Built in the 1930s by the French in the Atlas Mountains, this Swiss-style town at 1,665m elevation has snow-covered cedar forests and stone houses with sloped red roofs.
Perched at 1,665 meters in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane surprises visitors with its distinctly European character. You'll walk past red-roofed chalets, stop at the town's famous stone lion statue, and spot Barbary macaques in the surrounding cedar forests. In winter, locals and tourists head to the Michlifen slopes for skiing, while during warmer months, students from Al Akhawayn University fill the sidewalk cafes.
Climate and Location in the Atlas
Ifrane lies between Fez and Azrou at 1,665 meters above sea level. Summer temperatures reach 29°C (84°F), while winters bring heavy snow and temperatures below freezing. The town recorded Africa's lowest temperature at -23.9°C in February 1935. Atlantic weather systems bring frequent rainfall, supporting the growth of the surrounding cedar forests throughout the year.
Getting to Ifrane
You can drive or take a taxi from Fez to Ifrane in about 45 minutes. CTM operates one daily bus from Fez, arriving at night. No direct trains run to Ifrane, but you can take a train to Fez and continue from there. When taking a taxi, negotiate the fare before your journey begins.
Cedar Forests and Wildlife
Atlas cedar trees in the Cèdre Gouraud Forest grow up to 35 meters tall. You can walk along paths through the forest and watch groups of Barbary macaques, North Africa's only native primates. The forest extends into Ifrane National Park's 500 square kilometers, with multiple walking trails. Visit early in the morning to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.
Winter Activities in the Atlas
When snow falls, skiers head to the Michlifen area's slopes. The resort operates two lifts serving several runs, though skiing depends on natural snowfall. You can also go sledding or walk through the snow-covered cedar forests. During school holidays and weekends, many Moroccan families come here to enjoy the snow.
University Life and Atmosphere
Students at Al Akhawayn University, which opened in 1995, speak English, Arabic, and French in cafes across town. This English-language university draws students from Morocco and other countries. The campus takes up much of the town and includes sports facilities and cultural centers that keep Ifrane active year-round.
Architecture and Town Layout
French administrators laid out Ifrane in 1928 with a grid street pattern, unlike traditional Moroccan medinas. Buildings use local stone with steep roofs reminiscent of Alpine architecture. Parks and wide avenues mark the town center, while newer buildings spread toward the edges. The stone lion statue in the middle of town serves as a popular meeting and photo point.
Day Trips from Ifrane
Visit Azrou, 17 kilometers away, to see Amazigh carpet weavers at work. Walk around Dayet Aoua lake, 15 kilometers from town, where you can spot local birds along the shoreline trails. The Vittel Spring area's waterfalls and forest trails make good half-day walks. You can reach these places by taxi or join organized tours from Ifrane.
