Sahara & M'goun Trekking Circuit – 8 Days

Our journey kicks off with a transfer to Azilal, the last town before heading into the winding roads of the central High Atlas valleys. In the first village, Agouti, we’ll meet our muleteer team, who will accompany us throughout the trek. The route to Mount M'goun begins with a scenic walk through quaint Berber villages along the ridges of Arous Valley. As evening approaches, we’ll set up camp near the sheepfolds at 2,500 meters, providing a stunning viewpoint. This first stage of our adventure covers a 3-hour hike with a 700-meter elevation gain.

During this day, we follow the mule path up to the Tizi n’Oughri pass, reaching an elevation of 3,400 meters. From here, panoramic views unfold, showcasing the vast northern slope of Mount M'goun, the Tarkeddit plateau, and nearby High Atlas peaks. After a refreshing two-hour break, we make our descent to camp near the Tassaout springs (2,900 meters), where you can enjoy Moroccan tea under the captivating night sky of the High Atlas. This day’s trek includes 6 hours of walking, with a climb of 1,050 meters and a descent of 500 meters.

Our day begins before dawn, setting out at 5 am after breakfast to ascend the impressive ridge of Ighil M'Goun. Our goal: the summit of Mount M'goun at 4,068 meters. The climb rewards us with incredible views spanning the central High Atlas mountains to the north, the Dades Valley, and the Saghro Massif to the south. After soaking in the panorama, we make our descent through a scenic corridor to our camp near the Oulilimt sheepfolds (2,700 meters). This full day of trekking covers a 9-hour journey, with a 1,168-meter ascent and a 1,368-meter descent. For those opting out of the summit, an alternative route is available, allowing them to join the muleteers. Comfortable tents await us at camp for the night.

Leaving behind this region often inhabited by nomadic families and their herds, we ascend to Ait Imi Pass (2905 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Mgoun Massif. After taking in this remarkable scenery, we descend to a peaceful spot for a relaxing lunch. Following heartfelt farewells to the mule team, we begin a transfer to the Agafay Desert, which takes between 5 to 6 hours, where the adventure will continue. They will spend the night in one of the khaimas, enjoying the unique atmosphere of the desert.

Upon waking to the serene desert landscape, we kick off the day with a hearty breakfast in the khaimas. The morning is filled with excitement as we embark on a thrilling quad bike adventure, traversing the undulating dunes and rocky outcrops of Agafay Desert. This exhilarating experience allows you to explore the rugged terrain while enjoying the stunning vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. After a midday break for lunch, we take a leisurely camel tour, gently swaying as we journey through the desert and taking in the beauty of the arid landscape. As the sun begins to set, we return to our khaimas to freshen up before gathering around the campfire for dinner. The evening is spent sharing stories, enjoying traditional Moroccan dishes, and soaking in the warmth of the fire under a starlit sky.

The day starts with a delicious breakfast before we set off on a guided trekking excursion into the heart of the Agafay Desert. Our guide will share insights about the local flora and fauna, as well as the rich culture of the Berber people who inhabit this region. After trekking, we will return to our khaimas for a delicious lunch featuring local specialties. In the afternoon, we’ll engage in cultural activities such as learning about traditional Moroccan crafts or participating in a cooking class to prepare a classic dish. After dinner, we’ll gather around the fire once more, where you can enjoy live music and traditional storytelling, enriching your experience of Moroccan culture.

After breakfast, we will have another full day to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Agafay Desert. You can choose to participate in a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, hiking to nearby scenic viewpoints, or enjoying a relaxing morning of yoga amidst the tranquil desert surroundings. For lunch, we’ll enjoy a picnic in a picturesque spot, savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine while surrounded by the stunning desert landscape. In the afternoon, take part in a guided nature walk, where you can learn more about the unique ecosystem of the desert and its inhabitants. As the day winds down, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner, featuring traditional dishes and perhaps a surprise performance to celebrate the end of our adventure. The night will once again be spent under the stars, reflecting on the memorable experiences shared in the heart of the Agafay Desert.

On the final day of our adventure, we will have breakfast in the khaimas before embarking on a leisurely morning in the desert. Afterward, we’ll pack up and begin our journey back to Marrakech, reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past few days. The trip concludes with drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech, leaving you with lasting memories of your adventure through the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Morocco.