Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech

A Scenic Journey Through Valleys, Villages, and Breathtaking Peaks

Atlas Mountains Day Trip

Escape the bustle of Marrakech and spend a day immersed in the natural beauty and rich culture of Morocco’s iconic Atlas Mountains. This full-day private tour takes you through picturesque valleys, traditional Berber villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes offering an unforgettable glimpse into rural Moroccan life.

From Marrakech to the Ourika Valley

Your adventure begins with morning pickup from your riad or hotel by your experienced driver. Heading southeast toward the Ourika Valley, you’ll leave the city behind and watch the scenery shift from urban sprawl to wide-open plains and lush greenery. Along the way, stop in the village of Tafza for a visit to a traditional Berber home, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding valley and a warm welcome into local life.

Climb to Oukaimeden & Discover Hidden Beauty

Continue your journey as the road climbs toward Oukaimeden, Morocco’s premier ski resort perched nearly 2,000 meters above sea level. The snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains create an awe-inspiring backdrop, ideal for photo stops and scenic views.

Descending toward Asni, you’ll pass by the stunning Kasbah Tamadot, the luxury retreat owned by Sir Richard Branson. In Asni, especially on Saturdays, you may explore the local Berber souk, a vibrant marketplace where villagers sell produce, spices, and handcrafted goods.

Lunch with a View

For lunch, choose between dining with a local Berber family in their home for an authentic experience or enjoying a peaceful meal poolside at a traditional inn, surrounded by mountain views and fresh air.

Kik Plateau & Lake Lalla Takerkoust

After lunch, the tour continues to the spectacular Kik Plateau, situated at 1,800 meters and offering panoramic views of rolling hills, adobe villages, and terraced fields nestled between two mountain ranges. Keep your camera ready, this region is a favorite among paragliders, and the skies are often dotted with colorful gliders.

The journey ends with a relaxing stop at Lake Lalla Takerkoust, where you can enjoy a refreshing cup of mint tea by the water while taking in views of the vast reservoir and nearby kasbah ruins. From here, you’ll make your way back to Marrakech, arriving in the early evening, full of lasting memories from your Atlas Mountains adventure.