Atlas Mountains Trekking Tour: 7-Day High Atlas Hike & M’Goun

Summary

Guided High Atlas Hike: Aït Bouguemez to M’Goun Summit Adventure

You’ll trek deep into Morocco’s High Atlas—from green valleys through high passes to M’Goun’s summit—with local guides and real Berber hospitality along every step.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the cool morning air as we left Marrakech behind, watching the city fade into the rearview while the mountains grew bigger ahead. Our driver wound us through Azilal’s backroads, then up into the Central High Atlas. By the time we reached Timit in Aït Bouguemez valley, I could smell fresh earth and wild herbs on the breeze. Some of us wandered over to visit the marabout—a quiet little shrine locals still keep tidy—before settling in at a simple inn for the night. The journey took about five hours, but honestly, it flew by with all those mountain views.

Next morning, just after sunrise, our mule team showed up—bells jingling and all. We loaded up and set off across patchwork fields where farmers were already out with their donkeys. The path led us along the Arouss Valley; by midday we were picnicking under walnut trees, munching on bread and olives while listening to water trickle nearby. The climb up to Ikissn’Arouss pastures was steady but not too tough. That night in our tents, I remember how quiet it got—just a few sheep bells in the distance.

The third day started gentle but turned steep quick. We zigzagged up toward Aghri Pass (3,200m), stopping now and then just to catch our breath and take in those endless ridges. Lunch was simple—dates, nuts, hot tea—but tasted like a feast after that climb. Dropping down onto Tarkeddit plateau felt like stepping onto another planet: wide open space at the foot of M’Goun’s northern wall.

If you’re up for it—and if weather plays nice—you’ll be waking before dawn for M’Goun summit day (4,068m). We left camp at 4:30am with headlamps bobbing in the dark. The last two hours are all ridge walking; wind picks up there and you can see way out over both sides of the range. Our guide Youssef kept us moving at a steady pace and pointed out Berber villages far below. Coming down into Oulilimte valley felt like relief—feet sore but spirits high. If summiting isn’t your thing, there’s an easier route along M’Goun’s north side with just as much scenery.

After a chilly night by the river (I slept like a log), we climbed again over Tizin’Ougmar pass and followed goat paths above green pastures. Camp that night sat right next to a clear stream—some folks even braved a dip in a cold gorge nearby! Lunch was waiting when we arrived; nothing fancy but somehow everything tastes better outdoors.

The sixth day brought us down through rocky valleys dotted with wildflowers before one last push up to Tizin’Aït Imi (2,950m). At the top you get this double view—the snowy M’Goun chain behind you and Aït Bouguemez valley rolling out below. We said goodbye to our mule team back in Timit and spent our last night indoors again (hot shower never felt so good).

On our way back to Marrakech we stopped at Ouzoud waterfalls—misty air, monkeys darting around trees, lunch at a café overlooking all that rushing water. Back in Marrakech by evening, there was time for one more group dinner if you wanted it—or just wandering those busy streets on your own.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Marrakech to Aït Bouguemez Valley

• Minibus drive from Marrakech to Timit via Azilal (5 hours)
• Optional visit to the marabout
• Overnight in an inn

Day 2 — Timit to Ikissn'Arouss Camp

• Breakfast and mule team joins
• Hike across valley to Arouss Valley confluence
• Lunch under walnut trees
• Ascent to Ikissn’Arouss camp
• Overnight in a tent

Day 3 — Ikissn’Arouss to Tarkeddit Plateau

• Climb to small pass and Aghri Pass (3,200m)
• Lunch on the way
• Descend to Tarkeddit plateau
• Overnight in a tent

Day 4 — M’Goun Summit and Oulilimte Camp

• Early start to climb M’Goun summit (optional, 6 hours)
• Descent to Oulilimte valley camp
• Picnic lunch en route
• Alternative route at M’Goun northern foot
• Overnight in a tent

Day 5 — Oulilimte to Iglin 'Tanout Camp

• Ascent to Tizin’Ougmar (2,700m)
• Hike to camp by river
• Lunch at camp
• Optional swim in nearby gorge
• Overnight in a tent

Day 6 — Iglin'Tanout to Timit

• Descent through river valley and rock formations
• Ascent to Tizin’Aït Imi (2,950m)
• Descent to Timit valley
• Lunch on the way
• Farewell to mule team
• Overnight in an inn

Day 7 — Return to Marrakech via Ouzoud

• Minibus drive to Marrakech via Ouzoud waterfalls
• Lunch at Ouzoud waterfalls
• Overnight in riad
• Free afternoon and optional dinner

Top questions

How difficult is this Atlas trekking tour?

You’ll need moderate fitness since there are long days and some steep climbs—especially if you go for the M’Goun summit—but nothing technical or requiring climbing gear.

What kind of accommodation should I expect?

You’ll sleep mostly in tents during the trek (with basic facilities), plus guesthouses or inns at each end of the route.

Are meals included during the hike?

Yes—all meals during trekking days are prepared by our cook using fresh local ingredients; lunches are usually picnics outdoors.

Can I skip climbing M’Goun?

Absolutely—it’s optional! There’s an alternative scenic route along the base if you’d rather skip the summit day.

Is transport between Marrakech and Aït Bouguemez included?

Yes—air-conditioned minibus transfers are part of your package both ways.

What’s included

Your trek includes all guiding services, support from local muleteers (and their trusty mules), overnight stays in tents or inns as described, meals during trekking days cooked by our team, plus comfortable minibus transfers between Marrakech and Aït Bouguemez valley—including a stop at Ouzoud waterfalls on your return trip.