Djebel Ouarkziz is a mountain that remains largely unknown to most travelers, yet it holds countless wonders. It sits within the Guelmim-Es Smara region and overlooks the Draa wadi.

Exploring Djebel Ouarkziz

From Agadir airport, you can reach it within a few hours. Located south of the Anti-Atlas, Djebel Ouarkziz presents mineral and sandy landscapes in the authentic atmosphere of the desert. Hidden within these remote lands, you'll discover the Fask hot spring for a refreshing dip, a rural cemetery, and nearby the El Borj encampments. You'll have the chance to admire rock paintings. If you wish to spend the night in the region, head to Hassan's bivouac at Tidelt.

At the eastern edge of Djebel Ouarkziz, just beyond the Maroc-Algeria border, lies the Ouarkziz meteorite crater, which according to scientists was formed by a meteorite impact approximately 70 million years ago.

You can explore this region through an adventure circuit that takes you across Maroc's diverse desert regions from East to West. The untamed expanses of Jebel Ouarkziz offer incredible 4x4 trails to traverse. The region will guide you through depression zones, mineral gorges and acacia-dotted areas. You'll be surprised by the remarkable variety of landscapes that unfold along every kilometer.

A Note of History

In 1980, conflicts between Maroc and Polisario led to Operation Iman, also known as the First Battle of Ouarkziz, along the edge of Djebel Ouarkziz. Colonel Ahmed Dlimi directed the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces in an effort to liberate the city of Zag. Several clashes ensued, but ultimately the Polisario forces prevailed against Moroccan troops. It was one of the greatest victories for Sahrawi independence fighters.