Overview
Itinerary
Arrive at any time.
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
- El Badi Palace: Visit the ruins of what was once the most ornate palace of the 16th-century. Its sunken gardens and pools give a glimpse into its former glory.
- Dar Si Said: Standing as a monument to master Moroccan artisans, this complex houses the Museum of Moroccan arts. Here, you will find displays of ancient weaponry, carpets, Amazigh (also known as Berber) jewellery, granary doors and more. Make sure to see the highlight of a visit to this museum, the painted, domed wedding-reception chamber.
- Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit: Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines as the day progresses. When the sun sets, the square fills with dozens of food stalls, and is packed with locals, entertaining chefs, and waiters. Grab a spot on a bench with other diners and try the “tanjia” (slow cooked lamb), harira soup, grilled seafood, famous Moroccan couscous, tajine, snails, or even sheep’s head (for the truly adventurous). Wash it all down with some spiced tea.
Transfer to Imi Oughlad and enjoy a long walk up to the Tizi ‘n Tacht Pass. Descend into the Azzadene Valley and spend the night at the village of Tizi Oussem. Leave the plains around Marrakech, wind your way through the Moulay Brahim Gorge and the foothills of the western High Atlas Mountains. Pass the village of Asni to Imi Oughlad, where we meet our mules and muleteers to begin the trekking adventure.
Our trekking mules will carry your larger bags as well as tents and equipment. Luggage is limited to 12kg (26 lbs) per person for the trek and bags must be soft duffle bags or frameless backpacks. You will carry only your own daypack when trekking (for water, camera, jacket, sunscreen, etc.). Sometimes the mules take a slightly different track at some points, or go faster than we walk. As you may not see them for long stretches, you should be prepared to carry the things you need with you while walking between stops. Gîtes are accommodation in family houses, or mountain huts, usually in mountain villages and are very, very simple. If you have this expectation in mind we are sure you will be pleasantly surprised. Sleeping arrangements are multi-share. Matresses are provided. You will need to have your own sleeping bag, sleeping sheet, and bath towel. Bathroom facilities are basic and shared, and hot water is not always available.
- High Atlas Trek: Tizi ‘n Tacht : Wind your way up past cornfields and woods of juniper and pine to the Tizi N'Tacht pass (2000m/ 1243 ft). Be sure to stop and admire the views back down to Imlil and the Ait Oussaden valley. Descend to the Azzadene Valley, passing red-clay terraced villages to reach the village of Tizi Oussem (1720m/1069 ft) where we stay in a mountain gîte for the night.
Today is a full day of walking through villages on the northern slopes of Mt Toubkal. We stay in another village gite for the night.
- Mount Toubkal Trek: Eat a good breakfast because this is a full day of walking that takes us through the villages of this grand valley to high passes with stunning views. Trek over the Tizi N'Tizikert pass (2,930m/9613 ft) and be rewarded with magnificent views over the Mt Toubkal summit, the Tazaghart Pass, and the peak of Taddat (3,800m/12,467 ft). Once refreshed, descend to Armed (1,900m/6,234 ft)).
Ascend the beautiful Mizane Valley, passing the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch, before arriving at our Mt Toubkal base camp. Time permitting, enjoy either a 2-hour optional climb to the summit of Ouanoums (3,650m/11,975 ft) or simply relax at base camp for the night.
For the next two nights, you'll camp in two-person tents near the busy Mt Toubkal refuges, which sit at an altitude of 3,207m/10,522 ft. Foam mattresses are provided for you to sleep on during our camping. If you would like more comfort, please bring a light weight self-inflating mattress such as a thermarest. Pillows are not provided so you may also wish to bring an inflatable pillow. You will need to bring a sleeping bag and we recommend a lightweight sleeping sheet as well (for extra warmth or for when hot). Bathroom facilities are "au naturelle", we hide our "hole in the ground" toilet with a tent, and ask that all toilet paper is burnt. You can also make use of the toilets and showers at the base camp refuge, but you will be asked to pay and the camp may be some distance from the refuge. In addition, please ensure you carry a supply of toilet paper for your comfort.
- Mizane Valley Trek: Ascend the beautiful Mizane Valley via the pilgrimage hamlet of Sidi Chamharouch, with the shrine of a marabout (please note that only Muslims may cross the bridge to visit the shrine). From here our trail continues to zigzag steadily upwards to reach the Mt Toubkal base camp. Time permitting, we can either enjoy a 2-hr optional climb to the summit of Ouanoums (3,650m/11,975 ft) or simply relax at our base camp for the night. Tonight we camp in two-person tents near the busy Mt Toubkal refuges, located at an altitude of 3,207m/10,522 ft.
