DAY 1: MARRAKECH - IMLIL - TOUBKAL BASE CAMP

Marrakech - Departing from Marrakech, the journey heads south towards the rugged peaks and deep valleys of the Toubkal Massif. Crossing the Haouz Plain, the route passes through the small town of Asni, where the road begins to ascend into the foothills of the Massif. Below, the Valley of the Oued Rhirhaia extends into the distance, with small villages perched on the steep hillsides as the path winds towards Imlil.

Imlil - Here, the vehicle is left behind, and with a mountain guide, the trek begins along the Mizane Valley, first reaching the village of Aremd and then the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. Aremd, the largest village in the Valley, is built on a moraine spur overlooking the Valley floor and offers a fascinating blend of traditional terraced farming, gites, and streets often crowded with goats and cattle. The local Berber villagers have cultivated these lands for generations, growing corn, potatoes, and walnuts in the challenging terrain. Continuing east and crossing the flood plain, the route follows mule tracks up into the high rocky cliffs above the Valley. Crossing the river, the path leads to the pastoral shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, a destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. The village, situated beside a small waterfall, is a chaotic cluster of houses that seem to merge into one.

Toubkal - From here, the trail steadily climbs, winding its way up to the snowline and the Toubkal Refuge (3206m), the stop for the night. Approximately 5 hours of walking.

DAY 2: BASE CAMP - TOUBKAL SUMMIT - IMLIL

Toubkal - The trek to the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4165m) begins early, aiming for the highest peak in Northern Africa. The route ascends the south cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge and traversing one of the mountain’s many scree fields, where a seemingly endless carpet of boulders and rocks must be navigated. While the walking is relatively straightforward, the scree and altitude present challenges, but the views make the effort worthwhile. Reaching the ridgeline, the path leads to a plateau, from where a short walk reaches the summit, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Imlil - From this vantage point, there are unobstructed views in every direction, from the Marrakech Plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. Pliny, the renowned Roman scholar, once described the High Atlas Mountains as “the most fabulous mountains in all of Africa,” and from this high point above the Valley, it’s easy to see why. Retracing the steps, the descent leads back to Imlil for an overnight stay at Riad Atlas Prestige or similar.

DAY 3: IMLIL - DADES VALLEY

Imlil - At 9 am, departure from the accommodation in Imlil begins a scenic drive over the Atlas Mountains, crossing the stunning Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass. The journey passes through several charming Berber villages. As the landscape transitions into desert, riverside oases and barren hillsides adorned with kasbahs—fortified dwellings for families and livestock—come into view.

Ouarzazate - During the trip, there is an option to visit the Ouarzazate Film Studios. Additionally, a side trip to Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified city with numerous kasbahs and a backdrop for many Hollywood films like The Mummy, Gladiator, Alexander, and Lawrence of Arabia, is available. Visitors can explore the area with a guide.

Dades Gorges - Upon arrival at the Dades Gorges, there is an option for a refreshing hike or relaxation at the hotel. The night is spent in Dades, allowing full enjoyment of the area’s beauty. (Total driving time is approximately 6 hours.)

DAY 4: DADES VALLEY - TODGHA GORGE - MERZOUGA

Todgha Gorge - After breakfast at the hotel, the transfer from the Dades Valley to Todgha Gorge takes place. This massive fault divides the High Atlas mountains, rising 300 meters in a narrow valley filled with palmeries and Berber villages. Here, there is an opportunity to hike and explore the palmery, a lush oasis home to large date palms.

Merzouga - After lunch, the journey continues deeper into the desert towards Merzouga, where supplies for the desert trip are gathered. The next stop is a kasbah to collect camels. At sunset, a 1.5-hour camel trek leads to a Berber camp for a traditional Moroccan dinner and an overnight stay under the stars or in tents at a desert camp.

DAY 5: MERZOUGA - MARRAKECH

Merzouga - The morning begins early to catch the sunrise and embark on a 1.5-hour camel ride to further explore the area before returning to Merzouga.

Ait Ben Haddou - After breakfast, there is an opportunity to shower before starting the journey back to Marrakech via Ait Benhaddou kasbah, visiting the remarkable UNESCO site.

Marrakech - The drive continues through the stony desert and over the Atlas Mountains, with frequent stops for photos, exploration, and lunch. The estimated arrival time in Marrakech is between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

• All meals included (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek and desert excursion
• Private transportation, including mules for the Toubkal trek
• Experienced English-speaking guide available
• Camel ride adventure in the Sahara Desert
• Comfortable accommodations in mountain refuges, riads, and a desert camp

• Tips. Personal Expenses.

This 5-day tour offers an unparalleled adventure for travelers seeking a combination of mountain trekking and desert exploration. With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll ascend Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains. Afterward, you’ll explore the vast Sahara Desert on a camel ride and spend a night under the stars in a desert camp.

This tour also includes a visit to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and film studio in Ouarzazate, providing a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture. Book this tour for an unforgettable adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling outdoor activities.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.