Price
2027
Saffron Trail
Mid Season - 7 nights - €1,315 per person, sharing
High Season - 7 nights - €1,350 per person, sharing
Valley Of The Roses
Mid Season - 7 nights - €1,199 per person, sharing
High Season - 7 nights - €1,225 per person, sharing
The High Atlas Mountains
Low Season - 7 nights - €1,249 per person, sharing
Mid Season - 7 nights - €1,240 per person, sharing
Dates & Prices
MOROCCO
Atlas Mountains Rides - 3 Itineraries
Overview
Morocco's Atlas Mountains offer a completely different riding experience from the Sahara, taking you high into a landscape of rugged mountain passes, green valleys, dramatic gorges and traditional villages where life has changed remarkably little over the generations.
These are wonderful journeys through some of Morocco's most beautiful and less-travelled countryside. You'll ride along ancient mule tracks, cross high plateaus, follow rivers through fertile valleys and pass through small Amazigh villages, with their distinctive earth-built houses, terraced fields and welcoming communities.
Your local Moroccan guides know these mountains, their horses and the people who live here. Along with the support team, they look after you throughout the journey, preparing fresh meals, moving camp and sharing their knowledge of the region. There's plenty of opportunity to experience local culture along the way, from passing through working villages to enjoying traditional Moroccan food after a long day in the saddle.
The horses are predominantly Arab-Barbs, many of them stallions, carefully trained and well accustomed to the mountain terrain. They are forward-going, sure-footed and a pleasure to ride. These trails are suitable for fit intermediate to advanced riders who are confident at all paces. There are opportunities for lovely canters across the more open ground, although the pace naturally slows on steep mountain paths and rocky sections.
There are three different week-long itineraries, each exploring a different part of the Atlas Mountains.
Valley of the Roses
The Valley of the Roses is one of Morocco's most beautiful regions, and this week-long trail takes you right into the heart of it.
Beginning near the palm groves of Skoura, you'll ride through wide plateaus, mountain valleys and dramatic gorges, following ancient tracks between small villages and cultivated terraces. The scenery changes constantly, from dry ochre hills and towering rock formations to green river valleys filled with orchards, gardens and wild roses.
In May, the valley comes alive with the flowering of the Damask roses, which have been cultivated here for generations and are used to produce Morocco's famous rosewater and perfumes.
There is a lovely cultural element to this ride too. You'll pass traditional fortified villages, impressive kasbahs and ksour, with plenty of opportunities to see rural life in southern Morocco.
The High Atlas Mountains
The trail takes you deep into the High Atlas Mountains, beneath the imposing summit of Mount Toubkal, which rises to 4,167 metres. You'll ride through forests of oak and juniper, cross high mountain passes and follow ancient tracks connecting small Amazigh villages perched on the hillsides.
The landscape is constantly changing, from green river valleys and cultivated terraces to rugged mountain slopes, rocky plateaus and dramatic peaks.
There is a wonderful cultural element to this journey, including two nights staying with local families in mountain villages. It's an opportunity to experience the hospitality and traditions of the people who call these mountains home.
The riding is more technical than the desert trails, with plenty of climbing and descending on narrow mountain paths, although there are opportunities for faster riding when the terrain allows.
The Saffron Trail
The Saffron Trail explores the remarkable Siroua Mountains, a volcanic range lying between Morocco's High Atlas and Anti-Atlas.
This is a quieter, less-visited region of Morocco, where traditional mountain communities continue to farm the land, tend their animals and cultivate saffron, one of the world's most valuable spices.
The landscape is wonderfully varied, with dark volcanic rocks rising above green mountain pastures, rugged valleys, remote villages and high plateaus. You'll follow old shepherds' trails, cross mountain passes and ride through a countryside that feels a long way from the busy tourist routes.
The Siroua region is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, when the temperatures are generally more comfortable for riding. With long days in the saddle, picnic lunches in the mountains and nights camping in remote valleys, this is a fantastic week for riders who enjoy getting away from it all.
A Little More Time in Morocco?
If you have a few extra days to spare, why not extend your stay and explore a little more of Morocco? Spend a couple of nights in Marrakech, wandering through the colourful souks, visiting the beautiful gardens and palaces, and enjoying the atmosphere of the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Or, if you're travelling through Ouarzazate, take time to visit the impressive Aït Benhaddou, explore the ancient kasbahs and discover the beautiful surrounding oases.
