Saghro Trek and Draa Valley Desert trek “This Jebel saghro trek combines between Mountain and Desert landscape “
Saghro trek and Draa Valley Desert trek Embark on an extraordinary trek of discovery as you traverse the Saghro Mountain range and explore the captivating Draa Valley. Often dubbed the “Moroccan Hoggar,” the Saghro range boasts an extensive ridge that runs parallel to the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The southern slope of the Jebel Saghro is a broad expanse gently sloping downward, inviting you to unravel its secrets.
The adventure unfolds against the backdrop of the Moroccan desert, with a focus on the Draa Valley, a region steeped in history and natural beauty. This valley, historically a vital passageway for caravans on the road to and from the Sahara, unveils a tapestry of diverse landscapes. Expect to traverse rocky plateaus (known as regs), navigate through undulating dunes, encounter lush palm oases, and stumble upon fortified villages crafted from adobe, each telling a story of resilience against the desert winds.
This Saghro trek and Draa Valley Desert trek expedition goes beyond the physical landscapes, allowing you to step into the rich tapestry of Moroccan history and culture. The mountain and desert treks you tread are imbued with the echoes of caravans that once traversed this arid expanse, leaving an indelible mark on the Merzouga sand dunes. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the some imperial cities in Morocco like Fez where this trek tour in Morocco conclude, where every step is a connection to the past and an exploration of the present.
GROUP SIZE | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8+ |
PRICE/PERSON | €820 | €790 | €760 | €730 | €680 | €640 | €610 |
The landscapes that unfold before your eyes are nothing short of spectacular, with rugged mountain peaks casting their shadows over green valleys and meandering rivers bordered by several villages. As you navigate the winding trails, you'll enjoy panoramic views that seem almost otherworldly, inviting you to pause and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of desert sand dunes that stretches as far as the eye can see.
This ample experience that we will share with you will undoubtedly guide you to an unforgettable tour in Morocco.
Upon your arrival at Marrakesh airport, you will be welcomed by your tour guide and transferred to your riad or hotel for an overnight stay. If you arrive early enough, you can visit some of Marrakesh’s beautiful monuments, the famous Jamaa Lafna square, and take a stroll in the bustling markets of the Medina.
After the morning assembly, embark on a drive to the southern reaches of a mythical realm, crossing the majestic Crystal Peaks via the mystical Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m), the highest road that connect Marrakesh to Ouarzazate cities. Your odyssey leads you through the otherworldly town of Ouarzazate and across a vast lunar plateau, after reaching the Valley of Luminescent Roses. Continuing your expedition, you’ll encounter captivating fortified houses of Kasbah along the way to the charming Dades valley, where a delightful stroll awaits. Nestled in the heart of this magical land, the day’s adventure concludes in the village of Tagdilte. Here, we’ll spend the night in a quaint village house, providing an immersive cultural experience and serving as the perfect launchpad for an enchanting trek to Jebel saghro the following day, as well as a meeting point with our team of muleteers and cooks.
Embarking on our hiking in Saghro, we start by traversing a vast and dry plateau, making our way towards the serene oasis adorned with vibrant oleanders. Our trek in saghro massif intensifies as we ascend a challenging slope to reach the majestic Ifard pass, standing proudly at an elevation of 2450 meters. At this vantage point, we are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view that unfolds the splendor of the Dades valley and the towering peaks of the Mgoun mountains. The descent brings us to the picturesque Almou n’ouareg, nestled at an altitude of 2300 meters, where we establish our first camp. A day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and approximately 6 hours of invigorating trekking awaits us.
After breakfast we ascend from the scenic Tizi n’Ouarg to reach the base of Kouaouch, a striking volcanic plug that stands as the highest point for miles around. For the adventurous souls among us, there’s the enticing option of scrambling up to its summit at (2600 m), promising breathtaking panoramic views in every direction.
