A popular and comprehensive way to experience Morocco is to combine a High Atlas Mountains trek with a Sahara Desert adventure. This combination allows you to witness the country’s two most dramatic and contrasting landscapes in a single trip: the rugged, snow-capped peaks and green valleys of the Atlas, followed by the vast, golden dunes of the Sahara.
The Combined Itinerary
A typical combined trek is a multi-day tour, often ranging from 5 to 10 days, with the most popular options being around 7 to 8 days. The tour usually starts and ends in Marrakech and can be broken down into two distinct parts:
Part 1: The Atlas Mountains and Berber Villages Trek
This section of the tour focuses on the mountain experience. You’ll be driven from Marrakech to a village like Imlil, which serves as the trekking base.
Trekking: You’ll spend several days (usually 2 to 4) on foot, hiking through the High Atlas valleys. The routes often pass through traditional Berber villages like Tizi Oussem, Tinzert, and Tizi n’Tichka.
Cultural Immersion: This part of the trip is highly focused on local culture. You’ll stay in local guesthouses (gîtes) or homestays, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea and authentic Berber meals. You’ll witness the daily life of the villagers, their farming practices, and the serene beauty of their surroundings.
Support: Your main luggage will be carried by mules, so you can trek with just a daypack. A local guide and cook will accompany you, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.
Part 2: The Desert Tour
After your mountain trek, you’ll be picked up and begin the journey to the Sahara Desert by vehicle. This is a long but scenic drive that takes you through the stunning landscapes of southeastern Morocco.
Scenic Drives: The journey is a key part of the experience. You’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass, visit historic kasbahs like the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, and drive through the Valley of Roses and the Dades and Todra Gorges.
Desert Arrival: The final destination for the desert portion is typically Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) or Erg Chigaga. Merzouga is known for its classic, tall sand dunes, while Erg Chigaga is wilder and more remote.
Camel Trekking and Camp: Upon arrival at the edge of the desert, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the dunes. This is the quintessential Sahara experience, culminating in a night at a traditional Berber desert camp. You’ll enjoy a stunning sunset and sunrise, dinner under the stars, and traditional music around a campfire.
Why Choose a Combined Trek?
Ultimate Moroccan Diversity: This trip provides a comprehensive look at Morocco’s incredible geographical and cultural diversity. You’ll see green mountains and arid deserts, and experience both the high-altitude village life and the nomadic spirit of the Sahara.
Efficiency: Combining these two distinct experiences into a single, well-planned itinerary is a highly efficient way to see a lot of the country, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time for exploration and adventure.
Cultural Depth: Both sections of the tour are designed to be immersive. You won’t just be sightseeing; you’ll be interacting with locals, learning about their traditions, and experiencing their way of life firsthand.
