The High Atlas Mountains

What strikes you first about the High Atlas Mountains is the extraordinary beauty of the landscapes that surround you, then comes the wonderful warmth and hospitality of the Berber people.

The High Atlas Mountains are a favorite stomping ground for hikers and people who love wide-open spaces. You might think about going off on a long trip, for two or three weeks with a mule, a guide and a cook. Or you could just go for a few days in search of a Berber village. But be careful, you need to plan such a hike very carefully.

Choose your itinerary according to your own degree of physical fitness and expertise. You may run into snow-covered summits and steep valleys. But you will find a whole network of trails already traced out for you.

You should be on your best behavior when you enter a village: dress appropriately, be respectful of local customs, especially where food is concerned. Sometimes there isn't enough to go around, as most villages depend on agriculture as their principal resource for food.

Coming soon. Our hiking trip to Mount Toubkal; 7 days with our guide and a few mules. The highlights? Crossing a snow-covered summit and a night spent in freezing temperatures at 10,200 feet.

Don't forget to bring a GOOD sleeping bag with you. Nights are often very cold. Also, if you spend the night in a village, you should pay the person who puts you up what you would pay for a night in a hotel room.