In Imlil, Al Haouz province, winding roads through the slopes of the High Atlas and mountain villages lead to breathtaking landscapes. The journey itself offers an opportunity to discover an area considered one of the main gateways to Mount Toubkal and its natural surroundings.
A popular meeting point for Moroccan and foreign tourists, the region also provides an ideal setting for exploring mountain trails on walks and hikes, discovering villages and enjoying exceptional landscapes.
Visitors can also sample local specialties and discover the guesthouses that add to the charm of the region.
Yassine Messari, who travelled from Marrakech to climb Mount Toubkal for the first time with his friends, told MAP that he chose Imlil for his holiday to discover the area’s natural scenery, as well as the atmosphere and environment in which local residents live.
“This experience was an opportunity to get a change of scenery and get away from the heat of the cities and the overcrowding on the beaches,” he added.
For foreign travelers, Imlil’s appeal lies in particular in the combination of scenic landscapes and cultural experiences, with trails leading to different villages and natural areas.
It is also an opportunity to discover the lifestyle and traditions of local residents.
Line and Virgin, who travelled from the United States, said they were impressed by the landscape and mountain peaks, as well as by Moroccan cuisine. They said their climb of Mount Toubkal was a memorable experience thanks to the diversity of the landscapes and the warm welcome from local residents.
During these excursions, tourists are accompanied by local guides, whose role is to introduce them to the different trails and routes and ensure their safety, particularly when climbing the mountains.
Guide Rachid Ait Moudden said in a similar statement that climbing Mount Toubkal takes around two days. The adventure begins in Imlil, heading towards Sidi Chamharouch, before continuing through the mountain areas leading to the summit.
“Imlil is a top tourist destination that welcomes visitors throughout the year, with higher numbers in summer among both foreign and Moroccan tourists,” Mohammed Ait Ifradane said. He noted that the area offers spaces for relaxation and highlighted the beauty of its landscapes.
Imlil’s residents rely heavily on tourism, he explained, adding that they work to provide visitors with the best accommodation while developing various services and facilities to meet growing demand.
Imlil therefore maintains its position as a summer destination combining nature, adventure and local culture at a time when the area is seeing a significant influx of tourists, offering an alternative to coastal destinations.