Our descent from Kouaouch (2600m) summit leads us to the picturesque azibs at Agersidal, a tranquil summer pasture. Along the way, we traverse beneath the towering vertical rock face of Tassigdelt Tamajgalt, a geological marvel that adds a touch of drama to our expedition. As we continue our descent, we eventually reach the oasis of Igli at 2162 meters, a small haven surrounded by captivating natural rock formations that give the impression of being within a majestic natural amphitheater. we continue walking through this special landscape for 1hour and 30 to join an amazing place of Tadout N tablah Here, under the vast sky, we set up camp for the night at (1600m), reflecting on the day’s trek.
Our expedition reaches its pinnacle as we emerge from the labyrinth, greeted by the awe-inspiring landscape that many consider to be the jewel of Sahro. This hidden gem, with its breathtaking views and the play of light and shadow paints the landscape in hues that evoke a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
In the heart of this natural masterpiece, the radiant Bab n’Ali stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Sahro region. Its towering presence commands attention, a silent guardian of the secrets embedded in the rocky folds of the landscape. The twin rock towers, weathered by countless seasons, whisper tales of a bygone era, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the already captivating scenery.
After lunch in the camp we set off for another 2/3 hours, the allure of the Afourar Gorge persists, drawing us deeper into its spellbinding embrace. The canyon, carved by the patient hands of time, reveals layers of geological history etched into the very fabric of the earth. Each twist and turn in the trail opens up new perspectives, leaving us in awe of the natural forces that have sculpted this mesmerizing tapestry. We conclude our saghro day trek by heading back to our camp.
Take note: Afternoon trekking is optional
After an exhilarating first leg of our adventure, we find ourselves amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Saghro Mountains. Following an incredible day of exploration, we embark on the next phase, traversing the picturesque Daraa valley via a winding road that leads us to Zagora. Along this scenic route, we are captivated by the allure of beautiful palm groves and ancient villages that unfold before us.
Upon reaching Nsrat village, we eagerly meet with our Camel team, ready to continue our expedition. As we proceed, we pause for lunch. Our path then beckons us to embark on a short, invigorating 2-hour walk through the mesmerizing landscape, where dunes and palms create a harmonious blend.
we set up the first camp in the desert at the foot of the majestic dunes.
After Breakfast, our adventurous group set out on an enchanting desert trek, walking through the mesmerizing Nasrate dunes and crossing the vast expanse of a sprawling plateau that unfolds before us in all its awe-inspiring beauty. Our path leads us to the heart of peaceful palm groves and the quaint village of Sidi Salah. At the village exit, we will partake in lunch.
As the afternoon sun casts its warm glow, we continue our exploration, wandering amidst the undulating dunes. The whispers of the desert breeze guide us to our destination—the secluded campsite where the magic of the desert night awaits.
Our day began with a leisurely stroll through the mesmerizing dunes, setting the stage for the adventure that awaited us. The desert hike unfolded with a gradual ascent—a one-hour climb leading us to the majestic summit of Tidri Mountain. From this vantage point, an awe-inspiring panorama stretched out before us, revealing the rugged beauty of the ground in all its splendor.
Descending from the summit, our path guided us to a vast plateau, an expansive ground that beckoned us forward. As we crossed this open expanse, the breadth of our surroundings unfolded, creating a sense of both wonder and anticipation. Our destination awaited at the renowned Erg Sahil dunes, a captivating spectacle that marked the entrance to the heart of the massive desert sand dunes.
Amidst this breathtaking backdrop, we paused for a rejuvenating lunch break. The afternoon unfolded with an exhilarating trek through the undulating dunes, each step bringing us closer to the heart of our desert camp where we could enjoy a stunning sunset.
Our today’s expedition takes us on a westward trajectory, promising an enchanting odyssey through the vastness of the Saharan landscape. As we cross the expansive ground, we’ll encounter scattered remnants of resilient acacia and Tamarisk trees, bearing witness to the endurance of life in this arid expanse.
Come midday, a serene respite awaits us beneath the cooling embrace of an ancient acacia, providing a welcome interlude for lunchtime followed by a short rest.
In the afternoon, our desert trek unfolds with a leisurely stroll, guiding us to the ethereal dunes of Erg Lahniti—a place that has proven itself as the perfect backdrop for our final campsite.
