Erg Chigaga is the largest and still untouched of the major ergs in Morocco, This dune massif located in the Souss-Massa-Drâa region, is about 50 km west of the rural town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, itself located about 98 km south of the city of Zagora . Approximately 40 km long and 15 km wide, this erg, including some dunes….

1st day: Marrakech- Ouarzazate

Reception at the airport either direct transfer or night in a riad or hotel in Marrakech or Ouarzazate depending on the time of arrival.

Day 2 of the desert hike: Mhamid – Sidi Naji

After breakfast, we start the camel ride through the old kasbahs of the palm grove, stop for lunch in the shade of the tamarisks, nap and resume walking around 4:00 p.m., to get to Sidi Naji, where the tomb of a former marabout, now a place of pilgrimage for nomads. Bivouac around the fire, sand bread, entertainment.

3rd day of the hike in the desert: Sidi Naj- Erg Zahar Moroccan desert

We cross the entire Bousnina reg, stop in a nice place for lunch (the landscape changes every 2 hours) then we go in the evening to the large dunes of Zahar, from where we can see the Algerian border to admire the sunset. sun and enjoy the superb panorama. Overnight in the camp..

4th day of the hike in the desert: Erg Zahar – Erg Essmar

We cross the Drâa valley, lunch next to a well to enjoy the freshness. After lunch and a siesta, we continue towards Erg Smar ,overnight in the Camp

5th day of the hike in the desert: Erg Essmar -Erg Chegaga the great Moroccan desert.

We cross the reg of Erg Sidra to go in the evening to the large dunes of Chegaga to admire the sunset which culminates at more than 200 meters. From these majestic dunes, one dominates the whole sea of ​​sand.

6th day of the hike in the desert: Erg Chegaga – Oued Laatach

Morning among the large dunes to enjoy the panorama and the Sea of ​​Sand, you can go to the great Abidlia (highest dune). After lunch, we start to complete the loop towards the starting point Mhamid by heading towards Oued Laatach to spend the night there. camp.

7th day of the hike in the desert: Oued Laatach -Erg Ait Ounir

We take the road again crossing the small dry lake of Petit Iriqui for lunch among the dunes of Bougarne. Then we go to Erg Ait Ounir, lost dune  in the tamarisk forest, overnight in the camp.

8th day of the desert hike: Erg Ait Ounir – Erg lihoudi dunes

We cross the Hamada Drâa going up the valley to reach the dunes of Douibat in the evening following the dunes of lihoudi erg, overnight in the camp.

9th day: desert- Marrakech or Ouarzazate

Transfer to Marrakech or Ouarzazate, night in hotel

10th days: Marrakech or Ouarzazate

Continuation of free visit of the City and transfer to the airport and safe return

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program:

Day 1: Marrakech

Arrival in Marrakech, reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2: Marrakech-Ouarzazat– kelaa M’gouna

Transfer to Kelaa M’Gouna via the Tichka pass (2260m) before arriving in Ouarzazate then the route of thousand Kasbahs (325 km); overnight in Boutaghrar (stopover hotel) in the Valley of Roses where we join our team (mules and mule’s drivers)

Day 3 : Boutaghrar–Aguerzaqua

From Boutaghrar we start our walk following the path of the M’Goun river, passing through the villages of Tamglouna and Issoumer in the middle of full small gardens by roses, without forgetting to cross water by foot from time to time; picnic  continues on our way to Aguerzaka (6:30 am
market); night in camp
Day 4 : Aguerzaka–Imi n’irk

From Arguerzaka we keep walk following the river so as not to miss the wonderful gorges of M’Goun (Achaabou); picnic ; overnight in Imi ‘nirk camp (6h walking)

Day 5 : Im I n“irik– Ait Hamd

From imo n’irk, we still in our path, we cross old Ksars, terrace crops, before arriving at the ruins Kasbahs (Aït Hamd) at the first level of the Tizi n ‘Aït Imi (6h30 walking); overnight camp

Day 6 : Ait Hamd – AIY IMI

We climbe the Tizi n’Aït Imi pass (800 m ) from where we will have a superb view of two valleys: the M’Goun valley and the valley named (happy valley) of Aït Bougmez; we will descend to the village of Aït Imi (5h30 walking): camp,
Day 7 : AIT IMI -AZIB N”IKKIS

We cross the whole (happy valley) of Aït Bougmez, passing through Tabant, then through the fields to reach Agouti and the entrance to the Arous gorges (6h30 walking); camp in Azib n’Ikiss

Day 8 : AZIB N”IKKIS -TALKADDET

From Azib n’Ikis we go up a small pass to arrive at the Tarkeddit (flat level) (3200 m), meeting point for all the nomads with their herds, at the first level of the M’Goun summit (4068 m) (5h30 walking ); overnight in camp

Day 9 : TALKADDET

From the Tarkeddit, possibility of climbing the M’Goun summit if weather and physical conditions allow us (5h30 walking); overnight at the flat.

