ITINERARY

Day 1 Pickup in Marrakech, Drive to Imlil
At 7:00 pm, we will meet in the Medina to make the hour drive to the mountain village of Imlil.   After a traditional Moroccan dinner,  you will have time to relax, and prepare for your next days' adventure.

Day 2 Trek to Base Camp
 You will kick-start your morning in Imlil by entrusting your bags to the muleteers, setting the stage for an exhilarating mountain adventure. After a traditional Moroccan breakfast, Embark on a three-hour hike through the rugged landscapes, ascending towards the mountain settlement of Sidi Chamharouch. Here, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Atlas Mountains, you’ll have  lunch prepared by your skilled cooks. Continue your trek for another three hours to reach the Toubkal Base Camp. As the sun begins to set, settle into the refuge for the night, where  a filling, traditional dinner awaits.

Day 3 Trek to Summit, Back to Imlil
On the third day we will ascend to the summit of Mount Toubkal, standing at an impressive 4,167 meters. We will rise early at 5 am, fueled by a hearty breakfast at the refuge. After approximately three hours, reach the summit just as the sun graces the horizon, illuminating the snowy expanse. From this elevated vantage point, gaze upon the contrasting landscapes below—the lush greenery of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the vastness of the Sahara Desert. We’ll take a moment to absorb the panoramic views before beginning the descent, heading downhill toward the charming village of Imlil. *Overnight stay in Riad Bab Imlil or similar

Day 4 Imlil to Dades Gorge 
We will depart from Imlil in the morning. Surrounded by the Atlas Mountains, we'll traverse through the winding roads that lead to the ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou in the cinema town of Ouarzazate. We’ll explore the well-preserved mud-brick Kasbahs and soak in the historical charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Ouarzazate,  we'll venture to Dades Gorge, stopping at the fascinating Amridil Kasbah to take a 1 hour tour, and learn about the self-sustaining way of life.  We will conclude our day, as we arrive at our hotel nestled above the palm valley where we will enjoy dinner and a night’s stay.  

Day 5 Dades Gorge to Merzouga
We will make the journey from Dades Gorge to the mesmerizing dunes of Merzouga desert. Along the way, we will stop for a walk along the river in the beautiful Toudra Gorge. Here, you will also have time if you wish to visit the shop where authentic Berber rugs are hand woven. Further along the way, we will pause to experience the artistry of henna, adding a touch of local culture to our adventure. We’ll continue our drive towards the desert, making a stop in Rissani to immerse into the vibrant market scene, where bustling stalls offer an array of local goods and traditional crafts. We will arrive at Riad Jouba where we will experience a warm and gracious welcome, setting the stage for a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of the Sahara.

Day 6 Merzouga Desert Day
Today will begin with a delightful breakfast at the Riad Jouba. We will dive into the desert culture beginning with exploring sand dunes in 4X4 vehicles. We will engage in a cultural experience with nomadic communities, sharing tea and gaining insights into their traditional way of life. As we traverse the desert landscape, we’ll take a moment to search for fossils, and listening to the rhythmic beats of a Gnawa African band, absorbing the unique musical heritage of the region. We’ll arrive back at the Riad for lunch before beginning the camel ride to the luxury desert camp, where the night sky over the dunes creates an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sahara desert. Your night stay will be complete with star gazing, Berber music, & a full traditional dinner.

Day 7 Merzouga to Ouarzazate
After a beautiful Sahara sunrise on the dunes, breakfast at the camp, and sandboarding, the journey continues as you travel from Merzouga to Ouarzazate. Along the route, you will say goodbye to the awe inspiring sand dunes. You will witness the stunning landscapes of the Draa Valley which is known for its palm groves and traditional Kasbahs. You will stop in places like Toudra Gorge to see the towering cliffs, and walk along the river, and possibly visit the authentic rug shop. You will stop to discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Kasbah AIt Ben Haddou before relaxing for the evening in your hotel.

Day 8 Ouarzazate to Marrakech 
In the morning you can have one final view of your Riad rooftop. After breakfast, at  you will be transported to the Marrakech Medina for departure. We will arrive back in Marrakech by 1:00 pm.