7 Days Jbel Saghro-Trekking – Morocco’s Rugged Desert Mountains

Altitude profile

Day by day

1. 01
   Day 1Marrakech – Tichka Pass – Tagudilt Village+

   Distance/Travel: ~430 km / 9 hrs

   Highlights:

   - Tichka Pass (2,260 m) : The highest road pass in Morocco, offering panoramic views of the High Atlas peaks and deep valleys. A spectacular introduction to Morocco’s mountainous landscapes.

   - Berber Villages : Small settlements along the route where locals live in mud-brick houses and practice traditional farming. A glimpse into daily life in the Atlas.

   - Ouarzazate : Known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” with its historic kasbahs and film studios where blockbusters like Gladiator were filmed.

   - Skoura Oasis : A lush valley with palm groves and ancient kasbahs, showcasing the contrast between desert and fertile land.

   - Klaa El Mgouna : Famous for roses and rosewater production. A lovely spot to stop for lunch and explore local crafts.

   - Boumalne Dades : Edge of the Dades Valley, dramatic cliffs, and winding roads known as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.”

   - Tagudilt Village : A quiet Berber village where we meet our mule team. Authentic experience of mountain village life.

   Night · Berber guesthouse, Tagudilt

2. 02
   Day 2Tagudilt – Azarzim Pass – Almou N’Ouarg+

   Trekking Distance: ~14 km / 6 hrs

   Highlights:

   - High Plateau Trek : Wide-open spaces with panoramic desert-like views, scattered with rocks and wild plants.

   - Azarzim Pass : Offers a sweeping view over the Saghro mountains and surrounding valleys; perfect spot for photos.

   - Rock Formations : Unique volcanic shapes sculpted by wind and erosion, giving the landscape a surreal feel.

   - Azib Almou N’Ouarg : Traditional shepherds’ home where we camp and experience authentic nomadic life.

   Night · Camp at Azib Almou N’Ouarg

3. 03
   Day 3Almou N’Ouarg – Summit of Jbel Saghro – Igli+

   Trekking Distance: ~18 km / 7.5 hrs

   Highlights:

   - Jbel Saghro Summit (Kouaouch, 2,592 m) : Spectacular panoramic views of the Saghro range, valleys, and desert plains beyond. A sense of accomplishment at the top!

   - Tassigdelt Village : Small Berber village for lunch. Traditional mud-brick houses and local farming demonstrate daily life in Saghro.

   - Igli Village : Nestled among almond orchards, Igli offers a peaceful setting and encounters with semi-nomadic families. A chance to see local customs and hospitality.

   Night · Camp near Igli

4. 04
   Day 4Igli – Bab N’Ali+

   Trekking Distance: ~16 km / 7 hrs

   Highlights:

   - Almond Groves & Palm Trees : Fertile areas where locals grow almonds and dates, creating a contrast with the rocky surroundings.

   - Nomadic Encounters : Shepherds and their families live in tents or small homes, moving seasonally with livestock.

   - Bab N’Ali Village : Traditional village tucked in a valley, surrounded by desert and mountains. Camping here offers a quiet night under the stars.

   - Valleys & Gorges : Dramatic sandstone cliffs carved by centuries of wind and water.

   Night · Camp near Bab N’Ali

5. 05
   Day 5Bab N’Ali – Asif Nirrazzoun+

   Trekking Distance: ~12 km / 5 hrs

   Highlights:

   - River Valley Trek : Follow the flowing waters of Asif N’Irrrezzoun, with occasional natural pools.

   - Irrezzoun N’Imlas : Picnic stop in a scenic valley with farms and wildflowers.

   - Almond & Fig Orchards : Traditional cultivation by locals.

   - Palm Groves : Lush greenery in an otherwise arid region, providing shade and beauty.

   - Wildlife : Birds and desert animals occasionally spotted along the valley.

   Night · Camp along the river Asif Nirrazzoun

6. 06
   Day 6Asif Nirrazzoun – Handour Village+

   Trekking Distance: ~10 km / 4 hrs

   Highlights:

   - Small Berber Villages : Pass through settlements with mud-brick houses and observe local crafts like weaving.

   - Handour Village : A charming old village with cobbled streets, kasbah ruins, and friendly locals.

   - Cultural Experience : Take a shower, wash clothes, stroll around, and enjoy traditional Berber dishes.

   Night · Berber guesthouse, Handour

7. 07
   Day 7Handour – Marrakech+

   Distance/Travel: ~430 km / 8 hrs

   Highlights:

   - Ouarzazate : Stop to visit Kasbah Taourirt, a historical and cinematic landmark.

   - Skoura & Dades Valley : Pass through iconic palm groves, kasbahs, and winding valleys.

   - Tichka Pass : Marvel again at the High Atlas mountains as we descend toward Marrakech.

   - Marrakech Arrival : Return to the vibrant city, completing a diverse trek of mountains, desert, culture, and history.

What to bring

Photos