Azrou, Morocco: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Azrou’s ancient cedar forests are home to North Africa’s only wild monkey population? Nestled in Morocco’s Middle Atlas Mountains, this charming Berber town offers a refreshing escape from Morocco’s bustling imperial cities. With its name meaning “rock” in the local Amazigh language (referring to the massive volcanic outcrop at its center), Azrou combines natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and a perfect climate that feels more like Switzerland than what most imagine of Morocco.

Getting to Azrou & Planning Your Journey

Azrou sits at a strategic crossroads in the Middle Atlas Mountains, making it easily accessible from several major Moroccan cities. Located about 89 km (55 miles) south of Fes and 67 km (42 miles) southeast of Meknes, it’s an ideal stopover or day trip destination.

By Car

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Azrou and its surrounding areas. The drive from Fes takes approximately 1.5 hours along well-maintained roads with stunning mountain scenery. From Meknes, expect about a 1-hour journey.

By Bus

CTM and Supratours operate regular bus services to Azrou from major cities. The bus station (Azrou al Massira) is conveniently located near the town center. Buses from Fes take approximately 2 hours and cost around 30-40 MAD ($3-4 USD).

By Grand Taxi

Shared grand taxis are another affordable option, departing when full from major cities. This option costs slightly more than buses but offers more flexibility in departure times.

Best Time to Visit Azrou & Weather Tips

Spring in Azrou brings cherry blossoms and perfect hiking weather

Azrou experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique perspective on this mountain town:

Where to Stay in Azrou

Many Azrou hotels offer stunning mountain views and traditional architecture

Azrou offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale hotels with mountain views. Most visitors choose to stay either in the town center for convenience or in the surrounding countryside for natural beauty and tranquility.

In-Town Options

Staying in central Azrou puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Tuesday market. Hotels here tend to be more affordable and convenient for those without a car.

Countryside Retreats

For a more immersive experience, consider staying in the countryside surrounding Azrou. These properties often feature beautiful gardens, mountain views, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Le Palais des Cerisiers

This European-style hotel offers standalone apartments, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a cherry orchard. Located just outside town, it’s perfect for families and those seeking comfort.

La Perle d’Azrou

Located about 10 minutes south of town, this charming property offers excursions into the mountains on horseback or by foot. Their full-board option features delicious local cuisine.

Budget Guesthouses

Several family-run guesthouses in town offer authentic experiences at budget-friendly prices. These simple accommodations provide a glimpse into local life and often include home-cooked meals.

Top Things to Do in Azrou, Morocco

1. Meet the Barbary Macaques

The friendly (but sometimes mischievous) Barbary macaques of Cèdre Gouraud forest

The cedar forests around Azrou are home to troops of Barbary macaques, the only primate species native to North Africa. These endangered monkeys are a highlight of any visit to the region.

Visit the Cèdre Gouraud forest, about 5km from town, where you’ll find the most accessible macaque viewing area. Local vendors sell peanuts for feeding the monkeys, but be cautious as they can be quite aggressive when food is involved. For a more peaceful experience, try visiting early in the morning before the tourist crowds arrive.

2. Explore the Tuesday Amazigh Market

The vibrant Tuesday Amazigh market offers everything from textiles to livestock

Every Tuesday, Azrou hosts one of the region’s largest Amazigh (Berber) markets. This authentic market draws people from throughout the Middle Atlas region and offers a fascinating glimpse into local life.

The market is divided into sections selling everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted items, second-hand goods, and even livestock. The food section at the back of the market is particularly worth visiting, where you can enjoy freshly grilled meats seasoned with cumin and other spices for just 40 dirhams (about $4 USD), including unlimited mint tea.

Located about a 20-minute walk from the town center, the market is best visited in the morning when it’s most active. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase authentic Middle Atlas rugs and textiles at prices much lower than in Morocco’s major cities.

3. Hike in the Middle Atlas Mountains

The hiking trails around Azrou offer spectacular views and peaceful forests

The surrounding Middle Atlas Mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities for all skill levels. From gentle walks through cedar forests to more challenging mountain trails, the area’s natural beauty is best explored on foot.

