Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech
Updated for 2026 with current itinerary, prices and travel advice.
Trip at a Glance
- Distance from Marrakech: Around 60 km
- Typical day length: About 8 hours door to door
- Route: Marrakech – Toubkal National Park – Imlil – Berber village – return to Marrakech
- Best months: March–May and September–November for cooler air and clear views
- Walking level: Easy to moderate, routes can be shortened or extended
- Ideal for: Travellers who like mountain scenery, village visits and gentle hikes
Escape the frenetic energy of the medina for the tranquillity of the high mountains on this bespoke Atlas Mountains day trip. Your private 4×4 driver will whisk you away from your riad towards the stunning vistas of Toubkal National Park. Upon arrival in Imlil, a local guide will lead you along established trails to explore Berber villages before you sit down to a sumptuous lunch of traditional Moroccan dishes. The itinerary is entirely flexible to your fitness level, making this an accessible adventure for anyone comfortable on easy-going hillside paths.
What’s Included
Itinerary
8:30: Your driver will pick you up at your Hotel
10:00/10:30: Arrive at the small, traditional village of Imlil to meet your guide. Take a walk through the valley at the foot of the spectacular Toubkal Mountain.
1:00: Lunch
2:00 – 3:30: Free time to explore
3:30/4:00: Begin the journey back to Marrakech to arrive in time for dinner
Frequently Asked Questions
This Atlas Mountains day trip is usually graded easy to moderate. You walk on a mix of village lanes and mountain paths with some short climbs and uneven sections, but no technical hiking. Most guests who are comfortable walking for a couple of hours at home manage the day well. If you have concerns about mobility or balance, let us know in advance so we can plan gentler paths and extra rest stops.
The hike on this Atlas Mountains day trip is normally classed as easy to moderate. Paths are well used but can be stony in places, with some short climbs and descents. Most people who are happy walking for a couple of hours at home manage it without difficulty. If you need a shorter or gentler route, your guide can adjust the walk on the day.
You can hike in the Atlas Mountains all year, but the best time for this day trip is usually spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Daytime temperatures are milder, the valleys are greener and visibility is often clearer. Summer can feel hot in the sun, while winter brings colder air and snow on higher peaks, so you need extra layers and good footwear in the colder months.
Wear comfortable layered clothing so you can adjust to cooler mornings and warmer afternoons, plus sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip. A light jacket or fleece, sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are useful in most seasons. In winter and early spring, add a warmer jacket and possibly gloves, as it can feel much colder in the shade and at higher points than it does in Marrakech.
The Atlas Mountains are usually cooler than Marrakech, especially in the mornings and evenings. In winter, daytime temperatures can sit around 5–10°C with colder nights and occasional snow on higher ground. In summer, days are often 20–30°C but feel fresher than the city. Even on sunny days, it is sensible to bring an extra layer for rest stops and lunch.
