Compare Saharan Mini Adventure by Discover Adventure vs Mount Toubkal Winter Trek by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Fly London to Ourrzazate

Pronounced ‘Wazzazat’, this busy town on the edge of the desert, famous for its film studios, lies just south of the High Atlas Mountains. We transfer the short distance to our hotel. Night hotel.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Tazzerine – Camp

After an early breakfast, we load our gear into the waiting vehicles and set off for the desert. Our drive takes us over the low mountains of the beautiful Jebel Sarhro and then east, passing the small town of Nekob en-route to characterful Tazzerine, a small oasis town. On arrival at our start point, we have lunch while the cameleers load up the camels, then set off through beautiful landscapes of palm trees and small sand dunes. We make camp at the edge of the dunes for the night, enjoying the stunning night skies. Night camp.

Drive approx. 3 hours; trek approx. 3 hours

Day 3: Desert Trek

The full colour of the landscape erupts as the sun rises. Hot coffee and a good breakfast set us up for a good day’s trek. We break camp, load the camels and head off along a dry river, passing through small oases and low sand dunes. The views around us are amazing, with the colourful Jebel Sarhro mountains to the north, and the startling greenery of the palmery threading its way back towards Tazzerine. Leaving the river bed behind, we head out into the desert hills, walking through sand dunes. We pass occasional small tamarisk trees that manage to flourish in this harsh environment, providing a little shade. Continuing through the small dunes, we come to our camp in a sheltered spot among the hills. Night camp.

Trek approx. 6-8 hours

Day 4: Camp – Taghbalt – Ouarzazate

After another amazing night under the stars we set off on the last section of the route, continuing through the low hills until we emerge in open desert, with inspiring views of the barren mountains around us. The terrain becomes firmer underfoot as we walk over hamada, or desert floor, until we reach the small, remote town of Taghbalt. We meet our waiting transport and return to Ouarzazate for an evening of celebrations. Night hotel. (Dinner not included)

Trek approx. 4 hours; drive approx. 3 hours

Day 5: Depart Ouarzazate for London

An early transfer takes us to the airport, and we fly home.

Day 1 Marrakech

Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco, a country filled with culture, friendly locals and incredible landscapes. If you arrive in Marrakech with time to spare you might like to spend your day wandering through the vibrant souks with their labyrinth of markets or head to a rooftop café to enjoy the sights from above over a traditional mint tea. Our adventure together begins with a welcome meeting today at 6 pm where you'll meet your fellow travellers and local group leader. After the meeting you have the option to join your leader on a jaunt to Djemaa el-Fna, the square in the centre of the Medina. Huge crowds converge at night to see singers, drummers, fortune tellers and dancers while snacking on street food – it’s a sight not to miss.

Day 2 Imlil to Aroumd trek

Rise and shine for breakfast and a group meeting at 8 am where your leader will go through everything you need to know about the trek before you set off into the mountains. Leave Marrakech behind and drive across the plains towards the ancient marketplace of Tahanaoute, with incredible views of valleys below and the Atlas Mountains along the way. First up, arrive at Imlil village, which is 1740 metres above sea level. From here, our first walk starts with a gentle trek along the side of the hills, with a great view of the valley ahead and (hopefully) a glimpse of the marvellous Mount Toubkal along the way. We hike to our mountain base in the village of Aroumd (2000 metres above sea level) where we’ll stay in a traditional village house with dormitory-style rooms called a gite. Rooms are furnished in traditional Berber style with low couches (which can be used as beds), tables, carpets and cushions. In the afternoon, stretch your legs with a gentle orientation walk around Aroumd.

Day 3 Aroumd to Toubkal Base Camp

Wake with excitement this morning as you begin your ascent of Mt Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. From Armoud the trail crosses the floodplain of the Ait Mizane Valley, before climbing steeply in a zigzag up the mountainside. All baggage is carried by mule today. Used to plough fields, carry loads, turn threshing machines and ferry people between villages, mules are an indispensable part of Amazigh life. Along the way, pass the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamarouch, home to the tomb of the local marabout (Muslim holy man). Only Muslims are permitted to cross the bridge and approach the large white stone that serves as a shrine. Once you reach Sidi Chamarouch, it’s likely you’ll encounter snow (a Winter treat) and begin hiking with powder as we climb steeply through a series of switchbacks and traverse the flank of the valley above the river. If you are inexperienced with using crampons, your leader will help you with a few simple tricks to make the hike easier today. Finally, we’ll arrive at Toubkal Base Camp at Neltner (3207 metres above sea level) and enjoy a hearty dinner. Make sure you get plenty of sleep before tomorrow’s big ascent day.

Day 4 Mt Toubkal summit trek

Embrace an early start this morning and tackle the rocky terrain that leads to the summit of Mt Toubkal. Gear up with crampons and a head torch (and spare batteries) to start this morning’s hike across snowy, perhaps icy terrain. Take in the beautiful silence of the morning while you make your way up steep terrain to the col. Once you reach it, the steepness of the climb calms but the winds often pick up here so be sure to have your hard shell handy in your day pack. Now you are up for a final climb, likely with rising sun on your right-hand side. At 4167 metres above sea level, this is truly the roof of North Africa. Your efforts are rewarded by superb views from the summit, which on a clear day can include the entire Atlas Mountain range, the Atlantic coast to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east. After a rest at the summit and time spent marvelling at the incredible views, make your way back to Base Camp.

Day 5 Toubkal Base Camp to Aroumd

Today, your group leader will choose a guided trek that’s best suited to the day’s conditions. If yesterday’s trek to Mount Toubkal was unsuccessful, today may indeed be the time to try again. If you’re already happy conquerors of the great Mount Toubkal, your leader may opt for yet another guided trek up to Tizi n' Ouagane and perhaps Ras Ouanoukrim – the third highest mountain of Northern Africa. After descending to Base Camp, you’ll fuel up with a hearty lunch before heading back to Aroumd, where your local host will be waiting to welcome you back with a dinner to celebrate your achievements in the High Atlas Mountains.

Day 6 Aroumd to Imlil and Marrakech

After breakfast, take one last glimpse at the valley and marvel at those high summits you conquered in last couple of days. Then head back to Imlil and make your way back to Marrakech. After a short check in, embark on a guided walking tour of the Medina, including the vibrant souks devoted to different trades such as pottery, woodwork, carpets or spices. The rest of your time in the city is free for you to make your own discoveries. One thing you might like to try after days spent hiking high in the mountains is a traditional Moroccan bath. Your leader can advise you where to find the best hammam. Perhaps head to a traditional Moroccan restaurant and swap your favourite travel stories with your group members tonight before going your separate ways tomorrow.

Day 7 Marrakech

Our adventure together ends after breakfast today. If you wish to spend more time in Marrakech, an Intrepid booking agent be happy to secure additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).