Day 10 : TASGAYWET

We join the Tessaout river , we go down throught the village of Tesgaywelt (5 hours walking); overnight in camp
Day 11: AIT ALI N”ITTO

We continues following the Tessaout river crossing the villages of Amezri and Ichoubaken then arrive at the village of Aït Ali n’Itto; overnight in lodge
Day 12 : DEMNATE

Possibility of visiting Megdez, the most beautiful village of the Central High Atlas (3 hours walking roundtrip). Then we continues to Demnate (transfert by Car). Overnight in Demnate
Day 13 :  EXPLORING MARRAKECH

transfer to Marrakech, city tour(without guide) and overnight at Hotel with dinner,breakfast include)
Day 14 : Airport

Transfert to  the airport and end of our sevice.

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1. The program of Trekking in the Roses Valley  Morocco

Day 1: Marrakech – Tichka pass 2260 m – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley (326 km)

Departure around 8 am, direction the Tichka pass (2260 m); the highest road pass in Morocco, grandiose panoramic landscape, after the pass the landscapes will be semi desert of the great Moroccan south on the southern side. Lunch on the way, then continuation to Kelaa de M’Gouna capital of the rose and rose festival venue in May, before arriving at the Dades Valley with its beautiful Kasbahs. Night in a cottage. 7 hour drive.

Day 2: Dades Valley –  Agurzegua Rose Valley:

Departure of our hike in the Dades valley by crossing several terraced crops then we leave this beautiful valley for an arid landscape for 3 hours, finally we discover the beautiful green valley of M’Goun. Lunch at the edge of the valley in the village of Ighrm Aqdim, then another 1h30 walk to reach the village of Aguerzaka, without forgetting to plan tennis since we will have to cross the river several times. Duration: 5h30 walk, Elevation: 500m ascent and 400m descent. Night in tents.

Day 3: Agurzegua –  Almdoune valley

We leave this valley; very green with its beautiful kasbahs and gorges, to climb 300 meters to the pass which leads us through a forest of junipers towards the Ameskar valley. Again a beautiful valley of Almdoune, with a hundred houses in the shape of adobe casbahs. Lunch in the Temtda valley, then continue on a good and wide path to the village of Alemdoune 1700m; 5 hours of walking Elevation: 400m ascent and 300m descent. Night in tents.

Day 4: Almdoune / El Quati Valley – Oleander gorges – Boutghrar

We quietly descend  valley of oleanders (plan to cross the gorges with sandals). Small gorges, but very exotic with its oleanders for arrival in the valley of Elhout with its beautiful casbahs. A large village with several beautiful houses, Lunch by the river near the village of Aznag, we then cross after 1 hour of walking we will arrive in the village of Boutarhrar : 5 hours of walking Elevation: 500m descent. Night in tents or guest house.

Day 5: Boutaghrar – Tourbiste – Hdida

A superb walk in the heart of the valley of roses with its casbahs which are becoming more and more numerous. Fields of roses are emerging around cereal crops (barley, corn, potatoes….). These rose gardens are used for making rose products. Descent of the valley to Tourbiste then Hdida. Night in a lodge in the village.

Day  6 -Feet in the water

Descent of the M’Goun river with its feet in the water, in the middle of oleanders. Passage of several villages where the rose gardens follow one another to arrive at Aït Khyar, a small village of kasbahs which dominates the valley of M’Goun, located 5 kms from Kelaa Mgouna. Night in a kasbah.

