Ifrane is a mountain city in Morocco’s Middle Atlas, set at about 1,650 metres above sea level between Fez and Meknes. Its high elevation gives it a cooler climate than many Moroccan cities, with regular winter snowfall and mild summers. Wide streets, parks and houses with steep red-tiled roofs give central Ifrane an appearance quite different from the medinas of Morocco’s older cities. Forests and mountain lakes surround the urban area, while Al Akhawayn University forms one of its prominent modern landmarks. The city also provides access to the extensive cedar landscapes of Ifrane National Park.

Ifrane National Park protects 51,800 hectares of the central Middle Atlas and is particularly important for its Atlas cedar forests. The park supports Barbary macaques, numerous bird species, reptiles and amphibians. Dayet Aoua and Aguelmam Afennourir are among the region’s notable mountain lakes, while springs, streams and waterfalls occur throughout the surrounding uplands. Afennourir is also recognized as a Ramsar wetland important to migratory birds. Southwest of the city, Michlifen lies at about 2,000 metres and has ski slopes used during snowy winter conditions. The Ain Vitel area near Ifrane is known for its springs, woodland and waterfalls.

Food around Ifrane reflects both Moroccan cooking and the agricultural traditions of the Middle Atlas. Tagines, couscous, bread and mint tea are common, while lamb and other meats reflect the pastoral economy of surrounding rural communities. Apples are an important crop in Ifrane Province, where cool winters and high elevations provide suitable growing conditions for orchards. Honey, walnuts and other mountain products are also found in regional markets.