The Moroccan Trekking Guide - The Family Adventure Company

The Moroccan Trekking Guide
This guide is for anyone thinking of doing, or has booked onto a Moroccan
trekking trip with The Adventure Company.
Morocco
Morocco assaults the senses with its wonderful sights and
sounds of Islamic culture which is more than enough for
the average holiday maker. Yet Morocco offers much more
than tagines, colourful souks (markets) and the Sahara
Desert. Beyond the vibrant cosmopolitan cities and dusty
dry sands lay the tranquil and remote mountains. With
stunning walks through the Valley of the Roses and treks
to the highest peaks of the Atlas Mountains on offer,
Morocco is a firm favourite with trekkers. The mountain
range has walking routes suitable for everyone, varying in difficulty and available throughout
the year. Bagging Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4,167m is a real achievement
and a challenge most can attain. This guide provides an introduction to Morocco and trekking
the Atlas Mountains. It showcases all trekking trip options, along with an overview of what to
expect and how to prepare for an amazing trekking holiday.
Moroccon history
Morocco has always been a place of fascination
and foreigners have been settling there for centuries
including the Romans, Visigoths and of course the
Arabs. Morocco suffered an unsteady beginning with
invasion by the Romans in the 1st century AD, with
the indigenous Berbers being subjected to further
suppression by the Vandals in the 5th century then a
full occupation by the Arabs. After joining forces with
the Arabs to invade Spain the Berbers then revolted
against their occupiers, taking control of large areas
of Spain until the 15th century saw them expelled
back into Morocco. The Arabs occupied Morocco
from the 7th century bringing with them their culture
and Islamic faith but it was only in 1660 that the
Arabs and Berbers were unified after attacks from
Portugal and Spain. Now Morocco is a popular holiday
destination for those looking for something different
to our European culture not too far from home, a little
sun and a more adventurous holiday. The former
capital of Marrakech is a bustling, colourful city at the
foothills of the snow capped Atlas Mountains. Modern
buildings intersperse the ancient fortified city where
delightful jostling traditional souks (market) act as the
public stage for jugglers, story-tellers and musicians.
The Atlas Mountains
Just a short drive from Marrakech lie the Atlas
Mountains, a series of mountain ranges that extend
more than 1,500 miles from the Moroccan port
of Agadir in the southwest to the Tunisian capital
of Tunis, in the north east. The well-watered lush
foothills are in stark contrast to the dusty desert and
North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal, which
rises to 4,167m. Toubkal summit offers stunning
panoramic views of the Sahara Desert in the east and
the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The Atlas Mountains
take you away from the hectic and lively cities
to traditional Berber villages and warm red rocky
scenery. Stay with the friendly Berbers, trek up the
high peaks of Oukaimeden and Toubkal, or enjoy
slower paced walks at low altitudes alongside river
valleys to dramatic passes, such as Tizi ‘n’ Tamatert
and Ait Ahmed. The later never surpasses 2,000m so
you don’t need to deal with high altitudes but still get
spectacular views. With the wide variety of treks, the
Atlas Mountains are perfect for walkers who want to
gain experience at higher altitudes or for those looking
to bag one of the continent’s highest peaks, Mount
Toubkal provides a summit challenge.
“Just a quick note to say how much I
enjoyed the recent trip to Morocco with
your company. It was well organised with a
friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The local
guides Khaled and Hassan were great and
had responsibility for such a mixed and
varied group on trekkers on Mt. Toubkal they looked after people well on a difficult
descent where high levels of concentration were needed on rocky and snowy
slopes…The local people and guides were great company, so were the group
members.” - Patrick Feely, Mount Toubkal Trek
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
1
Morocco & The Adventure Company
We have years of experience taking customers to Morocco and get great feedback from our passengers, which is
testament to our long standing relationship with our local ground agents who we have worked with for many years.
So why travel with us?
We have been running trips to Morocco and the Atlas
Mountains for over 15 years and our portfolio of
trips offers something for everyone. We offer seven
different walking holidays ranging in length and
altitude with fantastic treks for beginners and more
experienced trekkers. Plus we take care of everything
including accommodation, guides and porters, and
food so you can just enjoy your trekking experience.
