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Earthquake update No. 5

We are now open at our sister properties in Imlil please see the links below for further details, if you need any further information please contact us at bookings@discover.ltd.uk

We expect our Kasbah du Toubkal to be open in December 2023.

We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you soon.

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Earthquake update No. 4 - Imlil, 20th September

By Mike McHugo

Imlil is increasingly turning back to normality and the apple harvest is in full swing in the valley. I met tourists from Yorkshire, Australia, New Zealand and Colombia yesterday who were walking on the path that goes past the Kasbah.

Yesterday (19th September) the muleteer association went to the base camp of Toubkal and repaired all the mules paths which are essential to life in the valleys. Jbel Toubkal summit is now open and the mountain refuge huts are due to open on the 1st October.

Here are a few pictures (these will autoplay):

Trekkers outside the Kasbah

Why should you visit Morocco?

“If tourists stop traveling to Morocco it will have a huge impact on the livelihoods of the people and businesses that rely on them – visitors bring with them hope of recovery."

Vanessa Branson Owner of El Fenn Hotel, Marrakech

Morocco is a big country, almost twice the size of the UK. The disaster of the recent earthquake mainly affected the mountains and valleys of the High Atlas and parts of Marrakech, but most of the country is unchanged. Anything you could have enjoyed before Friday 8th of September you can enjoy equally now, more so perhaps because you know that your holiday spends are benefitting the community as a whole. “The last thing the Moroccans want is to be hit by an earthquake and then hit by an economic downturn,” says Mike McHugo.

So why should you go to Morocco?

To read more, please download our PDF, Why should you visit Morocco? (PDF)

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Earthquake update No. 3 - Imlil, 15th September

Down - but not out.

In the confusion of media reporting of the terrible destruction caused by the earthquake on Friday 8th there was inevitable confusion, especially as some of the higher mountain roads are still un-passable. Rumours have spread that Imlil suffered major damage resulting in death, and that Kasbah du Toubkal, perched as it is on the top of a hill, was almost destroyed. But as one of the founders, Chris McHugo, who himself was there when the quake struck, says, “The new build prevailed, but the older walls failed.”

“It’s mainly the oldest part of the building where the dining room is that sustained most damage and will have to be rebuilt,” said Mike McHugo, who was also at the hotel at the time, “but all the bedrooms and newer buildings seem fine. Thankfully, because the earthquake struck late at night, all the guests and staff had left the dining room when it struck. They were in their rooms, which weren’t damaged. No-one was hurt at all.”

Here are a few pictures (these will autoplay). The tower is not damaged. We hope to have more photos soon. [ continued below ]

Kasbah du Toubkal belvedere damage

The Kasbah is closed until further notice but it most certainly will be back. “We’ll build it bigger and better,” said Gilly McHugo, Mike’s wife, “with maybe a panoramic window with that wonderful view where the hole is now at the back of the dining rooms.”

While the Kasbah itself will be closed until further notice, Imlil and the Imlil Valley escaped much of the devastation that other villages have suffered. From October we will be running trips to our sister properties Dar Imlil and Village du Toubkal in Imlil village, and to our Trekking Lodge in the beautiful Azzaden Valley.

If you would like to download this update to redistribute, it is available as a PDF. Please click here to download .

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Earthquake update No. 2 - Imlil, 12th September

The Kasbah is closed until further notice.

The road to Imlil has now been opened and electricity and telecoms are back in Imlil, which is not bad, just a little over three days after the quake.

Imlil in many ways has considerably less damage than the worst hit villages that you are seeing on your TV. See these pictures taken yesterday (12th September) of the Imlil area (these will autoplay). [ continued below ]

Imlil, High Atlas Mountains post earthquake

Why is this? It's because most houses have used reinforced concrete during their construction as Imlil is a relatively rich area. Where did these funds to construct more stable buildings come from? The answer is tourism, which can clearly be a huge source of positive development.

Yes, some buildings in Imlil have some structural damage and the old part of Kasbah du Toubkal (where the dining room is located) has been damaged, but all the bedrooms around the Kasbah site have held up well, which is why there were no injuries to our guests; they were all in bed at the time the quake struck.

I continue to be touched by the many messages of empathy and support from past visitors to our Kasbah.

Many of you have been asking about the Education For All girls. The new term had not yet started so the girls were not in the EFA houses but were in fact in their homes. Many of these homes would have been close to the epicentre and their houses are sadly of poor quality, so we fear there may be sad news from some of these villages. Please look at the EFA social media for updates on EFA. Links can be found on their homepage here: https://www.efamorocco.org/

Thank you for your support and well wishes.

All at Kasbah du Toubkal and Discover

Earthquake update No. 1 - Imlil, 9th September

By Mike McHugo who was at the Kasbah the night of the quake

The earthquake that hit Morocco is a major national disaster and our thoughts go out to the many who have lost friends and family.

Whilst our Kasbah du Toubkal was close to the epicentre and has suffered some damage, we are pleased to let you know that all our staff and guests are safe and unhurt and have now left the Kasbah.

There is no electricity, phone or internet and the road to Imlil is currently closed but there is hope this will reopen on Sunday. We currently have very limited telecommunications with Imlil.

Mike McHugo and his brother Chris were both at the Kasbah during the earthquake and we shall update this button as soon as we have relevant information to give you.

How can I help?

