A Walking Holiday in Western Morocco

When you're considering doing something different for your next holiday, why not go somewhere new and different and explore the area by walking? Morocco might not be the first place that pops into mind when it comes to a rambling trip, but seeing the western part of the country on foot really is one of the true delights of travelling. With the Atlas Mountains as its backdrop, the western part of the country is ideal terrain for walking. Morocco’s small villages and stunning countryside will leave you in awe. One of the best ways to begin your exploration is in the epic and beautiful Tizi n’Test Pass. Then, head over to Taroudant where you can soak up the history and natural beauty of that area.

Tizi n’Test Pass

Located high in the Atlas Mountains in the western part of the country, the Tizi n’Test Pass is a perfect place to begin walking. Morocco has many excellent spots in the west to explore, but the high Tizi n’Test Pass has the added benefit of being serviced by a road that allows you to dip in and out of the long trail between Marrakech and Taroudant. The pass itself is 2,093 metres above sea level and is not to be attempted by vehicle in the dark. The dramatic 1,600-metre descent once you reach the peak of the Tizi n’Test Pass is nothing short of breathtaking. At the height of the pass, there is a plaque commemorating the building of the pass in the mid 1900s. From here you can stop to explore the Berber towns of Asni and Talaat-n-Yacoub before heading to the city of Taroudant.

Taroudant

Located in the Souss Valley just over the Tizi n’Test Pass, the small town of Taroudant sits quietly against her spectacular backdrop of the mighty Atlas Mountains. Often considered the "grandmother of Marrakech", walking in Morocco around this area will reveal why: at times it may seem like the much larger city has been shrunk into a mini-version. But unlike Marrakech, almost all of Taroudant is located inside the ancient and impressive city walls. Dating back well before 1000 A.D., Taroudant was surrounded by is walls in 1528 and soon became the capital of the region. The city has myriad tiny streets to explore and the seven and a half kilometres of walls are some of the best examples of "pise" walls in the country. As you wander around the walls, take note of the two large gates to the city (the main gate has three distinctive archways). It is also wonderful to go on an exploration of the city’s squares and experience the souks for which the small town is famous.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking Morocco to see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 140 guided group walking holidays in over 60 different countries.