Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech with Berber Lunch

Summary

Explore Berber Villages & Camel Ride in the Atlas Mountains

You’ll get hands-on with local life: see how argan oil is made by women in Tahnaout, stroll lively markets (if your timing matches), hike through Berber villages in Imlil, share lunch at a family home, and finish with a camel ride in Moulay Brahim Valley—all in one day from Marrakech.

What’s the experience like?

The van pulled up just outside my hotel a little after 9am—right on time. The city was still waking up as we left Marrakech behind, and soon the air felt cooler, tinged with that earthy mountain smell. Our first stop was a women’s argan oil cooperative in Tahnaout. Inside, you could hear the soft clatter of grinding stones and catch the nutty scent of fresh argan oil. One of the women showed us how they crack open the nuts by hand—her fingers moved so fast I almost missed it. It’s not just about oil here; it’s about supporting families and real lives.

If you’re here on a Saturday, you’ll get to wander through Asni’s weekly market. It’s not polished for tourists—think heaps of mint, old radios, even chickens in crates. On Thursdays, there’s a similar buzz at Tahnaout’s market. I grabbed a glass of sweet mint tea from a vendor who insisted his was “the best in the valley.” You can linger or just take a quick look—it’s your call.

By late morning, we reached Imlil. The mountains towered above us, their peaks still holding onto patches of snow even though it was warm down below. Our guide Youssef led us along narrow trails past stone houses and apricot trees heavy with fruit. We stopped at a small waterfall—the sound drowned out everything else for a minute—and then made our way to his family’s home for lunch. The tagine came bubbling hot, and honestly, I’ve never tasted tomatoes quite like that before.

After eating (and maybe one too many pieces of homemade bread), we set off again for another short walk through quiet Berber villages—kids waved as we passed by, goats wandered across the path without much concern for us hikers. Eventually, our driver met us near Moulay Brahim Valley where camels were waiting. The ride itself is gentle but seeing the red earth and green valleys from up high is something else entirely.

Tired but happy, we headed back toward Marrakech as the sun started dropping behind the hills. If you want a day that feels real—full of small surprises and genuine moments—this trip delivers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Atlas Mountain Day Trip

• Visit women's argan oil cooperative
• Explore market in Asni or Tahnaout
• Hike around Imlil and visit waterfalls
• Enjoy traditional Berber lunch
• Walk, camel ride, and return to Marrakech

Top questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains?

It usually takes about 1 hour to reach Tahnaout from Marrakech and another 45 minutes or so to get up to Imlil village.

Is hiking required or can I skip it?

You can choose to hike or relax at the family house while others walk—just let your guide know your preference on arrival.

What should I wear for this trip?

Comfortable walking shoes are best; bring layers since mornings can be cool even if it's warm later on.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes! Just mention any dietary needs when booking so they can prepare accordingly at the family home.

What’s included

Your English-speaking guide will be with you all day. Private transport from Marrakech (air-conditioned), traditional Berber lunch at a local home, camel ride in Moulay Brahim Valley—all included. Just bring comfy shoes and an appetite for adventure!