Escape the city buzz of Fes and enjoy a refreshing day trip to the charming town of Ifrane and the nearby Cedar Forest. Known as “Little Switzerland” for its clean streets and alpine-style architecture, Ifrane offers a cool mountain retreat unlike anywhere else in Morocco. From there, you’ll venture into the lush Cedar Forest, home to the famous Barbary macaque monkeys. Wander among towering cedar trees, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the peaceful natural surroundings. This trip is perfect for nature lovers and those looking to experience a different side of Morocco’s diverse landscape, all within a comfortable day’s journey from Fes.
Your day begins with a comfortable pick-up from your accommodation in Fes by your friendly and knowledgeable driver-guide from Desert Excursion Morocco. As you leave the city behind, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains. With picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, forests, and traditional Berber villages along the way.
Your first stop is the charming town of Ifrane. Often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its unique alpine-style architecture and clean, peaceful streets. Here, you can take a leisurely walk around the town, admiring its neat gardens, cozy cafés, and quaint chalets. After soaking in the serene atmosphere. The journey continues just a short drive to the nearby Cedar Forest, a beautiful natural reserve famous for its majestic cedar trees and playful Barbary macaque monkeys.
You’ll have time to explore the shaded trails. Watch the monkeys in their natural environment and take plenty of photos of the lush greenery and stunning mountain views. Following your nature walk, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant offering authentic Moroccan cuisine.
After lunch, relax on the drive back to Fes, reflecting on the day’s peaceful escape into nature and the unique sights you’ve experienced. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in the late afternoon, refreshed and inspired by this memorable Fes day trip.
This day trip was thoughtfully created by Desert Excursion Morocco to match what many travelers enjoy but we understand everyone’s different. If you’d like to add something, change the pace, or create something totally custom, we’re more than happy to plan a trip that fits your needs. We’re available anytime to help you. Also, just a heads-up: the more people who join your tour, the less it costs per person, since the transport fee stays the same. Feel free to contact us with any questions or ideas!
The entire trip typically lasts around 8 to 9 hours, including travel time. It usually starts early in the morning with a pick-up from your accommodation in Fes and returns by late afternoon. This schedule gives you ample time to explore both Ifrane and the Cedar Forest without feeling rushed.
The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be warm but still pleasant due to the altitude, while winters may be cold with occasional snowfall, especially in Ifrane, which adds a beautiful winter charm if you enjoy cooler weather.
Yes, one of the highlights of this trip is seeing the Barbary macaque monkeys that live freely in the Cedar Forest. They are quite social and often interact with visitors. However, it’s important to respect their space and avoid feeding or provoking them.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you will be exploring nature trails in the Cedar Forest. Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day, especially since mountain weather can be cooler in the morning and evening. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
Most tours include a lunch stop at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, or fresh salads. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to inform your tour provider in advance so they can accommodate your needs.
You’ll typically spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring Ifrane, allowing time to stroll through the town and visit its main sights. In the Cedar Forest, you’ll have around 2 hours to walk the trails, watch the monkeys, and soak in the natural beauty before heading back.
Yes, this trip is generally family-friendly and suitable for most ages. The walking involved is moderate and can be adjusted based on your group’s fitness level. Your guide will ensure the pace is comfortable, and transportation is provided door-to-door for convenience.
Many tour providers, including Desert Excursion Morocco, offer flexibility to customize your day trip based on your interests and time. You can request additional stops or adjust the time spent at each location just be sure to communicate your preferences when booking.
Ifrane is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Fes, which takes roughly 1.5 hours by car. The Cedar Forest is located a short drive from Ifrane, so the overall driving time is comfortable and scenic, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Middle Atlas landscape along the way.
This trip offers a unique blend of cultural charm and natural beauty. From the Swiss-like ambiance of Ifrane to the peaceful Cedar Forest inhabited by wild monkeys, it’s a refreshing contrast to the busy city life of Fes. Plus, having an expert local guide ensures you get insider knowledge and a personalized experience.
I had a wonderful experience on the day trip from Fes to Ifrane and the Cedar Forest, all expertly organized by Mohamed from Desert Excursion Morocco. Mohamed was friendly, professional, and shared lots of interesting facts about the area. Ifrane’s clean streets and alpine feel were a refreshing change, and spending time in the Cedar Forest watching the wild Barbary macaques was unforgettable. The tour was well-paced, allowing time to enjoy each spot without rushing. It was a perfect mix of culture and nature, and I highly recommend this trip to anyone visiting Fes.
This day trip from Fes to Ifrane and the Cedar Forest, led by Mohamed from Desert Excursion Morocco, was a highlight of my trip to Morocco. Mohamed’s knowledge and care made the journey comfortable and informative. Ifrane’s charm surprised me with its neat streets and unique architecture, and the Cedar Forest offered peaceful walks and close encounters with the playful monkeys. The lunch stop included delicious Moroccan food, which was a nice bonus. Overall, it was a well-organized, enjoyable day with a great guide—I highly recommend it.
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