How to Plan Your Fez: Middle Atlas Mountains Day Trip

Looking for a day trip from Fez to explore the stunning natural landscapes and culture of Morocco? Ifran, nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains, is a must-visit destination. Here’s how to plan your trip!

Experience

On this day trip, you’ll experience the beauty of Ifran National Park, explore an authentic Berber village, and witness Barbary Macaque apes in their natural habitat.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights you can expect on this fantastic day trip:

– Visit the stunning Ifran National Park to see Barbary Macaque apes in the cedar trees.
– Immerse yourself in the landscape of the Middle Atlas Mountains and discover their beauty.
– Explore an authentic Berber village and learn about their culture.

Full Description

This day trip begins with pick up at your hotel or riad at 9:30 am, followed by a drive to Immouzer, a small tourist town at the headwaters of the biggest water sources in Morocco. Spend some time in the small Berber town and explore the beautiful nature and learn more about the impressive Berber culture.

Next, continue on to Ifran, also known as “Little Switzerland.” This magical mountain town is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco. Your personal driver will take you to some incredible, charming places and marvelous landscapes while finding the most captivating flowing rivers all over this charming town. After Ifran, move on to Azrou, an old Berber town with the largest cedar forest in Africa.

At Ifran National Park, you will have the opportunity to see Barbary Macaque apes in their natural habitat. They are the only monkeys living in the wild in the whole of Europe, Africa, and Asia. Visitors are advised not to feed these creatures.

Before heading back to Fez, you’ll visit an authentic Berber village in the Middle Atlas Mountains. There, immerse yourself in Berber culture as you learn more about their lifestyle, arts, and architecture.

Booking Information

Ready to book your Middle Atlas Mountains day trip from Fez? Click here to book your spot and make the most of your Moroccan adventure!

Conclusion

A day trip to Ifran is undoubtedly one of the most exciting ways to spend your time while in Fez. With stunning natural landscapes, the opportunity to see macaque apes and immerse yourself in Berber culture, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Fez: Middle Atlas Mountains Day Trip

Fez is a vibrant, historical city located in Morocco. It has long been known as the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco, with its maze-like alleys, bustling markets, and ancient monuments. The city is packed with vibrant cultural experiences, unique dining spots, and history that dates back to the Middle Ages. If you’re planning a day trip to the Middle Atlas Mountain, here are some of the best things to do and see in Fez.

Local Attractions

Fez is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a plethora of historical attractions. Among these is the Bou Inania Madrasa, one of the most beautiful monuments of the Merinid dynasty. The mosque provides an unparalleled view of the city from a high point in the medina. The Al-Attarine Madrasa is another iconic attraction in the Fez medina, featuring captivating and intricate architecture.

For a taste of contemporary Fez, visit the Jardin Jnan Sbil, a gorgeous garden that offers respite from Fez’s busy streets. This garden is a favorite spot among locals for picnics and casual walks.

Dining Spots

Fez is renowned for its culinary prowess, offering a variety of traditional dishes. Start your day with a visit to one of the oldest pastry shops in Morocco, Patisserie Albaraka, for a traditional Moroccan breakfast.

For lunch, visit Restaurant Dar Tajine, which offers mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine in a relaxed, rustic environment. The restaurant features a selection of tagine stews and couscous dishes, which are authentic Moroccan specialties.

When evening comes, head to the Ruined Garden, a trendy restaurant with beautiful terraced gardens that overlooks the Medina. Ruined Garden is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploration, providing an ever-changing menu of Moroccan-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails.

Cultural Experiences

The Atlas Mountains Surrounding Fez are an integral part of local culture, and a day trip to these mountains is an unforgettable experience. If you’re interested in cultural immersion, take a guided trek that enables you to discover local Berber culture within the magical mountainous terrain. You can also visit the farming grounds to learn about the different farming methods used throughout the region and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

The Chouara Tannery in Fez presents an excellent opportunity for visitors to observe the traditional leather-making process. You can watch leather being cured and dyed in huge vats, providing an insight into one of the country’s most significant artisanal practices.

Local History

Fez is an iconic part of Moroccan history, and there is plenty of history to explore within the city’s walls. The Royal Palace of Fez, which was built during the Merinid dynasty, is an excellent example of classic Islamic architecture. Visitors can observe the intricate mosaics, impressive gates, and serene fountains within the palace walls.

The Attarine Medersa likewise offers a chance to learn about Islamic culture and medieval Moroccan history. The building is decorated with intricate tilework, geometric patterns, and carved cedar wood. It was in use as a religious school till the 20th century.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you’re looking for something outside the usual tourist destinations, consider visiting Bab Makhzen. It’s a beautiful 14th-century gate and one of the entrances to the Royal Palace of Fez. Situated in the heart of the Medina, this ancient gate is an emblematic symbol of bygone Moroccan architecture.

Another location visitors are just pulling out are Villette Arabe-Palais Bahia. It’s a luxurious 20th-century palace that was built for the wealthiest families in Morocco. It features elaborate gardens overflowing with beautiful plants and significant architecture.

In conclusion

Fez and the Middle Atlas Mountains are a magical combination of culture, history, and beauty. Make the most of your day trip by visiting a few of the above-listed attractions, dining in one of Fez’s famous restaurants, and escaping into the tranquility of the Atlas Mountains. You’re sure to return home with a lifetime of memories and a better appreciation of this stunning Moroccan region.