Skiing in Morocco: Oukaimeden, the Ski Resort Near Marrakech
Skiing in the High Atlas in the morning and dining on a Marrakech rooftop in the evening: in some winters, Oukaimeden makes it possible. Here is what to know before you go, without over-selling the experience.
Yes, you can ski in Morocco. The main resort is Oukaimeden in the High Atlas, at around 2,600 metres, described as one of the highest ski areas in Africa, about 75 to 80 km from Marrakech (roughly 1.5 hours by road via the Ourika Valley). The season in principle runs from December to March, but snow cover varies a lot from year to year: some winters bring several weeks of good snow, others almost none. Facilities are basic (a chairlift and a few drag lifts), equipment is rented on site and the atmosphere is far more local than in the Alps: it is an unusual experience to combine with a Marrakech stay, not a full ski holiday. In the Middle Atlas, the small Michlifen area near Ifrane is another option. Always check snow and road conditions the day before.
Oukaimeden at a Glance
| Criterion | Oukaimeden |
|---|---|
| Altitude | Around 2,600 m at the resort, slopes above 3,000 m |
| Distance from Marrakech | 75 to 80 km, about 1.5 hours |
| Season | In principle December to March |
| Snow | Very variable from year to year |
| Lifts | A chairlift and a few drag lifts |
| Equipment | Rental on site |
Facilities and prices change: a redevelopment project for the resort has been announced. Check locally.
Getting There from Marrakech
The road goes through the Ourika Valley before climbing to the resort. In winter it can be snowy or icy: a driver used to mountain roads is safer than a rental car. Book a private transfer for the day, or combine with an Atlas day trip.
Book a private transferYou will be redirected to our partner GetTransfer.No Snow? Atlas Alternatives
If the snow is missing, a day in the Atlas is still superb: snowy peaks in the background, Berber villages and waterfalls.
| Day trip | Rating | Reviews | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ourika Valley, Atlas and waterfalls with lunch | 4.8 | 21,014 | €14 |
| Ourika and Setti Fatma waterfalls | 4.9 | 19,327 | €15 |
| Atlas, waterfalls and Ourika Valley | 4.9 | 6,299 | €9 |
Ratings, reviews and prices taken from GetYourGuide; they may change.
See Atlas day trips from Marrakech· GetYourGuideFree cancellation up to 24h before on most activities · the best time slots sell out first in high seasonReserve now, pay later on many activities
See also the Ourika Valley, the Toubkal trek and Morocco in winter.
Where to Stay
Most travellers stay in Marrakech and go up for the day. To be on the slopes early, a few refuges and lodgings exist at the resort itself, in limited numbers. For Middle Atlas snow, see Ifrane and Azrou.
See hotels and riads in Marrakech· Booking.comFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
FAQ — Skiing in Morocco
Can you ski in Morocco?
When can you ski at Oukaimeden?
How far is Oukaimeden from Marrakech?
Can you rent equipment there?
What if there is no snow?
In Short
- Oukaimeden, around 2,600 m, 1.5 hours from Marrakech.
- Variable snow: an unusual experience, not a guaranteed ski holiday.
- Plan B: the Ourika Valley and the Atlas.
