8 safari lodges
    Northern Rif & Mediterranean Coast, Morocco
    Moderate
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة

    This coastal and marine park in the Rif Mountains protects a stunning stretch of coastline with cliffs, coves, and marine biodiversity. While offering marine wildlife viewing, its terrestrial areas are home to Barbary macaques and various bird species, providing a unique blend of land and sea nature tourism.

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

    Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة

    Sign in to report

    1 species recorded in Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة

    Book Safari Experiences in Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة

    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 find the true magic of Al Hoceima lies in its dramatic convergence of the Rif Mountains with the Mediterranean, offering a unique blend of terrestrial and marine biodiversity. It's a place where rugged trails lead to secluded beaches and traditional fishing villages, providing an authentic slice of Moroccan coastal life away from the usual tourist circuit. We particularly love the chance to spot Osprey nesting on the cliffs and the playful Barbary macaques in the forests.

    Gate Times

    While Parc National d'Al Hoceima doesn't operate with traditional 'gates' or strict opening hours, we recommend planning your visits during daylight, typically from sunrise to sunset, for safety and optimal enjoyment. Access to certain marine areas or specific hiking trails may require local guide services or permits, which we advise arranging in advance through local tour operators or the park office in Al Hoceima town. Boat trips to the islands or along the coast are best booked a day or two ahead, especially during peak season.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary in Morocco. For a local guide leading a hike or boat excursion, we suggest 100-200 MAD per day, depending on the length and complexity of the trip and the size of your group. If you're staying in a local guesthouse or using services from local fishermen for boat trips, a small gratuity for good service is always appreciated. We recommend carrying small denominations of Moroccan Dirham for this purpose.

    Dress Code

    We always opt for comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals suitable for rocky trails and potential boat landings. Light, breathable layers are essential, as coastal temperatures can vary, and the sun is intense. Think natural, muted colours for blending into the environment. For cultural sensitivity, especially when visiting local villages, we recommend modest attire-shoulders and knees covered. Don't forget swimwear for those inviting Mediterranean dips!

    Photography

    The dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and vibrant marine life offer sensational photographic opportunities. We recommend a good zoom lens for capturing birds like the Osprey or the elusive Barbary macaques from a respectful distance. Drones are generally restricted within national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor privacy; we advise checking with park authorities before flying. Always ask for permission before photographing local people, and be mindful of their privacy.

    Etiquette

    We believe in leaving no trace; please carry out everything you carry in. When hiking, stick to marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing animals, especially the Barbary macaques. Keep noise levels low to preserve the tranquility of the park and respect other visitors. If you're on a boat trip, follow your guide's instructions regarding marine life interactions. Always show respect for local customs and communities.

    What to Bring

    Sturdy hiking shoes or sandals
    Lightweight, breathable clothing layers
    Sun hat and sunglasses
    High-SPF sunscreen
    Reusable water bottle
    Binoculars for birdwatching
    Camera with extra batteries/memory
    Small backpack for day trips
    Basic first-aid kit
    Insect repellent
    Swimwear and quick-dry towel
    Cash (Moroccan Dirham) for local purchases and tips

    Temperature

    9.36°C

    49°F · Range: 5.15–14.5°C

    Rainfall

    33.6 mm

    Light rain · 5.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    69.7%

    Sunshine

    8.9 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.24 m/s

    11.7 km/h

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

    Parc National d'Al Hoceima ⴰⴼⵔⴰⴳ ⴰⵏⴰⵎⵓⵔ ⵏ ⵍⵃⵓⵙⵉⵎⴰ المنتزه الوطني للحسيمة Reviews