The Atlas Mountains

Running like a backbone down the middle of the country, the Atlas Mountains with their snow-capped peaks, deep gorges and stunning pastoral valleys are an ideal place to escape the bustle of the souks and medinas.

The High Atlas is North Africa’s greatest mountain range, an historical and physical barrier between the northern plains and Sahara Desert. The peaks (djebels) of the High Atlas drop away to valleys and streams with Berber villages terraced into their sides. The network of paths and pistes is used by the local people on an everyday basis and, when exploring on foot or with a mule, you enter a mountain life which has hardly changed for centuries.

As well as leisurely days spent in the delightful surroundings of lovely hotels & lodges, there is the opportunity to enjoy walks with local guides, river rafting, horse riding, mountain biking, canoeing and visits to Berber villages and markets.

Alternatively there are a number of overnight treks possible, including the summit of Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Camping in tents or staying in Berber homes, these treks gives you a fascinating insight into a very different and peaceful mountain world.