Morocco High Atlas Mountain Trekking

After an early breakfast, set out for a scenic drive over the dramatic passes of the High Atlas Mountains, rising above a landscape of oasis pastures, willow and poplar groves, and fairy-tale villages. Stop for lunch near the mud-brick Telouet Kasbah and continue on to Ksar Ait Benhaddou. Marvel at this World Heritage Site with its earthen houses stacked one on top of the other, protected by a defensive wall, and learn about the distinctive Berber culture. Spend the night in a modern kasbah nearby.

Today, drive through the city of Ouarzazate, known as "the door of the desert," and head eastward along the Dadès Valley. Stop for a walk through the lush Skoura oasis with its giant kasbahs, and then continue to the Roses Valley. Drive up into the foothills of the middle Atlas to a remote area where you meet the mules who carry the luggage and camping equipment. Start hiking down the valley in shallow water towards the village of Aguerzeka and Tiranimine village, and to the first camp location at 5,577 feet.

Spend the day hiking through spectacular gorges that separate high ridges and escarpments of M'goun massif. Wind along the narrowing gorges on the riverbed, taking in colorful sandstone and limestone formations that punctuate this dramatic landscape, and pass over several river crossings. Climb up 985 feet, leaving the gorges, and set up camp where the valley widens, near the village of Imi Nirkt (6562').

This morning head out on another day-long hike downstream along the river in remote Ouzirimt Valley. Walking on narrow donkey paths, pass through picturesque clay villages and verdant fields. Reach Tighremt n'Ait Ahmed, ruins of an ancient granary formerly used as a stop for desert caravans. This evening set up camp near Aflafal spring, at 7218 feet.

Today continue on to the upper region of M'goun Valley, taking in the craggy mountain landscapes and surprising bursts of vibrant green that dot the dry red terrain. This evening camp at 9,514 feet, near a spring at the base of Oulilimte Valley.

Set out early this morning to start the hike to the peak of Mount M'goun. The second highest mountain in Morocco (13,356'), it offers a spectacular trek for seasoned hikers. This is the trip's biggest climb and longest trek. After reaching the summit, return down the same path to the upper M'goun Valley and down along two mountain passes with breathtaking views of the mountain range. End the day at the Ikkis shepherd huts in Arous Valley.

This morning head out for the last portion of the trek, along the dazzling Arous Valley, surrounded by remarkable peaks. Continuing on the rocky trails, take in the striking beauty of the lush green landscapes below, leading into Ait Bougmez Valley. Finish the trek here and board the vehicle for the transfer back to Marrakech. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.

Say goodbye to Morocco this morning and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.