Morocco: Hiking the Atlas Mountains and Wandering Marrakech

Location: Africa
Duration: 10 Days
Price: From $5,695
Activity Level: Level 4 – High Energy

Morocco: Hiking the Atlas Mountains and Wandering Marrakech

Location: Africa
Duration: 10 Days
Price: From $5,695
Activity Level: Level 4 – High Energy

Overview

Journey into the soul of Morocco on an unforgettable adventure from the energy of Marrakech to the wild beauty of the Atlas Mountains. Hike through epic valleys and storybook villages, strolling historic Berber communities where traditions endure. Trek deep into Toubkal National Park, surrounded by Morocco’s highest peaks and breathtaking alpine scenery. In addition, you’ll experience Marrakech’s timeless treasures, including a 12th-century mosque and a UNESCO World Heritage site at the city’s heart that echo centuries of culture and wonder.

Main Attractions

Atlas Mountain Exploration

Traverse beautiful Atlas trails linking valleys, passes, and farms, guided by locals, with ever-changing landscapes, crisp mountain air, and rewarding viewpoints at every turn ahead.

Connect with Berber Heritage

Connect with Berber culture through village visits, shared meals, traditional architecture, music, and stories, gaining insight into resilient mountain life shaped by history and hospitality.

Refined Retreats

Balance adventure and comfort by staying in refined riads and kasbahs, where peaceful gardens, regional cuisine, and attentive service restore body and spirit nightly gently.

Map showing travel routes by plane and car between Casablanca, Marrakech, Dar Imlil, Domaine de la Roseraie, and Kasbah Bab Ourika in Morocco, with a country inset.
A solitary building sits on a small hill with sparse trees, with snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.
Sun shines over a mountainous landscape with scattered buildings, leafless trees, and a clear blue sky with wispy clouds.
A circular tiled fountain with palm trees and the Koutoubia Mosque minaret in the background under a partly cloudy sky in Marrakech, Morocco.
A woman stands in front of an ornate wall with intricate geometric tile patterns and detailed carvings in a historic building.
A group of smiling women sit outdoors on a stone wall, enjoying sunny weather with trees and a fence in the background.
A solitary building sits on a small hill with sparse trees, with snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.
Sun shines over a mountainous landscape with scattered buildings, leafless trees, and a clear blue sky with wispy clouds.
A circular tiled fountain with palm trees and the Koutoubia Mosque minaret in the background under a partly cloudy sky in Marrakech, Morocco.
A woman stands in front of an ornate wall with intricate geometric tile patterns and detailed carvings in a historic building.
A group of smiling women sit outdoors on a stone wall, enjoying sunny weather with trees and a fence in the background.

Itinerary

A paved walkway lined with trees and benches leads to a tall, historic tower under a blue sky with scattered clouds. People are walking near the tower.

Arrival in Marrakech & Welcome Dinner

Arrive in Morocco via Marrakech International Airport-RAK by mid-afternoon, where your guide and driver will meet you at the exit of Terminal 1 for a 20-minute group transfer into the city. One group transfer will be provided with the specific time determined closer to departure. Private transfers at other times are available for purchase. After settling into your riad—an oasis hidden behind ancient walls—you’ll gather with your fellow travelers and guides for a welcome dinner.

Meals dinner
Waterfall flowing down rocky cliffs into a clear pool surrounded by stones and sparse vegetation, with a blue sky above.

Ourika Valley Hike

After breakfast, drive an hour south of Marrakech to the entrance to the Ourika Valley located in the Moroccan High Atlas mountains. Along the way, catch its waters from the snowy peaks of Adrar N Dern. Enjoy a short walk along the fields to reach the hotel. Enjoy a picnic lunch. This afternoon, hike from the hotel to a panoramic ridge overlooking the valley, passing through shaded forest before descending back to the hotel. Tonight, relax with dinner at the hotel after a rewarding first hike.
Today’s total hiking will be 3.5 miles, 2 hours, with 500 feet of elevation gain and 500 feet of elevation descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A small village with smoke rising sits on a hillside with terraced fields, surrounded by mountains, some with snow, under a partly cloudy sky.

