From Marrakech : 2 Days of the Toubkal and 5 Days Désert

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Marrakech, where you’ll conquer the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Toubkal, before exploring the captivating Merzouga Desert. Over the course of seven days, you’ll learn about the rich Berber culture, traverse breathtaking landscapes, and savor the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine. From the exhilaration of the Toubkal ascent to the serenity of the desert under a starry sky, this adventure promises an unparalleled experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Ascend the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), over 2 days, with panoramic views rewarding the challenging climb.
• Journey from Imlil to the dramatic Dades Gorges, experiencing the diverse landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains.
• Immerse in the serene Merzouga Desert, including a camel trek and overnight stay at a Berber camp.
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, an ancient kasbah on the trans-Saharan trade route.
• Return to Marrakech, reflecting on the diverse experiences from scaling Mount Toubkal to desert exploration.

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Preparing for the Adventure

Frequently, travelers embarking on the Marrakech Toubkal and Desert Trip adventure ensure they’re well-equipped for the challenges ahead. Packing the right gear, from sturdy hiking boots to warm layers, is crucial.

Participants should bring a refillable water bottle, sun protection, and any necessary medication. It’s also wise to familiarize oneself with the itinerary and acclimatize to the high altitudes.

Checking the weather forecast and preparing for varying conditions can help travelers stay comfortable and safe throughout the journey.

With thorough preparation, adventurers can focus on fully seeing the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences that await.

Ascent of Mount Toubkal

The ascent of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters, stands as the centerpiece of the Marrakech Toubkal and Desert Trip adventure. Participants depart early from the Toubkal Refuge to maximize their chances of reaching the summit. The climb requires endurance and determination, but the panoramic views from the top are a rewarding payoff. To prepare for the ascent, participants should ensure they are fit and acclimatized to the high altitude.

Elevation Gain	Distance	Duration	Difficulty	Pass/Fail
1,200 m	7 km	5-7 hours	Challenging	85% success rate

The descent back to Imlil takes 2 hours from the refuge and 3 hours from the summit, providing a gradual return to base camp.

Journey to Dades Gorges

After their ascent of Mount Toubkal, the adventurers depart Imlil and embark on a 6-hour journey by bus to the stunning Dades Gorges.

Along the way, they pass through the towering Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains. The drive takes them through a diverse landscape, from lush valleys to arid, rocky terrain.

As they approach the Dades Gorges, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering red cliffs and winding roads carved into the mountainside.

The adventurers are eager to explore this natural wonder, anticipating the next stage of their Moroccan adventure.

Exploring the Merzouga Desert

On the fourth day of their journey, the adventurers make their way from the Dades Gorges to the captivating Merzouga Desert. The drive takes them through the breathtaking Toudra Gorge, a narrow canyon with towering limestone cliffs.

Arriving in Merzouga, they settle in for an overnight stay as they prepare to explore the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. The next day, they embark on a camel trek, seeing the serene desert landscape.

At the Berber camp, they experience the traditional lifestyle of the local people, learning about their rich cultural heritage. As the sun sets, the group enjoys a tranquil evening amidst the golden sands, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Merzouga Desert.

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Camel Trekking and Berber Camp

Immersed in the serene desert landscape, the group embarks on an unforgettable camel trek across the undulating Erg Chebbi dunes.

Mounted on the gentle, swaying creatures, they experience the thrill of traversing the golden sands, feeling the desert breeze against their faces.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the caravan arrives at a traditional Berber camp, where they’re greeted with warm hospitality.

Settling into their cozy tents, the travelers savor a delectable Moroccan meal prepared over a campfire, accompanied by the soothing melodies of Berber music.

Under the vast, starry sky, they’re immersed in the rich cultural traditions of this desert oasis, forging memories that will linger long after the journey’s end.

Visit to Ait Benhaddou

Following the journey through the dramatic Dades Gorges and Toudra Gorge, the group arrives at the historic Ait Benhaddou, a well-preserved fortified city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This ancient kasbah, once a crucial stop on the trans-Saharan trade route, captivates with its impressive mud-brick architecture and winding alleys. Visitors can explore the labyrinth of buildings, stopping to admire the panoramic views from the hilltop.

The group spends the night in Ait Benhaddou, immersed in its timeless ambiance and rich cultural heritage. This stopover provides a glimpse into Morocco’s past, complementing the adventurous Toubkal ascent and desert exploration.

Return to Marrakech

The journey back to Marrakech takes the group through the awe-inspiring Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering breathtaking vistas of the High Atlas Mountains.

Along the way, the travelers will:

1. Stop at various viewpoints to capture the stunning landscape, from towering peaks to lush valleys.
2. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the past week, from scaling Mount Toubkal to seeing the Saharan desert.
3. Arrive back in Marrakech, where they can explore the vibrant city, revisit favorite spots, and savor the memories of their remarkable Moroccan adventure.

The return to Marrakech marks the end of this transformative journey, leaving the participants with a deep appreciation for the diverse beauty and captivating culture of Morocco.

Health and Safety Considerations

This trip may not be suitable for certain individuals due to health and safety considerations.

It’s not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back/heart problems, disabilities, or a fear of heights.

Altitude sickness is also a risk, so participants must be fit for hiking at high elevations.

The tour provider requires guests to disclose any medical conditions that could impact their ability to complete the activities safely.

Appropriate gear and preparation are essential for this adventurous journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes.

Careful consideration of one’s physical abilities is necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade My Accommodation During the Tour?

Yes, you can upgrade your accommodation during the tour. The provider offers a range of accommodation options, and you can discuss upgrading with them prior to or during the trip.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Travelers booking with a group of 4 or more can receive up to 10% off the per-person price. Contact the operator for more details on group booking discounts.

Can I Change the Itinerary to Customize the Tour?

The tour operator generally allows for some customization of the itinerary. However, major changes may incur additional costs or not be feasible given the logistics of the trip. It’s best to discuss any desired modifications with the operator.

How Flexible Is the Cancellation Policy if My Plans Change?

The cancellation policy is quite flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows participants to change their plans with minimal financial risk.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 12 participants. The tour allows for a small group experience and personalized attention from the English and French-speaking live tour guide.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable journey from Marrakech takes adventurers on a thrilling ascent of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, followed by a captivating exploration of the Merzouga Desert. Trekkers will enjoy Berber culture, embark on camel rides across the Erg Chebbi dunes, and savor traditional Moroccan cuisine under the stars. A perfect blend of adrenaline-fueled exploration and culture, this Morocco adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: