A fascinating trek, especially recommended in summer, when the cool mountain temperatures contrast with the heat of Marrakech. Ten days through the wonderful High Atlas, so close and yet so unknown, around and across several valleys and climbing the great Toubkal (4,167 m). We sleep in tents and in small mountain villages linked only by narrow winding paths, in direct contact with rural life in the Moroccan mountains — always a surprise and a delightful discovery thanks to its great hospitality.
Trip plan
Day 1: Marrakech
Arrival at Marrakech airport, pick-up by our local partner and transfer to the city centre. Accommodation.
Day 2: Marrakech – Imlil/M’zik – Tacheddirt
After breakfast we set off with our guide and the whole team, including the mules that will carry all our luggage. We climb towards Tamatert and reach the Tizi n’Tamatert pass (2,279 m), with a half-hour stop to admire the view of the Tacheddirt valley. The path levels out and descends to a stream opposite Ouaneskra, on the left bank, where we will probably have lunch. We continue through an area of old copper mines, cross to the right, pass Tacheddirt and go down to sleep in Ouaneskra. Free time to relax.
Day 3: Tacheddirt – Imi Ourghlad
Tacheddirt – Imi Ourghlad (1,500 m). We descend a long and beautiful valley full of rural life and crops. The last part of the stage brings a surprising, sudden change of landscape and temperature. Lunch on the way in Arg. Night in tents near the Asni–Imlil road. Walking time: 6 hours.
Day 4: Imi Ourghlad – Tizi n’Tacht (2,000 m) – Tizi Oussem (1,700 m)
Once over the pass the landscape changes and we enter a valley full of life and minarets, with a colourful succession of attractive villages and mosques. Lunch on the way. Night in tents, with the option of sleeping in a village house. Walking time: 6 hours.
Day 5: Tizi Oussem – Irhoulidene waterfalls – Tazarhart refuge
We start climbing towards the Irhoulidene waterfalls, where the bravest can shower under the force of the icy water. We then continue up to the Tazarhart (Lépiney) refuge at 3,000 m. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Tazarhart refuge – Neltner/Mouflon refuge (3,200 m)
Breakfast and departure for the Neltner or Mouflon refuge. After crossing the pass we descend into the valley where the refuges stand. Lunch and free afternoon. Dinner and night in the refuge. The route depends on conditions. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 7: Mount Toubkal (4,167 m)
Neltner refuge, summit of Toubkal (4,167 m) and back to the Neltner refuge. Lunch, dinner and night in tents. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Neltner refuge – Ouanoums pass (3,700 m) – Lake Ifni (2,300 m)
We climb a narrow valley to the Ouanoums pass, with incredible views down to Lake Ifni, our destination. Night in tents. Walking time: 6-7 hours. *Note: this stage cannot be done in midwinter; it is then replaced by another crossing a more accessible pass.
Day 9: Lake Ifni – Tifnoute Valley – Amsouzerte (1,700 m)
Lake Ifni is a superb, large and deep natural lake where swimming in its dark waters is a delight in summer. We walk along its left shore and descend to the village of Amsouzerte, arriving at lunchtime. Night in tents. Walking time: 4 hours.
Day 10: Amsouzerte – Azib Likemt (2,500 m)
We reach Azib Likemt over the Tizi n’Ououraïne (3,120 m): a tough climb on a good path with a big height gain (1,420 m), one of the hardest stages of the trek. Walking time: 7 hours.
Day 11: Azib Likemt – Tacheddirt (1,950 m)
We reach Tacheddirt over the Tizi Likemt (3,550 m), with lunch on the way, arriving mid-afternoon. Dinner and night in tents, or possibly in the village house where dinner is served. Walking time: 6 hours.
Day 12: Tacheddirt – Marrakech
Breakfast in M’zik and transfer M’zik – Marrakech to the hotel.
Day 13: Marrakech
Free day in Marrakech to visit the city or go shopping, with bed and breakfast. There are countless day trips and guided visits of the city’s palaces, gardens and mosques as optional activities, not forgetting the souk (market) and the colourful Jemaa el-Fna square.
Day 14: Marrakech – airport
Breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return flight.
FAQs
Can I change the route?
Yes. All our routes are flexible: we can add or remove days, change accommodation and adapt the itinerary to your pace.
Is it a private trip?
Yes, all our tours are private, just for you and your travel companions.
How do I book?
Send us the booking form with your date and the number of people. We will send you a personalised, no-obligation quote within 24 hours.