Atlas to Merzouga: 6-Day Desert & Toubkal Summit

Set out on a thrilling 6-day adventure that blends the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains with the serene splendor of the Sahara Desert. Conquer the summit of Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, before enjoying the captivating history and culture of Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene Berber camps of the Merzouga Desert, this journey promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for more.

Good To Know

• Explore Marrakech’s cultural highlights, then trek to Toubkal Summit, the highest peak in North Africa, for panoramic mountain views.
• Journey through Berber villages and Dades Valley to reach the Sahara Desert, where a camel trek and overnight stay in a Berber camp await.
• Discover the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou kasbahs and witness the dramatic sunrise over the desert dunes.
• Visit the historic Telouet Kasbah and traverse the scenic Ounilla Valley before returning to Marrakech.
• The 6-day tour includes hotel transfers, transportation, English-speaking guides, and full board during the mountain trek.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Marrakech and Imlil

What better way to kick off this desert and mountain adventure than exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech?

From the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square to the winding alleys of the medina, this historic city offers a captivating blend of culture, architecture, and local cuisine.

After taking in the sights and sounds, the journey continues to Imlil, a picturesque Berber village nestled in the High Atlas Mountains.

This is the starting point for the trek to Toubkal Base Camp, where the real adventure begins.

With its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, Marrakech and Imlil set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Morocco’s natural wonders.

Conquering Toubkal Summit

The Toubkal Summit, North Africa’s highest peak at 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), presents an exhilarating challenge for the intrepid trekker.

The ascent begins early in the morning, taking 3-4 hours to reach the summit. The trek is physically demanding, but the panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains make the effort worthwhile.

Trekkers will need to be prepared for the high altitude and use proper hiking gear to ensure a safe and successful summit.

The descent back to the base camp takes 2-3 hours, completing the round trip in 8-10 hours.

For those seeking a thrilling mountain adventure, the Toubkal Summit is an unforgettable experience.

Journey to Dades Valley

After summiting Toubkal, the group embarks on a scenic drive over the Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass, passing through picturesque Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains.

They’ve the option to visit the Ouarzazate Film Studios or go on a hike before arriving at their destination in Dades.

The 7-hour drive takes them through the stunning Dades Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and rose-colored kasbahs.

Upon reaching Dades, the group settles in for the night, preparing for the next leg of their adventure as they make their way towards the Sahara Desert.

Todra Gorge and Merzouga Desert

On the fourth day, the group transfers to the Todra Gorge for exploration.

This stunning canyon boasts towering limestone cliffs reaching up to 300 meters high. Trekkers can wander through the narrow passage, taking in the breathtaking scenery.

After the gorge, the journey continues to Merzouga, where the group picks up supplies for the desert adventure.

As the sun sets, they embark on a camel trek to a Berber camp, where they’ll spend the night under the stars.

The experience promises to be both serene and unforgettable, as the group immerses themselves in the peaceful solitude of the Sahara Desert.

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Discovering Ait Benhaddou Kasbahs

Leaving the serene solitude of the Saharan dunes behind, the group now ventures to the iconic Ait Benhaddou kasbahs on the fifth day of their journey.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its well-preserved clay architecture, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history.

Wandering through the narrow alleyways, visitors can marvel at the intricate details and sturdy defensive walls that have withstood the test of time.

The kasbah’s strategic location along the trans-Saharan trade routes adds to its historical significance.

After exploring this living museum, the group will spend the night in a nearby hotel, resting up for the final leg of their adventure back to Marrakech.

Sunrise in the Desert

The group rises early on the fifth day, eager to witness the desert’s morning transformation. As the sun slowly peers over the horizon, the undulating dunes come alive, their shadows shifting and dancing across the golden expanse.

The travelers climb aboard their patient camels, ready to explore this ethereal landscape. They marvel at:

• The vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple that paint the sky
• The long shadows cast by the towering dunes, creating an illusion of depth and scale
• The serene silence, broken only by the soft footsteps of the camels and the gentle rustling of the wind
• The gradual awakening of the desert, as small creatures emerge to greet the new day
• The sense of tranquility and timelessness that envelops the entire scene.

Telouet Kasbah and Ounilla Valley

Departing Ait Benhaddou, the group heads towards the remote and rugged Ounilla Valley.

Here, they’ll explore the Telouet Kasbah, a former palatial residence of the powerful Glaoui family. Once a crucial stop on the trans-Saharan trade route, the kasbah’s elaborate decor and architecture offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

After touring the kasbah, the group continues through the dramatic Ounilla Valley, taking in the striking landscape of towering cliffs and palm groves.

This scenic detour provides a fitting end to the adventure before returning to Marrakech, the starting point of their journey through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and Saharan dunes.

Inclusions and Essentials

The tour package typically includes a range of services to ensure a comprehensive and seamless experience. These include hotel pickups and drop-offs in Marrakech, transportation by 4×4 or mini-bus during the desert tour, and the services of an English-speaking guide and cook for the mountain trek.

Muleteers and mules are also provided to assist with the trek. The package covers full board on the trek, including mineral water, coffee, and tea, as well as two overnight stays in hotels and one overnight camping on the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Travelers will also enjoy a camel ride on the dunes and have travel insurance provided.

• Comfortable shoes
• Warm clothing for cold mountain nights
• Sun protection
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Water bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Price?

Travel insurance is included in the tour price. The itinerary states that "Travel insurance" is one of the "Included Services" for this 6-day desert and mountain trekking tour.

Can I Book This Tour With a Larger Group?

Yes, the tour allows larger groups. The maximum group size is limited to 14 participants, so you can book this tour with a group of up to 14 people.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 14 participants. The tour provider restricts the group size to ensure a personalized experience and maintain manageable logistics during the desert and mountaineering activities.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This provides flexibility for participants to adjust their plans without penalty.

Is There an Option to Pay Later When Booking This Tour?

Yes, there’s a "reserve now & pay later" option available for this tour. Customers can book the tour without paying upfront, offering flexibility in their payment schedule.

The Sum Up

This 6-day adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes. From conquering the Toubkal Summit to immersing in the serenity of the Sahara Desert, the journey blends challenging treks, rich history, and natural beauty. Trekkers will be captivated by the diverse terrain, Berber culture, and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over the dunes. This immersive experience is a must-do for any adventurous traveler.

You can check availability for your dates here: