromas fill the air, and the stalls are brimming with merchandise. Rare Moroccan spices, beautiful fabrics, jewelry, handicrafts, handcrafted carpets, clothing, and shoes by local artisans can all be found here. Taroudant is known as Little Marrakech due of its bustling atmosphere, which is similar to that of a large metropolis.
Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
The Tizi-n-Tichka Pass is one of North Africa’s most popular viewpoints. With its majesty and color palette, it provides beautiful views of the mountains. Some visitors have the impression that they are on another world.
Tizi-n-Tichka Pass — must have of Morocco. It’s like hanging over an abyss as you drive down a narrow serpentine road. But the majestic panorama is worth it.
Toubkal National Park
Toubkal’s natural beauty is astounding. Relief grottos, caves, and gorges with the cleanest rivers flowing through them may be seen from the summit. Mountain meadows, juniper, tamarisk, thuja, and oak trees can be found nearby. Wild cats, mountain lynxes, jackals, mouflons, and small rodents can all be found in the forest. Monkeys, black panthers, and genettes can be found in the Atlas’s more distant areas. Butterfly species that are extremely rare can be discovered in the shrubs and meadows. Spiny-tailed lizards, chameleons, cobras, and vipers are reptiles.
Toubkal’s beauty was even more stunning, but in the past, this wonderful location was constantly victimized by people’s cruelty and stupidity. Rare animal hunting was common in these places, with miles of forest cut down and lakes emptied. In Toubkal, half of the spectacular fauna that formerly thrived here is now extinct. Lions, giraffes, elephants, buffalo, and antelope are no longer part of the royal wildlife. Animal preservation is now being given more attention, and efforts are being undertaken to protect what is left. Near the reserve, there are numerous comfortable hotels and guest houses. Outdoorsy types can rent a tent and set up camp. Food and other essentials can be purchased near the equipment rental locations.
Ifrane Ski Resort
Ifrane is 1700 meters above sea level. Skiers and snowboarders will find it excellent in December. In terms of attractiveness and skiing conditions, Ifran is comparable to Switzerland.
Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and a lush cedar forest with maple groves adorn Ifran region. Monkeys can be found in the forests, and pike and cod can be found in the lakes. Ifrane’s architecture is entirely in the European style. This is one of the noises from Morocco’s colonial era.
Ski resort Oukaimeden
At 2600 meters above sea level, Oukaimeden offers a breathtaking view of the Atlas Mountains. Their peaks are blanketed with snow all year. Oukaimeden is one of Morocco’s most prestigious ski resorts. Because the season runs from November to April, travellers have plenty of time to plan an active vacation.
There are conditions for both experienced and novice athletes. Skiing isn’t the only way to have fun. Archery, mountaineering, and bobsleigh are all options. Relax in the sauna, have a massage, or simply sit quietly by the fireplace with a glass of wine.
Marrakech is about 70 kilometers distant, so you can simply get out and enjoy the royal city’s sunlight.
