Morocco hides extraordinary aquatic treasures within its mountains, forests, and desert landscapes.
From emerald waters in the Middle Atlas to surreal desert lakes in the Sahara, these destinations offer a peaceful escape far from mass tourism.
Each lake has its own identity, shaped by altitude, climate, and centuries-old local legends.
Table of Contents
- Bin el Ouidane Lake (Beni Mellal)
- Aguelmam Azegza Lake (Khenifra)
- Tiguelmamine Lake (Khenifra)
- Tislit and Isli Lakes (Imilchil)
- Ifni Lake (High Atlas)
- Afennourir Lake (Ifrane)
- Lalla Takerkoust Lake (Marrakech Region)
- Aguelmam Sidi Ali Lake (Middle Atlas)
- Ouiouane Lake
Bin El Ouidane Lake (Beni Mellal)
Covering more than 4,000 hectares, Bin el Ouidane Lake lies in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, about 180 km from Marrakech.
Created in the 1950s by a hydroelectric dam, it blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and feels completely natural.
Its deep blue waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding ochre cliffs. The lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, jet skiing,
and relaxing along its hidden beaches. Nearby accommodations range from family guesthouses to lakeside hotels offering spectacular sunsets.
Bin El Ouidane Lake. Photo Credit: Elmehdi FIHR/ Wikimedia
Aguelmam Azegza Lake (Khenifra)
Known as the “Green Lake,” Aguelmam Azegza owes its emerald color to dissolved limestone in its waters.
Located at 1,474 meters above sea level, this natural karst lake is surrounded by dense cedar forests within Khenifra National Park.
The crystal-clear water mirrors ancient cedar trees, creating stunning reflections throughout the day.
Wild boars, foxes, and Barbary macaques are frequently spotted near the shores. In winter, the lake may partially freeze, offering a magical scene.
Aguelmam Azegza Lake. Photo Credit: Brahim/ Wikimedia
Tiguelmamine Lake (Khenifra)
At 1,630 meters altitude, Tiguelmamine Lake is a protected natural site classified as national heritage in 2014.
Less visited than nearby lakes, it remains a peaceful sanctuary for nature lovers.
With no tourist infrastructure, the area offers pure tranquility.
Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will enjoy spotting raptors, deer, and amphibians, especially during spring when wildflowers bloom.
Tiguelmamine Lake. Photo Credit: maaykou/ wikiloc.com
Tislit and Isli Lakes (Imilchil)
These twin lakes are deeply rooted in a famous Berber love legend.
Located over 2,200 meters above sea level in the eastern High Atlas, they are surrounded by rugged mountains with dramatic red and golden hues.
Every September, the region hosts the Imilchil Marriage Festival, attracting visitors from across Morocco.
Outside festival season, the lakes offer solitude and breathtaking landscapes, best accessed by 4×4 vehicles.
Tislit and Isli Lake. Photo Credit: Jean-François Gornet/ Wikimedia
Ifni Lake (High Atlas – Marrakech Region)
Ifni Lake is Morocco’s highest natural mountain lake, situated at 2,295 meters in the Toubkal Massif.
Reaching it requires a challenging trek from Imlil, but the reward is a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Camping is allowed nearby, offering incredible stargazing opportunities.
The trek takes approximately 5–6 hours and hiring a certified mountain guide is highly recommended.
Ifni Lake. Photo Credit: notcreative123/ Wikimedia
Afennourir Lake (Ifrane)
Located at 1,800 meters altitude within a UNESCO-listed cedar forest, Afennourir Lake covers about 38 hectares
and represents the largest wetland in the Middle Atlas.
It is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting more than 80 bird species throughout the year.
The surrounding forest is also home to Barbary macaques, making it a key destination for eco-tourism in Morocco.
Afennourir Lake. Photo Credit: El Akramine.M/ Wikimedia
Lalla Takerkoust Lake (Marrakech Region)
Just 30 km south of Marrakech, Lalla Takerkoust is a 720-hectare artificial lake built in 1935.
Despite its man-made origins, it offers beautiful scenery with Atlas Mountains in the background.
Popular activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, and lakeside dining.
The lake is especially famous for its sunset views and growing eco-lodge scene.
Lalla Takerkoust Lake. Photo Credit: https://locmarrakech.com/
Aguelmam Sidi Ali Lake (Middle Atlas)
Aguelmam Sidi Ali is the largest natural lake in Morocco, covering nearly 500 hectares.
Formed in a volcanic crater at 2,080 meters altitude, it reaches depths of up to 40 meters.
The lake supports a unique ecosystem and offers sweeping panoramic views of the Middle Atlas.
In winter, it often freezes completely, creating striking frozen landscapes.
Aguelmam Sidi Ali Lake. Photo Credit: Soukaina Malak/ Wikimedia
Ouiouane Lake
Located at 1,650 meters altitude, Ouiouane Lake remains largely untouched by tourism.
Surrounded by cedar and oak forests, it is ideal for travelers seeking calm and authenticity.
Its shallow waters warm up in summer, making swimming more pleasant.
Springtime transforms the area into a colorful meadow filled with wildflowers.
Ouiouane Lake. Photo Credit: M.rais/ Wikimedia
Final Note
This list is not a ranking. Each lake offers a unique experience depending on your preferences:
mountains, desert landscapes, water activities, isolation, or easy access.
Morocco’s lakes invite you to explore nature at your own rhythm.
