Had a great time, despite breaking my leg in three places at the highest point on the trip (the 2500m summit to Jebel Amlal). I heard the snap as I rolled my ankle in the snow, but thought it no more than a torn tendon. Stuck it out despite the discomfort, and managed to see the trek through to the end. This was only made possible through our guide, Mohamed, arranging for me to hire an additional mule (for the remaining three days in the mountains) and a camel (for the 4-day desert trek). Oddly, the new travelling arrangements actually enhanced the holiday. Thanks to my 9 fellow travellers for their support (literally at times), understanding and compassion, and ‘un grand, grand merci’ to Mohamed for making everything possible.
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
We’d regularly meet young children along the way who had trinkets to sell us. Hand-made by the kids themselves, their sale must have represented a valuable source of income for their families. Without exception, these young people were delightful, well mannered, full of smiles, and an inspiration.
Immediately after the accident, I was left with a nomad family for 2 hours or so, to await the arrival of the mules that would take me down to the campsite in the moonlight. They looked after me, made me mint tea, cooked me a meal, and even made a bed up for me. This is the kind of generosity and hospitality that you’ll meet everywhere on this trek. Morocco’s a beautiful country with some beautiful people.
- What did you think of your group leader?
Our guide, Mohamed, couldn’t have been better – ever-watchful, supportive, informative, helpful and sympathetic to our needs. He even smiled his way through the obvious discomfort following a scorpion bite (a rarity that anyone thinking of taking this trip shouldn’t worry unduly about). We all learnt a lot about the country and its people, flora and fauna thanks to him. And as for his mule/camel-hiring skills in difficult circumstances........................
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
There’s only one day on the trip which is a little more demanding than the stomp through the Dales implied in the Trip Notes – the ascent of Jebel Amlal on Day 6. If you’re anywhere near fit you’ll have no trouble though.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
A night in a hotel between the end of the mountain section and the start of the desert trek would have been welcome. It would have given us a chance to shower, freshen up and mentally re-group for the trek over sand.
The food was first rate, given the conditions our chef, Lassan, had to work in. He conjured up fresh salads, soups and tajines out of nowhere. A miracle worker, and healthy food too.
My only grumble would be about the driver who transferred us by minibus on Day 9. He was reluctant to give way to oncoming traffic on the single-track roads, and often came close to hitting other vehicles. It seems this type of macho, inconsiderate driving is common in Morocco, but it's a danger to your customers.
Thanks, Exodus, for a well thought out itinerary – the scenery changes every day. Thanks too for the efficient pre-holiday service.
from 4 reviews.
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