Explore Ourika Valley

A scenic 30-minute drive brings you to the narrow heart of the Ourika Valley, where today’s hike begins near the village of Iraght. Follow a zig-zag path climbing steadily into the mountains, crossing into Tizi n Oucheg, a favorite base for local hikers. Along the way, catch glimpses of daily Berber life before continuing through Anamer and descending to Tazitounte, known for its terraced farms. Enjoy a picnic or guesthouse lunch, weather permitting, followed by dinner at your hotel. Today’s total hiking will be 6.2 miles, 4-5 hours, with 1,350 feet of elevation gain and 1,350 feet of elevation descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A hillside village with densely packed, flat-roofed buildings in earthy tones, set against a backdrop of rocky mountains under a clear blue sky.

From Atlas Foothills to Imlil Village

After breakfast, travel through the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, passing Tahanaoute and the apple-growing region of Asni before following the Imnanen Valley to the village of Ikkis, the starting point of today’s hike. Trek gradually uphill to the Tizi n Aguersioual pass, then descend via a zigzag mule path to Aguersioual. Continue along the Ait Mizane Valley to Imlil, a welcoming mountain village set high in the Atlas. Enjoy a picnic or guesthouse lunch, with dinner at your hotel.Today’s total hiking will be 5 miles, 4 hours, with 650 feet of elevation gain and 1,300 feet of elevation descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A table set with ceramic bowls of soup, olives, spreads, a basket of bread, a woven bottle, utensils, and cups on a red tablecloth, surrounded by colorful rugs.

Sacred Paths to Sidi Chamharouch

Set out directly from your hotel and hike to the village of Aremd, dramatically perched on a moraine overlooking the valley. Continue through an alpine landscape toward the revered shrine of Sidi Chamharouch, a sacred Muslim pilgrimage site set at 7,739 feet and built around a striking natural rock. Along the way, pass waterfalls and increasingly rugged terrain that signal the transition to higher altitudes. Enjoy a picnic lunch or guesthouse meal, depending on weather, then return to your hotel for a well-earned dinner. Today’s total hiking will be 7.5 miles, 5-6 hours, with 2,000 feet of elevation gain and 2,000 feet of elevation descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Mountain landscape with a winding road, green valleys, and sparse vegetation under a clear blue sky.

Hike through the Toubkal National Park

Depart directly from your hotel and begin a gradual climb along a winding path up to the Tizi Mzik pass at 8,000 feet. From the high point, circle Adrar Adj before descending through the village of Tzi Oussem. After the hike, transfer 45 minutes to Ouirgane, where your luggage awaits. Lunch is a picnic or guesthouse meal, weather permitting. Settle into your secluded retreat and enjoy dinner at the hotel, featuring refined French and Moroccan cuisine. Today’s total hiking will be 5.6 miles, 4-5 hours, with 2,000 feet of elevation gain and 2,000 feet of elevation descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A brick pathway with a pergola is surrounded by blooming rose bushes and tall palm trees in a lush garden under a blue sky.

A Day of Rest and Renewal with Optional Hike

After five rewarding days of hiking, today is yours to unwind and enjoy the peaceful setting of your beautiful accommodation. Relax by the gardens, take in the mountain views, or savor a leisurely lunch at the hotel. If you’re feeling energized, join an optional guided hike to a panoramic viewpoint or take part in the hotel’s signature botanical walk, led by local experts who share insights into native plants and Berber culture. For those who choose it, the scenic village hike covers three gentle miles through the surrounding countryside.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Colorful spice bins with pointed lids stand in front of a shop in Marrakech, with a sign reading "LOVE MARRAKECH" and hanging decorative lanterns above.

