Part 2

Wednesday 7th March:  Chgaga Camp – Chgaga – Jebel Bani Camp
The day starts with the spectacular dune climb and incredible views from the top of Chgaga – a 100m height gain. To the south are rolling dunes as far as you can see; to the north, hamada and the Jebel Bani. After taking in the view, we have fun descending the dune along one of the narrow ridges. Regrouping at the bottom and meeting up with the camels, we refill the water bottles and walk through low dunes. We spend the whole day in amongst the dunes, passing the occasional nomadic encampment and small clump of palm trees. In the late afternoon we finally reappear from the dunes and head out across flat desert and acacia trees to our campsite near a well and just below the Jebel Bani. Night camp.
Trek approx 7 hours

Thursday 8th March: Jebel Bani Camp – Saltpan Camp
Today is our day of mirages and flat saltpans. We firstly walk across several kilometres of hamada with dunes lying to the south. Gradually the acacia trees vanish and we are left in a spectacularly flat open saltpan. Once again distances are impossible to gauge and the views shimmer in the heat. There is no cover for lunch so we put one of the tents up to give us shade. We are getting close to our hundredth kilometre now; the last few are completed crossing this remote and desolate place. Our last night is spent on the saltpan with its (usually) incredible sunset. Night camp.
Trek approx 7 hours


Friday 9th March:  Day 8: Saltpan Camp – Foum Zguid – Marrakech
The day starts early for our sunrise walk towards the edge of the desert – an unforgettable experience. We load into the trucks and landrovers and drive the last bumpy section across the desert piste to the tarmac road. The exciting journey in the back of the open trucks is great fun if a little dusty. On arriving at the tarmac road, we transfer to our bus and cross the stunning High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech, where we will celebrate in style! Night hotel.
Trek Approx 2 hours; drive approx 5 hours
 

Saturday 10th March: Free Day Marrakech
We have the day free to explore the amazing sights of the Jma El Fnaa, the main square, and shop for souvenirs in the bustling souks for which Marrakech is renowned.

Sunday 11th March:  Early transfer to airport; depart for London