Trek Haut Atlas Oriental

Trek Haut Atlas Oriental

Trek Haut Atlas Oriental, our agency takes you on this trek off the beaten track to discover deep Morocco !

It is a region far from Marrakech, little frequented by tourists and hikers, a wild and preserved massif.

Discover the beauty of the landscapes, traditional villages, l’ berber hospitality, superb hikes and as a bonus the ascent of the Maasker 3 277 m.

From Marrakech, departure in 4 x 4, direction Béni Mellal. Along the way, we stock up on mineral water and fresh products. After crossing 3 cols, Ait n’ O Will, n’Idar, and n’Isly, we reach by a beautiful and impressive mountain road, Lake Tislit located at 5 kms from Imilchil, village located 2 200 m d’altitude.

You hike in the wide open spaces of this region called "Moroccan Tibet".

De Imilchil, a track takes us to our first campsite on the shores of Lake Isli. Meeting with our cook and our mule drivers.

The next day, after the tents have been stored, equipment and loading of mules, beautiful hiking route through the lakes plateau.

On this arid plateau with purple and red rocks, are the lakes of Isli and Tislit, two bodies of emerald-colored salt water.

According to a legend in the region, these lakes would have been born from the tears of two lovers from rival tribes who would have forbidden their marriage. Hence the origin of the "Engagement Moussem", a big market festival that takes place every year in this region.

The engagement moussem is also an opportunity for women to find a husband ! On the tray, we stop for mint tea in a large tent with nomads. Ensuite, gradual ascent to the Issoual pass 2 640 m.

At the pass, many small fossils, besides "Issoual" means fossil in Berber. Descent on a winding path to reach our camp near Tighrist's forest house. Around, beautiful Atlas cedars.

The next day, small asphalt road to the village of Anefgou, it is really the end of the world ! From the village, we cross an isolated hamlet and go up the gorges n’Ouid. Steep climb through a beautiful cedar forest to the Ait Brahim pass 2 400 m and descent to our bivouac by a river in Ait Merzoug 2 200 m. Brush of toiletries and washing powder before the traditional mint tea at the end of the afternoon. After a good night's rest, we go towards the gorges of Tatroute.

Trek Haut Atlas oriental, the change of scenery is guaranteed !

Nice approach walk and passage of the gorges sometimes in the water in natural pools, sometimes dry to cross rocks. At the end of the gorges, lunch break with locals in the small village of Assaka.

In the afternoon, quiet hike to return to our bivouac.

The next day, easy day hike down a valley below the foothills of the Maasker range, crossing a few rare villages.

Arrived at Agoudim, installation in a cottage located away from the village with a Berber family. In front of the gîte, the imposing Massker summit 3 277 m. We take a hammam before enjoying a delicious dinner prepared by Aziza, house control.

The next day, departure at dawn. We start the steep and sustained climb to climb the Maasker.

Here, no path but paths taken by the shepherds. At the top, superb view of the small town of Tounfite, the Jaffar circus and on Agoudim. We savor this magical moment .

After the picnic, crossed by ridges, breathtaking view at 360 °, direct descent down the slope to the Tidoula sheepfolds. Shepherds invite us for tea. We are far from the comforts of our cities but what a peaceful life ! Ensuite, return by a track to the lodge in Agoudim.

The next day, after this great adventure among the Berbers of the Eastern High Atlas, transfer back to Marrakech.

Trek Haut Atlas oriental, a trek like no other !