If you are looking for a bit of adventurous winter skiing vacation, the Atlas Mountains (High Atlas) may be just what you are looking for.

Oukaïmeden Ski Resort

Oukaïmeden is one of the premier skiing resorts on the African continent. It is about 80 kilometres from Marrakech, in the Atlas mountains near Jebel Toubkal. It has many of the facilities you would typically find in a European resort, but all done in a very Moroccan style.

You don’t need to bring your ski equipment all the way from home, all you need can be rented, and you should get away with 25€ paid for a full day here (included a lift pass). And when you stand on the top of the ski lift, 3273 metres above sea level, looking out on sparkling snow, that ends in the fairy tale valley below, remember to stop for a minute or two. You’re in subtropical Africa, you know! On top of the Continent!

The snow is far from the groomed-flat pistes of European or US resorts, and this, combined with the old-fashioned hire skis, made for a bumpy ride and a lot of difficulty turning.

Photo Credit: Flickr user – sarfrazh

The ski resort of Michlifen

Michlifen (or Mischliffen) is a ski area near the town of Ifrane in the Middle Atlas Mountains (close to Fes and Meknes). Ifrane has good opportunities for winter sports. It is considered to be the “Moroccan Aspen” with skiing facilities in winter.

Oukaïmeden Ski Resort in Morocco

Oukaïmeden Ski Resort in Morocco

 

Michlifen Ski Resort in Morocco

Michlifen Ski Resort in Morocco

 

Photo Credit: Flickr user – Mohamed Amarochan