Dayet Aoua Lake
A natural lake in the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for its serene beauty and surrounding landscapes. Currently impacted by drought.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming nature
Dayet Aoua Lake
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural lake in the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for its serene beauty and surrounding landscapes. Currently impacted by drought.
"The lake is completely dry due to severe drought; a sad view for a place that was once lovely."
Confirm Water Status
Recent reports show the lake is dry. Check local conditions before your trip to manage expectations. :warning:
Pack for Nature
Bring comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing mountain weather. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lake Itself
Dayet Aoua
A serene natural lake, often surrounded by lush greenery and a haven for birdlife. Its beauty is best appreciated when full.
Surrounding Atlas Mountains
Middle Atlas Mountains
Scenic views of the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the lake area.
Local Flora and Fauna
Around Dayet Aoua
Discover the diverse plant life and potential bird sightings in this tranquil natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Water Levels Before You Go
Best Time for Serene Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Water Status
Recent reports show the lake is dry. Check local conditions before your trip to manage expectations. :warning:
Pack for Nature
Bring comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing mountain weather. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy the Tranquility
Embrace the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for meditation or quiet reflection. :meditation:
Scenic Drives Nearby
The drive to Dayet Aoua offers beautiful views of the Middle Atlas. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Water Status
Recent reports show the lake is dry. Check local conditions before your trip to manage expectations. :warning:
Pack for Nature
Bring comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing mountain weather. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy the Tranquility
Embrace the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for meditation or quiet reflection. :meditation:
Scenic Drives Nearby
The drive to Dayet Aoua offers beautiful views of the Middle Atlas. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Recent visitors report Dayet Aoua Lake is currently completely dry due to drought, a stark contrast to its past beauty. While the lack of water is a significant disappointment, the surrounding Middle Atlas scenery remains a draw for its natural beauty and tranquility.
"Unfortunately there is no water anymore. The lake is completely dry due to the severe drought. It was really a sad view. Visited on July 31, 2022."
Abdelmoughite ABDELMOUMEN
"There is no water left"
Adil Clandestin
"No water at this time of the year, it was a lovely place 6 years ago"
Saber Mourad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dayet Aoua Lake is located about 35 km from Fes. The easiest way to get there is by car or taxi. The drive offers scenic views of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Public transport options are limited. Hiring a private taxi or driving yourself is the most convenient way to reach the lake.
Dayet Aoua Lake is approximately 17 km from Ifrane, making it a relatively short drive through picturesque landscapes.
Roads leading to the lake are generally well-maintained, but it's always good to check for any local advisories, especially during inclement weather.
While ride-sharing apps are common in larger Moroccan cities, their availability and reliability for reaching more remote locations like Dayet Aoua can be inconsistent. It's best to arrange transport in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, there is no entrance fee to visit Dayet Aoua Lake itself, as it's a natural attraction. However, any associated guesthouses or specific activities might have their own charges.
As a natural lake, Dayet Aoua does not have official opening or closing hours. You can visit it during daylight hours.
No advance booking is usually required for general access to the lake area. If you plan to stay at a guesthouse or participate in a retreat, booking is essential.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visitors. However, it's important to respect the natural environment and any local customs.
The best way to experience the lake area is to explore the surroundings, enjoy the views, and perhaps engage in activities like walking or birdwatching.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Recent visitor reports from July 2022 indicate that the lake was completely dry due to severe drought. It's crucial to check current conditions before visiting.
When water is present, activities can include birdwatching, photography, and enjoying the serene natural landscape. The surrounding area is also good for walks.
Basic facilities might be available at nearby guesthouses or restaurants, but the natural lake area itself is generally undeveloped.
Yes, the lake and its surrounding Middle Atlas scenery offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The area is known for its birdlife, and if the lake has water, it can attract various migratory and resident bird species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are guesthouses and lodges in the vicinity of Dayet Aoua that often offer dining options for their guests.
If you plan to picnic, it's advisable to bring your own food and drinks, as dedicated picnic facilities might be limited. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Expect traditional Moroccan cuisine, often featuring tagines and couscous, at the local guesthouses and restaurants.
While traditional Moroccan cuisine can be adapted, it's best to inquire with the restaurant or guesthouse in advance about vegetarian or vegan options.
It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water, as small shops or vendors might not be readily available directly at the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting beautiful colors over the lake and surrounding mountains.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for expansive views.
The viewpoints overlooking the lake, especially when it's full, and the winding roads through the Atlas Mountains are popular for scenic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local laws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
Be respectful of the environment. Avoid disturbing wildlife and stick to designated paths where available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting nearby towns like Ifrane, often called 'Little Switzerland,' which has parks and a different kind of natural charm that might be more engaging for younger visitors. The key is to adjust expectations based on the current water levels and focus on the broader natural beauty of the region.
🧘 Wellness and Retreat Seekers
These retreats often emphasize the silence and natural beauty of the location, making it a perfect spot for mindfulness and rejuvenation. If you're looking for a tranquil escape to reconnect with yourself, researching retreats held at guesthouses like @gitedayetaoua in this area could be a rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Current State of Dayet Aoua Lake
This situation underscores the impact of climate change on natural attractions. While the absence of water is disappointing for those seeking a lakeside experience, the surrounding landscape of the Middle Atlas Mountains still offers natural beauty. The area remains a scenic drive and a place for appreciating the mountain environment, even without its central water feature. It's advisable to seek the most up-to-date local information regarding water levels before making travel plans.
For those who remember the lake when it was full, the current state is described as a 'sad view.' This emphasizes the importance of checking recent visitor reports and local news for the most accurate, real-time conditions of natural attractions like Dayet Aoua Lake.
Experiencing the Middle Atlas Scenery
Visitors can still enjoy nature walks and appreciate the flora and fauna of the area. The tranquility of the mountains provides a peaceful escape, and the cooler climate compared to the Moroccan plains can be a welcome change. Guesthouses in the vicinity, like @gitedayetaoua, offer cozy stays and can serve as a base for exploring the broader region, even if the lake itself is not at its best.
For those interested in a more immersive experience, retreats focusing on wellness and nature, such as those mentioned by @massaryogameditation and @retraitebienetetre, are sometimes held in this area. These often highlight the serene environment and the therapeutic qualities of the mountain air, suggesting that the appeal of Dayet Aoua extends beyond just the lake itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit