It may not be your first or second guess, or 100th guess, but some of the best skiing in the world is on the continent of Africa. Yeah we are talking about not just snow, not just skiing, but full mountain resorts in Morocco.
Skiing in Morocco is more than just a hidden gem. Home to the High Atlas mountains, there is a multitude of different ski terrain that is to be explored.
From gear to hospitality to specific runs, this article will break down everything you need to know about skiing in Morocco.
What Makes Morocco Unique?
A lot of American folks do not realize that Morocco is actually not too far away from Europe. While it is separated by water, a quick ride across the Strait of Gibraltar would suffice. As many skiers know how good European conditions are, the same goes for Morocco.
Just 90 minutes away from the city of Marrakesh lies a mountain that stands at 13,671 feet high, Mount Toubkal. That elevation point even rivals some of the most popular resorts in the Swiss Alps.Toubkal is a year round destination for travelers to climb and ski..
In terms of a resort, Oukaimeden is the biggest and most popular resort in Morocco. It even has the highest ski lift in all of Africa.
Skiing in Morocco, and all across Africa in that matter, is also unique for their friendly prices and low budget ski opportunities. This is because of the high tourism traffic that comes through during the summer time, leaving the winter time a bit more open. Although it may cost a pretty penny to get over there from the states, it would be a cheaper option than visiting most of the European ski countries.
Lastly, to experience such a unique culture like the one in Morocco is worth more than the skiing itself. It is truly an extravagant adventure and recommended for any travel enthusiast skier.
Gear Needed to Ski in Morocco
Get your passports and cash ready, we are going to Morocco!
Well, maybe not everyone, but if you are going to take the trip across the pond here is what you'll need. Passports and cash are always good in case of emergency and easiest to pay for supplies or services. Much more reliable than a credit card.
All the regular ski gear would be recommended. Elevation is high and the sun shines bright so it is important to be able to cover up and stay warm the higher up you go.
As you get higher and higher up, the views and scenery are going to get increasingly beautiful. Bring your cameras and take pictures, they will last longer.
Relating back to Moroccan culture, it is respectful to bring a scarf and cover up knees and shoulders whenever you are out. This could be purchased once you're there, but still important. Your scarf can also be used for protection from the elements like the sun, snow or even sand.
Where to Stay in Morocco
Michlifen Resort
This suite and spa hotel is a 5 star rated accommodation that is located in the Atlas mountains. A chalet atmosphere that is guaranteed to provide you with amazing views and scenery, spa treatments and day passes, with restaurants and bars on sight. If you love it like we think you will and feel like coming back in the summer, there is a golf course right at your service as well.
Aurocher Marrakech Ourika Oukaimeden
A quiet, humble hotel located on the mountain side of High Atlas. This accommodation is not too expensive and gives you a real authentic feel to the country of Morocco. With a great menu for food, gardens, one of a kind landscape, and a homey backyard looking pool. This hotel even offers airport transfers to get you there quickly and safely.
The Best Ski Runs in Morocco
The ski resort in Oukaimeden offers three green runs, four blue runs, eight red runs, and three black runs.
If you are a beginner then the five pulley lifts available are the ones for you, they will be the best option. Although trails are not groomed or marked, it is friendly to beginners.
The northern section of the mountain is where the experts are going to want to head over to. There is one chairlift that goes up as well as helicopter drop offs. Once again the unmarked and ungroomed conditions are what will make it extra tough.
All the snow will be real snow, depending on coverage some runs on the mountain will be more or less difficult.
The Bottom Line: Morocco Ski Guide
At the end of the day, don't you want to be able to say that a donkey carried your skis to the ski slope and then you got dropped off by a helicopter in the High Atlas mountains of Morocco.
That's bucket list, a story that would be passed down through generations of family members. If you are a real travel junkie and want to think outside the box, use this guide to plan your Moroccan ski trip.
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