Please ask us about extending your holiday. We're happy to help with suggestions and arrangements to make the most of your time in Morocco.
Location
Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Airport
Ouarzazate or Marrakech, Morocco
Duration
7 nights
When to go
April-September
Riding level
Intermediate to Advanced
Weight
90 kg / 14 stone / 198 lbs
Group size
10 max
Accommodation
Hotel and mobile tented camp
Included
Saffron Trail - 7 nights accommodation, all meals (except dinners in Marrakech), water, transfers from Marrakech airport and 6 days riding.
Valley of the Roses - 7 nights accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, water, transfers from Ouarzazate airport, 6 days riding.
The High Atlas Mountains - 7 nights accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, water, transfers from Ouarzazate airport, 6 days riding.
Extras
The Saffron Trail
Single supplement - €119 per person. Subject to availability and refunded if sharer found.
Small goup supplement - €440 per person. For rides with only 2 riders confirmed. Removed once 3 or more riders confirmed.
Valley Of The Roses
Single supplement - €119 per person. Subject to availability and refunded if sharer found.
Small goup supplement - €350 per person. For rides with only 2 riders confirmed. Removed once 3 or more riders confirmed.
The High Atlas Mountains
Single supplement - €100 per person. Subject to availability and refunded if sharer found.
Small goup supplement - €455 per person. For rides with only 2 riders confirmed. Removed once 3 or more riders confirmed.
Excluded
Saffron Trail - flights, meals in Marrakech, drinks, sleeping bag and tips.
Valley of the Roses - flights, drinks, sleeping bag and tips.
The High Atlas Mountains - flights, drinks, sleeping bag and tips
Price guarantee
All our riding holidays hold a price guarantee. We believe in your peace of mind on price when you book with us and will refund the difference should you find the same riding holiday elsewhere at a lower price.
Exchange rate
Rates are subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations, please refer to our Terms and Conditions for full details.
Transfers
For the Valley of the Roses and the High Atlas Mountains rides you will be picked up at Ouarzazate airport on day of arrival and transferred to your hotel and for the Saffrom Trail is is Marrakech airport.
Departure dates
2027
All the rides run from Sunday to Sunday thorughout the year with a minimum of two riders.
Riding & Itinerary
The horses are predominantly Barb-Arabians, many of them stallions, with the strength, stamina and sure-footedness needed for these demanding mountain trails. They are well behaved, responsive and accustomed to travelling in groups, even through narrow paths and steep terrain.
The riding is varied, with opportunities for canters on open plateaus and tracks, balanced with slower, more technical sections through mountain passes, forests and rocky valleys.
Riders should be confident at all paces, comfortable riding a forward-going horse and reasonably fit for several hours in the saddle each day. Some sections may require riders to dismount and lead their horses.
Valley of the Roses
Day 1
If flying to Marrakech guests must be scheduled to arrive before 2pm to allow for the 4-hour transfer (extra cost) to Ouarzazate. If one can only get an evening flight to Marrakech, then they should plan to arrive the previous day. Meet at Ouarzazate and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in a riad in Skoura palm grove.
Day 2
Meet at the horses’ winter base just outside Skoura. First there is an evaluation of riding levels and the allocation of horses. After a ride briefing, set off through the Skoura palm grove and onto the arid plateaus of Aït Saïd Oumanssour. Camp at the foot of the mountains.
Approx. 4 hours riding
Day 3
In the morning, cross the Tamassent plateaus to reach Toundount. Here the riders will have a beautiful view over the valley with its almond trees. In the afternoon there should be the opportunity for some long canters on the plateau until reaching Tiflit village. Climb up through steep gorges to the camp situated next to Aguerd village. Overnight in camp.
Approx. 5 hours riding
Day 4
Today, ride along Nait Tounert and past many villages with beautiful views over the cultivated terraces. After a picnic lunch, ride across a plateau and then to a pass that overlooks the Azaghar-N-Aiguer valley. Finally, ride along a narrow path that leads to the camping spot. (1900 m) Overnight in camp.
Approx. 5.5 hours riding
Day 5
Today in the Assif El Qati Valley riders can see many examples of the beautiful architecture of the typical ksour (castle) of southern Morocco. These look spectacular against the green background of their gardens and the ochre cliffs behind which perhaps were once lived in by troglodytes. Camp in Agouti.
