+44 203 925 8518 Agent login
From £2140 pp*
Request Availabilty
See more photos

8 Day Trek Through the Atlas Mountains

Highlights

  • Trek through the dramatic landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains
  • Meet and learn from local Berber communities
  • Discover remote valleys and hidden shrines off the tourist trail
  • Relax in handpicked riads that blend comfort with local charm
From £2140 pp*
Trip Dates
Please select
Trip Dates
Please select
Guests
Please select
Room #
Adults
- +
Add room
Done
Guests
Please select
Check Price

Local taxes may apply

7 Nights

Trip Dates
Instant Book Request Availability

Don't have your preferred dates? Enquire now

Trip Dates

Please select
Done

Don't have your preferred dates? Enquire now

Guests

Room #
Adults
- +
Children
16+
- +
Add room
Done

What you'll do

Overview

Discover a Morocco rarely seen on postcards – a place where towering mountains, terraced valleys, and remote villages paint a vivid tapestry of tradition, resilience, and raw natural beauty. This is not a holiday to observe from behind a lens, but one to immerse yourself in fully, trekking from village to valley and dining with locals whose stories are as rich as their food.

 Read More

Discover a Morocco rarely seen on postcards – a place where towering mountains, terraced valleys, and remote villages paint a vivid tapestry of tradition, resilience, and raw natural beauty. This is not a holiday to observe from behind a lens, but one to immerse yourself in fully, trekking from village to valley and dining with locals whose stories are as rich as their food.

Summary of Route
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech 
Day 2: Marrakech to Imlil via Oukaimeden and Tachdirte 
Day 3: Trek to Tizi Mezzik
Day 4: Trek to Sidi Chamharouch
Day 5: Cross Tizi Oudite to Ouirgane
Day 6: Explore Ouirgane Valley
Day 7: Guided half-day tour of Marrakech
Day 8: Departure

From your first footsteps in Marrakech, the rhythm of life in Morocco begins to unfold – in the medina’s hum, the scent of spices, and the warmth of its people. Soon, you’re deep into the Atlas Mountains, swapping tarmac for trails, vehicles for mules, and screen time for serene time. The path winds through tiny Berber hamlets, past cascading valleys and hilltop shrines, where hospitality is heartfelt and the tea always hot.

Over the next few days, you’ll explore remote corners of the Toubkal National Park, climb mountain passes with panoramic views, and trek through verdant valleys cradled by red earth and snow-dusted peaks. In Imlil and Ouirgane, life slows down, inviting you to breathe deeper, walk farther, and connect more meaningfully.

Returning to Marrakech, you’ll carry with you more than memories – you’ll return with new perspectives. This is an experiential journey for those seeking more than sightseeing. It’s for those who travel to understand, to connect, and to be changed.

Note: The daily trekking distances vary, with hikes ranging from approximately 4 to 8 miles (6 to 13 kilometres) per day, depending on the terrain and specific route taken. These treks involve moderate elevation gains and are suitable for individuals with a good level of fitness. All luggage is transported by mules during the trekking days, allowing you to carry only a daypack with essentials.​

*from pricing based on 2 people travelling, sharing a twin or double room. For larger groups or solo travellers cost please enquire directly to hello@nitgb.com. Prices will be discounted for larger groups.

Arrive in Marrakech

You will be picked up from the airport and driven to your riad located in Marrakech’s historic medina. Once settled, enjoy your first taste of Moroccan hospitality and take the opportunity to explore the local area at your own pace — wander the nearby souks, sample local mint tea on a rooftop terrace, or simply relax and adjust to the rhythm of Marrakech.

Hotel: Riad Nesma – Standard Room
Meals: – / – / –

Travel to the High Atlas via Oukaimeden and Trek to Imlil

You will set off early, driving through the lush Ourika Valley towards Oukaimeden, the highest ski resort in North Africa (2,600m). From here, meet your mule team and begin your highland adventure. Ride or walk to ancient rock carvings before climbing the Tizi n’Addi pass (2,800m), which offers sweeping mountain views. Descend into the remote village of Tachdirte (2,314m), surrounded by terraced fields and mountain ridges. After a break, you will take a short 15-minute transfer to Imlil, your peaceful base for the coming days.

