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M'GounChallenging

North-South Traverse of the Central High Atlas with M'Goun Ascent

Duration
6 days
Max altitude
4,048 m
Total ascent
3,260 m↑
Best season
May–Oct

Cross the Atlas from one side to the other in six days. Start on the northern slope via Azilal and the Ikkis n'Arous shepherd huts, cross the Tarkeddit pass, summit M'Goun (4,068 m), then descend the southern side through the Tichki valley and the Amjgag gorges to the Valley of Roses. A complete change of scenery: from green high pastures to pre-Saharan oases. May to October.

100% adjustable. This itinerary is a base — Maroc Trek Atlas adjusts, adds and removes any part of it for you.

The route

2,000 M2,500 M3,000 M3,500 M0 KM20 KM40 KM60 KM

Day by day

  1. Day 1

    Marrakech – Azilal – Ikkis n'Arous

    Drive and walk to the Ikkis n'Arous shepherd huts. Night in a tent.

    Night: Bivouac

  2. Day 2

    Tarkeddit pass – plateau

    Cross the Tarkeddit pass to the plateau. Night in a tent.

    Night: Bivouac

  3. Day 3

    M'Goun summit (4,068 m) – Ifri n'Ait Hamou

    Max altitude
    4,068 m

    Climb M'Goun, then descend the southern side to Ifri n'Ait Hamou. Night in a tent.

    Night: Bivouac

  4. Day 4

    Tichki valley – Ameskar

    Walk through the Tichki valley to Ameskar.

  5. Day 5

    Amjgag gorges – Valley of Roses – Boutaghrar

    Walk through the Amjgag gorges and the Valley of Roses to Boutaghrar. Night in a family gite.

    Night: Gîte

  6. Day 6

    Ouarzazate – Marrakech

    Drive back to Marrakech via Ouarzazate.

Included in this price

  • Licensed mountain guide from the valley
  • Private return transport from Marrakech (day 1 and day 6)
  • Accommodation during the trek (tents and a gite)
  • Meals during the 6 days of the trek
  • Mules to carry the luggage
  • Mint tea breaks during the 6 days

To plan for

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Accommodation and meals in Marrakech

International flights are never included — you book those yourself

When to go

  1. January: off season
  2. February: off season
  3. March: off season
  4. April: off season
  5. May: recommended season
  6. June: recommended season
  7. July: recommended season
  8. August: recommended season
  9. September: recommended season
  10. October: recommended season
  11. November: off season
  12. December: off season

Recommended seasonOff season

Frequently asked questions

How fit do I need to be?

The agency rates this trek as difficult, with a 4,068 m summit and several high-mountain days.

What makes a north-south traverse special?

You start on the green, pastoral northern slope and finish in the south, at the edge of the oases and the Valley of Roses.

When is the best time to go?

From May to October.

How much does it cost?

The agency shows 420 EUR per person for 4 or more. For 2 or 3 people the page shows two different prices (500 EUR and 460 EUR), so please confirm with the agency.

Where do we sleep?

In tents for the first three nights, then in a family gite in Boutaghrar.

What is the Ait Bouguemez valley?

Known as the 'Happy Valley', it is a green valley in the Central High Atlas, in Azilal province, famous for its earthen villages, terraced fields and dinosaur footprints. It is the starting point for treks to M'Goun.

Do I need to be sporty to do the north-south traverse with M'Goun?

The agency rates it as difficult. You need good fitness and experience of mountain walking.

What should I pack for the north-south traverse with M'Goun?

Hiking boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, a headlamp, sun protection and a water bottle. For the gorges, add secure walking sandals: you walk in the river. For the summit, bring a hat and gloves: it is cold at dawn.

How do I get from Marrakech to the Ait Bouguemez valley?

The agency arranges private return transport from Marrakech. The road goes via Azilal and takes several hours across the Atlas.

Why book with Maroc Trek Atlas?

The agency is based at the Timit gite in the heart of the valley. Treks are led by Youssef, a certified mountain and desert guide with over 20 years of experience, and every itinerary can be adapted to your pace.

Your agency

Maroc Trek Atlas

Based in
Aït Bouguemez
Terrain
M'Goun, Toubkal, Sahara

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