Contrary to other tours and excursions where you end up with a feeling of being a walking ATM or that it could have just been better done, having a birding tour and trek with Houssine proved to be a fantastic move. Everything ran smoothly. I was picked up and dropped off by a driver at the agreed times, The guide Houssine, is a kind and agreeable man who knows his way around since he lives in a village nestled in this gorgeous valley surrounded by mountains. Despite being winter season, we managed to spot some interesting birds. Mind you, this is not only about birding, but also exploring the valley through paths and trails known only by locals. In any case, the guide will let you choose the preferred amount of walking. I also had delicious food in the Berber village of Asni. All in all, this felt like an authentic experience in beautiful surroundings and, in my particular case, the best way to the end my trip. PS: I also recommend waterproof trekking boots.

We met Houssain by the side of the road in Ait Mizane. We had a fantastic trip. He is very knowledgeable and friendly. We had good views of several woodpeckers, several African blue tits, African chaffinches and a mysterious white-headed, leucistic chaffinch. Houssain took us to his house for a traditional and delicious taggine. We then went back to our rendezvous with the taxi to take us back to Marrakesh. We had mint tea and watched cattle egrets and storks as we drank. The are has been affected by heavy flooding, which limited our route. Most enjoyable adventure

A beautifully sunny day in a wonderful setting and a good loop around Asni, taking in semi desert slopes, plantations and the river habitats. Elhoussain picked a good route, and we encountered over 25 species, including Levailants Woodpecker, Blue Rock Thrush and Barbary Partridge. There was also a Moroccan Tortoise and a Barbary Ground Squirrel, which were two species I’ve never encountered before! Although the guide was new(ish) to birding, it was great to chat about birds and good to be with someone as excited about them as myself. Other species included: African Blue Tit, African Chaffinch, Cattle Egrets, White Stork, Serin, Sardinian Warbler, House Bunting, Black Wheatear, Black Redstart, Cirl Bunting and Green Sandpiper which are the more unusual birds for UK birders. Also, the Tagine was fantastic and the olives from the trees there had a very unique taste. Tanmiert!