Morocco Camel Trek

15 days - from $1670

Journey through the Moroccan Sahara from Marrakech to Fez
As the largest desert in the world, the Sahara boasts diverse scenery and we see it all on this trip - from rocky and mountainous terrain to the spectacular sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Our incredible trek from Tazzarine to Merzouga is a real experience, as we travel at the pace of the camel so we can savour the silence and peace that is only found in the desert. This remote part of the Sahara Desert is a mix of undulating sand dunes, palm groves, rocky outcrops and ancient villages where we can only be impressed with how the villagers have survived in such an arid part of the world. There is also time to explore the fascinating vibrant cities of Marrakech and Fez, with their bustling souks and lively atmosphere. This trip offers a wonderful contrast between Morocco's exciting imperial cities and the quiet vastness of the Sahara desert, with just a camel to guide us.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Marrakech. 2 Guided tour of Marrakech; free time in the afternoon to explore the famous Djemaa el Fna Square or enjoy a trip to the Majorelle Gardens. 3 Transfer through Atlas Mountains over the breathtaking Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2260m) to Ouarzazate; continue to Draa Valley and pass lush palmeries before reaching Foum Tizza Oasis, where we set up camp. 4 Start of trek; meet camels and head through the Tamgante Gorges to Takecha Village (700m). 5 Continue east through the Oumjrane Dunes and the riverbed of Boukecheba to camp at Laatchana. 6 Cross plateaus, trek past nomadic villages and pass dunes of Tazoulte to camp at Ikhf-n-Ighir. 7 Walk to Tafraoute through the Cirque of Zireg; pass more stunning gorges before reaching camp near the well of Mahrech. 8 Walk towards Tizi N'Igidou, crossing the riverbed of Rheris; dinner/camp at at Anou-n-Bahallou. 9 Enjoy wonderful scenery of Rheris Gorges, palm groves of Mbirika and a rewarding climb of Mt Tijekaht (960m); overnight below an impressive rocky outcrop. 10 Long day walking across the Hassi-n-Oufella Plateau before reaching Mt Atrous (750m). 11 Walk through the extensive palm grove of Ziz Valley for distant views of Erg Chebbi's highest sand dunes; camp at the foot of the dunes. 12 Watch the sun rise over the magnificent dunes; walk to Tanamoust Village, close to Merzouga (but not as crowded). 13 Transfer through the Atlas Mountains, stopping in Midelt and Ifrance before reaching Fez. 14 Explore Fez, one of the world's finest Islamic cities. 15 End Fez.

Mode of travel: Travel by camel and on foot. Average 18km per day. Good fitness is required.
Group size: Normally 8 to 15, plus leader, camel handlers and appropriate local staff.
Accommodation: 9 nights camping and 4 nights 3-star hotels. Tents are erected at each site before we arrive each day yet we stay at wild camps in remote locations with access simply to water. Some hotels used may have a swimming pool and although standards in Morocco have improved with the increase of tourism in Marrakech and Fez, hotels are still more comparable to Sub-saharan standards rather than comparable to Europe.
Food: All breakfasts, 11 lunches and 10 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $157.50
Trip Reference: AMC
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: AMC