We use local people with local knowledge on all our
trips which generates money for the local economy
and ensures you get the most out of your Moroccan
experience. All our treks are supported by a Moroccan
Group Leader who looks after your day-to-day needs
and makes sure everything runs smoothly. Your
Group Leader is also a trained mountain guide and
supporting him on every trek are mules, the favoured
transport of the Berbers, and their muleteers (porters)
who will carry your bigger bags leaving you to just
carry your daypack.
Every trip has a set of Trip Notes which include a
detailed day-to-day itinerary, a packing list, useful
phrases, details of life on the trek,a recommended
reading list and much more. Visit the trip webpage
and find all these details for yourself ( you can find
these at the bottom of each page).
What is it like on trek?
You’ll walk on average around 3 -6 hours a day with
plenty of breaks to take in the views and soak up
the sun (8 hours of walking for our Peaks of the
Atlas trip). Your accommodation will mainly consist
of camping with occasional nights spent in gites. A
gite d’etape is a village house with simple dormitory
rooms for around 8 people. Showers (sometimes
hot!) may be available in gites but for an additional
charge. The refuge at Neltner, used on all winter
Toubkal trips, can be dirty due to the volume of
trekkers using it during the cold. If you prefer more
comfort, our Walking in the Atlas trip has upgraded
accommodation. You can find out more about the
accommodation as well as essential information,
transport and meals by reading the fact files
associated to each trip in this guide. Alternatively, you
can visit our website for more information. You’ll also
be able to view images and videos as well as read trip
reviews and blogs to help you select your
trekking holiday.
Adventure Company facts
Nearly 95% of our passengers reach Mt. Toubkal summit every year.
A full group of trekkers will always be accompanied by a head guide and at
least two mulers. All our Group Leaders are qualified mountain leaders and
are trained to recognise mountain sickness and react to alpine conditions.
The Atlas Mountains are suitable for all trekking abilities.
How to prepare
If you’re new to higher altitude trekking or want to gain
confidence in your trekking abilities, we can help you prepare.
Treksmart
We run trekking training days in the UK; led by qualified mountain guides, they
tell you everything you need to know to prepare for a trek, and they’re a great
opportunity to meet some of your fellow passengers.
For more details go to page 14
Training for Trekking Fitness Guide
Download our fitness guide for suggested pre-trekking training exercise and
eating plans at adventurecompany.co.uk/guides
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
2
Planning your trip
Marrakech
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Getting There...
Average Monthly
Rainfall (mm)
175
150
125
100
75
50
25
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Average Daily
Max Temp ˚C
7
7
Average Daily
Hours of Sunshine
8
9
9
11
11
When’s the best time to go?
The great thing about Morocco is that it’s an all
year round holiday destination. The climate is
pleasant most of the year with hot summers
but low humidity and mild winters. Only high
on Mt. Toubkal will you really feel the cold and
wind with snow staying on the peaks well into
summer. Our summer Toubkal trips run from
May to September or for a more challenging
adventure, our Winter Toubkal trip runs from
November to March. Throughout the year we
run our Atlas Adventure and Walking in the
Atlas tours due to the treks being at a lower
altitude.
How fit do I need to be?
Our Atlas Mountain treks are suitable for
anyone who is active and exercises regularly.
There are some fairly steep ascents, so we
recommend you do some form of training
prior to departure improve your overall fitness
and enhance your enjoyment. This means
concentrating on aerobic exercises - ones
which increase your heart rate. Walks, runs,
rowing machines, anything which will raise
your heart beat to 60-70% of your max is
making your body fitter. You can determine
your max by taking your age off 220 and then
determine what 60-70% of this is from there.
You can then measure your pulse by placing
your fingers onto your major arteries such as
your neck or wrist or by buying a pulse monitor
(£10-£30)
We include regular stops for refreshments plus
three meals a day on each trek to keep the
whole group together and make sure everyone
10
9
8
7
Morocco is just four hours
away with daily flights by
several low cost air carriers,
such as Easyjet and Thomson,
which makes it perfect for last
minute departures. Just buy
one of our ‘land only’ packages
(just the trip; you buy your own
flights) or look out for our flight
inclusive deals.
7
acclimatises to the altitude. Your main baggage
is carried by a pack-mule so all you will
need to carry is your daypack. Summiting Mt
Toubkal is generally suitable for anyone that
walks or hikes regularly and has experience of
mountain walking.
If you still feel unsure speak to one of our
Travel Consultants and they will assist you
in choosing the best trekking trip for
your ability.
