A 1-Day Marigha & Salt Pan Hike from Ouirgane sounds like a beautiful and rewarding adventure in the Atlas Mountains region. Below is a detailed itinerary, trek information, things to bring, estimated price, and booking options for this trek.
Itinerary for the 1-Day Marigha & Salt Pan Hike
7:30 AM – Departure from Ouirgane
Pick-up from your accommodation in Ouirgane or a designated meeting point.
Drive to the trailhead (roughly 30-45 minutes depending on the starting location).
8:15 AM – Start of the Trek
Trek begins: Start with an easy-paced hike through the scenic valley, passing local villages, olive groves, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Distance: Approx. 10-12 km (6-7 miles).
Duration: 2-3 hours depending on the pace and terrain.
10:30 AM – Reach the Salt Pans
Explore the Salt Pans: Discover how salt is harvested from these natural formations. The salt pans are often beautifully white and expansive, reflecting the sunlight in unique ways.
You’ll have time to take pictures and learn about the local practices and history of salt production in this region.
12:00 PM – Picnic Lunch
Picnic at the salt pans or a shaded area nearby.
Enjoy a light, traditional Moroccan lunch with sandwiches, fruits, nuts, and refreshing mint tea.
1:00 PM – Continue the Trek
After lunch, head back, passing by more local villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
You may pass through some Berber villages (such as Imi-n-Ifri or Tamatert), where you can observe the traditional way of life.
3:00 PM – Return to Ouirgane
Arrive back at your accommodation or meeting point in Ouirgane.
End of the trek.
Trek Details
Difficulty Level: Moderate (Suitable for anyone with basic fitness levels. Some areas may be slightly rocky or uneven, but nothing too technical.)
Total Distance: 10-12 km (round trip)
Total Duration: 5-6 hours, including breaks and lunch
Elevation Gain: Around 500-700 meters (typical of valley hikes in the Atlas Mountains)
Terrain: Mix of dirt trails, rocky paths, and flat areas around the salt pans.
What to Bring
Hiking Shoes: Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots or shoes (especially good for rocky terrain).
Clothing:
Light, breathable clothing for the hike (and layers for early morning chills).
A hat for sun protection.
A light jacket in case it gets cooler in the afternoon.
Water: At least 2 liters of water per person (the hike can be hot and dry, especially near the salt pans).
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits for the hike.
Sunscreen & Sunglasses: The sun can be intense, especially at the salt pans.
Camera/Phone: Don’t forget to capture the stunning scenery and salt pans.
Small Backpack: To carry your essentials (avoid large, heavy bags).
Cash: In case you want to buy some local souvenirs in the villages along the way.
Price Estimate
Price per person:
For a group tour (with a small group of 4-8 people): Around €35-€50 (approximately $38-$55 USD) per person.
For a private tour: Around €70-€100 (approximately $75-$110 USD) per person, depending on group size and inclusions.
What’s included in the price:
Guide fees: Experienced, English-speaking guide (or French/Arabic, depending on the region).
Picnic lunch: Light traditional lunch (sandwiches, fruits, tea, etc.).
Water: Typically included, but it’s good to double-check.
Additional Costs:
Tips: It’s customary to tip your guide at the end of the trek (around 50-100 MAD / $5-$10 USD per person).
Personal purchases: If you decide to buy anything from local vendors along the way.
Additional Tips
Start early to avoid the midday heat, especially when hiking near the salt pans.
Respect the environment: The Atlas Mountains and its surrounding areas are ecologically sensitive, so follow Leave No Trace principles.
Communicate dietary preferences: If you have specific dietary restrictions, be sure to mention them when booking the trek, especially for lunch.