The Moroccan Sahara to Timbuktu
Since the 3rd Century until as recent as 1933 Caravan routes existed linking, among other places, Morocco to western Africa, most notably Timbuktu in Mali. These routes were used to transport cloth, paper and other items from Europe, returning with gold, ivory, ostrich feathers, and slaves, and often picking up silver, salt, dates and other handicrafts on route. These camel caravans would range from 1,000 up to 12,000 camels and required meticulous planning, preparation and the expert knowledge of local tribesmen to navigate the arduous journey across the desert.

M’Hamid the Epicentre of the ancient Trade Route
The region of Zagora was very important for these routes, a preparation point for the journey and meeting point upon return to distribute the goods across Morocco. The desert town of M’Hamid El Ghizlane, and door to the Sahara, played an important role for these caravans. A thriving town, it’s local tribespeople offered expert navigational knowledge of the Sahara. Together with their camel herds and affinity with the desert, the inhabitants of M’Hamid were a valuable economic commodity to the Caravan merchants, and also ensured the safe passage of cargo and people.

52 days on the road to Timbuktu
The journey at that time took 52 days from Zagora to Timbuktu by camel, this is still true today, although borders within the Sahara are no longer open for such travel. Some of the old routes are still passable and indeed many of the trails and pistes used by the 4×4 vehicles today are the remnant routes of the old camel caravans. In fact, evidence of these ancient times can still be seen today.
Sahara Dreams Treks and Ancient Finds
On a recent 6 day trek with German tourists, our desert guide found several remains of old pottery dating back to the 3rd Century, most notably a large, round vessel, in pristine condition. The earthen pot would have been used to hold water and was most probably hidden in the ground by nomads, to be retrieved on their way back home.
Just one of the many thousands of secrets and stories written into the landscape of the Sahara.
Written by Sahara Dreams, organisers of private tours and events in the desert of M’Hamid, Morocco. www.sahara-dreams.com