EXPLORE: Jebel Sahro Trek

When the high mountain passes of the Northern Atlas close in Autumn, we move south into the Jebel Sahro, an area of variegated and surreal beauty inhabited by nomadic tribes. The Jebel Sahro is a contorted jumble of volcanic monoliths, gouged and chiselled to form stark canyons, mesas and plateaux. Dissected by verdant gorges like the Dades Valley, the mountains are dotted with ruined kasbahs and oases, providing shelter for hardy Berbers and the nomadic Ait Atta.

Itinerary

Moderate mountain walking (5-8 hrs a day) at altitudes of around 2000m. Most of the trek is along well-defined paths. The scenery and cultural experience more than compensate for simple living conditions.

  • Day 1: Join the tour in Marrakech.

  • Day 2: Jebel Sahro.

    Heading south to El Kelaa Mgouna we reach the southern mountains and our first days trek to the hamlet of Ait Youl.

  • Days 3-11: 9-day Trek.

    Our route takes us past small villages and ruined kasbahs into other-worldly landscapes of the Jebel Sahro from the rock formation of the Tete de Chameau to the twin spires of Bab n'Ali and the chimney-like rock pinnacles of the Tassigdelt Tamajgalt plateau.

  • Day 12: Marrakech.

    From the town of Ouarzazate we return to Marrakech for a final evening enjoying the sights and sounds of the Djemme El Fna.

  • Day 13: Tour ends in Marrakech

Into the Jebel Sahro

We drive from Ouarzazate to the tiny hamlet of Ait Youl, the starting point of our trek. Walking through valleys studded with almond groves, the Jebel Sahro gradually reveals its beauty. We traverse ridges and passes, catching glimpses of other-worldly landscapes - the rock formation of the Tete de Chameau (Camel's Head) and the twin spires of Bab n'Ali. Finally reaching the central massif, we explore the fissures and clefts of the Tassigdelt Tamajgalt plateau, with its chimney-like rock pinnacles. At sunset, the mesas of Tizi n'Taggourt create a stunningly supernatural atmosphere.


Nomads & Kasbahs

Though there is little habitation here, our route takes us through several small villages, often surmounted by a simple minaret or a ruined kasbah. High Atlas nomads, as well as those of the Jebel Sahro, use this route; it is common to see them on the move with their black felt tents, or spot their caves and shelters. Since few outsiders come here, the Berber people are keen to make our acquaintance, and a shared drink of sweet mint tea is often offered as a friendly welcome.

Ancient Marrakech

We'll spend our final two nights in this magical old city, the meeting place for mountain Berbers and desert people from the south. We'll enjoy the maze of alleyways in the souks and the celebrated Djemma-el-Fna square. The scene at dusk is straight out of the Arabian Nights: a melee of story-tellers, snake-charmers, musicians, jugglers, peddlers and kebab stalls.

* All prices shown are for low season, per person, twin share. Click here to see full Terms & Conditions.

Pricing

13 Days/12 Nights From $1,168*

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Price Includes:3nts hotels, 2nts simple village house, 7nts camping - a combination of basic local accommodation and wild camping in the mountains; 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 9 dinners ; transportion by Chartered bus/On foot during 10-day Jebel Sahro Trek; service of  Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), mountain guide, cook and muleteers. Mules used to carry main luggage.  


Group Size: Approx. 12 to 16.

Highlights

  • Jebel Sahro

  • Tete de Chameau (Camel's Head) and the twin spires of Bab n'Ali

  • Tassigdelt Tamajgalt plateau

  • Visit Ancient Marrakech