The High Atlas & Merzouga Dunes Trek is an exceptional adventure combining mountain trekking and Sahara desert exploration — offering a complete immersion into Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Perfect for trekking enthusiasts, this itinerary takes you through two iconic regions:
- the M’Goun massif in the Central High Atlas, known for its valleys, gorges, and remote Berber villages,
- and the golden dunes of Merzouga, at the edge of the Moroccan Sahara.
The journey begins with four days of hiking through the lush Aït Bougmez Valley (“the Happy Valley”) and the M’Goun Gorge, before continuing south by vehicle toward the desert. The final days offer unforgettable experiences among Berber villages, palm groves, and a night under the stars in a nomad camp surrounded by the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Your adventure ends with a scenic return to Marrakech, passing through Ouarzazate and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, completing this diverse and unforgettable Moroccan journey.
SEASON
April to late October
DURATION
7 days – including 4 days of trekking and 2 days exploring the desert
TOTAL WALKING TIME
24 hours
(5–6 hours per day)
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
ITINERARY
7 days High Atlas Trek & Merzouga Dunes
From Marrakech
Marrakech – Azilal – Aït Bougmez Valley (1800m)
Departure from Marrakech at 8:00 a.m. toward Azilal, a small mountain town offering beautiful views of the Central High Atlas. Continue through scenic landscapes to reach the Aït Bougmez Valley, known as the “Happy Valley.”
Arrival at the village of Timit, where you’ll be greeted with traditional mint tea and can stroll among local houses and fields.
Overnight: in a Berber guesthouse..
Drive time: 6 hours
Timit – Aït Imi Pass (2900m) – Zerkan Valley – Tighremt n’Aït Hamed (2300m)
Start of the trek. Pass through El Had de Tabant, then ascend from the Aït Imi spring (2000m) to the Aït Imi Pass (2910m) — a steady 5-hour climb offering spectacular panoramic views of the M’Goun Range.
Descend gently into the Ouzighimt Valley and camp near Tighremt n’Aït Hamed.
Overnight: in tents.
Walking time: 6–6.5 hours
Ascent: +1100m
Descent: -600m
Tighremt n’Aït Hamed – Ouzighimt Valley – Imin Irkt
Descend through the fertile Ouzighimt Valley, where women tend fields and gather firewood along the river.
Walk alongside the river, passing small villages until reaching Taghraft for lunch, then continue to Imi n’Irkt.
Overnight: under tents
Walking time: 5.5 hours
Descent: -500m
Imi n’Irkt – Tiranimine
Trek through sections of narrow gorges, often wading through cool, refreshing water — especially pleasant in summer.
Stop near the Ifasfas spring for tea and lunch before reaching Tiranimine village for camp.
Overnight: under tents
Walking time: 5.5 hours
Descent: -500m
Tiranimine – Boutaghrar
Continue walking through farmland and orchards filled with fig, walnut, and apple trees. The climate becomes warmer as you descend.
Lunch near Tamgalouna village, then proceed to Boutaghrar, a picturesque settlement at the gateway to the Dades Valley.
Overnight: with a local Berber family.
Walking time: 5.5 hours
Descent: -400m
Boutaghrar – Valley of Roses – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga (280 km)
After breakfast, drive toward the famous Todra Gorge, among the most spectacular canyons in Morocco. Continue south across the Ziz Valley and Erfoud palm grove, visiting Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet.
At Merzouga, meet your camel caravan and ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset — a magical experience of colors and silence.
Overnight: in a nomad desert camp with dinner and traditional music.
Merzouga – Tazzarine – Draa Valley – Ouarzazate – Marrakech (565 km)
Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, depart for Tazzarine, crossing desert and mountain landscapes.
Drive through the Draa Valley, lined with kasbahs and lush palm groves, before reaching Ouarzazate for lunch. Continue through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) and arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon.
End of services.
Included
• Licensed mountain guide
• Muleteers and cook during the trek
• All meals during trekking and desert camping
• Accommodation (guesthouses, tents, and desert camp)
• Camels for desert ride (1 camel per person)
• Ground transportation (minibus or 4×4)
• Camping equipment
Not Included
• Flights to/from Morocco
• Meals in Marrakech
• Personal expenses and tips
• Travel insurance
TO BOOK THIS 7 days High Atlas Trek & Merzouga Dunes, from Marrakech, CONTACT US AND WE WILL GET IN TOUCH AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
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