Summit to Sahara
-a Retreat for men.
Summit to Sahara takes you from Morocco’s highest peak to the Sahara in one epic journey. Trek 22 miles over two days up Mount Toubkal, gaining 8,000 feet of elevation while building endurance and teamwork. Then head to the desert for a via ferrata climb, ATV rides, a sunset camel trek, and a night at a luxury camp under the stars.
Tour details
Tour Dates: September 21-30, 2026
Tour Location: Morocco, Africa
Airport Arrival: Marrakech (RAK)
Airport Departure: Marrakech (RAK)
Tour highlights
-Camel Trek in the Sahara
-Night Stay in Luxury Desert Camp
-Sand Boarding in the Dunes
-Trek Mount Toubkal + Summit
-Stay at Imlil Mountain Village
-Stay in Traditional Riads
-Learn About the Nomad Lifestyle
-Desert ATV Ride in Dunees
-Ride 4X4 Vehicles in the Dunes
-Enjoy Traditional Moroccan Cuisine
-Entry Level Via Feratta in Toudra Gorge
-Scenic Drive of High Atlas Mountains
-Culture Awareness Activities
-Connect With Like-Minded Men
“These journeys aren’t just experiences—they’re spaces men need to grow and connect.”
Itinerary
DAY 1 - MARRAKECH PICKUP Your journey begins with pickup at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) at our scheduled group pickup time of 3:30 PM. If your flight arrives earlier or later, we can arrange private transport for an additional $30 if needed. A member of our team will be waiting outside the arrivals area to welcome you. From there, we’ll head to our hotel to get settled in and enjoy a relaxed evening and a good night’s rest as we prepare for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2 - HIKE TO REFUGE You’ll begin the morning with a scenic drive to Imlil, where your bags will be entrusted to muleteers, marking the start of your mountain adventure. After a traditional Moroccan breakfast, set out on a three-hour trek through the rugged trails of the Atlas Mountains, climbing toward the mountain sanctuary of Sidi Chamharouch. Surrounded by sweeping alpine scenery, you’ll pause for a freshly prepared lunch by your mountain cooks before continuing the ascent for another three hours toward Toubkal Base Camp. As the sun dips behind the peaks, you’ll settle into the refuge for the evening, where a hearty traditional dinner and a well-earned rest await before the next day’s climb.
DAY 3 - SUMMIT HIKE On the third day, we rise early to ascend the summit of Mount Toubkal, standing at 4,167 meters, the highest point in North Africa. After a 5:00 AM start and hearty breakfast at the refuge, we begin the climb, reaching the summit after roughly three hours just as the sun illuminates the snowy peaks. From this vantage point, take in sweeping views of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the distant Sahara Desert. After savoring the panorama, we begin the six-hour descent back to the village of Imlil, stopping along the way for a well-earned lunch and to rest, before arriving in the village to conclude the day’s adventure.
DAY 4 - IMLIL TO DADES GORGE We’ll depart from Imlil in the morning and navigate the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains toward the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, the legendary cinema town of Ouarzazate. Here, we’ll explore the well-preserved mud-brick Kasbahs and soak in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Ouarzazate, we continue our journey to Dades Gorge, enjoying the dramatic scenery along the way. The day concludes as we arrive at our hotel perched above the palm valley, where we’ll settle in and enjoy a hearty dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventure and preparing for the journey ahead.
DAY 5 - JOURNEY TO THE DESERT We’ll start the day with a hearty breakfast at Riad Jouba before diving into the heart of desert life. Our adventure begins with exploring the sand dunes in 4x4 vehicles, followed by a cultural encounter with nomadic communities, where we’ll share tea and gain insight into their traditional way of life. As we traverse the desert, we’ll pause to search for fossils and enjoy the rhythms of a Gnawa African band. Returning to the Riad for lunch, you’ll have time to relax by the pool, or, if you prefer, take an ATV ride through the dunes (optional, extra fee). Later, we’ll embark on a camel ride to a luxury desert camp, where you’ll experience an unforgettable night in the Sahara, complete with star-gazing, live Berber music, and a full traditional dinner under the desert sky.
DAY 6 - DESERT DAY Today will begin with a delightful breakfast at the Riad Jouba. We will dive into the desert culture beginning with exploring sand dunes in 4X4 vehicles. We will engage in a cultural experience with nomadic communities, sharing tea and gaining insights into their traditional way of life. As we traverse the desert landscape, we’ll take a moment to search for fossils, and listen to the Gnawa African band. We’ll arrive back at the Riad for lunch. After lunch you will have the chance to relax by the pool. If you prefer, you can experience an ATV ride in the dunes (extra fee) before beginning the camel ride to the luxury desert camp. Here we will have an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sahara desert. Your night stay will be complete with star gazing, Berber music, & a full traditional dinner.
DAY 7- MERZOUGA TO OUARZAZATE We’ll start the day at the desert camp, rising early to watch the sunrise spill across the golden dunes before trying a bit of sandboarding on the soft sands. After a hearty breakfast at camp, we’ll set out toward Ouarzazate, traversing the scenic Draa Valley with its dramatic high overlooks along the way. We’ll stop at the historic Amridil Kasbah to explore its fascinating history, then continue through the Dades Valley before arriving in Ouarzazate to settle into our accommodations after a full day of adventure.
