Azrou: Cedar Forests & Barbary Macaques
A Berber Town in the Cedars
Azrou, whose name means 'rock' in the Amazigh language, is a traditional Berber town set high in the Middle Atlas. It is more workaday and authentic than nearby Ifrane, with a lively weekly souk and a strong Amazigh identity.
The town's setting amid cedar forests and rolling hills makes it a refreshing escape from the heat of the lowlands. It commonly serves as a midway stop for travelers driving between Fes and the desert towns to the south.
The Cedar Forest and Barbary Macaques
The forests around Azrou are dominated by majestic Atlas cedars, some hundreds of years old. The most famous tree, long known as the Cedre Gouraud, became a landmark before it died, and the surrounding woodland remains a major attraction.
These forests shelter troops of Barbary macaques, the only macaque species in Africa and one of the few monkeys living outside Asia. They are often seen near roadside clearings. Visitors are encouraged to admire them from a distance and avoid feeding them, as human food harms their health.
Outdoor Activities
The cool climate and forested terrain make Azrou excellent for walking and gentle hiking. Trails wind through the cedars, offering shade, birdlife and chances to see the macaques in their natural habitat.
Picnicking among the cedars is a popular pastime for Moroccan families. The wider region, including Ifrane National Park, contains lakes and viewpoints worth exploring on a longer visit.
Crafts and Markets
Azrou is known for its artisan cooperative, where local craftspeople produce carpets, woodwork and other handicrafts using regional techniques. It is a good place to buy authentic Middle Atlas crafts directly from makers.
The town's weekly market draws people from surrounding villages and offers a genuine glimpse of rural Amazigh life, with produce, livestock and household goods on sale.
Visiting Azrou
Azrou lies between Fes and Midelt, about an hour and a quarter from Fes by road, and is well connected by bus and grand taxi. Ifrane is only a short drive away, so the two are often combined.
Bring warm layers, as the mountain air is cool even in summer and cold in winter. The best way to see the cedars and macaques is by car or with a local guide, allowing you to reach the forest viewpoints easily.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Region | Middle Atlas mountains |
| Name meaning | 'Rock' in Amazigh |
| Famous for | Cedar forests and Barbary macaques |
| Distance from Fes | About 80 km |
| Nearby town | Ifrane |
Azrou quick facts
FAQ
Where can I see Barbary macaques in Morocco?
The cedar forests around Azrou in the Middle Atlas are one of the best places to see wild Barbary macaques. They are often spotted near roadside clearings, but visitors should observe them from a distance and not feed them.
Is Azrou worth visiting?
Yes, especially for nature lovers. Azrou offers ancient cedar forests, wild macaques, cool mountain air and authentic Berber markets, making it a worthwhile stop between Fes and the Sahara.
How far is Azrou from Fes?
Azrou is about 80 kilometers from Fes, roughly an hour and a quarter by car, bus or grand taxi. It is also a short drive from Ifrane, so the two are commonly visited together.
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