A Q&A with Joh on Her Guided Holiday in Morocco's Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains

Joh recently returned from the Magic of Morocco Walk—a guided holiday in Morocco’s Sahara Desert and High Atlas Mountains with Guided by Nature. With nearly a decade of experinece working with Tas Walking Co, Joh knows a good walk when she sees one. From Toubkal hiking adventures to camel trekking across the Sahara, she shared her unforgettable experience with us.

Q: Were there other experienced walkers on the tour?

Joh: Yes—every guest had been on at least one Guided by Nature or Tas Walking Co trip. In fact, most of the group walked in Patagonia together the year before. Some were seasoned travellers with multiple hikes under their belt, while others were newer to it all. But we shared the same love of immersive, meaningful travel.
 

Q: As someone who has been on plenty of Tas Walking Co walks. How did this compare?

Joh: Spiritually, it felt the same. Just like a Tas Walking Co journey, this walking tour in Morocco’s Sahara Desert was all about connecting with place—through stories, local people, landscapes, and food. It’s never just about walking. It’s about listening, observing, and being present. 

Q: What stood out for everyone along the way?

Joh: So many incredible moments:

• Trekking through the remote beauty of the High Atlas Mountains—true Atlas Mountains hiking in Morocco.
• Watching how families farm steep terrain in traditional Berber villages.
• Crossing valleys near Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
• Wandering through the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge, Morocco.
• That one-in-a-decade lightning storm and rainfall in the Sahara!
• Seeing the Middle Atlas burst into unexpected green—it was lush and alive.

Q: Let’s talk about the accommodation. Was it comfortable?

Joh (laughing): Way too comfortable! I’m talking ridiculously oversized beds you can stretch out in every direction. But what really mattered was the hospitality—it was warm, heartfelt, and full of Moroccan charm. Each stay, especially the night at Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp in the Sahara Desert, felt carefully chosen and culturally rich.

Q: What were the culinary highlights?

Joh: Oh wow, the food!

• Jawhara—a dreamy dessert layered with pastry, custard, and orange blossom.
• Berber Pizza (Medfouna)—spiced flatbread heaven.
• Beef and Prune Tagine—comforting, soulful, and unforgettable.
• The fresh salads—so vibrant!
• And believe it or not, fresh peas from a village garden. Best I’ve ever had.

Q: Did you encounter any memorable wildlife or plant life?

Joh: Yes! We got to see the had classic Morocco camel trekking close up — watching them walk through the dunes with baby camels nearby. We also saw goats, sheep, and more cats than you can imagine in Marrakech (seriously, we could do a cat-themed walk!). Botanically, there were olive and almond trees, fragrant herbs, and carob trees everywhere. My personal highlight? Spotting the Atlas Pied Flycatcher near Tizi n’Ouadou over lunch—something I’d really hoped to see.

Q: What left the deepest impression on you?

Joh: The sense of time. Walking through the High Atlas, you pass ancient terraces and water channels still in use after thousands of years. And in the cities, Morocco’s blend of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences is tangible. This isn’t just a hiking trip—it’s a step into living history.

Q: Any Final thoughts?

Joh: This walk was all heart—gentle hiking, rich storytelling, incredible meals, and a strong sense of connection. Whether it was Toubkal hiking, trekking across the Sahara, or pausing in a quiet mountain village, every moment felt grounded in something timeless.

Curious about hiking in Morocco?

Come join us on the Sahara Desert & Atlas Mountains Walk—a once-in-a-lifetime walking tour through the Sahara Desert, ancient mountain trails, and vibrant cultural crossroads. From Atlas Mountains hiking to stargazing in a Merzouga luxury desert camp, this is Morocco, guided by nature.

Photo credits: All photos taken by Joh on her guided Morocco hiking adventure in 2025.