Planning a safe and exciting mountain adventure with the whole family.
Taking kids to the Atlas Mountains was the highlight of our Morocco trip last spring. The temperature up there is so much cooler than Marrakech - a welcome relief in summer months. We rented a Dacia Duster (affordable and perfect for mountain roads) and drove to Imlil village, about 90 minutes from Marrakech. The drive itself is an adventure - kids loved watching the landscape change from city to villages to dramatic mountains. In Imlil, we hired a local guide who was amazing with children. He showed them how to make mint tea and explained about walnut trees. The mule rides were the biggest hit - even our 5-year-old felt safe and loved it. We did an easy hike to a nearby waterfall, nothing too strenuous, and had a traditional tagine lunch with a view of Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak. For families, I'd recommend staying overnight in a guesthouse - they're very welcoming to children and the Berber hospitality is genuine. Bring layers because temperature drops in the evening. The roads are winding, so if your kids get carsick, bring medication. Stop frequently at viewpoints - it breaks up the journey and the photo opportunities are incredible. In Oukaïmeden (winter only), there's skiing! Yes, skiing in Morocco. Kids lose their minds over this. Pack snacks and water - mountain villages have shops but limited selection. The air is thin at higher altitudes, so take it slow if you're hiking. Spring brings wildflowers and everything's green. Autumn offers clear skies and comfortable temps. Avoid going during Ramadan as restaurants may be closed during the day.