7 safari lodges
    Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco
    Moderate
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي

    This vast park in the Eastern High Atlas is a rugged landscape of high peaks, plateaus, and deep valleys, offering a remote wilderness experience. It's an important habitat for Barbary sheep, Cuvier's gazelle, and various raptors, appealing to trekkers and those seeking solitude in nature.

    Best timeMarch to May and September to November for pleasant temperatures. Year-round for coastal regions.
    Species
    8
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    7
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي

    Sign in to report

    8 species recorded in Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي2 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي

    Morocco offers a unique safari experience, blending dramatic landscapes with fascinating wildlife. We find the shoulder seasons, April to May and September to October, offer the most comfortable...

    January

    Now
    low

    Winter

    Expect cold temperatures, especially in the Atlas Mountains and Sahara. Days are generally sunny but can be crisp.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and winter visitors are present. Look for Barbary macaques in the mountains.

    We love the stark beauty of the desert in winter, perfect for stargazing.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    February

    low

    Winter

    Temperatures begin to moderate, though mornings and evenings remain cool. Sunny days are common.

    It's a great time for birdwatching with many species still in residence or preparing for migration. Desert species are active.

    We recommend heading to the coast for excellent birding opportunities before the spring rush.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    March

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring arrives with milder temperatures across the country. The Atlas Mountains may still have snow at higher elevations.

    The landscape begins to green, attracting more herbivores. Migratory birds start to arrive, boosting birdwatching potential.

    We find March ideal for exploring the foothills of the Atlas Mountains as wildflowers begin to bloom.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    April

    moderate

    Spring

    Pleasant and warm temperatures prevail, making it comfortable for exploration. Occasional spring showers are possible.

    Wildlife activity increases significantly with newborns appearing. Bird migration is in full swing, offering fantastic viewing.

    We love the vibrant colours of the landscape and the abundance of birdlife this month.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    May

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures become warmer, especially in the desert regions. Coastal areas remain pleasantly mild.

    This is a prime month for spotting various desert-adapted species and enjoying the last of the spring bird migrants.

    We recommend a desert excursion in May to witness the fennec fox and other nocturnal creatures.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    June

    high

    Summer

    It gets hot, particularly inland and in the Sahara. Coastal areas offer a welcome respite with cooler sea breezes.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources. Birding is still good, though many migrants have moved on.

    We suggest focusing on coastal parks or higher altitude reserves to escape the intense heat.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Toubkal National Park

    July

    high

    Summer

    Peak summer heat. Days are long and very hot across most of the country, especially in the desert.

    Activity is concentrated in the cooler early mornings and late evenings. Barbary macaques are often seen seeking shade.

    We find the Atlas Mountains offer the most comfortable wildlife viewing conditions during the height of summer.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    August

    high

    Summer

    Similar to July, with intense heat dominating. Coastal areas remain the most comfortable.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water. Look for desert species that are well adapted to the heat.

    We recommend early morning drives in the mountains to spot macaques and other mammals.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    September

    moderate

    Autumn

    Temperatures begin to cool down, especially towards the end of the month. Desert nights become pleasant.

    As temperatures drop, wildlife activity picks up. The start of autumn bird migration begins.

    We love the return of comfortable temperatures, making desert exploration a pleasure again.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    October

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn is generally mild and pleasant across Morocco. Ideal for outdoor activities.

    Bird migration is in full swing, making it a superb time for birdwatchers. Desert species are very active.

    We recommend a desert safari in October for incredible stargazing and wildlife spotting.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    November

    low

    Autumn

    Temperatures are cool, especially in the mountains and desert. Coastal areas remain mild.

    Winter visitors begin to arrive, enhancing birdwatching. Resident wildlife is active in the cooler weather.

    We find November perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes from mountains to coast without the summer crowds.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    December

    low

    Winter

    Cold temperatures return, particularly in higher elevations. Sunny days are common but can be chilly.

    Birding remains excellent with winter residents and migrants. Desert species are active during the day.

    We recommend a desert trip in December for clear skies and a chance to see desert wildlife in its element.

    Toubkal National Park
    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Winter

    Expect cold temperatures, especially in the Atlas Mountains and Sahara. Days are generally sunny but can be crisp.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and winter visitors are present. Look for Barbary macaques in the mountains.

    We love the stark beauty of the desert in winter, perfect for stargazing.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    February

    low

    Winter

    Temperatures begin to moderate, though mornings and evenings remain cool. Sunny days are common.

    It's a great time for birdwatching with many species still in residence or preparing for migration. Desert species are active.

