High Atlas Mountains and Agafay desert including camel Ride from Marrakech

This adventure offers a deep dive into the Berber lifestyle in the authentic villages of the High Atlas Mountains. As you drive through the picturesque valleys of Nfis, Asni, and Imlil, you’ll be immersed in the breathtaking landscapes and traditional Berber culture that define this region. Each valley has its own unique charm, with lush greenery, terraced fields, and ancient stone houses that stand as testaments to the resilience and ingenuity of the Berber people.

The journey continues into the barren beauty of the Agafay Desert, a stark yet stunning contrast to the verdant valleys. Here, you can enjoy a camel ride under a vast sky that conspires with the sun, presenting an unbroken expanse of blue with not even a wisp of cloud to soften the intense rays. The experience of traversing this rugged landscape on camelback evokes a sense of timeless adventure and connection to the nomadic traditions of the region.

As evening approaches, the desert transforms into a magical setting for a Berber dinner under the stars. The lack of urban light pollution allows the night sky to reveal its full splendor, with countless stars shimmering overhead. The dinner itself is a feast of traditional Berber cuisine, featuring dishes such as savory tagines, couscous, and freshly baked bread, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This meal is not just a culinary delight but also an intimate glimpse into Berber hospitality and culture.

Throughout this journey, you’ll encounter the warmth and generosity of the Berber people, who are eager to share their way of life with visitors. Whether you’re exploring the high mountain villages, riding camels in the desert, or dining under the stars, this adventure offers an enriching and immersive experience. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and unforgettable moments that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Berber heritage and the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert.

Itinerary:

Starting at 8.00am via Oukaimdan route until we get to Tadamamt from where we are going to drive until the roadside village of Asni with an interesting red-walled Kasbah. Asni is the first large village on the road from Marrakech to tizi n’test pass. Attractive orchards surround the village and there many mule tracks leading up to the plateau in its vicinity. We follow the trail from one valley to another to discover the high Atlas Mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views of the area.
5km from this small settlement, a metaled road leads to Moulay Brahim where Moroccan and notably Berbers ascribe to the saint Moulay Brahim the power to cure barren women. Pilgrims come to lay their gifts before his tomb and to hang small pieces of fabric from the shrubs here. When one of these fragments falls from the shrub, the woman who hung it may expect a child. Then get to an authentic Berber house for refreshing mint tea and a house made food, and also to discover Berbers culture and their way of life.
Heading to the Kik Plateau where you have commanding views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Passing by the Valley of N’fis to visit the barrage of Lalla Takerkouste. An hour or so before the dusk we drive towards the Agafay desert; where there is no shade large enough for all; to enjoy a camel ride under a sky that’s co-conspirator with not even a wisp of cloud to soften the harsh rays..