Iriqui National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the rugged Guelmim-Es Semara region of Morocco, Iriqui National Park is a nature lover's paradise. This expansive park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the critically endangered Northwest African cheetah, as well as Barbary sheep, Dorcas gazelles, and numerous bird species. The park's stunning landscapes range from vast desert plains to towering sand dunes, offering visitors a truly immersive experience in the beauty of the natural world.
One of the park's most iconic features is the Draa River, which winds its way through the arid desert landscape, providing a vital water source for the park's inhabitants. Visitors can explore the river's banks on foot or by camel, taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding desert and the abundant birdlife that calls the river home.
For those seeking adventure, Iriqui National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, from off-road excursions through the park's dramatic terrain to camping under the starry skies. The park's remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for stargazing, allowing visitors to marvel at the brilliance of the night sky in this pristine natural setting.
In addition to its natural wonders, Iriqui National Park is also rich in cultural history, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore ancient rock art and ruins, gaining insight into the lives of the people who once called this land home.
Guelmim - Es-Semara
Iriqui National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Iriqui National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Erg Chigaga. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Iriqui National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Iriqui National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Barbary Sheep, Arui, Aoudad
The Barbary sheep, also known as arrui or aoudad, is a captivating caprid species native to the rugged mountains of North Africa. There are six recognized subspecies of this animal. Although they are rare in their native regions, Barbary sheep have been introduced...
Mammals
Dorcas gazelle
The dorcas gazelle, also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small yet widespread species found across Africa and Arabia. These graceful animals stand about 55-65 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 15-20 kg. In the wild, there are approximately 35,000-40,000...
Mammals
Striped Hyaena
The striped hyena, a captivating creature, inhabits North and East Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Regrettably, it is classified as near-threatened by the IUCN due to a diminishing population, primarily driven by habitat loss...
Mammals
Houbara bustard
The houbara bustard, also known as the African houbara, is a large bird inhabiting North Africa and southwestern Asia, typically thriving in arid environments. Unfortunately, it is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to a declining global population.
Birds
Monitor lizard
Monitor lizards, belonging to the Varanus genus, are remarkable reptiles found in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Renowned for their elongated necks, powerful tails, and sharp claws, these lizards encompass approximately 80 different species, ranging in size from a modest...
Reptiles
Guelmim - Es-Semara