Fez — The Aït Bouguemez valley in Azilal Province is preparing to welcome more than 500 runners from over 13 nationalities for the fourth edition of the Atlas Marathon, bringing international attention to one of Morocco’s mountain destinations.
The event will begin on October 23, with competitive races scheduled for October 24 and 25. Organizers aim to promote the region’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage while supporting tourism and economic activity in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region.
During a press conference in Beni Mellal on October 10, Atlas Marathon director Haddou Mazoun outlined the event’s program and its ambitions beyond sporting competition.
Mazoun stressed that the marathon seeks to introduce visitors to Aït Bouguemez and encourage economic opportunities for local communities through sport, tourism, and cultural activities.
Running through the High Atlas
The marathon will offer four race distances, allowing participants with different levels of experience to explore the region’s mountainous terrain.
The program includes a 42-kilometre marathon and a challenging 27-kilometer Atlas Skyrace on October 24, followed by a 21-kilometre trail and a 10-kilometer family trail on October 25.
The routes take runners through the landscapes of Aït Bouguemez, a valley widely known as the “Happy Valley” for its hospitality and natural beauty.
Situated within the M’Goun UNESCO Global Geopark, the area features traditional Amazigh villages, agricultural landscapes, and mountain scenery that attract hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Beyond the physical challenge, participants will have an opportunity to discover the cultural and environmental heritage of the Central High Atlas.
A celebration of local culture and traditions
The Atlas Marathon will extend beyond running competitions, with cultural performances, recreational activities, and events for families and children.
Local folklore groups will contribute traditional music and performances, introducing international visitors to the region’s cultural identity.
Organizers will also establish a dedicated event village where participants and visitors can access services, explore regional products, and interact with local producers.
The village will provide exhibition spaces for cooperatives and other local stakeholders, highlighting traditional products and supporting the region’s social and solidarity economy.
These activities aim to generate opportunities for local businesses, artisans, and tourism operators while encouraging visitors to spend more time exploring the valley.
Promoting sustainable mountain tourism
The marathon also forms part of broader efforts to strengthen mountain tourism in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region.
Representatives of the M’Goun Geopark Association and the Regional Tourism Council attended the October 10 press conference, where they discussed the event’s potential to support tourism development.
Ibrahim Aït Oucha, Deputy Secretary General of the M’Goun Geopark Association, joined discussions about the importance of connecting sporting initiatives with the preservation and promotion of natural and cultural heritage.
Organizers believe the marathon can help diversify the region’s tourism offering by attracting visitors interested in trail running, outdoor activities, and sustainable travel.
They also called for greater involvement from institutional partners, local stakeholders, and the media to support the event’s continued development.
As the Atlas Marathon enters its fourth edition, its organizers hope to establish Aït Bouguemez as an international destination where sport, nature, and Amazigh cultural heritage contribute to local development.
