Imilchil is a small village located in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, specifically in the High Atlas range. It is best known for its remote beauty, the annual Imilchil Marriage Festival and two beautiful lakes nearby: Tislit and Isli. The town sits at a high altitude, around 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level, making it a cold, rugged, and mountainous region. Winters can be harsh with snow, while summers are more temperate.
The village is most famous for its marriage festival, an annual event held in September. Historically, it was a time when young men and women from Berber tribes in the region could meet and choose partners, with their families’ approval. Today, visitors can witness traditional Berber customs, music and dancing. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture!
The festival has its roots in the story of two star-crossed lovers from opposing tribes, Isli and Tislit, who were forbidden from marrying. Their grief was so deep that they cried themselves to death, forming the two lakes near the village. As a result, the festival was established to celebrate love and marriage.
How to get there?
From Major Cities
Marrakech to Imilchil (around 300 km / 7-8 hours):
The most common route is by car or bus. You would first drive towards Beni Mellal (about 3-4 hours from Marrakech) and then continue towards Ait M’hamed and Tilmi before arriving in Imilchil. This route will take you through beautiful valleys and mountain roads.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or shared taxi from Marrakech to Azilal, and from there, you may need to arrange private transport to Imilchil.
Fes to Imilchil (around 270 km / 6-7 hours):
You can travel via Midelt, a town located on the national road between Fes and Imilchil. From Midelt, you drive through the High Atlas Mountains via Ait Hani to reach Imilchil. The road is scenic but winding and steep, so be prepared for a rugged but rewarding journey.
Shared taxis and buses can take you as far as Midelt or Rich, but a private taxi or car hire is needed for the final leg.
Ouarzazate to Imilchil (around 240 km / 6-7 hours):
From Ouarzazate, you would drive towards the town of Skoura and continue via Boumalne Dades and Tamtatoucht before reaching Imilchil. This route involves crossing mountain passes and offers beautiful views of gorges and valleys.
Some buses may travel this route to nearby towns, but again, private transportation is often required to complete the trip.
Transportation Options
By Car
Renting a car is the most flexible and comfortable option. It allows you to stop along the way to enjoy the scenery and small Berber villages. The roads are generally good but can be narrow and winding, especially as you climb into the mountains.
By Bus
CTM and other bus companies offer services to nearby towns such as Beni Mellal, Midelt, or Rich. From these points, you will likely need to hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi (called “grand taxis”) to reach Imilchil. Bus travel is the cheapest option, but it can be slower and less flexible than driving yourself.
By Shared Taxi (Grand Taxi)
Shared taxis are common in Morocco and can be a more affordable alternative to renting a private car. They usually operate between major towns like Azilal, Beni Mellal, Midelt, and smaller villages. These taxis can be crowded and may not always offer the most comfortable ride, but they are a good way to travel if you don’t want to drive.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Imilchil and the surrounding lakes Tislit and Isli is typically from late spring to early autumn, especially from May to September.
May to September offers the most comfortable weather, as temperatures are mild, and the risk of snow in the High Atlas Mountains is lower.
Summer (June to August) can be ideal because of warmer temperatures in the region, though it remains cooler compared to lower elevations in Morocco due to the altitude.
Autumn (September to October) is also pleasant, especially during the famous Imilchil Marriage Festival in late September.
Winters (November to March) are very cold in Imilchil, with heavy snowfall and harsh conditions, making travel and outdoor activities more difficult.
How long to stay there?
Half a day is enough to comfortably explore the area of the lakes. There is nothing much to do in the town itself other than having a cup of tea and observing local life going on.
Visiting Lakes Tislit and Isli
Lake Tislit and Lake Isli are situated near the village of Imilchil, at an altitude of over 2,000 meters. The lakes are relatively close to each other (8 kilometres) but are in separate basins, surrounded by rugged mountain terrain. Their high-altitude setting makes the area cold in winter, with snow often covering the surrounding peaks.
Lake Tislit (often referred to as the “Bride’s Lake”) is smaller and more rounded, while Lake Isli (the “Groom’s Lake”) is larger and more elongated. The lakes are fed by rain and snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, and the area around them is relatively dry, with limited vegetation apart from seasonal grasses and small shrubs.
In the beginning, I had no idea that there were actually two lakes. When I reached Lake Tislit, I immediately saw some other dirt road and quickly checked on the map where it was going. Then, I discovered Lake Isli. I wasn’t very sure about road conditions and I was hesitating if driving in Renault Clio was a good idea but I’m happy I took that risk. In dry conditions, the road is quite easy and doable in 2WD. If you are adventurous and looking for a calm place in nature, these are the spots for you!