Approx. 5 hours riding
Day 6
Well-preserved traditional villages will be part of the scenery as the route leads along the El Qati Valley. The paths followed are fenced with wild rose bushes, and in May the scent of the blooming roses fills the air. The kaleidoscope of colours – pink of the roses, green of the plantations & ochreof the rocks- form a delightful show. The rose essence is used in well-known perfume brands and is exported worldwide. Overnight in camp on the way to Boutaghrar.
Approx. 6.5 hrs riding
Day 7
Leave the refreshing area of the M’Goun River and ride along mule-paths until arriving in Timstiquite village. After lunch in the valley, return to Ouarzazate and the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight in a hotel in Ouarzazate.
Approx. 2.5 hrs riding
Day 8
After breakfast transfer to Ouarzazate airport for the return flight. If departing from Marrakech the flight should depart after 4pm to allow for the four hour transfer.
The High Atlas Mountains
Day 1
Meet and greet at airport and immediate transfer to the riding centre. Depending on the arrival time, riders may get to meet the horses. Dinner and overnight in hotel.
Day 2
Saddle-up for an evaluation of each rider before the horses are allocated for the week. There is a briefing and equipment double check before setting off. The first day’s route heads to the first foothills of the Atlas Mountain, along a ridge trail until reaching the first overnight camp site next to Tatult village.
3.5 hours riding.
Day 3
Today the trail climbs up a path in the direction of the N’Kik plateau for a remarkable view on Amizmiz Valley and Takerkoust Lake. After crossing the Tizi N’Ousaud pass, stop for a picnic break. In the afternoon, the trail descends and follows a path across a forest of Thuya and green Oaks until reaching the camp site near the village of Tassa Wourgane Saline.
5.5 hours riding
Day 4
After breakfast, ride across the Tassa Ouirgane valley and enjoy the fresh air at Azzadne Oued (river) with its pretty Berber villages. The lunchtime picnic will take place beside a river in Azerfssane. The afternoon will be spent in Azzadne valley along mountain paths before taking the trail to Tiziane village. Overnight with a local family.
5 hours riding
Day 5
This morning the group climb out in the direction of the Tizi N’Oudide pass (2100 m) before heading down to Matate village overlooking Gheghaya valley. Today the picnic lunch is beside the river in Aguerssiwale. In the afternoon, ride up to the Aguerssiwale pass and then along the superb D’Imnane valley with its pretty villages nestled at the foot of the mountains. Overnight with a local family in Ounskra down the highest summit in Morocco, Toubkal.
6 hours riding
Day 6
Today the route gains altitude from one pass to another. Reach Tizi N’Addi (3100 m) which offers a spectacular view over the High Atlas and the Toubkal Summit (4167 m) before riding through the Oukaïmeden plateau, a winter sport resort in another season. Enjoy our picnic near the Tizi ‘N Ouka pass (2800 m). In the afternoon, ride down the trail overlooking the Haouz plain until reaching Tiselit, where the camp site is already prepared and snacks are waiting.
5-6 hours riding.
Day 7
The last day of riding takes the group to the village of Asni, through a forest of oaks and junipers. Enjoy a picnic in the shade of the Alep Pine trees at the foot of Djebel Choucht. Enjoy the last canters in the afternoon and back to the starting point for dinner and overnight in the hotel.
4 hours riding.
Day 8
Breakfast and airport transfer (3 hours before departure) Depending on flight schedules, an optional extra visit to Marrakesh can be arranged on request.
The Saffron Trail
Day 1
Arrival in Marrakech. Meet and greet at the airport and check-in at the hotel. End of the day and evening at leisure, lunch at your own expense.
The hotel is located in the Gueliz district. There are plenty of dining options in the surrounding area. Jemaa el Fna Square is a 5-minute taxi ride and a 20-minute walk.
Day 2
Meet at the reception of your hotel at 8 am. Drive to Ait Marssid, in the Siroua massif, 4 hours south of Marrakech. Welcome by your equestrian guide and the logistics team. After lunch, you will meet your horses in the Oued Anzal. Assigning the horses and getting into the saddle for the first time before starting the ride. It starts with the banks of the Oued d’Anzal which we follow until we reach the village of Tamllakoute where we branch off towards our first campsite.