Transfer back to Marrakech

After a leisurely breakfast, return to Marrakech with a scenic 90-minute drive from the mountains. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk to Jemaa El Fna, the city’s legendary main square and cultural heart since the 11th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the plaza buzzes with storytellers, musicians, food stalls, artisans, and age-old traditions unfolding in real time. Located just a short walk from your hotel, it offers a vivid contrast to the quiet days in the Atlas. Dinner is on your own, with endless local options nearby.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Person in a pink hooded garment sits at the entrance of an arched hallway with patterned red carpet and glowing lights.

Discover Marrakech  

Begin the day with a guided city tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, dating to the 12th century, before exploring ornate palaces and winding souks where history, craftsmanship, and everyday life intertwine. Along the way, savor local flavors that bring the city’s culture to life. After lunch, enjoy time to continue exploring or relax at your hotel. In the evening, gather with your AdventureWomen companions for a festive farewell dinner, sharing stories, laughter, and memories from an unforgettable journey through Morocco.

Meals breakfast, dinner
A woman wearing sunglasses and a patterned jacket stands in a busy outdoor plaza with buildings and people in the background.

Depart Marrakech

Today marks the conclusion of your Moroccan adventure. After breakfast, say goodbye to your AdventureWomen companions as you transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for flights home. Departures are available at any time today. Take a final moment to reflect on the shared experiences—from mountain trails and Berber villages to the vibrant energy of Marrakech—and carry those memories with you as you journey home, inspired by the landscapes explored and the connections made along the way.

Meals breakfast
Palm trees and buildings in the foreground with snow-capped mountains and clear blue sky in the background.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

An ornately decorated room features a red sofa, two wooden chairs, a wooden table with a fruit bowl, mosaic tiled floor, and intricately patterned pillars and walls.

Palais Sebban

A true jewel of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture, the Palais Sebban welcomes you all year round, in one of the most beautiful riads in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech. The Palais Sebban is named after the former owner of the place: the caïd (chief) Sebban. It has been maintained for centuries by his family. After 4 years of work and rehabilitation, the guest rooms opened their doors and have become a majestic cocoon of tranquility and happiness since 2006.

Amenities: air conditioning, Wi-Fi, safe, minibar

A circular garden with a fountain is surrounded by trees, with a wooden table in the foreground and mountains in the distance under a clear sky.

Hotel Bab Ourika

The Kasbah Bab Ourika stands in exceptionally beautiful landscape in the Atlas Mountains at the apex of the Ourika Valley, it looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy Mountain peaks.

Kasbah Bab Ourika is a unique Boutique Hotel where luxury is about exceptional location, genuine warm Berber welcoming, the uniqueness and beauty of the interiors and attention to details and most of all about connection with the incredible nature that surrounds us.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobe, ceiling fan, safe, Wi-Fi

A multi-story building with arched balconies stands among green trees, with mountains visible in the background under a clear sky.

Dar Imlil

Situated deep within Toubkal National Park, Riad Dar Imlil is inspired by its dramatic mountain setting and rich Berber heritage. Our traditional riad offers the perfect blend of authentic Moroccan charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re preparing to summit Mount Toubkal, seeking a peaceful mountain retreat, or exploring the beauty of Morocco, Dar Imlil welcomes you with warm hospitality and stunning panoramic views.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, tea & coffee, air conditioning, Wi-Fi

A warmly lit lounge with leather chairs, wooden tables, decorative screens, framed art on the wall, and sunlight streaming through windows.

Domaine de la Roseraie

Domaine de la Roseraie is an eco-chic garden retreat nestled in the High Atlas Mountains and spread over 80 acres. Guests can wander through the property to discover and take in the views of the surrounding Atlas mountains while wandering through La Roseraie’s organic kitchen and herb garden, birdwatch and explore the surrounding Berber villages and their rich culture. For decades, La Roseraie has preserved its old-charm atmosphere while evolving with its time. Rooms and suites are decorated in a warm and cozy Moroccan style, opening into luscious gardens with centuries-old olive trees surrounded by beds of roses and lavender.

