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The Marrakech Express - Morocco
Expedition
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Where
in the world?
Morocco,
just across the Gibraltar Straits from Europe is an
exotic and fascinating location with a fine fusion of
European, African and Arabic cultures with scenery from
stunning coast, vast plains, deserts and rugged mountains.
The Atlas Mountains stretching from the Mediterranean
coast south westwards towards the Atlantic ocean have
been described as "the most fabulous mountains
in all of Africa". They are certainly the highest
and most extensive range of mountains in North Africa.
The High Atlas is particularly intriguing, separating
the northern plains and southern Sahara desert,
inhabited by the indigenous Berbers and their fortress
Kasbahs.
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The Expedition
Flying
into Marrakesh we will travel to the village of Armed
(Aroumd) the home of our Berber hosts, the Ait-Chajaa family.. The first few
days will be spent acclimatising to the heat before
embarking on the trek in the High
Atlas. The route over high mountain passes around Jebel
Toubkal (4165m) the highest mountain in North Africa
and one of the objectives of the expedition. An early
start should mean reaching the summit for sunrise to
enjoy amazing views north across the plains to Marrakech
and south towards the Sahara. For those hardy enough, the opportunity will be given to bivouac on Toubkal for a night. After this achievement
there will be a chance for some rest and relaxation. This can include a real soak in the local hammam, the traditional bath. The second phase will see the group relocate to the southern Atlas near Ouarzazate. We will trek through the stunning Dades Gorges and visit Ait-Benhaddou, the ancient village where "The Gladiators" was filmed.
The expedition will conclude with a visit to the impressive and vibrant
city of Marrakech. Here there is plenty of opportunity
to learn about the history of Morocco, explore the maze
of souks and experience the Djemaa el Fna, the main
square at the heart of the medina (old city) with its
storytellers, snake charmers and musicians.
Up
for the Challenge?
Although
mules will be used in the mountains to carry our heavy gear, you will need to
have a high level of fitness and some experience
of hill-walking is preferred. The majority of the expedition
will be camping - there should be the opportunity to
sleep out under the stars - and a sense of humour and
a good team spirit are essential. As we are living and working with a Berber family, a true cultural experience awaits.
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Training Weekend
There
will be an early opportunity in June to get a taste for
Morocco and the expedition at an important briefing weekend
in Ambleside, attendance of which is mandatory. As well as meeting the other members and
leaders, this weekend includes a short fitness assessment. This is part of the expedition price. Dates: 6th to 8th June 2008.
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Dates:
Transport:
Group size:
Main Leader:
Price:
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19th July to 8th August
by scheduled flight
up
to 16 members and 4 leaders
Franz Opitz
Excluding Flight £850
Deposit £200
Estimated
Flight Cost £270 |
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Want to Apply?
Applying is
easy, go to the APPLY
NOW section and fill in the application
and medical forms. Print them out, sign and post them
to Brathay Exploration Group, Brathay Hall, Ambleside,
Cumbria.
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