Initially we became rather frustrated in Tafraoute. We had come here in order to hike. However, no one would sell us any detailed maps or guide books - the shops in the tourist business were only interested in selling guided hikes and tours. Came across Mohamid who was in principle very helpful and friendly but he also had no maps - he showed us his shop including his visitors book which included comments from our generations climbing greats - Joe Brown, Chris Bonnington etc.
Jeannette eventually solved our problem by finding this website
which gave descriptions of several hikes in the area
We chose to do the Adrar Idekel hike described below
which started at the village of Idekel, not far from our hotel
Drove back up towards the pass we had crossed on entering the valley the day before
and drove a short way down the rough track towards the the village of Idikl
then headed for the SE spur of the ridge
passed the small village of Idikl
and worked our way up to the top of the ridge - no obvious path presenting itself
which involved some scrambling
some wild flowers caught my eye
and cactii
getting closer
lavender
a tricky bit ahead - some exposed rock climbing required - decided to play it safe and made a detour
gained the top of the ridge
good spot for lunch
more scrambling
progressing along the ridge top
more scrambling
and more scrambling
great to be alive!
more scrambling
more flowers
the final peak before the descent
happy couple
back to our starting point after a very enjoyable exhilerating hike with some adrenalin kicks thrown in