    We recommend heading to the coast for excellent birding opportunities before the spring rush.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    March

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring arrives with milder temperatures across the country. The Atlas Mountains may still have snow at higher elevations.

    The landscape begins to green, attracting more herbivores. Migratory birds start to arrive, boosting birdwatching potential.

    We find March ideal for exploring the foothills of the Atlas Mountains as wildflowers begin to bloom.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    April

    moderate

    Spring

    Pleasant and warm temperatures prevail, making it comfortable for exploration. Occasional spring showers are possible.

    Wildlife activity increases significantly with newborns appearing. Bird migration is in full swing, offering fantastic viewing.

    We love the vibrant colours of the landscape and the abundance of birdlife this month.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    May

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures become warmer, especially in the desert regions. Coastal areas remain pleasantly mild.

    This is a prime month for spotting various desert-adapted species and enjoying the last of the spring bird migrants.

    We recommend a desert excursion in May to witness the fennec fox and other nocturnal creatures.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    June

    high

    Summer

    It gets hot, particularly inland and in the Sahara. Coastal areas offer a welcome respite with cooler sea breezes.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources. Birding is still good, though many migrants have moved on.

    We suggest focusing on coastal parks or higher altitude reserves to escape the intense heat.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Toubkal National Park

    July

    high

    Summer

    Peak summer heat. Days are long and very hot across most of the country, especially in the desert.

    Activity is concentrated in the cooler early mornings and late evenings. Barbary macaques are often seen seeking shade.

    We find the Atlas Mountains offer the most comfortable wildlife viewing conditions during the height of summer.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    August

    high

    Summer

    Similar to July, with intense heat dominating. Coastal areas remain the most comfortable.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water. Look for desert species that are well adapted to the heat.

    We recommend early morning drives in the mountains to spot macaques and other mammals.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    September

    moderate

    Autumn

    Temperatures begin to cool down, especially towards the end of the month. Desert nights become pleasant.

    As temperatures drop, wildlife activity picks up. The start of autumn bird migration begins.

    We love the return of comfortable temperatures, making desert exploration a pleasure again.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    October

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn is generally mild and pleasant across Morocco. Ideal for outdoor activities.

    Bird migration is in full swing, making it a superb time for birdwatchers. Desert species are very active.

    We recommend a desert safari in October for incredible stargazing and wildlife spotting.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    November

    low

    Autumn

    Temperatures are cool, especially in the mountains and desert. Coastal areas remain mild.

    Winter visitors begin to arrive, enhancing birdwatching. Resident wildlife is active in the cooler weather.

    We find November perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes from mountains to coast without the summer crowds.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    December

    low

    Winter

    Cold temperatures return, particularly in higher elevations. Sunny days are common but can be chilly.

    Birding remains excellent with winter residents and migrants. Desert species are active during the day.

    We recommend a desert trip in December for clear skies and a chance to see desert wildlife in its element.

    Toubkal National Park
    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Winter

    Expect cold temperatures, especially in the Atlas Mountains and Sahara. Days are generally sunny but can be crisp.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and winter visitors are present. Look for Barbary macaques in the mountains.

    We love the stark beauty of the desert in winter, perfect for stargazing.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    February

    low

    Winter

    Temperatures begin to moderate, though mornings and evenings remain cool. Sunny days are common.

    It's a great time for birdwatching with many species still in residence or preparing for migration. Desert species are active.

    We recommend heading to the coast for excellent birding opportunities before the spring rush.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    March

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring arrives with milder temperatures across the country. The Atlas Mountains may still have snow at higher elevations.

    The landscape begins to green, attracting more herbivores. Migratory birds start to arrive, boosting birdwatching potential.

    We find March ideal for exploring the foothills of the Atlas Mountains as wildflowers begin to bloom.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    April

    moderate

    Spring

    Pleasant and warm temperatures prevail, making it comfortable for exploration. Occasional spring showers are possible.

    Wildlife activity increases significantly with newborns appearing. Bird migration is in full swing, offering fantastic viewing.

    We love the vibrant colours of the landscape and the abundance of birdlife this month.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    May

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures become warmer, especially in the desert regions. Coastal areas remain pleasantly mild.

    This is a prime month for spotting various desert-adapted species and enjoying the last of the spring bird migrants.

    We recommend a desert excursion in May to witness the fennec fox and other nocturnal creatures.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Ifrane National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    June

    high

    Summer

    It gets hot, particularly inland and in the Sahara. Coastal areas offer a welcome respite with cooler sea breezes.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources. Birding is still good, though many migrants have moved on.

