Morrocan Mountains

Yesterday we went on a day trip excursion to the High Atlas mountains. We were collected from our hostel at 9am and taken into the crazy traffic, through the main square and out onto the open road. The view during the drive was incredible- flat plains in front of us with these huge snow capped mountains in the distance.

Oureka Valley

First stop was a Berber house, nestled in the hillside and made of terracota clay brick. There was a beautiful view of the Oureka valley and we were treated to a traditional Berber breakfast and yet another mint tea ceremony.

Mint tea ceremony

Berber house

From there it was time for our camel ride. We clambered up onto our camels, posed for photos then took them for a walk. Awesome!

Camel ride

Next stop was a dodgy bridge over a river for photos of the mountains then it was off to the waterfall. The walk up the the waterfall was pretty hard going, mainly a result of the huge numbers of tourists trying to do the same thing, but we clambered up and over the rocks and eventually made it. We enjoyed a quiet relax by the waterfall before heading back down and to our lunch stop.

Waterfall


Lunch was at a random resturant in the middle of nowhere. We were seated on a terrace with amazing views up the valley. A huge feast was put on with a morrocan salad starter, couscous, a beef dish and the most amazing chicken tagine, with fresh fruit to finish.

On the way back we had time to "pop in" to see a friend of the tour guide who grew and traded spices. Interesting visit, even if our guide was surprised and disappointed we didn't feel the need to buy anything...

Spice stalls in the Marrakech spice markets

Overall an awesome day, well worth the effort.

-- Post From My iPhone

Location:High Atlas Mountains