What You're Going To Do
This 4-day express trek is designed for fit hikers who want to conquer Morocco's third-highest peak (4,071m) in a short timeframe. The route goes directly into the Central High Atlas, crossing the Tarkeddite Plateau and traversing the legendary M'Goun ridge through nomadic and high-altitude landscapes.
You'll experience the raw beauty of Morocco's mountain wilderness, from lush valleys to barren high-altitude plateaus, culminating in a summit push that rewards you with 360-degree panoramas of the entire Atlas range.
Highlights
- Reach the summit of Jbel M'Goun (4071m) via its panoramic ridge
- Experience nomadic life on the Tarkeddite Plateau
- Traverse high-altitude landscapes above 3,500m
- Camp under crystal-clear mountain skies
- Meet Berber shepherds in remote mountain pastures
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Marrakech → Tarkeddite Plateau
Depart Marrakech early morning and drive through the Aït Bougmez Valley. Begin trekking from the trailhead, ascending gradually through Berber villages and terraced fields. Reach the vast Tarkeddite Plateau (approx. 2,800m) where nomadic shepherds graze their flocks. Camp under the stars.
Trekking: 4-5 hours | Elevation gain: ~800m
Day 2: Tarkeddite → Oulilimt Pass
Cross the plateau and ascend towards the Oulilimt Pass (3,700m), a high mountain col with stunning views. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic. Camp near the pass in a remote high-altitude setting.
Trekking: 6-7 hours | Elevation gain: ~900m
Day 3: Summit Day – M'Goun (4071m)
Early alpine start (4:00 AM) to reach the summit for sunrise. Follow the M'Goun ridge, a spectacular knife-edge traverse with sheer drops on both sides. Summit at dawn and enjoy panoramic views of the entire Central High Atlas. Descend back to camp and continue down to a lower elevation for the night.
Trekking: 8-10 hours | Elevation gain: ~400m | Descent: ~1,200m
Day 4: Return via Tabant → Marrakech
Descend through the scenic valleys back to Tabant village in the Aït Bougmez Valley. Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch before the drive back to Marrakech, arriving in the evening.
Trekking: 3-4 hours | Descent: ~600m
What to Bring
- 4-season sleeping bag (temperatures can drop to -10°C at altitude)
- Insulated jacket and waterproof shell
- Trekking boots (broken in) and gaiters
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen)
- Water bottles or hydration system (2L capacity)
- Personal first aid kit and any prescription medications
- High-energy snacks
Know Before You Go
- Altitude: Summit at 4,071m. Acclimatization is limited due to the express nature of this trek.
- Difficulty: Very Challenging - requires excellent fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience.
- Weather: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes.
- Permits: Not required, but local guides are mandatory for safety.
- Group size: Maximum 8 trekkers per guide.
Fitness Requirements
This trek is rated Very Challenging. You should be able to:
- Trek 6-10 hours per day with a daypack (5-7kg)
- Handle steep ascents and descents on rocky terrain
- Function at altitudes above 4,000m
- Cope with basic camping conditions
- Have previous multi-day trekking experience
Accommodation & Food
Accommodation: 3 nights camping in mountain tents (2-person tents provided).
Meals: All meals included from lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 4. Expect hearty Berber cuisine including tagines, couscous, fresh bread, and mint tea. Vegetarian options available.
Climate & Best Season
Best time: June to September (snow-free summit access)
Temperature range:
- Daytime: 15-25°C at lower elevations, 5-15°C at altitude
- Nighttime: 0-5°C at camps, -5 to -10°C near summit
Meeting Point
Location: Imlil - Asni - Morocco
Time: 7:00 AM on Day 1
We can arrange pickup from your Marrakech accommodation (additional fee applies).
What's Included
- Professional mountain guide
- Mule support for camping gear and food
- All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, cooking gear)
- All meals (lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 4)
- Transportation Marrakech → trailhead → Marrakech
What's Not Included
- Personal sleeping bag
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guides and mule handlers
- Drinks and snacks