-Discover the Hidden Gem of Morocco: Jbel Ayachi in Midelt.

Jbel Ayachi: Towering Majesty of the Eastern High Atlas 

           Jbel Ayachi—also spelled Djebel Ayachi—is a majestic mountain massif located just southwest of Midelt, in Morocco’s Drâa-Tafilalet region . It stands at an impressive elevation of 3,757 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in North Africa and anchoring the Eastern High Atlas . Some sources, like Britannica, provide slightly varied elevation figures—for example, around 3,737 meters (12,260 ft)—but these reflect minor measurement differences

Geographic Features Not just a peak: Jbel Ayachi refers to an extensive mountain massif spanning over 20 km in diameter, rather than a lone summit . The massif is ring-like in structure, with a seasonal lake at its core, surrounded by peaks and passes that regularly exceed 3,000 meters . Remarkably, snow lingers late into the year—even in summer. On some slopes, snow can survive well into late May or June, and in sheltered areas, may endure all summer.

Ecology & Environmental 

Context Despite its desert-adjacent location, the northern slopes once supported lush forests of cedars, oaks, and junipers. However, overgrazing by livestock has largely stripped the land of trees, leaving behind sparse vegetation and eroded soils . The massif is home to notable wildlife, including the bearded vulture, a rare raptor species in the region.

                                       

Human History & Culture

 The area has long been inhabited by nomadic Berber groups, whose livelihoods revolve around pastoralism—raising sheep and goats. These communities often lead semi-nomadic lives, moving between valleys and highlands . A prominent cultural site lies at the mountain’s foot: the Zaouia of Sidi Hamza, a Sufi religious center, and an associated manuscript library. These institutions continue to hold cultural and spiritual significance for the local community

Trekking & Adventure 

For adventurous travelers, Jbel Ayachi offers a rewarding mountaineering experience: Treks from villages like Tounfite (~1,800 m elevation) can summit the peak in a single day for capable hikers . Multi-day trekking itineraries—such as the 6-day "Jebel Ayachi Ascent and Atlas Valleys"—highlight high valleys, cedar forests, and nomadic camps along the route, offering rich cultural immersion 

Midelt & Jbel Ayachi

: A Geographic Bond Midelt, situated at about 1,508 m elevation, lies in the plateau between the Middle and High Atlas ranges and serves as the gateway to Jbel Ayachi . The town's climate is cold desert, with snow common in winter, and a principal water spring located at the foot of Jbel Ayachi . Historically, Midelt grew through mining and became a hub for mineral transport and hydroelectric development (e.g., the Ksar Tatiouine dam powering local energy needs) in the early 20th century

In Summary 

Jbel Ayachi stands as a geographical and cultural sentinel of Morocco’s Eastern High Atlas: A soaring massif of ~3,760 m, veiled in snow late into summer; A cradle of ecological interest—once wooded, now stark due to overgrazing, yet home to elusive bearded vultures; A cultural mosaic where nomadic Berber traditions meet Sufi heritage; A destination for trekking that reveals contrasting highland beauty, from cedar forests to arid ridges. 

If you would like to visit this beautiful mountain and discover its unique landscapes, culture, and adventure opportunities, you can contact me directly at +212653235714

or hssansoph@gmail.com