Imouzzer Marmoucha, a Forgotten city in the Middle Atlas Mountains

Just a three-hour drive from the city of Fez, you will discover one of the most beautiful cities nestled in the heart of the Atlas Mountains. The city and its surrounding tribes are inhabited by Amazigh people, the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa prior to the Arab invasion.

Named after the large Berber tribe of Marmouchas, the city experiences cold winters and mild summers, thanks to its elevation of 1,713 meters above sea level.

Marmouchas and its surrounding regions are rich in artisan crafts and unique products. Additionally, the stunning landscapes make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco.

Immouzzer Marmoucha remains relatively unknown, and most travel agencies do not include it in their packages. However, we plan to establish a presence and feature it among our top destinations in the future.

The region is perfect for hikers, offering vast forests of oaks, cedars, and other endemic trees. It also boasts the sublime beauty of Mount Bou Iblane, the second-highest peak in the Middle Atlas, where snow remains year-round.

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Imouzzer Marmoucha offers plenty of captivating attractions. The surrounding areas are vibrant and enchanting during autumn, spring, and summer. However, it is not advisable to travel during winter, as the region becomes extremely cold—comparable to the conditions in the Alps.

The geographic terrain of Imouzzer Marmoucha is both rich and diverse, featuring lush green forests, majestic mountain peaks, picturesque grasslands, and expansive wilderness. From east to west and north to south, this secluded Moroccan village is a treasure trove for nature lovers.

Dinosaurs in EL Mers Regions

El Merz Valley where Dinosaurs fossils are scattered

El Mers is a region located near the fortified village of Serghina, approximately a 40-minute drive from Boulemane city.

This area is renowned for its archaeological sites. Notably, traces of the famous dinosaur Iguanodon have been discovered, spread over an area of three hectares.

In the valley of “Dinosaurs,” a magical place that reveals a history dating back 150 million years, the traces of ancient life are clearly etched into the stone, offering a unique glimpse into a prehistoric era when dinosaurs once roamed this land.

El Merz Valley where Dinosaurs fossils are scattered

This site was originally discovered by a local man who uncovered dinosaur fossils in the region. Later, it became the subject of study by the archaeologist Termier, who published his work in 1936..

Termier was the first to examine the fossil bones at El Mers, noting that the red series containing dinosaur and crocodile remains dates back to the Bathonian age. Between 1940 and 1941, another archaeologist named Lapparent further investigated these remains, publishing his findings in 1942 and 1945.

The site is beautiful and easily accessible from Fez.

This idyllic village feels like heaven on earth. It consists of a collection of houses scattered across a vast open space. Surrounded on all sides by mountains, Ait Oullagh offers a tranquil escape from the modern world.

Here, there are no cars or modern architecture—only humble houses and expansive apple orchards. You can wander through the fields and savor the pure beauty of nature.

As the saying goes, the world’s most dangerous roads are often carved into the sides of high-altitude mountains—and that holds true for the “Akchour” road, which connects Immouzzer Marmoucha and Ait Youb.

In winter, heavy snowfall forces the closure of this slippery road, preventing travel.

Built during the colonial era, this road was part of a French initiative to connect major towns and cities in Morocco between 1912 and 1956, facilitating the transfer of weapons and natural resources.

For those seeking adventure, this road offers a stunning yet challenging drive. Despite its difficulty, it is safe, with only four recorded accidents in the last decade.

When traveling to Imouzzer Marmoucha, you’ll pass through endless forest landscapes, winding roads, and soaring mountains. If it’s your first time, it may feel as if you’re ascending into the sky.

After a one-hour drive from Boulemane city, you’ll reach “Egherm Amkran,” a small village in the Ait Bazza district. This fortified village is reminiscent of a miniature Ait Ben Haddou. Now deserted, it is said to be haunted and stands as one of the region’s top attractions.

If you venture a further six kilometers towards Missour, you will come across the site of Mesklate – Aït Bazza. This area is filled with dinosaur bones from various species, discovered over several kilometers and overlooking the village. While these sites are accessible, it is recommended to contact the local site manager before setting off to explore this extraordinary sanctuary.

Currently, Morocco Travel does not offer packages to Imouzzer Marmoucha. However, if you are interested in discovering the region, we can arrange a two-day trip. This authentic visit will include the assistance of local guides to enhance your experience.