Ruby Horsburgh in Morocco

Young Explorers' Trust

I’ve just arrived back from my 2024 Morocco expedition. Thank you so much for helping me get there!

We started the 16 days in Marrakech, spending a few days exploring in almost 40-degree heat—a bit of a shock that, luckily, I acclimatised to. I haven’t ever visited anywhere like it, it was absolutely incredible.

We then travelled to the mountains, we stayed in gites and started our project work in Tzi Oussem. This was my favourite part of the trip! Here my team widened a road at the bottom of the village which had been affected by landslides. It was hot and tiring but so rewarding and fun. We reinforced the area with stones to prevent future problems and flattened the road so it was easier to drive up. This was essential to the village because previously they hadn’t been able to rebuild houses after the earthquake in 2023 as the lorries needed to transport cement couldn’t get past this bend.

Everyone we met in this village was lovely and we organised a football match against the locals for some fun one evening. They were way better than my group, but it was super fun to connect with them and play.

Tzi Oussem

The next days were spent hiking in the Atlas Mountains. It was the most beautiful views I have ever seen, thank you so much for making it possible for me to go. We camped along the way, which was difficult but 100% worth it, eventually reaching the summit of Mt. Toubkal. Everyone I walked with was really friendly, making it a great experience.

En route to Toubkal

The last days were spent visiting Ouarzazate and Essaouira. I loved learning about Moroccan culture, visiting the landmarks of the cities and hanging out on the beach, we even managed to have a meal in a rooftop restaurant one day which was an amazing end to the expedition!

I can’t express how grateful I am for your help in making this possible for me, I have made strong friendships and memories that are unforgettable.