Savour the satisfaction of the ascent and the spectacular views across the valleys below when summitting the 4,167m (13,671 ft) Mt Toubkal today. Return to base camp for the night.
- Mt Toubkal Summit: Set your alarm early for the start of this challenging trek to the summit of Mt Toubkal. The route ascends through scree fields, over boulders and rocks. The hiking is not too difficult, but the effect of the altitude can make this trek tougher. Take your time, drink lots of water, and rest along the way. Your reward? Once up and over the ridge, the views from the summit and downwards are spectacular! Elevation: Mt Toubkal Base Camp (3207m) - Mt Toubkal summit (4167m)
Descend to the village of Imlil before travelling back to Marrakech for a free afternoon. Take advantage of a few hours in the early evening to explore this wonderful city - perhaps for some serious bargaining for souvenirs.
- Imlil Trek: The 4-5 hr descent back to Imlil takes a route via Sidi Chamharouch, a small settlement on the side of the mountain. Cross a stream and continue to descend down towards Aroumd (Aremd) and on to Imlil.
- Free Time: Enjoy wandering in the souks, sipping mint tea or just kicking back and enjoying this great city.
- Musée de Marrakech: Wander around the salons of the ornate Mnebhi Palace displaying various collections of Moroccan art forms.
- El Badi Palace: Visit the ruins of what was once the most ornate palace of the 16th-century. Its sunken gardens and pools give a glimpse into its former glory.
- Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum: One of Marrakech's most iconic sites, Jardin Majorelle was a masterpiece from French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Take in the beautifully designed botanical gardens, exotic plants, fountains, and the famous cobalt-blue architecture known as "Majorelle Blue". Next, visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum located next to the striking gardens, dedicated to the life and work of Yves Saint Laurent. The museum showcases a rotating collection of the designer’s iconic creations, sketches, photographs, and personal archives, highlighting his connection to Morocco and his influence on fashion and art. **Please note - This activity cannot be purchased locally due to limited availability and must be confirmed in advance
- Dar Si Said: Standing as a monument to master Moroccan artisans, this complex houses the Museum of Moroccan arts. Here, you will find displays of ancient weaponry, carpets, Amazigh (also known as Berber) jewellery, granary doors and more. Make sure to see the highlight of a visit to this museum, the painted, domed wedding-reception chamber.
- Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit: Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines as the day progresses. When the sun sets, the square fills with dozens of food stalls, and is packed with locals, entertaining chefs, and waiters. Grab a spot on a bench with other diners and try the “tanjia” (slow cooked lamb), harira soup, grilled seafood, famous Moroccan couscous, tajine, snails, or even sheep’s head (for the truly adventurous). Wash it all down with some spiced tea.
Depart at any time. Opt to get up early and catch the sunrise over Marrakech by pre-booking the Hot Air Balloon excursion. Please ensure you allow enough time to return from the activity when planning your onward journey.
- Hot Air Balloon Marrakech: Get an early start and watch the sunrise over the red dust, palm groves, and majestic open landscapes of Marrakech from a hot air balloon. After soaking up the sights, refuel with an authentic Amazigh breakfast in a Moroccan tent. *Please note if you purchase the Marrakech Hot Air Balloon ride on the final day of your tour you will not finish until 10am. We recommend booking your departing flight no earlier than 1pm to ensure you have enough time to make it to the airport.
Trip Inclusions
- Walk in spectacular mountain scenery.
- Taste delicious local cuisine.
- Camp in the great outdoors.
- Summit the spectacular peak of Mt. Toubkal.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Atlas Mountains trek with a qualified mountain guide (5 days)
- Trek Tizi N’Tacht pass and Mizane Valley
- Visit the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch
- Summit Mt Toubkal
- Enjoy free time in Marrakech
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private air-conditioned van, walking
- Certified mountain guide as CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Hotels (2 Nights), Mountain Gîtes (2 Nights), Camping (2 Nights, 2-man Tents)
- 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
For travellers who prefer their adventures powered by motion - G's Active tours offer an immersive way to explore the world. Whether it’s hiking rugged trails, biking scenic routes, or kayaking along rivers and coastlines, all you'll need to bring is your energy, enthusiasm, and a love for active adventure. Our expert guides provide all the gear and logistical support needed so you can focus on the journey.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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