Book hostels in Ifrane
The Switzerland of Morocco — cedar forests, ski slopes and a stone lion.
Ifrane is a 1650m-altitude alpine-style town in the Middle Atlas, 1 hour south of Fes. Red-roofed chalets, cedar forests full of Barbary macaques, and the only meaningful ski area in Morocco (Michlifen, 15 min away). Temperatures drop below freezing in winter — bring a jacket even in October. It's also home to the prestigious Al Akhawayn University, which gives the town an English-speaking student vibe.
Highlights
- The stone lion statue in the town centre
- Michlifen ski resort (Dec–Feb)
- Cedar Gouraud — the famous ancient cedar tree
- Day hike to Dayet Aoua lake
- Spotting Barbary macaques in the forest
Best for
- Escape from Fes heat
- Snow lovers (December–February)
- Hikers and nature photographers
- Cool break mid-Morocco trip
When to visit
Summer (June–August) for cool 22°C days when the rest of Morocco is 40°C+. December–February for snow and skiing. Autumn for golden cedar forest. Avoid November for frequent fog.
Budget
Hostels are limited — expect €12–18 dorm or €25 basic room. Ski day pass Michlifen: €18. Guided forest hike: €15. Day total: €30–40 (more expensive than lowland Morocco).
Getting there
From Fes: 1h15 by grand taxi (€3 shared) or CTM bus. From Meknes: 1h, €3. Fes airport is 90 min away. Rental car is ideal for exploring the surrounding cedar forest and lakes.
Safety
Very safe — one of the calmest towns in Morocco thanks to the student presence. The forest has wild dogs at dusk; stick to marked trails in late afternoon.
Where to stay — neighborhoods
Not all hostels are in the same part of town. Here’s how each area compares.
Town centre
Best for: Cafés, stone lion, most hostels
The chalet-lined core around the stone lion and Avenue de la Marche Verte. Everything walkable.
Near Michlifen
Best for: Ski stays, forest access
Out-of-town chalets and lodges 15 min by car. Need transport; ideal if you're skiing or hiking daily.
Tips from us
- Never feed the macaques — they bite and are getting aggressive in tourist zones.
- Bring warm layers year-round: even August nights drop to 10°C.
- Ski gear rental at Michlifen is expensive — bring your own if serious.
- Al Akhawayn University campus is open to visitors — best free coffee and Wi-Fi in town.
- Day-trip from Fes works but an overnight lets you catch sunrise in the cedar forest.