Day 7: Hdida – Ouarzazat – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Marrakech

Transfer by car, direction of Ouarazazat, then visit of the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou; famous for many films that have seen the light of day there. This 11th century kasbah was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then enjoying the sumptuous landscapes that the Atlas offers us. Arrival in Marrakech..overnight in hotel

Day 8 – MARRAKECH – Airport

Continuation of the visit of Marrakech and depending on your flight schedule, airport transfer and departure, End of our services. and welcome back

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Program :

Day 1: Airport-Marrakech

Reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel in the medina

Day 2: Marrakech-Ouarzazate- Tagdilt

Transfer to Boumalene Dades via the Tichca pass via Ouarzazate, Skoura and Valley of  roses. Arrival at the Tagdilt village located north of Jbel Saghro, overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 3: Tagdilt – Amda-n- Oughyoul 5 hours walk.

Early in the morning, easy climb of the northern slope of Jbel Saghro (ascent 400 m) at altitude, panoramic view of the snow-capped High Atlas chain. Bivouac.

Day 4: Amda-n-Oughyoul – Igli (2200 m altitude) (4 to 5 hours walk)

Passage of the Kouaouch pass (2500 m), here the landscape changes and the view dominates the entire Pre-Saharan massif and also the Central High Atlas. Descent to Igli in the middle of rocky peaks. Bivouac in Igli at 2200 m altitude.

Day 5: Igli – Bâb-n- Ali (2000 m) (5 to 6 hours walk):

We descend through small gorges to reach the site of Bâb-n-Ali, where two rocky peaks stand in the form of a gate .Bivouac at 2000 m.

Day 6: Bâb-n-Ali -Assaka-n-Aït Ouzzine – Handour (1800 m)

Arrival in the village of Assaka after 3 to 4 hours of walking, lunch, in the afternoon continuation, and descent of the valley to the large village of Handour, overnight at the lodge. About 6 hours of walking.

Day 7: Handour- Nkoub- Ouarzazate- col tichka- Marrakech

Return to Marrakech 380 km. 7 hours drive, passing through the Ait Saoun pass, beautiful view of the Ourzazate solar complex followed by a visit to the Ait Ben Haddou village. meals and  Tichka road . Overnight in a riad in the Marrakech medina.

Day 8: Marrakech- Airport

Continuation of the city tour and transfer to the airport according to the flight schedule and safe return.

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Trek Bougmez and gorges of M’goun and the valley of roses: A varied hike in the wildest and  most remote valleys of the central High Atlas. The start of the green valley of Aït Bougmez “Happy Valley” that the hike begins, crossing the small villages with traditional houses in adobe walls. Direction the second high summit of the high atlas (4065m) to reach the high altitude plateaus where nomads graze their herds of goats and camels. The hike then continues down the M’Goun valley, crossing many authentic villages bordering the river, then we descend the fabulous gorges called in Berber, Achaabou, before arriving at the splendid Valley of Roses. Grandiose landscapes, permanent encounters with the local population, total change of scenery..

 Day 1: Marrakech:

Reception at the airport and transfer to your hotel, free visit of the city.

Day 2: Marrakech6 Ouzoud Watherfall- Azilal- Bougumez

Early in the morning, we leave Marrakech for the Bougumez valley around 6 hours drive, far from the main roads, this road route makes us discover beautiful landscapes. We pass through Azilal where the red earth already sets the tone for the trip, then by a winding road we cross the Tizi N’Tirghiste pass, and join the valley and the village of Agouti (1800m). We find our team of muleteers there. Walk to Arouss (2200m) through small Berber villages. Bivouac At Azib Ikkis (2250m). 3h. Elevation: + 350m.

Day 3: Azib Ikiss-Talkdet

We leave the outskirts of the village to reach the Aghouri pass (3400m) and descend to the Taladet plateau (2900m) where we will spend the night. Bivouac next to the source.
5h. Elevation: + 1100m / – 500m.

Day 4: talkadet-Summit- Oulilimt

Departure early in the morning to reach, without technical difficulty, the summit of M’Goun (4068m) from the summit we can guess the far south and the Dades valley. The ascent remains optional. Those who do not wish to climb, follow the mule drivers, in this case, a day of 5 hours of walking. Bivouac at 2700m .. 8 to 9h. Elevation: + 1300m / – 1200m.

