Marrakech to Imlil: Atlas Mountains Day Trip & Camel Ride

Summary

Atlas foothills trek, Berber lunch & camel ride from Marrakech

You’ll spend your day trekking through Atlas foothills with a local guide, riding camels by Moulay Ibrahim River, sharing mint tea in a Berber village, and tasting home-cooked tagine for lunch. Expect moments of laughter and quiet as you walk ancient paths—and maybe leave with dust on your shoes and something new on your mind.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air in Imlil Valley to smell so green—almost sweet, like wet grass after rain. The drive from Marrakech was quiet at first (I dozed a bit), but then our guide Youssef started pointing out little things: the way cherry trees lean over stone terraces, how the barley fields look almost silver in morning light. There’s something about seeing the Atlas Mountains up close that makes you feel both tiny and weirdly awake. The main keyword here is “Atlas Mountains day trip”—but honestly, it felt more like stepping into someone else’s daily routine for a while.

We stopped by Moulay Ibrahim River for the camel ride. I’ll admit, I was nervous (camels are taller than you think), but Youssef just grinned and told me to trust “Aisha”—my camel’s name. The saddle creaked and my knees felt wobbly at first, but after a few minutes it was almost peaceful, with the river sounds below and kids waving from the bank. Later we walked through Ait Mizan village; an old woman handed us mint tea without saying much—just a nod—and it tasted sharper than any I’ve had in Marrakech. Lunch was tagine, eaten cross-legged in a cool room while Youssef told stories about growing up here. He laughed when I tried to say “shukran” right (I probably didn’t).

The trek itself wasn’t hard—just enough uphill to make you notice your breath, especially near Imoula where the path gets rocky. We passed walnut trees and little waterfalls that barely made a sound over our footsteps. There were moments when all you could hear were birds or distant voices from another hamlet. It’s strange how quickly you forget city noise out here. By the time we got back to the van, my shoes were dusty and my head felt lighter somehow—I still think about that view of Toubkal summit in the afternoon haze.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Atlas Mountains day trip and activities

• Travel to Imlil Valley
• Short to medium trek in Toubkal Park
• Ride camel at Moulay Ibrahim River
• Tour Berber village
• Enjoy traditional Berber lunch with mint tea
• View waterfalls and mountain ranges
• See hamlets of Ait Mizan, Targe, Imoula
• Observe terraced fields and orchards
• Learn about Berber culture from guide

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Atlas Mountains day trip?

Yes, return transport from Marrakech is included.

How long is the trek during the day trip?

The trek is short to medium length through Imlil Valley; exact distance varies.

Do I need special fitness for this tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries.

Is lunch provided on this Atlas Mountains tour?

Yes, a traditional Berber lunch with mint tea is included.

Are camel rides part of this Marrakech day trip?

Yes, there is a camel ride at Moulay Ibrahim River during the tour.

Can infants join this excursion?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points in Marrakech.

What’s included

Your day includes return transport from Marrakech with pickup, water along the way, a guided cultural trek through villages in Imlil Valley, a camel ride by Moulay Ibrahim River, plus a traditional Berber lunch served with mint tea before heading back in the afternoon.