Day 2. Ikiss to pass and down to plateau

Early start from Ikiss up to the pass. Slow steady climb with the views becoming more spectacular the higher we went.

Was passed by a very happy shepherd carrying a goat down to market from a shepherd's settlement - the highest ones we saw. Amazing spot with atmospheric smokeyness and goats.

Saw a few nomads making their way up to the Mgoun plateau.

Reached the pass about 10Am, fuelled by dates and peanuts, and stopped for half an hour. Lovely clear blue skies, some goats on a nearby rockface, a few wondering donkeys. The mules caught and passed us at this point.

We then headed down the valley, a long long steady descent passed many sheep and goats, and quite a few ground squirrels scurrying through the rocks. Carrying on down through a small gorge before climbing up uje side of the valley and crossing a plain over a small ridge. Below the ridge stood a shallow bowl with what looked like an area that would occasionally form a small lake, but now held out tents - A very welcome sight as it had been a longer walk than expected.Les mer