8 Day Mt Toubkal Ascent And Sahara Desert Combined Trek

Day 2 : Toubkal Summit - Imlil Village - Ascending to Majestic Heights

Embark on an early morning ascent to the zenith of Mont Toubkal, a lofty challenge not meant for the faint-hearted. Setting forth while the constellations still adorn the sky, the journey commences under the faint shimmer of stars. The initial ascent may appear deceptively manageable, yet the rugged path ahead, fraught with rocky landscapes and elevational challenges, gradually unveils its true nature. Crossing boulder-strewn trails and scaling rocky prominences, you'll contend with the altitude's effects, an endeavor demanding unwavering determination.

As the summit beckons, the vistas unfold in grandeur, revealing the jagged silhouettes of the High Atlas peaks on the horizon. Upon reaching the apex, a sweeping panorama of the Marrakesh Plain sprawls before you like an intricate tapestry, evoking a sensation of standing atop the world itself. After absorbing the breathtaking views, you'll descend to the haven of Imlil village, where you'll rest and recharge, bearing witness to the culmination of both personal and visual triumphs.

Day 3 : Imlil - Mhamid Ghezlane - A Desert Odyssey Unfolds

Embark on an epic narrative as you depart from Imlil, venturing through the commanding landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains. Traverse the awe-inspiring tableau of Tishka pass, the quaint allure of Ouarzazate, and the verdant allure of Draa valley and its oases.

Continuing the voyage, the expansive Zagora desert beckons, guiding you towards the captivating embrace of M'hamid desert. A riveting desert escapade awaits, culminating in the warm embrace of a Berber encampment. Here, amidst flickering campfires and harmonious local melodies, you'll indulge in a sumptuous dinner beneath the celestial canvas.

Immerse yourself in the regional tapestry, forging connections with the nomadic lifestyle and the indigenous inhabitants. In the Berber enclave, a night in a private tent awaits, providing an intimate and authentic desert immersion.

Day 4 : Draa River - Sidi Naji Marabout - Unveiling Desert Treasures

Embark on your desert odyssey following a hearty breakfast, greeted by your guides and a caravan of camels. Your mentors guide you in preparations, including adorning turbans for protection against the desert sun.

Embarking on a trek along the southern fringes of the Draa River, you traverse palm groves and the ancient vestiges of M'hamid—a settlement that history traces back around three centuries. Amidst this historical tapestry, abandoned pise-mud structures offer glimpses into the past, while the shade of trees provides respite from the sun's ardor.

Lunch beckons at Ras Nkhal, signaling the transition from verdant greenery to the arid embrace of desert scrub and stone. Post-lunch, the journey continues southwest, leading to the marabout of Sidi Naji—an oasis of serenity nestled amid modest dunes. Here, in the embrace of the sand, your overnight camp finds its home. The day's trek spans approximately 5-6 hours, guided by the group's rhythm.

Day 5 : The Enigmatic Region of Zhar - Conquering the Dunes

Commence the day with a hearty breakfast, the preamble to a quest towards the mystic and remote realm of Zahar. Notorious for its towering, undulating sand dunes, this domain beckons to adventurers and seekers of thrills.

Embarking on a traverse through plateau-like terrain, the anticipation heightens as the landscape prepares for a dramatic transformation. Ebbing vegetation yields to rolling sand dunes, an evolving terrain that signals the heart of the journey.

As camp is set amidst the dunes' grandeur, a moment of awe is savored before tackling the dunes. Strapping on hiking gear, each step surmounts another pinnacle, adrenaline coursing as vistas unfold atop every crest.

The summit, attained just before sunset, reveals the vast expanse of the "erg" (sand sea), unveiling an ephemeral view of the next leg toward Erg Smar and Erg Chigaga's imposing dunes. Nature's power and beauty converge, leaving an indelible mark. Today's trek spans an estimated 4 hours, each step fueling a lifetime of memories.

Day 6 : Erg Smar - Traversing Time and Terrain

With a satisfying breakfast, a new chapter unfolds as camp is disassembled, heralding a morning when the dry bed of the Draa River is crossed, leading to the forsaken Erg Smar settlement. This enclave was once home to up to 35 families who cultivated the land.

The expanse of the Draa River bed is astounding, once coursing with life-sustaining water. A well stop along the dry riverbanks replenishes supplies and offers a fleeting shower. Amidst the echoes of human existence, abandoned pise-mud edifices and traces of gardens emerge, telling tales of life's persistence in a challenging land.

The day's sojourn ends beneath the comforting shade of tamarisk trees, forming an oasis within the desert's heart. Exploration and contemplation intertwine, and today's trek spans around 3 hours, a testament to the group's cadence.

Day 7 : Erg Chigaga Dunes - Mhamid - Sands of Grandeur

Today beckons toward the grandeur of the Erg Chigaga dunes—the sprawling sand sea, spanning 40 kilometers and welcoming fellow explorers. Departing Erg Smar, lush vegetation gives way to smaller dunes and expansive plateaus, the terrain dotted with shrubs that sustain gazelles.

Embarking on the journey, the landscape evolves, offering moments of respite beneath shading foliage. Afternoon transitions to rolling dunes and another plateau, leading to the awe-inspiring Erg Chigaga.

Camels are left behind as you ascend the dunes, rewarded with an expansive view of Erg Chigaga, its majesty unfurled. Sunset's hues cast a magical spell as camp is set or a return to Mhamid beckons, an adventure spanning approximately 5-6 hours, crafted by the group's tempo.

Day 8 : Mhamid - Marrakech - Culmination and Farewell

An early dawn beckons, embracing the enchantment of sunrise. Post-breakfast, a camel ride graces the journey back to your vehicle—a chance to absorb the Moroccan desert's allure and the Berber's age-old mode of travel.

As the camel ride concludes, embark on a scenic drive to Marrakech, punctuated by a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. The kasbah, a testament to Moroccan architectural heritage, has graced countless films and shows.

The journey concludes with a return to Marrakech, depositing you at your lodging—a farewell to an expedition rich in culture, adventure, and natural splendor.