Discover Morocco
Morocco's Geography and Landscapes
Morocco's landscapes change quickly: Atlantic beaches, Mediterranean coves, the Rif, several Atlas ranges, interior plateaux, fertile plains and arid country towards the Sahara. Geography shapes climate, settlement, agriculture and travel.
Published October 2026
Coast and mountains
Morocco has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. The Rif runs across the north, while the Middle Atlas, High Atlas and Anti-Atlas shape much of the interior. Conditions change sharply with altitude: mountain winters can be cold and snowy even when coastal cities are mild.
Plains, valleys and desert
Agricultural plains support many of Morocco's largest cities. Further inland, the Drâa and Ziz valleys connect oases and settlements. South-eastern Morocco includes rocky desert and dunes near Merzouga; further south, desert plateaux meet the Atlantic coast around Dakhla.
What geography means for a trip
The Atlantic coast is often milder than inland cities, and mountains can be considerably colder. Weather varies by season and elevation, so check local forecasts before travelling. For planning, see our seasonal guide and Atlas Mountains guide.