Get the most from your trek
Summiting Mt. Toubkal only takes a few days
so you can pace yourself and make the most
of the fantastic scenery. We suggest you take
your time to enjoy the challenge and take in
the views and the experience - after all you’re
unlikely to do it again. There’s not much to do
in the evenings so take a pack of cards, head
torch and a good book. It’s also a good time
to write up your journal if you’re planning on
keeping one. If you’re taking an iPhone, Kindle
or similar remember there is no electricity in
the gites so bring a solar battery, such as a
Powermonkey, or simply leave the technology
at home. Try and learn some Arabic before you
go, to help you get along with the muleteers
and guides plus you’ll find it easier to haggle
in the souks of Marrakech. Most of our trips
include three meals a day, but it’s worth taking
energy bars and glucose tablets which are
easy to digest even if you’re not hungry. You’ll
have the chance to buy snacks in Marrakech
but once you’re walking it is fairly remote, so
come prepared. If you’re tackling Mt Toubkal
in winter then the night before the summit it’s
a good idea to check your camera batteries,
and make sure you keep them warm, we
suggest keeping them in your sleeping bag.
When you start your summit attempt, make
sure your camera is somewhere warm and
easily accessible, the last thing you’ll feel like
doing is rummaging around for it in the cold,
and you really don’t want to miss some of the
most memorable views you’ll ever experience.
It’s cold at the top so be prepared with good
gloves and a hat. You won’t spend long up
there for that reason, so make sure you take
plenty of photos and appreciate what you’ve
achieved, because before you know it you’ll be
on your way down.
Visa
UK & IRL passport holders do not require a
visa for Morocco. Passports must be valid for at
least 6 months after the end date of your trip.
Nationals of all other countries should contact
their local embassy or consulate to find our
which visas are required. Please consult the
consulate or embassy at least 4-6 weeks prior
to departure.
Money
The currency of Morocco is Moroccan dirham.
Sterling (except Scottish or NI notes) or US
dollars (clean and untorn) can be changed with
equal ease. There are ATMs in every major
towns. Average costs vary widely but a good
guide is 8-15 MAD for tea or coffee, 20-40MAD
for beer, 8-20 MAD for water and a 3 course
dinner is around 80-220MAD.
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
3
What do I need to take with me?
As Morocco is a Muslim country, tight,
skimpy clothing should be avoided out
of respect for local customs, especially in
the smaller, more remote villages. Loose,
knee-length shorts are usually acceptable
but women should avoid tight, low-cut
T-shirts and shoulders should be covered.
Below is a suggestion of what you might
find useful to take. It is not an exhaustive
packing list. If you need further advice,
please call us.
• Lightweight wind & waterproof outer shell
•Warm mid-layer (fleece) for cool mornings and
evenings
•Good quality walking boots with ankle support
(these will need to be well broken in)
• Trainers/sandals for relaxing
•Swimwear (it may be possible to bathe in a
mountain stream)
•Sun-hat
• Waterproof trousers
• Warm hat and gloves
•Sleeping bag (2/3-season Jul-Aug, otherwise
3/4-season)
What’s the accommodation like?
Outside Marrakech you will mainly be camping, with
occasional nights spent in gites. These are village
houses converted specifically to accommodate
guests in one or more simple rooms with communal
facilities. On some of our treks you will only stay in a
hotel too. During the course of the trek, you may be
some distance from a village on any given night, so
using 2-person tents to camp gives greater flexibility
as to where the group can stay.
Check the trip fact file for details on accommodation,
activities and food provided on each trip.
What’s the food like?
Your meals while trekking are prepared by a local
cook using fresh local produce as well as nonperishable goods purchased beforehand. These
generally consist of fresh salads with perhaps
sardines or eggs or even a hot dish for lunch and
traditional cooked dishes (tagine, couscous etc) in
the evening. The meals are often simple and may
be repeated several times during the trek but are
always hot, tasty and filling. Meat will be served
where fresh supplies can be guaranteed. Bottled
water can be purchased locally at some places
although we recommend you take purification
tablets and refill your water bottles.
• Torch - a good headtorch will be best
•Waterbottle
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lipsalve
• Insect repellent
• Personal First Aid kit
•Universal sink plug (or half an old squash ball
serves equally well!)
• Waterproof rucksack liner or cover
•Towel
• Anti-bacterial gel for ‘washing’ hands
• Toilet roll
• Wet wipes
• Trekking poles (optional)
For more information on packing
For more details on a packing list, baggage, local currency and costs, vaccinations, altitude sickness and other frequently asked questions
read the Trip Notes which are on each Morocco trip page on the website, or ask a Travel Consultant for details.