 Day 5: Oulilimt- Aflafal source

From Oulilimt we will follow the wadi which winds and becomes the M’Goun river. Fairy chimneys. While following the course of the river we will discover beautiful villages of altitude. Bivouac in Aflafal (2400m) or near a ruined kasbah. 4h drop -300m

Day 6: Tighremt N’Ait Hamed – The Ouzighimt valley – Imin Irkt

This day is limited to the descent of the valley of Ouzighemt; a marvelous valley whose population, especially women, are still active: working in the fields, collecting wood for the fire… our walk will be along the river, which links several villages. Lunch will be at the edge of the wadi in Taghraft. Then we continue our crossing towards the village Imi N’Irkt. The duration 5h30 of walking. Elevation: -500m. Night in a tent in a Camp

.Day 7: Imi N’Irkt – Tighanimine

A stage of several passages in the water. at a time when the gorges are narrow, we always stay in the water, often cold and refreshing in summer. A break for a hot tea and lunch near the Ifasfas spring. The camp will be in Tighanimine village. Duration 5 hours of walking. Elevation: -500m. Night in tents.

Day 8: Tighanimine – Boutaghrar –  Dades

This stage begins with a walk in the heart of crops, fruit trees: fig trees, walnut trees, apple trees under a good sun which makes the climate much warmer than the regions previously seen. Before arriving in Boutghrar, our lunch will be scheduled near the village of Tamgalouna. The duration 5h30 of walking. Elevation: – 400m. Night with the locals. Possibility of going to the Hammam

Day 9: Dades – Ouarzazate –  Tichka pass – Marrakech

Depart early in the morning for the town of Kelaa M’Gouna, famous for its roses on a world scale where a large rose festival is organized every first week of May. After 90km, we will arrive in Ouarzazate, coffee break. Then the road to Marrakech will be via the famous Tichka pass where we will have lunch. 320km of road Possibility of visiting a cooperative of aragne and the rose, free visit of the city and night in a hotel.

Day 10: Airport transfer

Continuation of the city tour and transfer to the airport according to the flight schedule, end of our service and safe return.

Practical information:

* The program is given as an indication, it is likely to be modified in the event of bad weather.

* Equipment to take away: Sleeping bag, first aid kit, sun protection, Lip stick, frontal, gene paper and lighter to burn it, pure microphone to disinfect the water, cap, sunglasses, walking shoe and tennis shoe for walking in water

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1. Trekking Seasons: The best time for trekking in the Atlas Mountains is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be very hot, and winter brings snow to higher elevations, making some routes challenging.

2. Guided vs. Independent Trekking: You have the option to go on guided treks or choose independent trekking. A local guide can provide valuable insights, ensure your safety, and help you immerse in the local culture. However, experienced hikers might prefer self-guided treks, especially on well-marked trails.

3. Trekking Routes: There are several trekking routes in the Atlas Mountains, catering to different levels of difficulty and duration. Popular routes include:

• Toubkal Summit Trek: A challenging trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. It usually takes 2-3 days to complete.
• Tassa Ouirgane Trek: A moderate trek through the Ouirgane Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Berber villages.
• M’goun Massif Trek: A multi-day trek to M’goun Peak, the second-highest peak in the Atlas Mountains, offering a more remote and rugged experience.
• Amizmiz Valley Trek: A gentle trek through the Amizmiz Valley, a less-visited area with beautiful terraced fields and mountain scenery.

4. Preparing for the Trek:

• Ensure you are physically fit and acclimatize to the altitude, especially if attempting high-altitude treks like Toubkal.
• Pack appropriately, including comfortable hiking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a hat, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.
• Bring a good-quality backpack, a refillable water bottle, and snacks for the trek.

5. Respect Local Culture: The Atlas Mountains are home to many Berber communities. Be respectful of their culture and customs. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people and their homes, and dress modestly when passing through villages.

Suggested 5-day Trekking Itinerary: Toubkal Summit Trek Day 1: Marrakech – Imlil – Toubkal Refuge Day 2: Toubkal Refuge – Toubkal Summit – Toubkal Refuge Day 3: Toubkal Refuge – Imlil – Armed Village Day 4: Armed Village – Aremd Village – Imlil Day 5: Imlil – Marrakech

This itinerary takes you through the beautiful Imlil Valley, up to the Toubkal Summit, and back down through charming Berber villages. The trek offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the local communities.

Remember, the suggested itinerary and trekking route can be adapted based on your preferences, fitness level, and the duration of your trip. Whether you choose a challenging summit trek or a leisurely valley hike, exploring the Atlas Mountains will undoubtedly be a memorable and rewarding adventure.

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