Trekking: Approx. 6–7 hours | 12 km | Moderate
Hotel: Riad Jnane Imlil – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Hike to Tizi Mezzik Pass (2,500m)

You will begin the day with a gradual ascent through walnut groves and small Berber hamlets such as Argan and Mazik. Reach the Tizi Mezzik Pass (2,500m), a panoramic point with spectacular views of the Azzaden and Ait Mizane Valleys. Stop here for a picnic lunch in the open air before descending along alpine paths back to Imlil. This is a rewarding circular trek, rich in natural beauty and cultural insight.

Trekking: Approx. 5 hours | 10 km | Moderate
Hotel: Riad Jnane Imlil – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Trek to Sidi Chamharouch Shrine (2,300m)

You will trek up the Mizane Valley towards the spiritual site of Sidi Chamharouch, a whitewashed shrine revered by locals and visited by Moroccan pilgrims. The route climbs steadily through terraced fields and past the village of Aremd, the largest in the valley. Along the way, you’ll pass grazing goats, local children on their way to school, and views that change with every turn. After lunch beside a waterfall, return to Imlil in the afternoon.

Trekking: Approx. 4 hours | 8 km | Easy to Moderate
Hotel: Riad Jnane Imlil – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Trek to Ouirgane via Tizi Oudite Pass (2,200m)

You will set out on a scenic trek that connects Imlil to Ouirgane through the Tizi Oudite pass. Walk through Aït Aïssa and Tizi Oussem — villages known for their colourful adobe homes and terrace farming. Stop for lunch surrounded by walnut orchards before continuing through the D’Azaden Valley. A short transfer at the end of the trek brings you to Ouirgane, a verdant valley at the edge of Toubkal National Park.

Trekking: Approx. 6 hours | 12 km | Moderate
Hotel: Domaine de la Roseraie – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Explore Ouirgane Valley & Return to Marrakech

You will enjoy a relaxed morning trek through the Ouirgane Valley, passing the scenic reservoir and olive groves. Visit the ancient Jewish village of Anraz, where you can speak with locals and learn about the valley’s multi-faith heritage and slow-paced lifestyle. After lunch in a traditional mountain home, return by road to Marrakech in time for a final evening in the city.

Trekking: Approx. 2–3 hours | 5 km | Easy
Hotel: Riad Nesma – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Marrakech Cultural Tour

You will start the day with a guided half-day walking tour of Marrakech. Visit the towering Koutoubia Mosque, the elegant Bahia Palace, and the historic Ben Youssef Medersa, an architectural gem. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore the labyrinthine souks or relax in a hammam. As night falls, consider joining locals in Djemaa el-Fna square to watch storytellers, musicians, and food stalls light up the evening.

Hotel: Riad Nesma – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / D

Departure

You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Morocco’s mountain paths, heartfelt encounters, and ancient cities.

Meals: B / – / –

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights’ accommodation in comfort-level riads and boutique hotels
  • Full board Meals (Days 2–7)
  • Ground transfers and transport throughout the itinerary
  • Guided treks through the Atlas Mountains (Tizi Mezzik, Sidi Chamharouch, Tizi Oudite)
  • Visit to prehistoric rock carvings near Oukaimeden
  • Scenic drives through the Ourika Valley, Draa Valley, and Moulay Brahim Gorge
  • Picnic lunches in scenic mountain locations
  • Visits to traditional Berber villages (Argan, Mazik, Aremd, Aït Aïssa, Tizi Oussem, Anraz)
  • Exploration of spiritual site Sidi Chamharouch
  • Guided half-day city tour of Marrakech

Accommodation

Riad Nesma (or similar) – Marrakech

Located in the heart of Marrakech’s medina, Riad Nesma combines traditional Moroccan flair with modern comfort. Its rooftop terrace offers sweeping views of the city, while the peaceful inner courtyard ensures a restful retreat.

Room Type - Classic

Riad Jnane (or similar) – Imlil

Perched above the village with views of the Toubkal peaks, this charming riad is a homely base for trekking days. Expect warm welcomes, hearty meals, and a calm atmosphere in tune with its mountain surroundings.

Room Type - Standard

Domaine de la Roseraie (or similar) – Ouirgane

Nestled within rose gardens and lush orchards, Domaine de la Roseraie is an oasis of calm. With its pool, spa, and scenic location in the Toubkal foothills, it’s the ideal spot for rest after days of trekking.

Room Type - Standard

Your local host

Zaineb and team

Zaineb and her team specialise in crafting immersive, tailor-made journeys that connect travellers to the authentic soul of Morocco. Whether you’re navigating the winding alleys of ancient medinas, trekking through the Atlas Mountains, or sharing a meal in a remote Berber village, their experiences are designed to create meaningful, lasting connections.

