2 Days Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains

Let’s dive into the local scene of the charming crossed villages, mingle with the friendly locals, and explore the breathtaking valleys.

Our journey culminates in Marrakech, but the real adventure lies in the days leading up to it.

We kick off from Marrakech at 8:30 AM, embarking on a scenic drive south. As we wind our way through the Moulay Brahim gorge and ascend into the higher valleys, the majestic peaks of the western High Atlas Mountains greet us.

Our starting point is Imi Oughlad (1450m), nestled against the backdrop of Jbel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4167m.

Here, we meet our Berber muleteer crew and begin our trek. Our path leads us northwestward, ascending switchback mule tracks through cornfields and pine and juniper forests.

After about two hours, we reach Tizi N’tacht (2000m), pausing to admire the panoramic views of the Imlil and Ait Oussaden valleys before continuing for another half-hour to Imi N’ifri for a leisurely picnic. The journey then takes us on a gentle descent southwestward along a dirt track for about two and a half hours, leading us to Assif N’ Ait Oussaden and the terraced village of Tizi Oussem (1750m), where our gite awaits.

Our day begins with a trek from Tizi Oussem, ascending through a juniper forest towards the M’zik pass.

From the pass, we’re treated to a breathtaking vista of the Imlil area before descending to a picturesque lunch spot shaded by ancient walnut trees. After replenishing our energy, we continue our journey to the village of Imlil.

From there, we return to Marrakech, concluding our day with approximately five hours of walking.

• Sturdy walking boots and socks
• Comfortable shoes or slippers for camp or
• guesthouse
• Trekking pants
• Lightweight waterproof over-trousers or rain-pants
• Underwear, long johns, and T-shirts
• Fleece jacket or warm jumper
• Lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket
• Hat, goggles (for winter), and sunglasses (for summer)
• Lightweight thermal or fleece gloves
• Optional: Walking stick
• Day sack or backpack
• Head torch or headlamp
• Basic First Aid Kit
• Water bottle or camelback (recommended)
• Personal items such as a towel, sunscreen, wipes, toilet tissues, and antibacterial handwash
• Small First Aid Kit including insect repellent, plasters, and medications
• Small rubbish bag to carry out what you carry in
• Matches for burning toilet paper
• Trail snacks
• Zip-Up bags for camera
• Repair kit including needle, thread, and duct tape