Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation is a protected area in Morocco.

Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation at a Glance

Location
Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco, North Africa
Coordinates
33.008045, -4.096384
IUCN Category
Ia
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
March to May and September to November for pleasant temperatures. Year-round for coastal regions.

Getting to Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

Nearest airport: Aéroport d'Ifrane ⴰⵣⴰⴳⵯⵣ ⵏ ⵉⴼⵔⴰⵏ مطار إفران (GMFI), 113 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport Fès Saïss مطار فاس سايس (FEZ), 131 km away.

Weather & Climate in Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

The warmest temperatures in Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation occur in July, averaging 30.9°C (up to 39.2°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 9.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.5mm. Average humidity: 23.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 9.3°C (rainfall: 3.5mm)
  • February: 12.2°C (rainfall: 8.1mm)
  • March: 14.2°C (rainfall: 22.8mm)
  • April: 17.0°C (rainfall: 16.4mm)
  • May: 21.5°C (rainfall: 18.8mm)
  • June: 25.5°C (rainfall: 5.6mm)
  • July: 30.9°C (rainfall: 0.5mm)
  • August: 30.1°C (rainfall: 0.8mm)
  • September: 24.4°C (rainfall: 9.1mm)
  • October: 19.7°C (rainfall: 16.0mm)
  • November: 14.2°C (rainfall: 6.4mm)
  • December: 10.6°C (rainfall: 7.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

The best months to visit Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 9.32°C, rainfall 3.5mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 47.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 12.22°C, rainfall 8.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 45.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 14.16°C, rainfall 22.8mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 49%
  • April: Great, temperature 17.02°C, rainfall 16.4mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 46.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.51°C, rainfall 18.8mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 40%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.51°C, rainfall 5.6mm, sunshine 12.2 hrs, humidity 37.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 30.93°C, rainfall 0.5mm, sunshine 12.2 hrs, humidity 23.8%
  • August: Great, temperature 30.06°C, rainfall 0.8mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 27.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 24.38°C, rainfall 9.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 45.6%
  • October: Great, temperature 19.69°C, rainfall 16mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 44.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 14.2°C, rainfall 6.4mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 47.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 10.63°C, rainfall 7.3mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 51.1%

Wildlife in Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

Home to 8 recorded species including 4 birds of prey, 2 iconic birds, 1 big herbivores, 1 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

Based on average temperature of 19.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 42%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation

3 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Middle Atlas Mountains

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Morocco

Travel advisory for Morocco

Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation FAQs

What kind of visitor experience does the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation offer, considering its IUCN Category Ia designation?

As an IUCN Category Ia Strict Nature Reserve, the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation primarily focuses on scientific research and wildlife propagation, not traditional tourism. Public access is highly restricted, often requiring special permits for educational or research purposes rather than typical safari game drives. Visitors should expect a focus on conservation efforts and potentially limited, guided observation opportunities if access is granted.

What specific wildlife species are the focus of conservation and propagation efforts at the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation?

The center is renowned for its critical role in the conservation of endangered North African species, particularly ungulates like the Addax, Scimitar-horned Oryx, and Dorcas Gazelle. Visitors with approved access may have the rare opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in a semi-captive or reintroduction setting, contributing to their survival.

How can one arrange a visit to the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation, and what are the typical costs associated with gaining access?

Gaining access to this IUCN Ia reserve is not straightforward; it typically requires prior arrangement and approval, often for research, educational, or conservation-related purposes. There isn't a standard public entry fee or tour package; costs would likely be associated with specific research permits or specialized conservation programs, if available.

What specific health and safety precautions should visitors take when planning a trip to the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation?

Beyond general travel safety, visitors should be aware of the moderate malaria risk in the region and consult a doctor about antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention. Given its remote, protected nature, it's also crucial to follow all guidelines provided by the center regarding wildlife interaction and personal safety within the reserve.

Is there a particular time of year that is considered best for visiting the Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation for conservation-focused observation or research?

While traditional safari seasons don't apply here, the cooler months from October to April might be more comfortable for fieldwork and observation, avoiding the intense summer heat. However, the optimal time largely depends on the specific research or propagation activities you might be involved in, so direct consultation with the center is advised.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.