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Passing through villages on the trail
Mules on the trail

Trek to the Mgoun Massif - 2010/11 Itinerary

9 days - from $810

• Hike Berber trails in the shadow of the Mgoun Massif
• Discover the lush oases of the Bougoumez Valley
• Explore the souks & alleyways of old Marrakech

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Enchanting Bougoumez Valley
From Marrakech we first drive to Azilal to approach the Central High Atlas mountains from the north. After pausing at the Ouzoud Falls, we follow a twisting mountain piste over the Tizi n'Tirghist Pass (2629m) and continue down into the verdant valley (the 'Happy' Valley), to the adobe Berber village of Imelghas (1850m).


Central High Atlas Trek
We begin our 5-day trek by hiking across the Bougoumez Valley, passing terraced wheat fields, orchards and friendly farmers. Then, approaching the summit of Amsod (4,068m) via Tarkeddid, we ascend onto Mgoun's long ridge and climb to one of North Africa's highest points.


Marrakech: a Feast for the Senses
Leaving the majestic Atlas peaks behind, we return to the 'Red City' of Marrakech for our last afternoon. There will be time to enjoy the maze of alleyways in the souks and the celebrated 'circus' of Djemma-el-Fna Square. Crammed with story-tellers, musicians, jugglers and water sellers; it is a scene straight from the Arabian Nights.

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Itinerary:

Day 1 Join the tour in Marrakech. Day 2 Cascades d'Ouzoud & the Bougoumez Valley A day of contrasting scenery as desert melds into mountain. We pause at the spectacular waterfalls of the Cascades d'Ouzoud before reaching the verdant Bougoumez Valley, known locally as the 'happy valley' and the small village of Imelghas. Days 3/7 5-day Mgoun Trek Our 5-day trek starts in the Bougoumez Valley; passing terraced wheat fields, orchards and friendly farmers on our way. Rising out of the valley, the scenery becomes more dramatic as we approach Tarkeddid, from where we climb to one of North Africa's highest points; the summit of Amsod (4,068m). We follow Mgoun's long ridge and may spot nomadic people on the high pastures before we descend to Imelghas. Day 8 Marrakech Returning to Marrakech we have a final afternoon to enjoy this evocative city. There is the option to explore the historic streets and souks on a walking tour and no visitor should miss the spectacle of the Djemma-el-Fna Square. Day 9 Tour ends in Marrakech.

Accommodations: 2nts hotel, 2nts basic village gite, 4nts wild camping; 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners included.
Transport: 4WD vehicles/On foot during 5-day Central High Atlas Trek.
Comment: Strenuous trekking (6-8 hrs a day) at altitudes of around 2800m. Most of the trek is along worn paths. The ascent of Mount Mgoun is non-technical. Snow may be encountered on early departures.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), mountain guide, cook and muleteers. Mules transport luggage.
Trip Reference: MM2010

Dates & Prices
Start End Prices in US$ Local Payment Availability
22 May 1130 May 11$8100
19 Jun 1127 Jun 11$8100

Prices and itineraries shown for tours departing from January 2011 onwards are subject to change and confirmation with the publication of our 2011/12 brochure, due to be published in October 2010.

The price of a Single Room Option does not necessarily guarantee a single room for every night of the tour. For more information, please refer to the trip dossier / more details for this tour.
Single rooms are available for this tour at a supplement from US$ 65, depending on availability.