This classic day walk follows ancient mule trails through the scenic and somewhat remote Azzaden Valley in the High Atlas Mountains south of Marrakech. Walking for 4-5 hours from the top of the valley to the bottom we pass nine Berber villages and enjoy marvellous views far from the heavily trekked routes around Imlil. On our last recce of this walk we encountered just a single donkey and several locals!

First, we travel to the trailhead at Tizi Oussem by 4x4 and enjoy views of North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal. After tea in a Berber home we start a 16 km walk along the valley. Our trail winds up and down both sides of the valley, following the Azzaden river on its journey towards the Atlantic. Nourished by High Atlas springs throughout the year, the valley has many orchards: we’ll see walnut and almond trees, olive groves and plentiful fruit trees including cherry, apple, peach, plum, apricots, quince, lemon and fig.

During our walk we enjoy a picnic lunch close to the river in a narrow gorge with waterfalls. We’ll also learn about day to day village life from our Berber guide. At Kasbah Africa, a beautiful nature retreat built on the bend of the river, we break for tea and the chance of a swim. The final part of the walk follows the valley to Lake Ouirgane.

ITINERARY

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0800   Rendezvous with driver. Depart Marrakech, drive via Tahanoute and Asni.

0945   Arrive at Tizi Oussem village in Azzaden Valley; tea in Berber house.

1015   Start walking through Azzaden Valley – follow ancient mule trail.

1300   Picnic lunch en route (riverside at the gorge/falls depending on water level).

1600   Arrive Kasbah Africa; tea and time for a swim, enjoy the views; continue walk.

1800   Meet vehicle in Ouirgane and return to Marrakech.

1900   Arrive Marrakech.

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Timings are approx. and may vary due to interests of the group, weather or seasons.

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DEPARTS DAILY

This trip operates daily throughout the year.

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DON'T FORGET

To take walking shoes/boots/sandals, swimwear plus sun protection.