Sitting at an altitude of 3,200 meters in the sublime landscapes of the High Atlas, Oukaimeden has a beautiful ski slope just 80 kilometers from the legendary Marrakech, a magnificent natural and cultural treasure, proudly bearing the title of the highest ski resort in ‘Africa. With its 18 slopes extending over 300 hectares, Oukaimeden has attracted generations of skiers, whether beginners or experts. However, after decades of exploitation, this gem has shown signs of running out of steam, requiring extensive rehabilitation to preserve its unique place on the national and international tourist scene.
Created in the 1940s, Oukaimeden quickly gained notoriety thanks to its natural snowfall, generally sufficient from December to April. Its microclimate and high altitude make it an ideal destination for winter sports in Morocco. However, the station has seen its attendance decline over the years, due to aging infrastructure and sometimes inadequate management.
Despite these obstacles, Oukaimeden remains a symbol of Morocco’s geographical diversity. It offers considerable economic and tourism potential, particularly for local populations who largely depend on jobs generated by the tourism, hospitality and service sectors.
Faced with these challenges, an ambitious rehabilitation project was launched, with a total budget of 148.34 million dirhams. This program, financed by several institutional partners, including the Ministry of the Interior, SMIT and the Marrakech-Safi Region Council, takes place in two main phases.
1. Infrastructure modernization: The first phase of the project includes the upgrade of ski lifts, some dating back decades, to ensure safety and efficiency. It also provides for the widening of access roads and the construction of two cycle paths over a distance of 11 km.
2. Diversification of activities and services: A second phase concerns the development of complementary leisure activities, such as the installation of a panoramic restaurant at the summit of Mont Oukaimeden and the creation of a new generation of leisure facilities .
Objective: to position Oukaimeden as a competitive resort on an international scale, while preserving its authentic character and fragile environment.
The ecological issue is central to this project. Located in a region home to unique biodiversity, the rehabilitation of the station is accompanied by measures to minimize its environmental impact. These initiatives include: reducing tourist waste through efficient recycling systems, installing solar panels to power infrastructure and raising visitor awareness about the protection of this sensitive ecosystem. These actions are part of a vision of sustainability , where modernization rhymes with respect for natural resources.
-First, beyond the ski slopes, Oukaimeden is a crossroads between nature and culture. The resort offers a unique opportunity to promote the rich Berber heritage. The rehabilitation integrates the promotion of artisanal products, local gastronomy and regional traditions. This strengthened link with local communities guarantees that the economic benefits benefit all stakeholders in the region equitably.
To broaden its appeal, Oukaimeden offers a range of varied activities:
-Snowshoe hikes: Explore the snowy landscapes and wild beauty of the High Atlas.
-Dog sleds: Offering a unique Nordic experience in Africa.
-Astronomical observation: Take advantage of its clear and clear sky for an immersion in the stars, popular with amateurs and scientists alike.
In addition, the rehabilitation project is likely to boost the local economy by creating new direct jobs and attracting private investment in hotels, restaurants and services. Furthermore, improving infrastructure, particularly roads, will also benefit local populations.
Oukaimeden is the alliance between modernity and traditions, between sport, nature and culture. With this ambitious rehabilitation, it is preparing to write a new chapter in its history, that of sustainable and inclusive mountain tourism, capable of attracting visitors from all over the world while preserving its unique heritage.
