September 17th 2024.
Have you ever dreamed of embarking on a thrilling adventure? Well, we might just have the perfect destination for you - the Anti-Atlas mountain region in Morocco. It's a hidden gem that often gets overlooked by tourists who flock to popular spots like Marrakech, the Sahara Desert, and the Higher Atlas Mountains. But don't let its under-the-radar status fool you, because this breathtaking region has just been named as one of the top 10 'Not Hot' destinations for 2025.
Now, before you start thinking it's a bad thing, let us explain. This list, curated by Intrepid Travel, features lesser-known places that they want to shine a spotlight on for the upcoming year. And the Anti-Atlas mountains are definitely worthy of this recognition. Along with other stunning locations like Cape York in Australia, Adirondacks in New York, Maldonado in Uruguay, and Disko Island in Greenland, this region is a must-visit for any adventure seeker.
So, what exactly can you expect to find in the Anti-Atlas mountains? Well, for starters, it's the most southern mountain range in Morocco, bordering the Sahara desert. The landscape is nothing short of dramatic and spectacular, giving off a lunar-like vibe with its red granite rock formations in pretty shades of red and pink. As you explore the valleys, you'll come across charming small towns and villages, with Tafraoute being the main hub in the central part of the mountains. This town is often referred to as 'Morocco's Berber heartland' and has left a profound impression on many travelers, according to popular travel blogger Tuljak.
Now, let's talk about how to get to this stunning destination. Since it's off the beaten path, it might take a bit of effort to reach it. The best way is to fly to either Agadir or Marrakech and then either take public transport to a nearby town or rent a car to explore on your own. You can catch a non-stop flight from London Gatwick to Agadir, which takes four hours and starts at £35. EasyJet also offers flights from London Luton Airport for £49. Those flying from Manchester or Birmingham can also find affordable options with Wizz Air and Ryanair respectively. Keep in mind that there will be a lot of driving involved, so you can break up your trip by staying in different places along the way.
One recommended route is to transfer from Agadir to Taroudant, which takes about 50 minutes and is a popular spot for exploring both the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains. The latter is just under two hours away by car. Another option is to go from Agadir to Tafraoute, which is about three hours south of Agadir. While the drive may be longer and involve winding roads and dirt paths, those who have been there claim it's well worth the effort. You'll be surrounded by the majestic mountains and their unique and picturesque rock formations.
Once you've arrived, there are plenty of things to do in the Anti-Atlas region. If you're staying in Taroudant, known as the 'little Marrakech', you can explore bustling Berber markets and souks or walk along the old town walls. This is also a great opportunity to try some traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines, dates, and couscous. For a delicious meal, check out top-rated restaurants like Riad Maryan, Complexe El Kasbah, and Restaurant Bar Les Jardins De Taroudant. You can also visit Palais Musee Claudio Bravo, a hotel, museum, and former home of Chilean painter Claudio Bravo, which boasts impressive architecture and stunning gardens.
Of course, the main attraction is the surrounding mountains. You can hike along various trails or book excursions and drives to explore the area. If you're staying in Tafraoute, there's even more to see. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the southern face of Mount Lex at the right time of day to witness a rock formation that resembles a lion's head. Some have even drawn comparisons to Mufasa from The Lion King. Don't forget to check out the famous painted rocks just outside of Tafraoutem, known as Napoleon's Hat, which are large boulders painted in vibrant shades of blue, pink, and yellow.
In Tafraoute, you'll also find unique pink architecture and a weekly souk with markets on Wednesdays, where you can find affordable goods like woodwork, silver jewelry, and leather. And don't leave without trying Amlou, a local specialty spread made from almonds, honey, argan oil, and other ingredients, often served for breakfast or as a snack.
Wondering when the best time to visit the Anti-Atlas mountains is? Well, the weather is warm year-round with little rain, but temperatures can reach over 35C in the summer. However, the temperature varies depending on the elevation, and it can get chilly at night. Lower valleys and foothills tend to have milder temperatures, while higher elevations are cooler. It's recommended to visit in the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November).
As for accommodation, there are plenty of options in Taroudant, ranging from affordable to luxurious. The top choice is Palais Claudio Bravo, with rooms starting at £95.75 per night. You can also stay at the boutique hotel Auberge Kasbah Chez Amaliya, starting at £40.46 per night, or Hotel Espace Tiawine, with rooms starting at £27.82 per night.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to the Anti-Atlas mountains and experience the beauty and adventure of this hidden gem in Morocco. And be sure to share your story with us!
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