Marrakech, High Atlas & Sahara Desert Trekking Tour (10 Days)
Overview
This 10-day adventure combines Morocco’s most iconic landscapes in one unforgettable journey: the vibrant city of Marrakech, the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, and the vast Sahara Desert.
The tour begins in Marrakech, where you explore the historic medina and prepare for the trek. From there, the route leads deep into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing remote Berber valleys, high passes, and reaching the summit of Mount M’Goun (4,068m), the second-highest peak in Morocco.
After several days of mountain trekking and traditional tent camps, the journey continues south through the scenic Draa Valley to Ouarzazate and Zagora. The final part of the trip takes you into the Sahara Desert, where you hike across rocky desert landscapes, oases, and golden dunes, accompanied by camel caravans and nomadic-style camping.
This experience is designed for travelers seeking both challenge and immersion—combining high-altitude trekking, authentic Berber culture, and the magic of the desert in one continuous route from mountains to dunes.
Tour Plan
Arrival in Marrakech, the vibrant gateway to southern Morocco, known for its magic, colors, and history. You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to a traditional riad in the medina.
Free evening at leisure to relax or explore the surrounding area.
Overnight: Riad / Hotel in Marrakech
Explore the historic heart of Marrakech with a guided city tour. Discover its palaces, gardens, and the famous medina with its lively souks full of colors, aromas, and craftsmanship.
In the afternoon, briefing and preparation for the trekking journey. Rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Riad / Hotel in Marrakech
Departure by minibus through Azilal towards the High Atlas Mountains and the beautiful Aït Bouguemez valley. Meet the mule team and begin the trek.
Hike through fertile valleys and traditional Berber farmland to reach the Arouss valley, then continue ascending to the Ikissn Arouss pastures.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Driving time: ~5 hours
Hiking time: ~4.5 hours
Overnight: Tent camp
Gradual ascent through the upper Arouss valley, crossing a small pass. Continue along a zigzag trail to the Aghri Pass (3,350m).
Lunch en route, then descent to the vast Tarkeddit Plateau at the northern side of the M’Goun massif.
Meals: B/L/D
Hiking time: ~5.5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1100m / -450m
Overnight: Tent camp
Early morning start (around 4:30 AM) for those climbing M’Goun, the second highest peak in Morocco. The ascent takes approximately 6 hours, offering spectacular panoramic views over the High Atlas.
Descent to the Oulilimte valley by the river with a picnic lunch on the way. Alternatively, a lower scenic route is available with the support team.
Meals: B/L/D
Hiking time:
- With summit: ~9 hours (+1168m / -1368m)
- Without summit: ~5 hours (+500m / -550m)
Overnight: Tent camp
A gentle and scenic hike through the Oulilimte valley. The trail passes rocky landscapes, riverbeds, and unique geological formations.
Arrival at Aflafal plateau for lunch and rest in camp.
Meals: B/L/D
Hiking time: ~5 hours
Overnight: Tent camp
Farewell to the High Atlas Mountains. Drive south via the Tizi n’Ait Hamd pass with lunch en route.
Arrival in Ouarzazate and overnight stay in a guesthouse or hotel.
Meals: B/L/D
Driving time: ~6 hours
Overnight: Hotel / Guesthouse in Ouarzazate
Travel through the scenic Draa Valley, passing ancient villages and palm groves, towards Zagora.
Meet the desert team and camels, then start the Sahara trek after lunch. Climb a small pass (approx. 400m ascent) before descending into a desert oasis area.
Meals: B/L/D
Driving time: ~3.5 hours
Hiking time: ~4 hours
Overnight: Tent camp
Trek along the Oued Lmahasser valley through diverse landscapes: rocky desert, canyon areas, and riverbeds. Depending on the season, you may hear frogs and desert wildlife near water zones.
Regular breaks and lunch stop en route before reaching the next camp.
Meals: B/L/D
Hiking time: ~5 hours
Overnight: Tent camp
Today begins a longer desert stage. The landscape gradually changes from rocky desert into soft golden sand dunes of the Sahara.
(Program continues into desert exploration and camel trekking experience.)
Meals: B/L/D
Hiking time: Full desert trek (details can be customized)
Overnight: Desert camp among dunes
Booking Tour
Max Guests
Min Age
English , French
