Trekking the Saghro Mountains – A 6-Day Journey Through Morocco’s Volcanic Wilderness

isouktanr
3 days ago
4 min read

The Djebel Saghro is one of Morocco’s most extraordinary trekking destinations—wild, volcanic, sculpted by wind and time, and home to the legendary Aït Atta semi-nomads. Located south of the Valley of Roses and just before the Sahara, this remote massif offers a rare blend of dramatic geology, Berber culture, desert plateaus, deep canyons, and warm golden light.

For hikers seeking an off-the-beaten-path trek with moon-like landscapes, towering rock spires, natural arches, and timeless nomadic routes, the Saghro Trek is one of the best adventures in southern Morocco.

🔹 6-Day Saghro Trek Itinerary (Morocco)

4 days of trekking – Medium Level – Best from September to May

Day 1 – Marrakech → Tizi n’Tichka Pass → Ouarzazate → Tagdilt Village (1650 m)

Your adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech, crossing the legendary Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2260 m toward the southern valleys. After driving through Ouarzazate and the beautiful Dadès Valley, the road heads south across wide desert plateaus until reaching Tagdilt, a traditional Aït Atta village.

Overnight in a local guesthouse at 1650 m.

Approx. 6 hours of driving.

Day 2 – Tagdilt → Tizi n’Iferd (2400 m) → Iferd Plateau → Almou n’Ouarg (2250 m)

The trek begins as the mules are loaded and the team prepares for departure. You cross a vast high plateau before ascending gently toward the Tizi n’Iferd Pass (2400 m), opening panoramic views toward the Central High Atlas.

A descent leads to the wide Iferd Plateau, often used by Aït Atta transhumant families.

Overnight in tents at 2250 m.

5h30 of trekking.

Day 3 – Almou n’Ouarg → Kouaouch Summit (2600 m) → Igli (1700 m)

A beautiful ascent takes you to the summit of Kouaouch (2600 m), one of the major peaks of Djebel Saghro. The climb is accessible and non-technical, rewarding you with lunar scenery and 360° views over the entire massif.

After a picnic prepared by the cook, you descend through Tassegdilt before reaching the bivouac at Igli.

Overnight in tents at 1700 m.

5h30 of trekking.

Day 4 – Igli → Afourar Valley → Bab n’Ali → Oasis of Ighazzoun

The trail follows the Afourar Valley, gradually turning into narrow gorges dotted with small oases such as Bouallouz. Reaching Ousdidene, the landscape suddenly opens onto an immense plateau dominated by the iconic rock towers of Bab n’Ali, one of the symbols of Saghro.

After climbing to the natural gate of Bab n’Ali, you continue toward the peaceful oasis of Ighazzoun.

Overnight in tents.

5 hours of trekking.

Day 5 – Ighazzoun → Tifdassine Pass → Handour Village

A morning departure leads toward the small pass of Tifdassine, followed by a long descent through the beautiful valley of the same name.

Lunch is served under almond trees before continuing across Berber farmlands toward Handour village.

Overnight in tents.

Approx. 5 hours of trekking.

Day 6 – Handour → Nkob → Agdez → Ouarzazate → Marrakech

After thanking the muleteer team, a short track leads to the village of Nkob, famous for its kasbahs. The drive continues through Agdez and the southern side of the Anti-Atlas before crossing the Tichka Pass again.

Arrival in Marrakech in the late afternoon.

Approx. 7 hours of driving.

About the Saghro Massif – A Landscape Like No Other

The Saghro Mountains (Djebel Saghro) rise to 2712 m and form one of the most impressive volcanic massifs in Morocco. Their beauty lies in the contrast between:

immense desert plateaus
jagged cliffs and towers
deep canyons and narrow gorges
basalt pinnacles shaped like natural sculptures
remote oases and hidden green valleys

This region is also the land of the Aït Atta, a proud Amazigh tribe known for their nomadic heritage, black wool tents, and large goat herds following ancient migration routes between Saghro and the High Atlas.

The trek offers an immersive journey into a pre-Saharan world, full of warm light, silence, and geology unlike anywhere else in Morocco.

Included in the Trek

Private transfers Marrakech → trek start → Marrakech
1 night in a guesthouse (Day 1)
Tents + sleeping mattresses
All meals during the trek
Muleteers and pack mules for luggage
Cook for the entire trek
Licensed, professional mountain guide

Not Included

Flights
Hotels and meals in Marrakech
Personal items and drinks
Travel insurance
Tips for the team (guide, muleteers, driver)

Recommended Equipment

Sleeping bag
Large duffel bag + small daypack
Trekking shoes + light camp sandals
Warm layers (fleece, jacket)
Personal medication
1–2 L water bottle
Purification tablets
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Headlamp + spare batteries
Camera

Trek Summary

Region: Djebel Saghro, Anti-Atlas, Southern Morocco
Duration: 6 days
Walking Days: 4
Total Hiking Time: ~22 hours
Level: Medium
Best Season: September → May
Keywords: Saghro Trek Morocco, Djebel Saghro trekking, Anti-Atlas hiking, Morocco desert mountains, Bab n’Ali hike, Kouaouch summit trek, Saghro itinerary, Morocco trekking tours