High Atlas Trek
10 Days Starting and ending in Marrakesh
Visiting: Morocco
Tour Overview
A superb introduction to the mountains and traditions of Morocco, this trip combines a trek in the High Atlas Mountains with visits to the medinas and palaces of Marrakesh. Explore the narrow alleyways of the souqs and admire exquisite architecture in one of the country's most impressive imperial cities. Outside the bustle of Marrakesh we walk through traditional Berber villages, following trails to alpine pastures set beneath the impressive backdrop of the peaks of the High Atlas mountain range. We learn to respect the simplicity of life in these mountain villages and are awed by spectacular scenery. An ascent of Jebal Toubkal (4167m), the highest mountain in Morocco, is something to aim for on our trek. Not to be under-estimated, reaching the summit is a great achievement and a fitting highlight to round out this adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Marrakesh
On arrival in Marrakesh you will be met at the international airport and transferred to the group hotel. Remainder of day at leisure. Private transfers can be arranged if you are arriving before Day 1 (additional cost applies). Overnight Riad Berta (or similar).
Day 2 : Visit Medinas, Palaces And Gardens In Marrakesh
This morning at approximately 07:30am there will be a group briefing with the guide. Afterwards we are led by our expert guide to discover the soul of Marrakesh. We visit gardens, mosques, palaces, and the souqs of the old Medina before reaching the humming centre of Marrakesh: the Djemaa el-Fna. The atmosphere of this square is overwhelming with its jumble of food stalls, snake charmers, fortune and storytellers and the wide variety of people that flock to its attractions. We return in the evening, when the square really comes alive. It is a must to taste the many wonderful dishes on offer at the stalls. You will be given your kit bag and sleeping bag to pack your gear for the trek. Overnight Riad Berta (or similar).
Day 3 : Drive To Azzadene Valley (Approx 3.5 Hrs Drive) & Trek To Tiziane (1600M, 5 Hrs)
Meeting up with our porters and their mules at Imi Oughlad (1500m), we begin our trek with a gradual ascent on a mule path to the pass of Tizi n Tacht (2000m). As we walk up the Azzadene Valley we pass small villages shaded by walnut and apple trees, plots of maize and stone walls with beautiful yellow pumpkin flowers creeping over, before descending to the village of Tiziane (1600m). Overnight in a Berber house.
Day 4 : Trek To Tizgui (1800M, Approx 6 Hrs)
Leaving Tiziane via Tizi N'Touati (2100m) we ascend for 3 hours to reach the Tassaka Plateau passing holm oaks and junipers. Tonight we camp near Tizgui at Azib Assoul. Overnight: camping
Day 5 : To Tizi Oussem (1850M, Approx 5 Hrs)
We ascend steeply from Tizgui towards the Tizi N'Tagoudalte pass at 2700m where we will be rewarded with fine views. Our gradual descent to Tizi Oussem, passes through alpine areas overgrown with beautiful wildflowers: campanulas, red poppies, iris, walls of violets, various herbs and small succulents. Overnight at the village in a Berber house where you may have the option to enjoy a private hammam, local bath to wash away three days trekking.
Day 6 : Tazagharte Refuge (3000M, Approx 5 Hrs)
Leaving Tizi Oussem, the last village in this valley, we continue to climb up the Azzadene Valley catching glimpses of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. We will enjoy the Cascade d’Irhoulidene and continue to wind our way up the mountain until we reach our accommodation for the night in a mountain refuge. Overnight: camping
Day 7 : Trek To Refuge Nelter (3200M Approx 6-7 Hrs)
Today we cross the impressive and remote Tizi n'Ougalzim (3700m), a steep and rocky pass that zigzags its way steadily up, rewarding us at the top with magnificent views. Upon reaching the top we see the next challenge awaiting us: Mount Toubkal. We descend to our campsite below and enjoy the alpine scenery with the surrounding dramatic peaks that the base camp offers us. Please note this camp is the only place to stay in this area and a National Park rule to stay here; for this reason it is utilised by many groups and unfortunately there might be evidence of rubbish or not as clean as we would like. Overnight: camping
Day 8 : Summit Of Mount Toubkal (4167M, Approx 7 Hrs)
We have an early start for our attempt on Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. The summit of Toubkal is neither technical nor very demanding, and once at the summit, the views are spectacular. We may start off in the dark to avoid the midday sun. If you prefer, you have the option of a rest day relaxing in camp located at the foot of the peaks, and surrounded by mountains. Overnight: camping
Day 9 : Trek To Imlil (Approx 5 Hrs); Drive To Marrakesh (Approx 1.5 Hrs Drive)
Today we walk down the valley passing through the deeply religious village of Sidi Chamarouch. This area is also rich in wildflowers and in spring we’ll find the magnificent Peony Rose. We will also pass herds of goats traversing precarious mountain trails. We take lunch outside the village where we farewell our trekking crew and their mules before driving to Marrakesh. Overnight Riad Berta (or similar).
Day 10 : Trip Concludes In Marrakesh
Our trip concludes after breakfast. You will be transferred to the airport if you depart Marrakesh today. For departure on any other day, transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3 nights riad -
9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners
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airport transfers (day 1 and 10 only)
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3 nights in traditional riads on a twinshare basis
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2 nights in local homestay on a twinshare basis
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4 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
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group camping equipment including tent, sleeping bag and mat
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English speaking tour leader, cook and camp crew
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city guide in Marrakesh
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mules and mule handlers to carry personal and group equipment on trek
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mineral water during trek
Accommodation
3 nights riad
All accommodation is on a twin share basis with ensuite rooms, unless single rooms are requested and paid for in advance. If you are a single traveller, you will be matched up with someone of the same gender for the duration of the trip.
We use 3 star hotel or riad (traditional Moroccan house) accommodation in the cities (Marrakesh). These are comfortable, well-run properties which, where possible, emanate some of the local charm. In the more remote areas we use the best available accommodation which may be more basic. Please note that accommodation in the village house in the mountains (2 nights) is based on twin share only as there are no single rooms available. Any hotels specified in the itinerary are subject to change due to availability.
For the trekking portion of your itinerary we will provide kit bags to store your gear (these must remain in Morocco at the end of your trip), sleeping bags, 7cm foam mattresses and two-person tents. Separate dining, kitchen and toilet tents are also provided along with all general camping equipment.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
Grading
This expedition involves trekking through undulating country, often untracked, for up to eight hours a day at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. To undertake this level of activity you will need a good level of trekking fitness and be sure-footed. Some days involve walking over rugged terrain, including boulders, scree and heavily vegetated ground. Morocco can get quite warm in the summer months so any experience in dealing with physical activity in warm conditions would be advantageous, keeping hydrated is a must.
Suggested preparation: As a minimum, we recommend one hour of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for three months leading up to your trek.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.