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
4
Atlas Mountain Walks & Treks
Which is the right trip for me?
Routes:
If you want to summit Mt Toubkal then opt from
our Mount Toubkal Trek, Peaks & Valleys of
the Atlas or Winter Toubkal options.
To/From
Marrakech
Explore bazaars
M O RO CCO
If you want a short break then our Mount
Toubkal Weekend is only five days but this trek
is tougher as you’ll make the vertical ascent over
a shorter period of time.
Tachbibte
850m
And if you’re looking for a slighter tougher
challenge then check out Winter Toubkal – this
is a trek amidst the snow and ice and a great
place to practice using crampons and ice axes.
Ait Ahmed
1,400m
Tizi n’Ifoitna
2,021m
Jebel Oukaimeden
3,262m
Imlil
Tachedirt
Aremd
If you are taking your first steps into trekking or
just want a gentler route then the longer Peaks
& Valleys of the Atlas or Atlas Adventure are
for you.
Oukaimeden
Ait Zitoun
950m
Neltner
Imzayn
1,370m
Jebel Toubkal
Summit
4,167m
GH
HI AS
L
T
A
Jebel Ouanakrim
4,088m
Sidi Chamharouch
Shrine
Likemt
Amsouzerte
Lac d’Ifni
Tizi n’Ouanoumiss
MO/WT
WMO
AT
AZ
If you’re not up for a full trekking holiday then
try our other Moroccan adventures.
Moroccan Experience – enjoy the
highlights and cultural introduction to Morocco
with a day’s hiking in the Atlas Mountains,
sightseeing opportunities to Marrakech, the
kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, the tanneries of
Taroudant and day to wander the beach
at Essaouira.
adventurecompany.co.uk/we
The Kasbah Trail – Take day walks
through the Atlas Mountains and Valley
of the Roses, camel trek across the
dunes and camp under the stars before
a city tour of Fez and exploration of the
old garrison town of Merzouga. This
trip also takes you into the vivid and
colourful world of Marrakech.
adventurecompany.co.uk/as
Desert Adventure – Journey
through wild and remote desert - by
camel! For anyone wishing to leave the
frenetic modern world behind, this is
like travelling back to a different age.
You’ll sleep in traditional nomad tents,
pass village scenes of everyday life
and be part of a typical desert caravan.
Local camel drivers will accompany you
throughout the trek, providing good
company, as you marvel at golden
sand dunes and palm-fringed oases
from your unique vantage point.
adventurecompany.co.uk/dm
Trip Code
WMO
WT
MO
FXMO
XAT
AZ
Highest Alt.
4,167m
4,167m
4,167m
4,167m
4,167m
2,012m
Longest day
9 hours
8 hours
8 hours
8 hours
9 hours
6 hours
Duration
5 days
8 days
8 days
8 days
15 days
8 days
Trekking Level
Demanding
Demanding
Demanding
Demanding
Demanding
Moderate
Perfect for
Long weekend
Winter in
the Atlas
Bagging your
first summit
Bagging your Three peak
first summit challenge
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
Fit but inexperienced
5
TRIP CODE: WMO
Mount Toubkal Long Weekend, 5 days
If you’re short of time but are
looking for a challenge then try
our long weekend option.
Reach Toubkal’s summit and take in views
of the snow-capped High Atlas having
zigzagged up the floodplains of Ait Mizane
Valley and passed the pilgrimage site of
Sidi Charmarouch. A lifetime achievement
in just five days.
Itinerary
Day 1 Marrakech Fly to Marrakech, free time to
explore the city, overnight in a hotel
Day 2 Imlil - Neltner (3,707m) From Marrakech drive
to Imlil to start your trek to Neltner, overnight at Toubkal
Base Camp, Neltner, camp overnight. Approx 5/6 hours
Day 3 Summit Mt. Toubkal (4,167m) From Neltner trek
to summit Jebel Toubkal. Approx 8/9 hours
Day 4 Neltner – Marrakech Descend back to Imlil
then drive to Marrakech, overnight in a hotel
Day 5 Fly home
Fact File:
Essentials - Walks are moderate to demanding.
The ascent of Mt Toubkal is fairly strenuous
and should only be attempted by experienced
mountain walkers.