After breakfast, we embark on the final leg of our desert trek, bidding farewell to our last camp. Our desert trek unfolds through the pristine expanse of the desert, each step a communion with the solitude of the Sahara. The small dunes gently guide our path until we reveal the oasis and palm groves of Oulad driss, nestled in the heart of the arid wilderness. we conclude our trek visiting an authentique village of Oulad driss including an important meusem, we then join our lunch place.
Our hike takes a poignant turn as we bid farewell to our team and transition to the modernity of transportation. An expedition on wheels awaits, propelling us through shifting landscapes towards Zagora city. We then drive north through the Draa Valley, renowned for its lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages. The landscape is adorned with Ksar, kasbahs and mud-brick houses. Our journey continues across the Anti Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, The day’s program concludes by joining Ksar Ait Ben Haddou. Here, we find repose in the hotel.
After breakfast, we set off to begin our day by visiting Ksar Ait Benhaddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a mesmerizing example of southern Moroccan architecture, with its ancient mud-brick buildings and intricate designs that seem to transport you back in time. Walking through the narrow winding streets, you can feel the rich history and culture embedded in every corner.
We’ll then drive along the picturesque Ounilla Valley, a region known for its breathtaking vistas and vibrant, terracotta-colored hillsides. The journey takes us through Telouet villages, we’ll cross several charming settlements, each with its own distinct character. The landscape transforms, revealing the diverse beauty of Morocco, from the rugged mountains to the fertile valleys. This desert tour is not just a physical one but a deep tour through the cultural tapestry that makes this country so captivating.
We’ll eventually reach the Tichka Pass, a mountain pass that stands at an impressive altitude. The panoramic views from the pass showcase the greatness of the Atlas Mountains, with their snow-capped peaks and sweeping valleys. Continuing our descent from the pass, we’ll wind our way through the mesmerizing foothills, and our desert tour will conclude as we make our way back to Marrakech.
Following our morning meal, our vacation officially concludes, leaving the entire day open for leisurely exploration through the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech. You are encouraged to wander through the winding streets, immerse yourself in the lively markets, and indulge in the kaleidoscope of colors that adorn the cityscape. An enticing choice is to spend the rest of the day at your own pace, perhaps finding a cozy spot at one of the charming restaurants that offer a picturesque view of the Djemaa el-Fna square, where you can unwind and observe the dynamic tapestry of life unfolding around you. Meeting you and transfer to the airport 3 hours before your fly time.
Extra service: Optionally, with an additional fee, we can arrange a transfer to Casablanca airport for you, Feel free to contact us if you need assistance, Lunch and dinner are not included.
We’ve gathered a selection of commonly asked questions to provide you with further insight into this extraordinary mountain desert trek.
All meals are included during Jebel Saghro Mountain and desert trek from Breakfast on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 11.
Drinking water is provided during the second part of Jebel Saghro mountain and desert trek(Draa valley part), but it’s strictly for drinking purposes only. Please use it carefully. For washing, a small basin of water will be provided during Saghro days trek. However, please note that it won’t be available on the subsequent days. We appreciate your cooperation in using towels, as accessing water in the desert is challenging. Please don’t forget to bring tablets for water treatment and filtering. These will be used only for the first part of the trip (Jebel Saghro days trek).
During the trek, all food is sourced locally and prepared by our skilled trek cooks. Our cook and crew consistently amazes Morocco hike tours groups with their culinary creations!
Breakfast, tea, coffee, milk, chocolate… jams, honey, cheese… bread, sometimes Berber pancakes.
Lunches usually starts with a cup of mint tea, assorted salads, and a hot dish, fruits,… (Vegetables are washed, peeled).
Dinner, starts off with soup and bread. The main course is usually rice, pasta, couscous, spaghetti or chips, with a vegetable stew (or tagine) consisting of some of the following – onion, potato, carrot, green pepper, zucchini, turnip, parsnip, green beans, and peas. There will be some meat (usually chicken, lamb or beef), however meat is not prominent in the menu. All dishes come with traditional sauces which are rarely (spicy) hot. To round off dinner, there is the usual range of hot drinks and some fruits.