Rooted in responsible travel, the team partners with local artisans, women’s cooperatives, and eco-conscious hosts to ensure every trip supports the communities and traditions that make Morocco truly special.

With Zaineb and her team, you won’t... Read All

Zaineb and her team specialise in crafting immersive, tailor-made journeys that connect travellers to the authentic soul of Morocco. Whether you’re navigating the winding alleys of ancient medinas, trekking through the Atlas Mountains, or sharing a meal in a remote Berber village, their experiences are designed to create meaningful, lasting connections.

Rooted in responsible travel, the team partners with local artisans, women’s cooperatives, and eco-conscious hosts to ensure every trip supports the communities and traditions that make Morocco truly special.

With Zaineb and her team, you won’t just visit Morocco, you’ll experience it from the inside out.

Zaineb and team image

Location

This journey begins in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where ancient architecture, lively souks, and the hum of local life provide a colourful introduction to Morocco. From here, you’ll head into the High Atlas Mountains, travelling through the Ourika Valley to Oukaimeden, before trekking via the remote Tachdirte Valley to the peaceful village of Imlil.

Over the next few days, you’ll explore a network of scenic trails, climbing panoramic passes and visiting traditional Berber villages such as Argan, Aremd and Tizi Oussem. Crossing into the lush Azzaden Valley, you’ll reach the tranquil foothill town of Ouirgane, surrounded by olive groves and red earth hills, before returning to Marrakech to round off your Moroccan adventure.

FAQs

Do I need to be very fit for this trip?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good base level of fitness is required. You’ll be hiking up to 6–7 hours on some days over uneven terrain with moderate ascents. The trip is graded moderate, and the pace is steady with plenty of breaks.

What sort of luggage should I bring?

Bring a soft duffel bag or rucksack — not a hard suitcase. Your main luggage will be transported by mules on trekking days. You’ll carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, sun cream, and a light jacket.

Are the hikes guided?

Yes, all treks are fully guided by local Berber mountain guides. They know the trails intimately and offer fantastic insight into the landscapes, culture, and villages you’ll encounter.

Is altitude a concern?

The highest point you’ll reach is around 2,800m (Tizi n’Addi). While this is not considered extreme altitude, you may notice a little breathlessness. The itinerary is well-paced to allow for gradual acclimatisation.

What’s the food like?

Delicious! Meals are hearty and locally sourced, often featuring tagines, couscous, fresh salads, bread, and fruit. Vegetarians and most dietary needs can be catered for with prior notice.

Can I charge my phone/camera during the trek?

Yes. All accommodations have electricity, though in more remote areas the supply may be limited or intermittent. Bring a power bank if you’re reliant on devices for photos or navigation.

Is there Wi-Fi throughout?

Wi-Fi is available at all hotels and riads, though it may be weaker in mountain areas. Consider this part of the charm — a chance to unplug and fully immerse yourself in the surroundings.

Can children come on this trip?

This trip is best suited to adults and older teenagers (typically aged 16+), due to the nature of the hiking, terrain, and remote locations. The treks involve moderate distances and elevation gains, which can be challenging for younger children.

If you’re travelling as a family with active older children and are used to walking holidays, it may be possible to tailor a break to your own pace and needs. Please get in touch to discuss suitability and custom options by emailing support@nitgb.com.

What is the best and worst time of year to hike the Atlas Mountains?

The Atlas Mountains are a year-round destination, each season offering a distinct experience. The most popular times to hike are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when conditions are ideal — warm days, cool nights, and clear trails. These seasons showcase the mountains at their most colourful, with blossoming valleys in spring and golden hues in autumn.

Summer (June–August) is warmer, especially in lower altitudes, but offers cooler temperatures in the high mountains, making it a good time for those seeking quieter trails and alpine breezes. It’s also an excellent option for family trips during school holidays.

Winter (December–February) is the off-season, with snow covering higher passes and crisp air in the valleys. It’s a magical time for those looking for solitude, striking mountain views, and a slower, more atmospheric journey. Trekking is still very possible on lower routes, and you’ll experience a different side of Berber life in the cold season.

Whatever time you choose, your local hosts and guides adapt the route to suit the conditions, ensuring a safe and enriching experience in every season.

Join our community

Get off the beaten track and support local communities that you visit.

Sign up for inspiriation for your itinerary, new experiences and special offers.