Activities - Walking, trekking, discovering natural
wonders, exploring local villages
Accommodation - Hotels (2nts), camping (2nts),
basic gite facilities, showers may be available for
an additional charge
Meals included - 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches &
2 dinners
Highest altitude - 4,167m
Imlil
4000m
Neltner
Neltner
Imlil
Longest day - 9 hours
3000m
2000m
1000m
0m
Day 2
c.5hrs
Day 3
c.8 hrs
Day 4
c.3 hrs
adventurecompany.co.uk/wmo
6
TRIP CODE: WT
Winter Toubkal, 8 days
Add a whole new dimension to the Mt
Toubkal challenge as you summit during
winter. This is the ultimate Moroccan
trekking challenge where you’ll hit the
snow, summit Toubkal’s sister Ouanakrim
(4,088m) and take the plunge to ascend
Toubkal. The hard conditions are rewarded
with spectacular views of the snow
covered Atlas range in contrast to the
magnificent Sahara desert to the east,
and possible views of the Atlantic coast
to the west.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, overnight in hotel
Day 2 Aremd (1,880m) Walking tour of Marrakech
then head to the mountains near the village of Aremd,
overnight in a Berber gite in Aremd. Approx 3 hours
Day 3 Trek to Neltner (3,207m) Walk to Neltner,
through Mizane Valley, across the snow, overnight in
Neltner refuge. Approx 5 hours
Day4 – 5 Ascent of Toubkal (4,167m) Over the next
two days you will either summit Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)
or her little sister, Jebel Ouanoukrim (4,088m).
The most suitable itinerary will be chosen according
to the weather and group ability, overnight in Neltner.
Approx 5-7.5 hours
Day 6 Aremd (1,880m) Depending on the weather,
take further walks in the mountains, possible trek to
gorge of Tizi Ouanoums Pass, before descending to
Aremd, overnight in gite. Approx 8/9 hours
Day 7 Marrakech Drive to Marrakech for time in
the city.
Day 8 Fly home
Fact File:
Essentials - Previous trekking experience is
essential as the hike is strenuous. Experience
of using crampons/ice axes is useful but not
necessary.
Activities - Walking, trekking, discover natural
wonders, exploration of markets and villages
Aremd
Aremd
Neltner
Neltner
Neltner
4000m
Accommodation - Hotels (2nts), refuge (3nts),
gite (2nts), basic facilities and showers may be
available for an additional charge
Meals included - 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches
& 5 dinners
3000m
2000m
1000m
0m
Highest altitude - 4,167m
Day 3
c.5hrs
Day 4
c.5hrs
Day 5
7 1/2 - 8hrs
Day 6
8-9hrs
adventurecompany.co.uk/wt
Longest day - 8 hours
7
TRIP CODE: MO
Mount Toubkal Trek, 8 days
Bag yourself the Toubkal peak after a
two day trekking adventure up steep and
narrow paths through the floodplain of Ait
Mizane Valley to Jebel Toubkal (4,167m). A
perfect trek for the experienced mountainwalker looking for their next challenge
with a little bit of culture on the way.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, overnight in a hotel
Day 2 Aremd (1,880m) Drive from Marrakech to Imlil,
then short walk to Aremd, overnight in Aremd gite.
Approx 3 hours
Day 3 Aremd Explore mountains and valleys near
Aremd, overnight in Aremd. Approx 6.5 hours
Day 4 Neltner (3,207m) Leave Aremd for Toubkal on
first day of your ascent, through Mizane Valley and past
the tomb of Sidi Chamarouch to Toubkal Base Camp,
overnight Neltner. Approx 8 hours
Day 5 Mount Toubkal (4,167m) Final steep climb to
summit of Jebel Toubkal (4,167m) for views of the Sahara
and Atlantic coast, overnight in Neltner*
Approx 8/9 hours
To/From
Marrakech
Explore bazaars
Day 6 Marrakech A morning descent to Imlil before
a drive back to Marrakech, overnight in a hotel. Approx
3 hours
Tizi n’Tamatert
Day 7
Marrakech A guided city walk of old
Marrakech to browse the souks and tannery
Imlil
Aremd
M O RO CCO
LA
Day 8 Fly home
Sidi Chamharouch
*Intineray subject to weather conditions possible option to
climb Jebel Ouanakrim
Fact File:
Jebel Toubkal
4,167m
Neltner
T
HA
HIG
Tagadirt
S
Essentials - Walks are moderate to demanding.