While we make efforts to accommodate vegetarians, the options may be limited at times. Unfortunately, we may not always be able to accommodate special dietary needs due to the nature of our trips and the area we visit. It can be challenging, and in some cases impossible, to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. You may need to bring supplementary food or snacks from home if your dietary needs are specific. For inquiries about specific dietary requirements, please contact our sales team. Please understand that we cannot guarantee to fulfill all requests and cannot be held liable for any issues related to dietary restrictions or intolerances.
During Trekking to Jebel Saghro Mountain and desert trek, the group will spend two nights in a riad or hotel on an en-suite basis. While there are a range of high-end hotels in Marrakesh, we try to strike the right balance of a comfortable and conveniently located base while maintaining a really good value holiday. While trekking, we have 7 nights in a camping and 1 night in a house on the second night.
If you are traveling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single hotel rooms and/or single rooms and single tent are available for a supplementary cost. If you are planning on extending your holiday, additional nights at the group hotel or in a range of different hotels and riads in Marrakesh are available on request.
The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader proficient in English or another language of your preference, depending on the confirmation date. Additionally, the group will be supported by a full trek crew, which includes a cook responsible for preparing our meals, as well as baggage animals (mules), and their handlers..
Trekking to Jebel Saghro and through the desert involves hiking at relatively high altitudes during the first part of Jebel Saghro, which rises to 2525 meters, and then at lower altitudes during the Draa Valley desert trek. You will reach elevations exceeding 800 meters
Plan to hold around £150 per person (or its equivalent in US dollars or Euros) for tips, soft drinks, snacks, and other incidental expenses. Keep in mind that additional costs may arise for souvenirs, and optional activities, so it’s wise to budget for these separately.
While Moroccan Dirhams are not typically available for purchase outside the country, you can conveniently withdraw local currency from ATMs upon your arrival at the airport or in Ouarzazate. ATMs offer the option to withdraw funds in pounds sterling, dollars, or euros, which you can easily exchange at the airport. Carrying a credit card is advisable for emergencies and additional peace of mind.
Tipping is the customary way to express gratitude to your local guides and porters. It’s important to note that tips do not constitute a part of their wages; rather, they are viewed as a personal gesture of appreciation from group members. We advise our local teams that tips are not obligatory or expected but are rather a reflection of the service provided.
It is customary for the group to collectively decide on the final amount of tips to be distributed among the guide, cook, and porters, as their responsibilities differ. We suggest that approximately £55 per group member would be an appropriate amount to ensure fair compensation, which you can give directly to them.
For this Jebel Saghro and draa valley trek, you should bring one piece of luggage (maximum weight on arrival at the group hotel is dependent on your international flight restrictions) and a daypack (of around 30 – 40 litres). no rigid suitcase, for your belongings (top opening, more practical); your bags will be handled several times and carried by the mules during or trekking to Jebel Saghro and camels for the second part of Draa valley desert trek. (Maximum 15kg/person), and no fresh produce should be left in these bags.
You can, of course, leave any type of baggage at the hotel in Ouarzazate, including any items you do not need on the trek, as well as your suitcase if you prefer to travel with it, and pick these up when you return.
Your main bag will be transferred between overnight stops, and you should have this ready for collection before breakfast each morning. The bag will normally be delivered to our next camp by 16 :30, but this may vary depending on the day.
Upon your arrival at the airport, you can purchase a SIM card for 1 euro, or sometimes it’s free. Then, all you need to do is top it up with an internet option, and you’ll have a connection when needed. We recommend Maroc Telecom as the company, but please keep in mind that in some places, other companies might offer better service. It all depends on the reception in each area.
All our trekking and tours proposals in Morocco by Morocco hike tours are guaranteed for a minimum of two people. There is a required minimum number of participants to ensure the trip proceeds. Once this minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from ‘Available’ to ‘Guaranteed to run
If you suffer from a severe allergy, kindly notify the Morocco Hike Tours Team (support) prior to your departure. While we will make every effort to assist you, please note that we cannot ensure an allergy-free environment during Your trip to Morocco. It is imperative that you carry your own allergy treatment, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not provided as standard equipment by Morocco Hike Tours leaders and staff. Upon arrival, please inform your leader about your allergy and indicate the location where you store your adrenaline pen.