Amenties included: Wifi, toiletries, terrace, private bathroom, air conditioning, minibar, spa, pool

What People Are Saying

“Traveling with AdventureWomen reminded me how powerful it is to be surrounded by supportive, like-minded women. From day one, the camaraderie was genuine—we encouraged each other on the trail and shared plenty of laughter along the way.”

What People Are Saying

“I signed for my first AdventureWomen trip unsure if I could complete the hikes. I left feeling incredibly proud of myself. Reaching each summit was empowering, and the experience reminded me just how strong and capable I am.”

What People Are Saying

“Every detail of my AdventureWomen trip was thoughtfully planned, The local guides were attentive, encouraging, and truly invested in making sure everyone felt supported throughout the journey.”

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Starting At Booking Link
Nov 5, 2027 Nov 14, 2027
Space Available
$5,695
Standard Double
$5,695 total, $800 deposit
Standard Single
$7,595 total, $800 deposit

Arrival: Arrive in Marrakech, Morocco (RAK) on Day 1 by 4:00 PM.

Departure: Depart from Marrakech, Morocco (RAK) on Day 10 at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation as listed, based on double occupancy
  • All meals, as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • One airport group transfer on scheduled arrival and departure days
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Drinking water available in large jugs to refill personal bottles
  • Gratuities for hotel staff, luggage porters, and waitstaff
  • Bottled water, tea or coffee with included group meals

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Morocco
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passports, visas, immunizations
  • Travel Insurance: cost of medical expenses, hospitalization, evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers

FAQs

Absolutely! You belong here. AdventureWomen welcomes all women and individuals who identify as part of the women’s community. We celebrate all races, backgrounds, orientations, abilities, and ages. Our adventures reflect the vibrant diversity of our travelers.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. Internal flights are included.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Level One: Easy Pace Our Easy Pace trips are thoughtfully designed for women who enjoy gentle activity, cultural immersion, and plenty of time to savor the scenery. They feature light walking, easy terrain like cobblestone streets or flat nature trails, and optional activities such as city tours, wildlife safaris, and scenic boat rides. This level offers a relaxed pace with flexible itineraries and minimal physical exertion.
  • Level Two: Moderate For women who enjoy staying active, balanced with some downtime, our Moderate trips offer a blend of movement and relaxation. Activities may include walking on gently rolling trails, with occasional uneven terrain like forest paths or shallow creek crossings. With activities like beginner kayaking or short e-bike excursions, this level is perfect for those eager to explore while trying something new.
  • Level Three: Dynamic Designed for adventurous women ready for a challenge, our Dynamic trips feature regular activity on varied terrain with moderate elevation gains. Expect natural obstacles such as rocky paths and shallow creek crossings. From glacier walks and whitewater rafting to ziplining and kayaking in calm to lightly-choppy waters, this level is perfect for those with hiking and outdoor experience and a sense of adventure.
  • Level Four: High Energy Our High Energy adventures are designed for women who crave being on the go! You should be prepared for full days of hiking across rugged, moderate-altitude terrain. With some steeper inclines and rocky paths, these trips often feature back-to-back adrenaline-fueled activities like canyoneering, multi-day treks, and Class IV whitewater rafting—perfect for experienced adventurers and hikers with good stamina and a passion for pushing their limits.
  • Level Five: Challenging Our Challenging trips are crafted for seasoned adventurers ready to take on remote, high-altitude terrain, and full-day treks. These trips are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition and be able to hike up to 14 miles per day with steep ascents, rugged trails, and elevations reaching 19,500 feet. These are strenuous trips that require endurance and a commitment to training before departure.

A trip extension is an optional add-on to your main AdventureWomen itinerary. Extensions allow you to explore a destination more deeply, visit nearby regions, or enjoy additional activities before or after your scheduled trip. You can request an extension by contacting your Trip Manager. We’ll confirm availability with our local partners and send you the details, pricing, and next steps. For more information about AdventureWomen extensions, please visit our FAQs.