The ascent of Mt Toubkal is fairly strenuous
and should only be attempted by experienced
mountain walkers. You may opt out of the ascent.
Activities - Walking, trekking, discovering
natural wonders, exploration of markets and
villages, city tour
Accommodation -Hotels (3nts), refuge/camping
(2nts), gite (2nts), basic facilities and showers
may be available for an additional charge
Imlil
Aremd
Neltner
Neltner
Aremd
Imlil
4000m
3000m
2000m
Meals included - 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, &
4 dinners
Altitude - 4,167m
1000m
0m
Day 2
c.3 hrs
Day 3
c 6.5 hrs
Day 4
c.8 hrs
Day 5
c.8 hrs
Day 6
c.3 hrs
adventurecompany.co.uk/mo
8
TRIP CODE: FXMO
Atlas Adventure, 8 days
Teen Adventure
A great trekkking trip into the Atlas Mountains
for your teens. With four days trekking through
traditional Berber villages, mountain passes
and stunning valleys. You’ll stay in traditional
gites, basic multi-share lodges, where during
the warmer months you can sleep under
the stars.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, arrive in Marrakech and
take free time to explore this wonderful city.
Day 2 Marrakech; guided city tour
Follow your
local guide as he takes you to the main city sites, the
sprawling souks, Palais de la Bahia and the Museum of
Moroccan Arts.
Day 3 Atlas Mountains; trek to Gliz (2,150m)
Drive to the High Atlas, via Ourika Valley. Acclimatise
with some short walks in the surrounding area.
Approx. 3 hours.
Day 4 Trekking in the Atlas Mountains (2,100m) Trail
the many criss-cross paths past fortress-like villages and
mountainside. Approx. 5 hours.
Machame
Day 5 - 6 Atlas Mountains; trekking (2,000m) Trek
ATL A NTIC O C E A N
to Imlil Valley, meeting goat-herders along the way as
you climb to the village of Aremd. The next day reach
Sidi Chamarouch, a place of pilgrimage. Approx 4 hours
day 5, and less than 3 hours on day 5.
M O RO CCO
Day 7 Marrakech Return to Marrakech for free time.
Day 8 Fly home.
Oukaimeden
Gliz Aguersioual
Pass
AS
TL
A
2,001m
Marrakech
Explore bazaars
Asni
M
A
NT
OU
S
IN
Fact File:
Minimum age: 12 years - There are four days
of trekking (3 - 5 hours per day); some trails are
rough under foot. Main luggage is transported
by mules. Temperature can be hot in the
summer and cool in the evenings. Bring hiking
shoes.
Aremd
RA
HA
A
S
Tachbibte
Ait Zitoun
RT
SE
DE
Essentials - Walks are graded as demanding
and you’ll walk for up to 5 hours a day over
some rough terrain. Routes may vary to take
account of the weather.
Imine Tala
Ait Ahmed
Amizmiz
Imine Tala
2500m
2000m
1500m
Activities - Walking, trekking, discovering
natural wonders, exploration of markets and
villages
Accommodation - Hotels (3nts), gites (4nts)
1000m
500m
0m
Day 2
3 hrs
Day 3
6 hrs
Day 4
3 1/2 hrs
Day 5
5 hrs
Day 6
4 1/2 hrs
Meals included - 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches &
4 dinners
Highest altitude - 2,150m
adventurecompany.co.uk/fxmo
10
TRIP CODE: XAT
Peaks & Valleys of the Atlas, 15 days
A twelve day mountain walk through the Atlas
range. Enter the southern Atlas and traverse
the desolate wilderness to Oukaimeden
(3,262m), Tizi Likemt (3,555m) and the once
glacial Lac D’Ifni before your steep walk to
Toubkal summit.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, overnight in hotel
Day 2 Ait Stimane (1,100m) Drive from Marrakech to
the village of Arba Tighedouine, then start a gently trek
to Ait Stimane. Approx. 3 hours
Day 3 Yagour Plateau (2,000m) Begin your trek to the
village of Ouarzast, zig zagging through juniper forest
and past local Berbers. Approx. 6 hours
Day 4 - 6 Ourika Valley, Agadir n’Ait Boulmane
(2,350m) & Tazroutourte (3,176m) Descend into the
Ourika Valley, on to Agadir n’Ait Boulmane Gorge to Tizi
n‘Tamatert pass and Tazroutourte (3,176m). Approx. 4-8
hours a day
Day 7 Summit Adrar n’Dern (4,001m)
Approx. 8
hours, up to 4,001m and back down to 3,000m.