Vaccinations:&It’s advisable to reach out to your physician or travel clinic to verify if any particular vaccinations are necessary for your trip.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
Travelers hailing from the UK, US, and EU typically enjoy visa-free access to Morocco. However, it’s essential to bear in mind that visa regulations can undergo alterations. Ensuring compliance with visa prerequisites falls under your purview for this journey. Hence, we advise consulting the closest embassy or consulate pertaining to your designated destination(s), as well as any countries involved in transit or transfer.
Certain local authorities furnish information regarding the requisite visas for their nationals. To assist you further, we’ve compiled a set of helpful links below:
Preparing with some extra physical activity prior to embarking on an active vacation is highly advisable. Enhancing your fitness level beforehand will undoubtedly enhance the overall enjoyment of your trip.
Being in good physical condition and accustomed to walking for 3 to 5 hours on consecutive days is recommended. Engaging in hill walking, incorporating both ascent and descent, serves as optimal preparation. Additionally, activities such as running, cycling, and swimming are beneficial for improving cardiovascular endurance and stamina.
Morocco’s monetary unit is known as the Moroccan Dirham. Below are some currency exchange rates, which can fluctuate daily:
– 1 Pound Sterling = 12.5 Dirham
– 1 Australian Dollar = 6.5 Dirham
– 1 Canadian Dollar = 7.4 Dirham
– 1 US Dollar = 10.00 Dirham
– 1 Euro = 10.6 Dirham.
If you wish to have your clothes washed during this 4WD Morocco tour, it will be possible for an additional fee of 10 Dirhams per item (underwear not accepted) and 4/5 Dirhams per item for ironing.
The weather typically offers pleasant conditions with daytime temperatures ranging between 20 and 25°C, in the desert can be rises more then 32° and nighttime temperatures dropping to 7 – 10°C. However, there are instances when nighttime temperatures may plummet to as low as 3°C, so remember to pack a fleece jacket from December to the beginning of March .
Morocco Hike Tours does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We ensure that all our staff across Morocco work together to reduce this issue and educate those around them. During our desert and mountain treks, we are committed to collecting our rubbish and bringing it back to the big cities. Our footprints are the only thing we should leave behind.
To participate in a holiday organized by Morocco Hike Tours, it is imperative that you possess a valid travel insurance policy. This insurance should adequately cover the expenses related to medical treatment and safeguard the value of your holiday in case of cancellation. Prior to obtaining insurance, please verify that the chosen policy provides coverage for the activities and altitudes specified in your itinerary.
In the event that one participant leaves the group for any reason, the customer must assume responsibility for the charges, and no reimbursement will be provided.
This trek operates from October to April, and is flexible to depart on any date of your preference within these months.
Please select the trek that piques your interest, then reach out to us via email to initiate a discussion regarding your preferred trek and to verify its availability. Once we have agreed upon the specifics of your trek, including its duration, route, and the number of participants, we will proceed to make a tentative reservation, providing you with the dates and associated costs.
To secure your booking, we kindly request a 20% deposit, which can be paid online through a bank transfer in Euros, pounds sterling, or US dollars. The remaining balance is settled upon arrival in Morocco, payable in cash using the same currencies—Euros, sterling, or dollars—at the outset of the trek.
Please note: Should you find it inconvenient to carry cash, you have the option to settle the balance online via bank transfer a few days prior to the departure date.
Our Cancellation Policy:
In areas with low tourist numbers (Berber villages in the desert such as in the Atlas), men are advised to avoid very short shorts, tank tops or loose shirts. The same goes for women, avoiding transparent fabrics and tight-fitting outfits. A scarf on your hair is not essential. You can try to dress in local fashion, which seems better suited to the climate.
This packing guide aims to assist you in organizing your belongings efficiently. It’s advisable to aim for minimal weight when packing your equipment.
Please ensure you have the following items with you:
You have the choice to opt for the following items:
Item to rent:
– Sleeping bag: €25 per person
– Single tent: €30 per person
– Private Camel Ride: €150/p
– Car rental: from €40, lease this via Morocco Hike Tours.
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