5-Day Toubkal & Merzouga Sahara Desert Trek – From Peaks to Dunes
🌍 Overview:
This 5-day adventure blends two of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes: the rugged peaks of Mount Toubkal (4,167m) and the golden dunes of the Merzouga Sahara Desert. You’ll trek through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, explore traditional Berber villages, and summit North Africa’s highest peak before embarking on a magical desert journey with camel trekking, a night in a luxury camp, and stunning sunrise over the dunes.
This tour is perfect for adventurers seeking both mountain thrills and desert serenity in a single trip!
📌 Why Choose the Toubkal & Merzouga Trek?
✅ Conquer Morocco’s highest peak (4,167m) and enjoy panoramic mountain views.
✅ Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert, with a camel trek & overnight camp.
✅ Immerse in Berber culture, from mountain villages to desert nomadic life.
✅ Perfect blend of adventure & cultural exploration in just 5 days!
✅ Small group & private tours available, led by expert local guides.
- Morning transfer from Marrakech to Imlil (1,740m).
- Meet your local guide & muleteers, enjoy a welcome Berber tea.
- Trek through Berber villages (Aremd, Sidi Chamharouch) and breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Arrive at Toubkal Base Camp (3,207m) and rest in a refuge before the summit attempt. *(5-6 hours hiking)*
- Early morning ascent to Mount Toubkal summit (4,167m), enjoying breathtaking sunrise views.
- Descend back to Toubkal Refuge, then trek down to Imlil. *(Approx. 9-10 hours total hiking)*
- Relax in Imlil & spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse.
- Drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), stopping for panoramic views.
- Explore Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed Berber kasbah.
- Continue through Ouarzazate & the Rose Valley, arriving in Dades Valley.
- Overnight stay in a traditional kasbah.
- Explore Todgha Gorges, a dramatic canyon perfect for photos & short walks.
- Arrive in Merzouga, where camels await for a magical desert trek.
- Ride into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, reaching your luxury desert camp.
- Enjoy Berber drumming, stargazing & an authentic Moroccan dinner.
- Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes.
- Camel trek back to Merzouga, then drive through Draa Valley & the Atlas Mountains.
- Arrive in Marrakech by evening, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure!
Essential Packing List for Toubkal & Merzouga Trek
Clothing:
- Trekking boots (broken in beforehand).
- Warm jacket and rainproof jacket with a hood.
- Warm hat and sun hat.
- Gloves (waterproof in winter).
- Comfortable trekking pants and lightweight long-sleeve shirts.
- Thermal base layers.
- Wool socks (2 pairs).
- Lightweight sandals for the refuge.
Equipment:
- Backpack for trekking gear and a daypack for essentials (water, snacks, extra layers).
- Sleeping bag.
- Water bottle with purification tablets.
- Walking poles.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
Other Essentials:
- Sun cream and lip balm.
- First-aid kit (pain relievers, plasters, antiseptic wipes, rehydration sachets).
- Passport and travel insurance details.
- Small toiletries (toothbrush, soap, towel, antibacterial gel).
- Snacks and energy bars.
Winter-Specific Gear:
- Crampons, gaiters, and ice axes.
- Down or windproof outer layers.
- Snow goggles.
Note: Equipment is available for rent at reasonable prices.