Popular hiking routes include the trail to the hilltop village overlooking Azrou and paths through the Cèdre Gouraud forest. Many hotels can arrange guided hikes or provide maps of local trails. The area is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom and in autumn when the foliage changes color.

4. Visit Ifrane – “Little Switzerland”

Ifrane’s European architecture earned it the nickname “Little Switzerland”

Just 17km from Azrou lies the surprising town of Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Little Switzerland.” Built by the French in the 1930s as a cool mountain retreat, Ifrane features European-style architecture that looks completely out of place in Morocco.

Home to Al Akhawayn University, Ifrane has a youthful atmosphere and several excellent restaurants. The town is immaculately clean (often ranked as Morocco’s cleanest city) and surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens. In winter, it becomes a modest ski resort for Moroccans.

Highlights include the stone lion sculpture in the town center, the royal palace (exterior only), and the surrounding parks. Restaurants like My Lil’ Rome offer some of Morocco’s best pizza – a welcome break if you’re craving international cuisine.

Dining & Local Cuisine in Azrou

Local restaurants serve delicious tagines and grilled meats

Azrou offers a mix of traditional Moroccan cuisine and, thanks to its proximity to Ifrane’s university population, some international options as well.

Local Specialties

• Grilled meats seasoned with cumin and local herbs, especially at the Tuesday market food stalls
• Fresh trout from the mountain streams, often served with almonds
• Traditional tagines featuring local vegetables and meats
• Middle Atlas variations of couscous with seasonal vegetables
• Honey from the surrounding mountains, often flavored with thyme or lavender

Where to Eat

Shopping in Azrou

Azrou is known for high-quality Middle Atlas rugs at reasonable prices

Azrou is renowned for its textiles and tailoring, offering better quality and lower prices than Morocco’s major tourist centers. The town’s small but charming medina and the Tuesday market are the main shopping destinations.

What to Buy

• Middle Atlas Rugs: Known for their geometric designs and flat-weave technique, these rugs are significantly more affordable than those in Fes or Marrakech. Look for shops on the N8 across from the main traffic circle.
• Textiles and Clothing: The local souks offer well-made traditional and modern clothing at reasonable prices.
• Cedar Wood Products: Small carved items made from local cedar wood make excellent souvenirs.
• Local Honey: The surrounding mountains produce excellent honey with unique flavors.

Unlike the high-pressure atmosphere of Morocco’s major tourist destinations, shopping in Azrou is generally more relaxed. Bargaining is still expected, but prices start lower and vendors are typically less aggressive.

Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Azrou

Getting Around

Azrou’s town center is compact and easily explored on foot. However, to visit the cedar forests, Ifrane, or surrounding villages, you’ll need transportation:

• Rental Car: The most flexible option for exploring the region.
• Petit Taxis: Available within town, but may be limited in number.
• Grand Taxis: Can be hired for half or full-day excursions to nearby attractions.
• Hotel Arrangements: Many hotels can organize transportation or guided tours to popular sites.

Money & Costs

Azrou is generally less expensive than Morocco’s major tourist destinations. There are a few ATMs in the town center, but it’s advisable to bring cash, especially for the Tuesday market where card payments aren’t accepted.

Safety & Etiquette

Azrou is generally very safe for visitors. As a more traditional town, modest dress is appreciated, especially for women. When photographing locals, always ask permission first. When visiting the macaques, keep a respectful distance and follow any guidance from local guides.

Why Azrou Deserves a Spot on Your Morocco Itinerary

Azrou offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity

While often overlooked in favor of Morocco’s imperial cities and desert landscapes, Azrou offers a refreshing glimpse into another side of this diverse country. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and cooler climate makes it a welcome addition to any Moroccan itinerary.

Whether you’re stopping for a day to see the playful macaques and ancient cedars, or staying longer to hike the Middle Atlas trails and experience the Tuesday market, Azrou rewards visitors with experiences that feel genuinely authentic and far removed from the tourist crowds of Marrakech and Fes.