TRIP DESCRIPTION:
Join us in this trip featuring the Ifrane Province located in the Middle Atlas Region. The region is well-known for its different natural landscapes combined with its European architecture. It is a tourist hub for hiking and hunting. Its lakes are essential for fishing. The Ifrane National Park is home to the largest cedar forest in the world. It is an oasis of freshness and superb greenery. Monkeys and fragrant cedar forest trails are what draw visitors to Azrou. The town itself is a thoroughly unhurried relaxing spot if you’re feeling frazzled after too many big cities. It’s an important Berber market center deep in the Middle Atlas.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Appreciate the beauty of nature through the cities scenic landscapes; green plains that are combined with lakes and flowing rivers in the Middle Atlas Mountains
- Quick stop to the small town of Imouzzar Kandar
- Stroll through the magnificent Cedar Forest and witness the wild macaque monkeys
- Explore the city of Ifrane; the small Switzerland of Morocco
- Discover the secret of Amazigh carpets in Azrou by visiting rugs cooperatives
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal in Azrou (at your own expense)
ITINERARY:
Your driver will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel or riad in Fes. The trip to our first destination, Ifrane, takes about an hour and a half across the fertile country fields of Fes/Boulemane Region.
On the way to Ifrane, a quick stop will be included to visit the small town of Imouzzar Kandar, which boasts of its beautiful natural fortunes and fresh air.
Arriving in Ifrane, which is located at an elevation of 1,665 m with an alpine climate that is ideal for mountain tourism; start on a fairly easy trail hiking in the National Park where you will enjoy the abundant wildlife. You may come across the endangered Barbary macaque and diverse bird species around the fragrant Atlas cedar trees and rivers, lakes and natural springs.
Stroll through the town center where you’ll find quaint fountains, gardens and chalet-like houses. The city is a superb place in Morocco to enjoy the great outdoors.
In the afternoon, we will leave Ifrane for a short ride to Azrou. Take a moment to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal and a cup of tea in a local restaurant before you continue the trip.
During the second half of the trip, we will explore the small Amazigh town of Azrou, which translates to “rock”. The town is popular amongst locals, hikers and picnickers as there is a forest nearby, which is perfect for all activities.
We will visit a women’s cooperative that makes original Amazigh carpets. As we marvel through, your local guide will answer all your questions about the region and its culture.
After spending some time at the market and carpet bazaars, you will have a free time to enjoy the cool and quiet surroundings of the nearby cedar forests. There are paths for walking in the cedar forests leading to the historical tree. You may choose to follow the trail of about 13 kilometers north of Azrou where you will find the 800-year old tree, which has been named Cedre Gourand. Very likely, you’ll come across Barbary macaques as they leap through the trees. They are quite accustomed to people and are more than happy to pose for a photo.
As soon as the day takes off, we will return to Fes and drop you off at your hotel or the nearest car accessible point to your riad.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Air-conditioned minivan or 4WD Fuel included
- Professional English-speaking driver / guide
- Professional local guide in Ifrane
- Mineral water during the day
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fes
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Tips and Gratuities
- Entrance Fees
- Lunch and Drinks
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Departure Time: 9:00 AM
Arrival Time: 9:00 PM