Embrace the Solstice in the Heart of Ourika Valley

As the sun reaches its zenith, casting a golden glow over the rugged terrain of the High Atlas Mountains, the Ourika Valley becomes a haven for those seeking to celebrate the longest day of the year. The Summer Solstice in this part of Morocco is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, nature, and adventure waiting to be explored.

Start your solstice celebration with a Private Day Tour that departs at 9:00 AM. This intimate journey into the heart of the Ourika Valley offers a unique opportunity to connect with the land and its people. As you traverse the valley, the air is filled with the scent of wild herbs and the distant sound of flowing water. The highlight of the morning is a guided hike to the waterfalls, where the cool mist provides a refreshing respite from the sun’s rays. Along the way, you’ll visit a Berber women’s cooperative, where the ancient art of Argan oil extraction is demonstrated with pride and precision.

“Excursion not to be missed! We had an amazing day in the 4 Atlas Valleys! Change of scenery guaranteed accompanied by our guide Mohammed who knew how to transmit with passion and good humor the history and culture of this region.” - Reviewed at 2025-01-03

After a morning of exploration, indulge in a traditional Berber lunch at a local family home. This meal is more than just sustenance; it’s a cultural exchange, a chance to learn about the Berber way of life while savoring dishes that have been passed down through generations.

Journey Through the Five Valleys

On June 15th, embark on a High Atlas Tour that promises a day filled with breathtaking vistas and cultural immersion. Starting at 8:00 AM, this tour takes you through five distinct valleys, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. The journey begins in the Ourika Valley, where the landscape is a patchwork of vibrant fields and rugged mountains.

As you travel through the valleys, you’ll encounter the vibrant colors of the Oukaimeden Valley and the serene beauty of the Ait Fares Valley. Each stop offers a chance to capture the stunning landscapes and learn about the rich history and traditions of the Berber people. The tour includes a visit to the weekly Souk, where the hustle and bustle of local life is on full display.

“Exceeded our expectations - The 5 valleys tour gave us so much, a view of life in the mountains, its harshness and its beauty. The Trek was given an extra dimension by periods of heavy rain, looking back it made it much more interesting.” - Reviewed at 2024-11-17

The highlight of the day is a lunch with a local Berber family in the Ait Fares Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a feast of traditional dishes, including a delightful Berber Tajine, all while surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains.

A Sustainable Adventure

As you explore the Ourika Valley, it’s important to remember the impact of tourism on this delicate ecosystem. The tours offered are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that your adventure leaves a minimal footprint on the environment. By choosing to travel with local guides and support local businesses, you’re contributing to the preservation of this beautiful region and its cultural heritage.

The Summer Solstice is a time of reflection and renewal, and there’s no better place to embrace this spirit than in the Ourika Valley. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, sharing a meal with a Berber family, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, this is an experience that will stay with you long after the sun has set on the longest day of the year.