4 Days/ 3 Nights
Venture into the heart of Morocco's Atlas Mountains on this intimate four-day trek through traditional Berber villages. Walking ancient paths between remote settlements, you'll discover a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. From the walnut groves of Tiziane to the dramatic Tizi n'tachte pass, this moderate trek offers an authentic glimpse into rural Moroccan life whilst providing comfortable accommodation in local gîtes and delicious home-cooked meals.
This carefully crafted journey takes you deep into the lesser-travelled corners of the Atlas Mountains, following time-worn paths that connect isolated Berber communities. Unlike the more touristed Toubkal routes, this trek focuses on authentic cultural encounters and village life, whilst still delivering spectacular mountain vistas.
Beginning in the traditional village of Imi Oughlad, you'll ascend through aromatic pine and juniper forests to reach the Tizi n'tachte pass, where panoramic views of the Imlil and Azzaden valleys unfold before you. Each day brings new discoveries: perhaps a conversation with local shepherds in basic Berber, a rest beside a hidden mountain spring, or the warm welcome of a village family.
The route maintains a comfortable altitude around 2,000 metres, making it accessible to reasonably fit walkers whilst providing constantly changing perspectives of the High Atlas landscape. Your nights are spent in authentic gîtes within Berber villages, offering a genuine taste of mountain hospitality and the chance to experience local customs first-hand.
The journey culminates with a spectacular finale at the Tamsoulte waterfall before crossing the Tizi M'zzik pass, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Toubkal massif before descending to the bustling village of Imlil.
Starting time 9-10
Moderate
Your mountain adventure begins with an early morning departure from Marrakech, winding through the foothills to reach the traditional village of Imi Oughlad. Here, you'll meet your local Berber guide and support team before setting off into the mountains. The day's trek takes you through fragrant pine and juniper woods to the spectacular Tizi n'tachte pass (2,000m), where you'll pause to admire sweeping views of the Imlil and Oussaden valleys. After a picnic lunch at Imi n'ifri, descend to the striking red-clay village of Tiziane (1,750m), where you'll spend the night in a comfortable local gîte, enjoying traditional Moroccan hospitality and home-cooked cuisine. Walking time: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey along the Assif n'ait oussaden valley, walking through centuries-old walnut groves to reach Tizi n'taghrhourte (1,995m). Pause for a tranquil picnic lunch at Assaka spring, surrounded by pristine mountain landscapes. Your afternoon trek continues through shaded forests to reach the authentic Berber village of D'knt (1,870m), where another warm welcome awaits at your mountain gîte. Walking time: 5-6 hours
Today's route offers countless opportunities to practice your basic Berber phrases with local shepherds and villagers. Wind your way through traditional farmland, past fields of corn and barley, to reach Tizi n'tagdalte. Discover a hidden spring nestled among juniper trees – the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic. Continue to the charming village of Tizi Oussem (1,850m) and up to the summer settlement of Tamsoult for your evening's accommodation and another delicious Moroccan meal. Walking time: 5-6 hours
Your final day begins with a visit to the magnificent Tamsoulte waterfall before ascending to cross the dramatic Tizi M'zzik pass (2,500m). From here, enjoy panoramic views of the Toubkal massif before descending through the main valley to reach the vibrant village of Imlil (1,900m). After a farewell lunch with your trek team, return to Marrakech with a camera full of memories and a heart full of stories. Walking time: 5-6 hours
This trek is available all year round.
Local Gites
This is a moderate trek suitable for reasonably fit walkers. You'll walk 5-6 hours daily at altitudes between 1,750-2,500m. While no technical climbing is involved, you should be comfortable with sustained walking on mountain paths.
March to May and September to November offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Summer (June-August) can be quite hot, while winter (December-February) may see snow at higher altitudes.
You'll stay in traditional gîtes (mountain lodges) within Berber villages. While simple, they're clean and comfortable, offering authentic hospitality and proper beds. Each gîte has basic washing facilities and shared bathrooms.
Meals are freshly prepared by your Berber cook. Breakfast typically includes bread, jam, cheese, and eggs. Lunch is often a picnic with salads, tinned fish, and fresh fruit. Dinners feature traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous.
Essential items include:
No - mules carry your main luggage between overnight stops. You'll only need to carry a daypack with essentials like water, camera, and extra layers.
Mobile coverage is limited in the mountains. Some gîtes may have basic WiFi, but it's best to prepare for being offline during your trek.
Yes, vegetarian and most dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice. Please inform us when booking.
While tipping is discretionary, it's customary to show appreciation for good service. As a guide, consider €15-30 per day for the guide and €5-15 per day for each cook/muleteer, divided among your group.
