Fes-Meknes
Ifrane
The alpine-style town of the Middle Atlas.
Ifrane at a glance
- Region
- Fes-Meknes
- Province or prefecture
- Ifrane (province)
- Status
- Province capital
- Population
- 14,659 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 1,650 m
- Coordinates
- 33.523, -5.111
- Postal code
- 53000
- Phone area code
- +212 535
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Ifrane (French) · إفران (Arabic)
- Best time to visit
- May to September, or December to February for snow
Population is from the 2014 census (HCP) and is being updated. Climate figures are indicative regional profiles. Confirm details with official sources before relying on them.
About Ifrane
Ifrane has steep-roofed houses, parks, a famous stone lion and cedar forests. It is home to Al Akhawayn University and is popular for winter snow.
History
The town was founded in 1929 as a French hill station and still has a distinct European-style layout.
Things to see in Ifrane
- Stone Lion of the Atlas
- Ifrane National Park
- Michlifen ski area
- Cedar forest walks
Climate and best time to visit
Mountain. Cool, wet winters with regular frost and snow, and mild, dry summers. Altitude keeps nights cold all year.
Best time to visit: May to September, or December to February for snow. Indicative regional profile.
Getting to Ifrane
- By air
- Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ), about 65 km away.
- By train
- There is no ONCF station; buses and grand taxis link to Fes and Azrou.
- By bus
- CTM, Supratours and regional bus companies serve most routes; grand taxis cover shorter hops. Check current schedules.
- By road
- Reached by national roads and, on many routes, the motorway network. Check road conditions in winter, especially in mountain areas.
Economy
Education, tourism and services.
Food and drink
Mountain dishes with local honey, apples and trout.
Festivals and events
Winter snow season runs roughly from December to February.
Where to stay
Options are mostly mid-range hotels and family-run guesthouses. In peak season and holidays it is wise to reserve in advance.