DAY 8 - OUARZAZATE TO MARRAKECH We’ll start the day early, continuing our drive through the scenic High Atlas Mountains and stopping at the Tizi n’Tichka pass to take in the breathtaking views. Along the way, we can make a quick stop at an Argan oil shop before lunch. As we descend toward Marrakech, we’ll visit the picturesque village of Taddert to experience local culture firsthand. Arriving in Marrakech in the afternoon, you’ll have time to immerse yourself in the vibrant medina, exploring the bustling souks and historic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, as well as the lively Jemaa el-Fna, where street performers, colorful fruit stands, and local energy create an unforgettable scene. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at a beautiful Riad, with the option to enjoy a relaxing Hammam in the evening.
DAY 9 - DEPARTURE MARRAKECH After breakfast, take a few final moments to admire the views from the riad and wander the souks for any last treasures. After lunch, your driver will escort you to the airport for your departure, as you carry the memories, connections, and inspiration of your Moroccan journey home.
We continuously improve our itinerary.
Subject to change without notice.
what's included?
9 Day, Fully Guided Tour, Transportation, Accommodations Inc. 1 Night Stay At Luxury Desert Camp, Camel Ride, Excursions, All Breakfasts, Dinners (-Marrakech), Mount Toubkal Guided Trek, Night Stay At Refuge, WIFI, Sand Boarding in Dunes, 4X4 Desert Tour, Gnawa Music, Desert Tour, Local Guides, Turban for Camel, Other Cultural Excursions
what's NOT included?
Flight, Lunches, Tips, Drinks, ATV,
Your group leader
-Brian Ketz
About Brian
Brian is a retired Army officer and Ranger School graduate who served 30+ years leading soldiers across the U.S., Korea, and Germany, including multiple Iraq deployments. Known as “Map Man” for planning safe, challenging routes, he now advises venues for the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation and still seeks adventure—just with fewer sandstorms and more trail mix. He leads men’s outdoor retreats because shared challenges in nature create clarity and real connection—away from distractions, men build trust, have honest conversations, and gain fresh perspective. These retreats aren’t an escape; they’re a reset.
What You Can Expect
We begin before the trail with pre-work, cohort calls, and training to build confidence, trust, and connection. On the trail, shared challenges, partner rotations, and group reflections strengthen relationships while ensuring everyone feels supported. Evenings allow space for reflection and deeper connection through shared experience.
the trek
Key Statistics
Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), is no ordinary hike. Our trek covers over 8,000 feet of elevation gain and 22+ miles in just 2 days, taking you through rugged trails, rocky ridges, and breathtaking mountain vistas. It’s a challenging climb, but the sense of accomplishment, adventure, and camaraderie at the summit is unforgettable.
How to Prepare
Prepare for the Mount Toubkal trek by building endurance with hiking, running, or cycling—especially long hill walks or hikes with a weighted backpack. Strengthen legs, core, and back with squats, lunges, step-ups, and planks. If possible, train at higher elevations to adjust to altitude. Bring proper gear: sturdy boots, layered clothing, a warm jacket, hat, gloves, trekking poles, and a good daypack.
unique stays
From the rustic mountain refuge, to our luxury desert camp, each stay blends comfort, culture, and connection. Sleep under starlit skies, unwind in the serene Sahara dunes, and let the magic of Morocco restore your mind, body, and spirit.
Eat Well
In Morocco, every meal is a celebration of fresh, whole foods. Crisp vegetables, vibrant salads, and wholesome ingredients are paired with the perfect blend of unique Moroccan spices, creating flavors that awaken the senses and nourish the body. Each bite tells a story of local tradition, culture, and the simple joy of eating well.
Immerse yourself
Morocco invites you to explore, connect, and fully experience life beyond the everyday. From wandering ancient medinas to sharing tea with nomadic families, every moment immerses you in rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. This deep connection shifts perspective, inspires reflection, and leaves you with a renewed sense of self and purpose.
pricing
Early bird pricing starts at $1,945 USD + tax, all-inclusive. Secure your spot now with a $500 deposit, and pay the remaining balance 10 weeks before your trip. Your all-inclusive retreat covers accommodations, meals, immersive experiences, guided tours, and activities—everything you need for a transformational Moroccan adventure. Spaces are limited, so reserve your place today and start your journey toward connection, reflection, and renewal.
"It Feels Like I'm Waking Up From
An Incredible Dream."
Podcast
Choose Your Happy Place
Lindsey Brown is passionate about connection, adventure, and culture. She likes to seek out opportunites to explore new lifestyles, embrace traditions, and learn from the incredible women she meets along the way.
Through recent travels, she has discovered the transformative power of stepping outside of her comfort zone and connecting with people from all walks of life. From hiking in the mountains, training for endurance events, or learning about local customs, she is constantly inspired by the strength, resilience and creativity of the people she meets.
Her goal is to share her experiences with others and encourage others to embrace their own sense of adventure, take risks, and discover the world around them. I believe that travel and adventure can be a powerful tool for personal growth and empowerment, and is commited to help other people find their own paths to inspiration and self-discovery, and meaningful connections with others cultures, and people. "
-Lisa Stanworth, Choose Your Happy Place Podcast Host