Marrakech
Explore bazaars
Day 8 - 9 Tizgui Valley and Amsouzart (3,000m)
to Lac d’Ifni (2,300m) Trek through volcanic terrain to
Aourai Pass and Aitr Ighrane Valley. Approx. 4/5 hours.
M O RO CCO
Day 10 Toubkal Base Camp (3,207m) Trek to Tizi
n’Ouanoums pass (3,680m). Descend to Toubkal Base
Camp for two nights, 3,207m. Approx. 7 hours.
Asni
Imlil
Jebel Toubkal
Summit 4,167m
GH
HI
Ouanakrim
Ait Stimane
Day 11 Summit Toubkal (4,167m) Approx. 6 hours
Ait Stimane
Day 12 Summit Jebel Ouanakrim (4,088m)
Approx. 8/9 hours.
S
LA
AT
Day 13 Marrakech Return to Marrakech for free time
Adrar n’Dern
Aourai Pass
to explore.
Day 14 - 15 Marrakech Fly home
Lac d’Ifni
Ouarzast Boulmane Gorge Tizi n’Boukchoud Tazroutourte
Fact File:
Lac d’lfni
Aourai Camp Amsouzart
Neltner
Neltner
Aremd
4000m
Essentials - Walks are graded as demanding
and you’ll walk for up to 8 hours a day over
some rough terrain. Routes may vary to take
account of the weather.
Activities - Walking, trekking, discovering
natural wonders, exploration of markets and
villages, city tour
3000m
2000m
1000m
0m
Day 2
c.3 hrs
Day 3
c.6 hrs
Day 4
5 hrs
Day 5
8 hrs
Day 6
4 hrs
Day 7
8 hrs
Day 8
4 hrs
Day 9
5 hrs
Day 10
7 hrs
Day 11
6 hrs
Day 12
8 hrs
Accommodation - Hotels (3nts), Berber village
houses (multi-share) or 2 nts camping (11nts).
The village houses have simple dormitories,
showers may be available but at extra cost
Meals included - 14 breakfasts, 11 lunches &
11 dinners
adventurecompany.co.uk/xat
11
TRIP CODE: AZ
Atlas Adventure, 8 days
A good introduction to hiking, this trip takes
you on day hikes from Ait Zitoun to your
highest point Tizi n’Fourna. With your trusty
muleteers and mules to help you climb you’ll
stay in traditional gites in local Berber villages
and hit the mountains. Passing through the
fertile Amzmiz Valley and dusty plains you
get a glimpse into rural Moroccan life before
heading back to the bright lights of Marrakech.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, overnight in a hotel
Day 2 Ait Zitoun (950m) Leave Marrakech behind
for the Atlas Mountains, take a short hike to Ait Zitoun
(Village of Olives), overnight in gite. Approx 5 hours
Day 3 Ait Ahmed (1400m) Take a day hike from Ait
Zitoun to Ait Ahmed through small villages under the
watchful eye of snow-capped peaks, overnight in gite.
Approx 6 hours
Day 4 – 5 Imzayn (2,021m) Hike over a steep pass
through traditional villages until you reach Imzayn.
Witness fantastic views of bright irrigated fields over
the valley
Machame
Day 6 – 7 Marrakech; city tour Take a guided
walking tour of Marrakech with some free time to
explore, overnight in a hotel
Day 8 Fly Home
Fact File:
Essentials - Walks graded moderate and
no trekking experience is required. Hikes take
between 3 – 6 hours per day reaching a
maximum of 2,021m.
Activities - Walking, trekking, discover natural
wonders, exploration of markets and villages
Accommodation -Hotels (3nts), gites (4nts).
The village houses have simple dormitories,
showers may be available but at extra cost
Meals included - 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 4
dinners
Tachbibte
Ait Zitoun
Imine Tala
Ait Ahmed
Amizmiz
Imine Tala
Highest altitude - 2,021m
2500m
Longest day - Approx 6 hours
2000m
1500m
1000m
500m
0m
Day 2
3 hrs
Day 3
6 hrs
Day 4
3 1/2 hrs
Day 5
5 hrs
Day 6
4 1/2 hrs
adventurecompany.co.uk/az
12
Morocco extensions
We can tailor your trip to suit your needs so if that means you want to meet friends in Marrakech two days before
your scheduled trip then we can book you earlier flights and accommodation. If you feel like staying longer then
why not explore the cities and beaches or simply chill out in stunning locations with one of our trip extensions. We
can add extensions on to any of our trips and if the two below don’t take your fancy ask our Travel Consultants
what other options we have. It’s your trip so it’s up to you what you do and when.
