The Intimacy of the Atlas and the South (6 days / 5 nights)
Trip description
The valleys of the Central High Atlas are so beautiful and authentic that it becomes difficult to choose just one destination. There are many valleys in this region of the Atlas, which stretches over approximately 200 km, so we have selected the best ones for you.
The Atlas Mountains are perfect for trekking throughout the year. Some peaks reach up to 13,000 feet in altitude, but thanks to well-marked trails, hikers can explore the region and reach mountain refuges without major difficulty. If you are in good physical condition and passionate about long hikes, the Atlas mountain trails are exactly what you are looking for.
In these valleys, there are many paths crossing the mountains. On guided routes, donkeys and pack animals are usually used to carry most of the equipment, so you only need to carry a light backpack. Although you do not need to be a professional mountaineer to explore the High Atlas trails, a good level of fitness is recommended to comfortably cross some sections of the routes.
Tour itinerary
Departure by 4x4 towards the High Atlas in the direction of the Aït Bougmez Valley, also known as the “Happy Valley” or “Peaceful Valley”.
After crossing the El Houz plain, we visit the famous Ouzoud Waterfalls, with a height of 110 meters. It is one of the most well-known natural attractions in the Moroccan Atlas. At the top of the waterfalls, there are still a few traditional old mills in operation today. During the visit, you may also see Barbary macaque monkeys.
We continue the journey via the Aghbar Pass (2,300 m), offering a spectacular view of Mount Mgoun (4,168 m), the second highest peak in Morocco.
In the late afternoon, arrival in the village of Agouti in the Aït Bougmez Valley.
One of the highlights of the day is the **“Jurassic Encounter”**, where you will visit sites known for their remarkable dinosaur footprints and fossil discoveries. These prehistoric remains are impressive both in size and number, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s ancient past.
We then continue along the long mountain track of Jbel Azourki, crossing the Tizi N’Isly Pass and winding through magnificent forests and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Passing through the village of Zaouiat Ahansal, we follow the meanders of the river to reach an exceptional bivouac site located at the foot of Morocco’s highest cliffs, known as the **Cathedral Rock**.
The journey then continues to Anergui, a remote and picturesque mountain village nestled in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains.
Departure along a long mountain track through **Assif Melloul** (“The White River”), crossing one of the most spectacular and remote regions of the High Atlas Mountains. Leaving behind these unique rocky landscapes, we enter the pastoral world of the Central High Atlas, where shepherds and nomadic communities have lived for centuries.
After crossing a series of mountain passes rising above 2,000 meters, we emerge onto the high pastures of **Zaimouzen**, dotted with traditional nomadic tents. We then pass through the village of Tizi N'Isly before descending to the plateau of the legendary lakes Lake Tislit and Lake Isli.
According to Berber legend, **Isli** (the Groom) and **Tislit** (the Bride) were deeply in love, but their families opposed their marriage. Their sorrow was so great that they wept endlessly, and their tears formed two lakes that still bear their names today. This legend remains an important part of the cultural heritage of the High Atlas Berber tribes, particularly the **Aït Haddidou** and **Aït Brahim**.
Arrival in Imilchil, famous for its annual Marriage Festival and its rich Berber traditions. Dinner and overnight stay in Imilchil.
Departure towards the legendary Lake Isli and Lake Tislit, where history and legend transport you into a magnificent world of colors and traditions, including the famous Berber Engagement Festival (Moussem des Fiançailles).
Enjoy a short walk along the lakes and through the beautiful Assif Melloul Valley (the “White River” Valley). Along the way, you will discover the traditional lands of the Berber tribes of **Aït Haddidou**, **Aït Iazza**, and **Aït Brahim**.
After crossing the Tigrouzine Pass, we continue towards the spectacular Todra Gorge, famous for its towering cliffs and lush palm groves. A short walk through the palm oasis allows you to appreciate the beauty of this remarkable landscape.
The journey then continues through the impressive Dades Gorge before arriving in Boumalne Dades.
**Dinner and overnight stay in Boumalne Dades.**
After breakfast, we visit the Dades Gorge and continue along the road leading to the Valley of Roses via the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where you will discover numerous kasbahs and ksour.
We then visit a beautiful kasbah located in the palm grove of Skoura.
Dinner and overnight stay in Skoura.
After breakfast, departure for Ouarzazate. For cinema lovers, an optional visit to the impressive Atlas Film Studios can be arranged, followed by a short visit to the Kasbah Taourirt, a complex of courtyards with a maze of rooms, beautifully decorated interiors, narrow alleyways, and elegant towers.
We then visit Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most beautiful villages in southern Morocco, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for hosting major film productions such as *Lawrence of Arabia*, *The Mummy*, *Gladiator*, *Seven Years in Tibet*, *Babel*, and *Alexander*.
We leave the village via the ancient caravan route that once connected West Africa to Marrakech. Arrival in Telouet, where we visit the Kasbah of the Glaoui, former Pasha of Marrakech.
Finally, we cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m) before returning to Marrakech.
Included
- Accommodation for 5 nights on a half-board basis. Our priorities when selecting accommodation are authenticity, comfort, and quality of service.
- The assistance of a driver/guide who speaks the traveler’s language throughout the circuit.
- All taxes included.
Not included
- Additional meal costs.
- All beverages.
- Optional excursions offered (to be booked and paid for on site).
- Optional tips.
Book your trip in a few clicks by filling in this form:
Book your trip in just a few clicks by filling out this form: