Day 1 : Tabant – Iskattafene – Abachkou
An early transfer from Marrakech via Azilal to Tabant (1850m) where we meet out mules, muleteers and guide. From here we walk the short distance to Iskattafene and then through Iguelouene to Abachkou (1800m) where we camp for the night.
Day 2 : Abachkou – Tarbat n,Tirsal
Today’s walk involves an ascent of 600 metres over the Tighist Pass (2399m) followed by a gradual descent to our campsite at Tarbal n’Tirsal.
Day 3 : Tarbat n’Tirsal – Imazayn
Today’s walk of about 7 hours is not difficult, though it includes an ascent of 300 metres over a pass before dropping down into the valley to camp near the village of Imazayn. On the way we pass below the imposing peaks of the Jebel Rat (3781m) – a strenuous climb and an optional addition to the circuit.
Day 4 : Imazayn – Tissili Gorge – Ifoulou
From Imazayn the trail goes over a pass of about 2500m and then descends into the village of Imi n’Tizgui. From we walk down the valley through Tissili, down to the river into the main valley with its impressive scenery. After about 7 hours walking we reach the village of Ifoulou where we spend the night.
Day 5 : Ifoulou – Fakhour – Ait Ali n’Lto – Ichbakene – Amezri
Once again we mainly follow the river valley, at times very narrow and at times widening out into fertile plains. We cross and re-cross the river as we pass a number a typical Berber villages before ending the day’s walking at Amezri (2250m)
Day 6 : Amezri – Tessouat Valley
We leave Amezri following the river before heading up to a pass of about 3200m – a strenuous climb – before descending again to our campsite on an attractive mountain pasture. An alternative route, involving a v. diff. climb, takes you deep into the gorge as far as the river source. Only recommended for competent climbers with suitable equipment.
Day 7 : M’Goun Summit
The summit of M’Goun (4068m) is straightforward and technically easy. It is, however, long – a round trip of about 10 hours back to the campsite, so an early start is needed.The ascent takes about 6 hours from the campsite and involves quite a lot of tiring scree walking. There are spectacular views from the summit. The return is partly retracing our steps and partly a steep descent into a valley before heading back to the campsite.
Day 8 : M’Goun – Tachedidd Ridge - Tabant
From the campsite we set off and after a short while climb up to the ridge of Tachedidd from where there is a panorama over the surrounding mountains. Eventually we descend steeply and continue down the Arous valley to Ait Said and on to Iskattene where we spend the night.
Day 9 : Iskattene – Tabant – Marrakech
A short walk into Tabant for the transfer back to Marrakech.