Atlas Mountains Day Trip: Asni, Imlil & Lunch at Kasbah Toubkal

Summary

Guided Atlas Mountains Tour with Berber Village Lunch

You’ll walk through lively Berber markets, hike quiet trails in Imlil, and share a real Moroccan lunch at Kasbah Toubkal—all with local guides who know every shortcut and story along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The drive out of Marrakech started early, just as the city was waking up. Our driver weaved through the morning traffic and soon we were rolling past olive groves and small roadside stalls selling oranges. The air felt cooler as we climbed higher, and you could smell wood smoke drifting from little houses tucked into the hills. Our guide, Youssef, pointed out the changing colors in the rock—reds and ochres you don’t really notice until you’re right there in the Atlas Mountains.

We stopped at Tahanaout first. It was market day, so the place buzzed with locals haggling over spices and fresh mint. The sound of chickens and the chatter in Tamazight (the Berber language) made it feel worlds away from the city. Youssef showed us how to spot the best olives—he said the wrinkled ones are always sweeter. After snapping a few photos, we headed on to Asni. If you’re here on a Saturday or Tuesday, you’ll catch the souk in full swing. I picked up a small woven basket from an old woman who smiled but didn’t speak much French.

By midday we reached Imlil. The mountain air felt crisp—almost cold even though it was sunny. We set off on foot for a short hike through walnut groves and past stone houses clinging to the hillside. Kids waved from rooftops; a donkey brayed somewhere nearby. The path was rocky but not too tough, and Youssef kept us entertained with stories about life in these villages. He explained how families still bake bread in communal ovens here.

Lunch at Kasbah Toubkal was something special. The terrace looks out over Mt. Toubkal itself—the highest peak in North Africa—and you can hear nothing but birds and maybe a distant call to prayer. We tried lamb tagine with apricots, homemade bread, and sweet mint tea poured from high above the glass (Youssef joked that’s how you get the bubbles right). By late afternoon, we were back in the car, tired but happy, watching the sun dip behind the peaks as we headed home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Atlas Mountains and Berber Villages

• Pick up and drive to Atlas Mountains
• Visit Tahanaout and Asni local souks
• Explore Asni rural markets and landscape
• Hike in Imlil, visit Berber village and Kasbah Toubkal lunch

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The walk in Imlil is gentle and our guide adjusts the pace for everyone. There are also infant seats available if needed.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes for walking are best. Bring a light jacket—the mountain air can feel chilly even when it’s sunny.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Absolutely! Just let us know ahead of time so we can arrange delicious vegetarian dishes at Kasbah Toubkal.

Which days can I see the local souks?

The main market days are Tuesday in Tahanaout and Saturday in Asni—those are great times to visit if you want to experience the souks.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by an experienced driver, all transport in a comfy air-conditioned vehicle, a two-hour guided walk with a local mountain guide, and a full Moroccan lunch at Kasbah Toubkal. We also provide transportation insurance and can arrange infant seats if you need them.