A base camp
Azilal is considered to be the ideal village for setting off to visit the treasures of the Upper Atlas, from the magnificent Bin el Ouidane lake to Mount M’Goun.
Land
Aït Bouguemez valley, also called the Happy Valley, is suited to walking, mule rides and mountain-biking. There are several circuits organized by travel agencies and many pass through the village of Aït Imi, famous for its irrigation system and water mills which have been transformed into wheat and corn mills. Mountain hiking is suitable for more experienced people depending on the level of difficulty. Skiing (and even cross-country skiing) is possible is possible between February and April The second-highest summit in Morocco, an ascent of Mount M’Goun (4068m) takes six days. The less technical Arous gorges can also be climbed.
Water
With its waterfalls and numerous section of white water, the region is ideal for enjoying kayaking, rafting and canyoning, in Tilouguite for example. Rainbow trout fishing is also possible. On the beautiful Bin el Ouidane lake, 27km north of Azilal, many water sports such as jet-skiing and windsurfing are practiced. Finally, take advantage of a stop at Beni Mellal to swim in the Aïn Asserdoune springs.
Caves
The interesting caves at El Ksiba form a multitude of cavities which can be as much as 20m deep. The Aven des Ours (Swallow-hole of the Bear) is 6km away. This chasm plunges 117m down amid lush green vegetation. The spot, which is popular with Barbary macaques, is ideal for a lovely walk. With its caves and chasms, the entire region is ideal for potholing and paleontology. Four sites form the Mesozoic Era prove the presence of dinosaurs in the Aït Bouguemez valley as well as in the Demnate nature reserve where fossilized footprints are visible.
Air
Extreme sports like parachuting (from September to April in Beni Mellal) and paragliding (in the Aït Bouguemez valley) can be arranged.
To remember
From donkey rides to parachuting, there are a thousand ways of discovering the Upper Atlas.