Essaouira Extension
After completing your Mt. Toubkal challenge you might want to relax in the coastal
Atlantic town of Essaouira. Explore the atmospheric old town and souks, enjoy fresh
seafood and feel the sand between your toes.
Itinerary
Day +1 Marrakech to the coast Leave Marrakech
and head to the Atlantic coast and former pirate’s lair of
Essaouira.
Day +2 Castles made of sand Free day to stroll
around the lively port, enjoy fresh seafood on the
quayside or visit the crumbling castle which is said to
have inspired Jimi Hendrix’s Castles Made of Sand.
Day +3 Marrakech Free morning to spend at your
leisure then afternoon transfer back to Marrakech.
Day +4 Fly home.
Atlas Mountain Retreat
Relax in a scenic retreat in the Atlas Mountains. Pamper yourself at the traditional
hammam (spa hotel), go for walks or simply enjoy spectacular views. This is a great
opportunity to rest with a cup of mint tea or walk around rose filled gardens. A perfect
treat after a few days camping.
Itinerary
Day +1 Drive into the Atlas Mountains Drive south
into the High Atlas absorbing the impressive views to
your final destination of Ksar Shama Retreat.
Day +2 Explore the Atlas Mountains Visit nearby
villages, enjoy a picnic lunch or simply recharge your
batteries on the terrace
Day +3 Back to Marrakech Transfer back down the
mountains to Marrakech airport and fly home.
For a full list of extensions and excursions, and to book, call our
friendly Travel Consultants on 0845 868 0239
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
13
More info
Treksmart courses and contact information
If you have booked onto a trek and have
some lingering questions on what to pack,
or how to prepare, or are thinking of doing
a trekking trip and are wondering what it
will be like then try our Treksmart courses;
a day of talks and interactive activities
to help you prepare for your future
trekking trips.
These sessions are friendly and fun, and
are designed to answer your queries and
questions which are at the back of your
mind. The sessions run for a day (9.30am
– 4.10pm) and cover the following points:
What life is like on a trek - details of a
typical day.
Pre-trek planning – being organised upfront
makes sure you avoid any last minute panics areas covered include visa, currency, inoculations
etc.
Kit – We breakdown the huge array of stuff
on offer and explain what to take, including
demonstrations of what’s best for you or your trip.
Acute Mountain Sickness – one of the
Basic outdoor skills – although not needed
on your trip we’ll do some practical exercises to get
you attuned to mountain life, including some basic
princples on map reading and putting up a tent.
Q&As on any unanswered questions
Attendees
The day will be led by a qualified, and highly
experienced, mountaineering instructor, supported
by staff from The Adventure Company. It’s a great
opportunity to talk to experts. The Treksmart
days are designed for anyone with questions or
concerns about their trekking trip. They give an
overview on all elements within a trekking trip.
Location & Dates
Join one of our Alton sessions and you are in the
heart of the beautiful South Downs National Park
and only an hour from the New Forest, so you can
make a weekend of it, book some accommodation
and enjoy a walk too.
Places cost £40 for the day and includes teas and
coffees and a FREE Adventure Company trek bag.
To reserve your place, or if you have any further
questions, simply call our Travel Consultants
0845 868 0239
biggest areas of concern; we’ll explain what it is,
what signs to look for and how to deal with it.
Physicality – we’ll discuss any concerns
regarding fitness levels, providing basic tips and
plans to help you make the most of the trek.
Self Health Checks – We’ll explain what to
lookout for and how best to deal with any issues
on trek such as blisters, strains and bites.
Contact Us
It’s only natural to have more questions, so feel free to visit our website to find out more; our dedicated
Morocco pages bring the trips alive, with people’s blogs and videos on the trail. From here you can also
print off the Trip Notes – a detailed day-to-day breakdown each. Alternatively, call one of our Travel
Consultants on 0845 868 0239 and they’ll be able to answer any questions you have.
adventurecompany.co.uk/morocco
14