If you’re craving fresh mountain air and sweeping alpine views, the tiny village of Imlil is the perfect place to start. Nestled in the Atlas Mountains just a couple hours from Marrakech, Imlil is the gateway to some of Morocco’s most scenic trekking routes—including the path to Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak.
But not to worry, you don’t need to be a mountaineer. Whether you’re planning a multi-day trek or just a few hours of walking, here’s what to know about hiking in the area, getting to Imlil, and making the most of your time in this peaceful mountain town.
Driving to Imlil
The thrilling drive to Imlil offered some of the most spectacular scenery we have seen to date. The rural roads between Ourika and Imlil were full of bumps and potholes in some areas, and large sections of the road were narrow, often requiring one car to hug the gravel shoulder while the other passed. Steep drop-offs without safety barriers, along with tight curves and blind corners, could make the experience a little daunting for some. We found the drive manageable at a slow pace.
Discovering Imlil: Gateway to the Atlas Mountains
The small village of Imlil sits quietly at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, serving as the perfect starting point for a variety of hikes—whether you’re after an easy stroll or a multi-day trek. Despite its popularity with trekkers, Imlil has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that invites visitors to explore at their own pace.
There’s no need to book a guide ahead of time for day hikes, as local guides are readily available to help you find the best trail for your interests and ability. We usually prefer to wander on our own, and in Imlil, we enjoyed setting off on a scenic loop called the Tizi Oussem Trail, which winds through mountain landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
Hiking the Tizi Oussem Trail
The Tizi Oussem Trail leads you to a small Berber village in the mountains and then loops back to the town of Imlil.
- 21.7-kilometre loop
- Elevation 1,822 metres
- Rated: Difficult
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures the higher you climb. We visited in early March, and there was still snow on the ground in some places.
The first hour of the hike was a moderate incline on a dirt path. The trail was crowded, full of tourists and locals with small tables selling goods and souvenirs.
Following this, we hike up a steep set of stone stairs to a Berber community. The views from the village, overlooking the snowcapped mountains and lush green valley, were incredible.
As we continued on, we ended up getting lost. In the end, we found a small road that wrapped around a mountain and overlooked the valley and the town of Imlil. It was an easy walk down the road back to town. The mishap cut the length of the trail. We finished in about 3hrs. Our boys, ages 8 and 11, managed the hike well.
Where We Stayed: Ourika
The small town of Ourika, located about an hour east of Marrakech, is a great place to base yourself while exploring the surrounding area. It has a laid-back atmosphere, with local markets to browse and plenty of small restaurants serving up delicious Moroccan dishes. Drive time: Ourika to Imlil (1 hour)
Looking for more hikes? Visit nearby, Setti Fadma for the Waterfall Hike
Accommodations
Sitting high on a hillside on the edge of town, the Airbnb we stayed in was an amazing find. Our spacious condo included a full kitchen, in-suite laundry, central heating (a rarity in Morocco), and a large patio overlooking Ourika Valley. The complex is located within walking distance of town and has a communal pool with lounge chairs to relax in. Our hosts provided everything we needed and even went above and beyond to help us fix a flat tire.
Where We Ate
For the most part, we cook our meals. Being a relatively small town, Ourika didn’t have a large grocery store. Instead, we shopped at the local butcher shops, bakeries, and produce markets. We did splurge one night and went to Le Murailles d’Ourika, recommended by our hosts. If you’re looking for authentic Moroccan food or a little taste of home, Le Murailles d’Ourika is the place to visit. We enjoyed a delicious beef tajine with homemade bread while the kids devoured a pizza made with Moroccan spiced tomato sauce and Banana Nutella crepes.
Reflecting on Our Atlas Mountains Adventure
Overall, we really enjoyed our time in the Atlas Mountains and recommend it as a must-visit for anyone wanting to hike and soak in the stunning landscapes. That said, some parts of the area can feel quite touristy, with busy trails, persistent vendors, and unfortunately, some litter along the paths.
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider starting your hike early in the morning or hiring a local guide who can lead you to more secluded trails away from the crowds. With a little planning, the Atlas Mountains offer incredible beauty and a genuine connection to Moroccan mountain life.
Looking for More Places to Explore in Morocco?
Check out these related posts to help plan your trip:
• 27-Day Morocco Road Trip Itinerary
• Exploring Marrakech Medina
• Exploring Dadès Gorge: A Family Hike the Monkey Fingers Trail
• Camel Trekking in the Sahara: A Family Adventure You’ll Never Forget