Day 3
You take a small track to enjoy the paces before passing the small village of Tinzaline, you then continue in a much more mineral environment to the village of Tizgzawine lost in the mountains. Picnic and continue to the hills of Merzoug before arriving on the immense plateau of Amezri. Beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 4
Today the stage takes you to the peaks of Siroua, crossing the village of Ait Tigga which dominates the superb valley of Ait Semgane and its terraced saffron crops. You climb up to a small pass while enjoying the view of the many Berber villages that dot along the valley to reach the picnic spot at the top of the Tisswatine sheepfolds. In the afternoon, continue to the famous and high pass of Tizi n’Anzommer at 2732 m where the panorama extends over the entire massif. Descent along steep shepherds’ paths to reach your bivouac at the bottom of the valley in Mdist.
Day 5
The hike continues along a beautiful track that crosses a mountainous and desert landscape but very rich in medicinal plants. The Siroua is crossed by Berbers who collect a number of plants that they will sell to the souks of the whole of Morocco!
Descend by a beautiful path to a wadi, beautiful view of the Ighighi gorge. After a short break in the water, a treat for our horses, you go back up to Djebel Tazoulte for lunch. After lunch, take a few strides on a path before arriving on a track that you go up to the Azib (sheepfolds) Azazougzane mountain pastures for the campsite.
Day 6
Continue the horseback ride between sheepfolds on green meadows in an exceptional rocky setting. Picnic in the middle of the sheepfolds and climb up to the tizi n’Ait Qalla, panoramic view of the large typical village of Anmid. Setting up the campsite at the bottom of the village.
Day 7
Last breakfast in nature and you take the direction of the village of Agrilaoune. You go up a large track that dominates beautiful Berber villages clinging to the steep sides of the mountains. You end your hike with a last gallop before getting back to the minibuses for the 4 hours drive to Marrakech. Check-in at your hotel. Dinner.
Day 8
Transfer to the airport.
Horses
Barb Arabian horses, made up mostly of stallions who are very well behaved
Riding level
Intermediate to Advanced
Type of riding
Suitable for fit intermediate riders who are comfortable on forward going horses
Tack
English style, with good quality tack, English Saddles and mostly snaffle bridles
Weight limit
90 kg / 14 stone / 198 lbs
Group size
10 max
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation is simple but comfortable and very much in keeping with the adventure. Depending on the itinerary, you'll stay in a combination of hotels, mobile tented camps and, on the High Atlas Trail, traditional accommodation with local families.
The support team moves the camp equipment between overnight stops, so everything is ready when you arrive. Camping is in two-person dome tents with foam mattresses provided. You'll need to bring your own sleeping bag. The camp has a communal dining tent, shower tent and chemical toilet.
On the High Atlas itinerary, two nights are spent staying with local families, giving you an opportunity to experience mountain hospitality and a glimpse of everyday life in these remote villages.
Food is freshly prepared throughout the trip by the Moroccan team. Breakfasts are simple and filling, with bread, cereals, cheese, jams, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a picnic enjoyed somewhere along the trail, often with salads, couscous, rice, potatoes and fresh fruit.
Evenings bring a hot meal, with traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagines, kefta and lamb, accompanied by vegetables and local breads. After a full day riding in the mountains, these meals are always welcome!
Water, tea, coffee and soft drinks are included. Alcohol isn't provided, although you can bring your own.
Accommodation
Hotel and mobile tented camp
Single Supplement
Possible to have a single room and tent for an additional fee
Meals
Inform us about food allergies and intolerances
Drinks
Non alcoholic drinks included. Alcohol not served but possible to bring your own
The Destination
The Atlas Mountains are one of Morocco's most spectacular regions, stretching across the country with a wonderful mix of rugged peaks, deep valleys, green mountain pastures and traditional villages tucked into the hillsides. It's a landscape that changes dramatically as you travel, from fertile valleys and terraced farmland to rocky mountain passes and wide-open plateaus.
The mountains are home to Amazigh (Berber) communities who have lived and farmed here for generations. Riding through their villages, past shepherds tending their flocks and along ancient mule tracks, gives you a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in rural Morocco.
The High Atlas is home to Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak at 4,167 metres, while the volcanic Siroua Mountains and the beautiful Valley of the Roses each have their own distinctive landscapes and traditions. Exploring these different regions on horseback takes you well away from the usual tourist routes and into some truly remarkable countryside.
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