Toubkal trek and Sahara Desert Tour
Embark on an exhilarating Atlas Mountains and Sahara desert tour that combines the thrill of summiting Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, with the allure of the vast Sahara Desert. This 5-day adventure offers an immersive experience, from trekking rugged Berber trails to riding camels across the red dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy the warmth of traditional Berber hospitality, explore ancient Kasbahs, and sleep under the stars in a desert camp. Whether you seek adventure or cultural discovery, this Toubkal trek and Sahara desert tour promises unforgettable memories in the heart of Morocco.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Marrakech to Imlil, the starting point for your Mount Toubkal and Sahara desert trek. After meeting your experienced local guide and support team, embark on a 3-hour trek through the scenic Ait Mizane Valley. Your ascent to Toubkal Hut takes you past the sacred shrine of Sidi Chamharouch, a spiritual landmark for Berber pilgrims. Upon arrival at the hut, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and rest, preparing for tomorrow’s summit.
Set out early for the most rewarding part of your Toubkal trek and Sahara desert tour—reaching the summit of Mount Toubkal. This challenging 6-hour climb takes you over rocky terrain, with breathtaking views at every turn. Enjoy the majestic views over the roof of North Africa: Look up the east, and you will see the Sahara desert plains. To the west lays the Atlantic coast behind the peaks of Nfiss Valley. Toast your accomplishment over a packed breakfast before climbing to the Toubkal hut base for lunch. After your descent, relax at your lodge in Imlil, where a delicious meal awaits.
After breakfast, leave the Atlas Mountains behind as you journey toward the Sahara Desert. Drive through the majestic Tizi N’tichka Pass, making your way to the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. Explore this ancient fortified village with your guide, learning about its history and significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Boumalne Dades, passing the famous “road of 1001 Kasbahs” and the Valley of Roses. Arrive at your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, enjoying views of the dramatic Dades Gorge.
Today, your journey takes you through the towering Todgha Gorges, where sheer rock walls rise dramatically above the valley floor. After a short walk in the oasis, head toward the town of Merzouga, where your camel caravan awaits. Ride into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes, timing your arrival to watch the sunset paint the desert in vibrant shades of red and gold. Reach your traditional Sahara desert camp for an authentic Berber dinner under the stars, with music and storytelling around the campfire.
After a peaceful night in the desert, wake early to catch the sunrise over the dunes (optional), then enjoy breakfast at camp before your camel trek back to Merzouga. From here, your journey back to Marrakech takes you through Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Desert,” and across the High Atlas Mountains. Your Atlas Mountains and Sahara desert tour concludes with your arrival in Marrakech, where we’ll drop you off at your riad, hotel, or a location of your choice.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Private, air-conditioned transport from Marrakech to Imlil and throughout the tour.
- Licensed, experienced mountain guides and drivers with years of local expertise.
- Mules for luggage transportation during the Mount Toubkal trek.
- Two nights' accommodation in a mountain lodge and refuge during the Toubkal ascent.
- One night in a comfortable hotel in Boumalne Dades, including dinner and breakfast.
- One night in a traditional Sahara desert camp, with camel rides included.
- Full board during the Toubkal trek (all meals and water provided).
- Sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Sandboarding at your desert camp in Merzouga
Excludes
- Lunches and drinks during the desert portion of the tour.
- Entrance fees for Kasbahs and museums during the tour.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and porters (optional but appreciated).