    We suggest focusing on coastal parks or higher altitude reserves to escape the intense heat.

    Souss Massa National Park
    Toubkal National Park

    July

    high

    Summer

    Peak summer heat. Days are long and very hot across most of the country, especially in the desert.

    Activity is concentrated in the cooler early mornings and late evenings. Barbary macaques are often seen seeking shade.

    We find the Atlas Mountains offer the most comfortable wildlife viewing conditions during the height of summer.

    Toubkal National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    August

    high

    Summer

    Similar to July, with intense heat dominating. Coastal areas remain the most comfortable.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water. Look for desert species that are well adapted to the heat.

    We recommend early morning drives in the mountains to spot macaques and other mammals.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park

    September

    moderate

    Autumn

    Temperatures begin to cool down, especially towards the end of the month. Desert nights become pleasant.

    As temperatures drop, wildlife activity picks up. The start of autumn bird migration begins.

    We love the return of comfortable temperatures, making desert exploration a pleasure again.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park
    Ifrane National Park

    October

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn is generally mild and pleasant across Morocco. Ideal for outdoor activities.

    Bird migration is in full swing, making it a superb time for birdwatchers. Desert species are very active.

    We recommend a desert safari in October for incredible stargazing and wildlife spotting.

    Oued Massa National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park

    November

    low

    Autumn

    Temperatures are cool, especially in the mountains and desert. Coastal areas remain mild.

    Winter visitors begin to arrive, enhancing birdwatching. Resident wildlife is active in the cooler weather.

    We find November perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes from mountains to coast without the summer crowds.

    Toubkal National Park
    Souss Massa National Park
    Oued Massa National Park

    December

    low

    Winter

    Cold temperatures return, particularly in higher elevations. Sunny days are common but can be chilly.

    Birding remains excellent with winter residents and migrants. Desert species are active during the day.

    We recommend a desert trip in December for clear skies and a chance to see desert wildlife in its element.

    Toubkal National Park
    Oued Massa National Park
    Bouhedma National Park
    Planning & reference

    We love the raw, untamed beauty of the Haut Atlas Oriental, a place where the mountains truly feel ancient and alive. The chance to spot Barbary sheep against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, or to share a cup of mint tea with a local Berber family, offers an authentic Moroccan mountain experience that is both humbling and profoundly rewarding.

    Gate Times

    The park generally operates from sunrise to sunset, typically around 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though these times shift with the seasons. We strongly recommend securing your permits in advance, especially if you plan multi-day treks or overnight stays, as access can be regulated at key entry points near towns like Imilchil or Midelt. While some smaller access points might seem informal, a valid permit is always required for any extensive exploration.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For a dedicated guide on a multi-day trek, we suggest 150-250 MAD per day from the group. For muleteers or camp staff, 50-100 MAD per day is appropriate. Always tip in local currency, Moroccan Dirham, and present it discreetly at the end of your service, rather than after each small task.

    Dress Code

    Given the high-altitude desert environment, layering is absolutely essential. We recommend light, breathable long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral tones like khaki, grey, or olive for sun protection during the day. Evenings and early mornings are surprisingly cold, so a warm fleece, a windproof and waterproof jacket, and a warm hat are non-negotiable. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support are a must for navigating the rugged terrain.

    Photography

    The dramatic landscapes of the Haut Atlas Oriental are a photographer's dream. We advise bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for capturing elusive Barbary sheep, gazelles, or raptors. Drones are strictly prohibited within the national park boundaries to protect wildlife and maintain the natural tranquility. Always ask permission before photographing local people, and avoid flash photography at night to prevent disturbing wildlife.

    Etiquette

    Respect for the environment and local communities is paramount here. We insist on staying on marked trails and never disturbing wildlife or removing any natural items, including rocks or plants. Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially in camp, when approaching villages, or during wildlife viewing. Remember, this is a shared space, and quiet contemplation enhances everyone's experience.

    What to Bring

    Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
    Layered clothing (fleece, windproof/waterproof jacket)
    Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
    High-factor sunscreen and lip balm
    Sunglasses
    Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
    Small first-aid kit with personal medications
    Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
    Binoculars for wildlife viewing
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)
    Cash in Moroccan Dirham for tips and small purchases

    Temperature

    0.41°C

    33°F · Range: -3.93–5.66°C

    Rainfall

    14.4 mm

    Dry season · 3.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    53.3%

    Sunshine

    9.3 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.41 m/s

    12.3 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental متنزه قومي الأطلس الكبير الشرقي Reviews