Friday 29 June -Trek day 4 - Tacherdit to Tizi Likemt - (height 3555m/11553ft) then down to Azib Likemt
Today was a tough one .... as if the day before wasn’t! A short walk back from the camp towards Tacherdit, we turned right to join the path leading up the mountain side. Initially, it was straight, then zigzagged as the route became steeper on the loose scree. It was a relentless effort, with many stops for liquid replacement before finally reached Tizi Likemt.
(photo:  Sun light increases as we climb higher up the path)
Sun light increases as we climb higher up the path
My fleece had to be worn here as it was exposed to the wind making it feel cool. We had ascended almost 1200m/4200ft in approximately 4 hours to reach Tizi Likemt. The views of surrounding mountains continued to be spectacular, very barren with the exception of the lush green valley floor below.
(photo:  My son Lee having a gentle 'stroll')
My son Lee having a break
After a good rest and snacks, we started - yet again - a long descent to our next camp on the plains of Azib Likemt (height 2600m/8450ft). The strong wind continued as we descended down the winding path to the valley floor.
(photo:  Looking back down the path we have just climbed)
Looking back down the path we have just climbed
Lee and I found it more bearable to run down some sections of the path - almost ‘scree running’ with a lot of dust. Again, we had regular stops for liquid, and to allow everyone to regroup.  Eventually, we rounded a hill to the east and our tents came into view - a welcome sight.
(photo:  Barren mountains)
Barren mountains
 Once at the camp, it was boots off and feet in the stream ........ cold but very relaxing. One of the muleteers mentioned that a short distance up the valley was a section of stream deep enough to submerge in. So, Anna and I decided to join the muleteers for a ‘plunge’. Very refreshing although a little cool, but certainly helped to cleanse the dust from the body.
(photo:  My travel companion - Tiger)
My travel companion - Tiger
Refreshed, it was back to the camp for dinner. That night, Helen almost had a Toad (or it could have been a Frog) sleeping with her. It took a fancy to her sleeping bag hood. Nigel carried it back to the river ..... only for it to return to the bag. Fortunately for Helen, it found a more interesting place searching for food.
(photo:  Our camp for the night)
)Our camp for the night
Introduction Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 5
Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 My Thoughts

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