Fes-Meknes
Azrou
Cedar forests and Barbary macaques.
Azrou at a glance
- Region
- Fes-Meknes
- Province or prefecture
- Ifrane (province)
- Status
- City
- Population
- 54,350 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 1,250 m
- Coordinates
- 33.435, -5.221
- Postal code
- 53100
- Phone area code
- +212 535
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Azrou (French) · أزرو (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 Azrou
Azrou is a Middle Atlas town surrounded by cedar forests where Barbary macaques roam, and known for its craft cooperative.
History
The name means "rock" in Tamazight. A strategic Amazigh market town, it was used by the French as a military post in the early 20th century.
Things to see in Azrou
- Cedar forest and macaques
- Ain Leuh waterfalls
- Lake Aguelmame Sidi Ali
- Artisan cooperative
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 Azrou
- By air
- Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ), about 80 km away.
- By train
- There is no ONCF station; buses and grand taxis connect to Fes, Meknes and Midelt.
- 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
Crafts, wood, livestock and tourism.
Food and drink
Mountain tagines, wood-fired bread and honey.
Festivals and events
Local souk days and seasonal fairs.
Where to stay
Accommodation is more limited, usually small hotels and guesthouses. Many visitors base themselves in a nearby larger city and visit as a day trip.