M'goun Trekking Circuit & Merzouga Sahara – 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 the region inhabited by nomadic families and their herds, we ascend to Ait Imi Pass (2905 m), where we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Mgoun Massif. After enjoying the scenery, we descend to a peaceful spot for a relaxing lunch. After bidding farewell to the mule team, we begin our transfer back to Imlil, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival in Imlil, the group will have free time to rest before spending the night there, awaiting transport the following day.

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. Start your journey early in the morning from Imlil, traversing the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Stop to visit the UNESCO-listed kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou before continuing through the scenic Draa Valley with its lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages. Pass through Agdz and Alnif, arriving in Merzouga by evening. Take a camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset and spend the night in a nomadic camp, enjoying a traditional dinner under a starlit sky.

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes, then enjoy a traditional breakfast. Return to the village by camel or vehicle and visit the village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnawa music. Explore the Hassi Labied Oasis, fossil fields, and ancient mines during a guided tour. Spend the afternoon enjoying activities like sandboarding or relaxing in the peaceful desert. Return to the camp in the evening for dinner and a second night under the stars, complete with Berber music and storytelling.

Begin your day with an off-road exploration of the black desert (Hamada), visiting a nomadic family to learn about their unique lifestyle. Return to the Erg Chebbi dunes for the famous "Sand Bath", a therapeutic activity where you’re gently buried in warm desert sand, traditionally believed to relieve muscle and joint pain while promoting relaxation. After this unique experience, refresh with Moroccan tea and enjoy some quiet time in the dunes. Spend the afternoon trekking through hidden dunes or taking a peaceful camel ride at sunset to soak in the beauty of the desert one last time. End the day at a guesthouse in Merzouga for a restful night.

After breakfast, depart Merzouga and head to the majestic Todra Gorges for a short hike through its towering cliffs. Continue along the Rose Valley and the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, stopping for scenic views, before passing through Ouarzazate. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, marking the end of your unforgettable desert adventure.