The Atlas Mountains are a magnificent and extensive mountain range that stretches across northwestern Africa, primarily through Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. In Morocco, they form the “dorsal spine” of the country, acting as a significant geographical and cultural barrier between the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts to the north, and the Sahara Desert to the south.

The Moroccan Atlas Mountains are divided into three main sub-ranges, each with its unique characteristics.

The High Atlas (Haut Atlas) is the most famous and prominent section, home to Jebel Toubkal (Mount Toubkal), the highest peak in North Africa and the Arab World, towering at 4,167 meters (13,671 feet) above sea level.

It runs diagonally across Morocco and is characterized by rugged terrain, dramatic valleys, and often snow-capped peaks, especially in winter. It’s home to ancient Berber communities,  traditional villages like Imlil and those in the Ourika and Ouirgane Valleys.

Besides Toubkal, other significant areas include the M’Goun Massif, the stunning Ouzoud Falls and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village renowned for its mud-brick architecture and cinematic appearances. Both the Todra and Dadès Gorges are the most spectacular red-rock canyons.

The Middle Atlas (Moyen Atlas) is located northeast of the High Atlas, this range is lower in elevation and generally more forested, with a milder, more continental climate. It features cedar, cork, oak, poplar, and maple forests, along with interspersed volcanic lakes. It’s known for its diverse wildlife, including the Barbary macaque, one of the last remaining wild populations of its kind.

The Anti-Atlas (Anti-Atlas) is the southernmost and oldest range, characterized by arid, rocky, and often lunar-like landscapes. It borders the Sahara Desert. The Anti-Atlas’s formation dates back some 300 million years ago, making it significantly older than the High and Middle Atlas. This region offers a more authentic and remote Moroccan location.

The region around Tafraoute is a popular location for its dramatic rock formations and traditional villages. The fertile Souss Valley separates the High Atlas from the Anti-Atlas, with the city of Taroudant at its heart.

The Atlas Mountains offer a diverse range of locations, making it a truly special part of Morocco.