6-day Toubkal desert combined tour

You’ll drive from Marrakech to Imlil and trek to Toubkal Refuge via Mizane Valley. We walk towards the village of Aremd and then the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. As we continue east and cross the flood plain, our route takes us along the mule tracks and into the high rocky cliffs. From here, the trail continues with a steady climb and snaking its way up to the Refuge. Approx 5hrs of walking. Overnight in the Refuge.

We trek to the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4,165m). We attempt the Jebel Toubkal summit – the highest peak in North Africa. Our route takes us to the south cirque, crossing the stream above the Refuge and heading towards one of the mountains’ numerous screen fields. The walking is relatively straightforward, but the altitude and screen seem to impede it. However, the views along the way will make the journey worthwhile. Cresting the ridgeline, we’ll find ourselves on the plateau, from where it’s a short walk to the summit. The vistas across the surrounding landscape are also breathtaking. From here, there’s an open view in every direction, right from the Marrakesh Plain to the northern High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas. Retracing our steps, we’ll descend the mountain and head back towards Imlil, where we spend the night in a local Guesthouse.

You’ll be picked up from your lodge in Imlil at 9.00 am and head out towards the Atlas Mountains, driving over the beautiful Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass. You’ll pass through several Berber villages, and once you get to the desert, you’ll see barren hillsides and riverside oases dotted with kasbahs (kasbahs are fortified dwellings that house families and their livestock). Along the way, you will have the choice to either stop for a hike or take a break to visit the Ouarzazate Film Studios. Immediately, you reach the Dades Gorge; you have the option of going for a walk or relaxing at your hotel. You’ll spend the night in Dades. ( 6 h drive)

You’ll have your breakfast at the hotel and then transfer from the Dades Valley to Todra Gorges. Here, you can decide to hike to explore the palmary (a green oasis full of large date palms) after you’ll proceed into the desert. Before sunset, you’ll ride camels for one and a half hours to a Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a local Moroccan dinner. Overnight under the stars or in tents at a desert camp. 5 hours drive

You’ll wake up to the desert sunrise and then return to the Kasbah by camels. You will then have a chance to freshen up and enjoy breakfast. Once you are through with your meal, you will head out of the Desert to drive to Ait Benhaddou. You will have the opportunity to walk around the buildings and explore with your guide. Overnight in a hotel. ( 5 – 6 hours drive)

We’ll travel along the Ounilla Valley to the Telouet Kasbah, a crumbling kasbah that was once an important station for traders. After exploring the Kasbah and then after lunch, you will head back over the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to Marrakech (4 hours drive). End of Toubkal desert combined tour.