If you would like to donate more generally to the effort, please kindly consider making a donation to the British Moroccan Society (BMS) charity who have set up an urgent appeal for donations to support those in immediate need. BMS has worked for decades with local associations across Morocco and with a particular focus on the Atlas Mountains in the Al Haouz region around Marrakech. The BMS is a British Charity, Registered Number 1111793, and donations by UK tax payers are eligible for GiftAid.

Here is the link to their Gofundme campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/f/british-moroccan-society-earthquake-appeal

The second option is more specifically to donate to the charity we ourselves support, Education For All (EFA). As many of you know, EFA provides the opportunity of a secondary education for girls from the High Atlas Mountain region by building and running boarding houses for girls. Sadly, all of the houses have suffered much damage as a result of the earthquake and will most likely need to be totally rebuilt. The lack of accommodation will undoubtedly have a devastating effect on the education of the girls as you can imagine.

Here is the link to the EFA campaign https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/earthquake-crisis-appeal/

How you can help

toubkal trek earthquake

If you would like to donate more generally to the effort, please kindly consider making a donation to the British Moroccan Society (BMS) charity who have set up an urgent appeal for donations to support those in immediate need. BMS has worked for decades with local associations across Morocco and with a particular focus on the Atlas Mountains in the Al Haouz region around Marrakech. The BMS is a British Charity, and donations by UK tax payers are eligible for GiftAid.

toubkal trek earthquake

For more infomation regarding Education For All, please visit their website: https://efamorocco.org/

Related Press Articles

• Independent Should tourists still visit Morocco in earthquake aftermath?

• Independent Morocco travel advice: Is it safe to travel to Marrakech right now?

• Wanderlust The Morocco earthquake: what you as a traveller can do to help

• TravelGossip British owner of Morocco hotel describes the devastation following massive earthquake

• Independent 'I’m lucky to be alive’: Morocco travel insider says country will rebuild tourism in wake of earthquake

• Steppes Travel How we can help Morocco

• AFAR A Letter from Morocco and How to Help

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Journal of Nomads

Mount Toubkal Trek: The Complete Guide to Imlil and Best Ways to Hiking Mount Toubkal in Morocco in 2024

This is a guide to the beautiful town Imlil in the Atlas mountains of Morocco. This guide contains detailed information on all the day hikes near Imlil and about hiking Mount Toubkal with a guide.

I looked in front of me and all I could see was an endless chain of craggy snow-covered mountain peaks. The air felt thin. Breathing was becoming difficult, almost painful.

Hiking to toubkal during winter - snow on toubkal - trekking to toubkal during winter morocco - journal of nomads

The last time I had done some serious hiking was in Kyrgyzstan when I hiked up to the glacier lake Ala-Kul . I thought I was ready for bigger hikes in Morocco after walking around the Todra gorges and hiking up to the Akchour waterfalls .

I thought I was ready to hike Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, standing tall at a whopping 4100 meters above sea level. I wasn’t. My whole body was aching.

My legs were shaking. I felt desperately unprepared and unequipped. The crampons that were supposed to give me a steady grip on the ice-covered slope of the mountain had just broken and I was slipping backward.

hiking mount Toubkal - Trekking jbel Toubkal - Toubkal the highest peak in Morocco - journal of nomads

As much as I didn’t feel ready when I hiked up the trail to reach this majestic Moroccan mountain, I felt exhilarated. In every direction I looked, I could see some of the most pristine landscapes I had ever witnessed.

beautiful landscapes of mount toubkal morocco - hiking to toubkal morocco in winter - trekking in the atlas mountains morocco - journal of nomads

A lot of online blogs say that mount Toubkal is one of the easiest summits in the 4000 meters range.

Don’t be fooled. Mount Toubkal is a non-technical hike, meaning that you don’t need a rope and some dangerous maneuvers to reach the top. But it isn’t an easy hike, especially not in winter.

The path that takes you from the refuge all the way to the peak is long and steep. In winter, you’re also exposed to a constant cold wind that blows on that face of the mountain.

the snow on mount Toubkal - mountains near Imlil Morocco - journal of nomads

It’s important to dress warmly and wear good warm gloves (see what to wear in Morocco ).

I wasn’t properly dressed for this challenge but when I reached the top I couldn’t feel the cold anymore. I felt super proud and happy with what I had accomplished in only one day.

hiking toubkal morocco during winter - trekking near toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

I decided at that moment to write a guide to help you achieve the same. Whether you want to reach the summit of Toubkal in a day or two or even hike to other mountains in the region, you’ve come to the right place.

In this complete guide, I will tell you all about hiking to Toubkal, what you need to bring and how you can hire a guide to get there. I will also cover the beautiful village of Imlil (from where the hike starts) in detail.

From where to stay and where to eat, this guide will help you have an unforgettable adventure in Imlil and in the mountains of the High Atlas .

reaching the summit of Toubkal - The peak of mount Toubkal in Morocco - Mount Toubkal near Imlil Morocco - Journal of nomads

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Morocco Travel essentials and resources

  • Morocco Travel Guide: 19 things you should know before you go
  • Where to go: The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco
  • Plan your trip: 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
  • Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco
  • Tours and experiences: Book a customized tour
  • Visa: Visa-free or e-visa for most passports – Get your Morocco visa
  • Getting there: Search for flights to Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez or Tangier
  • Where to stay : Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp
  • Travel Insurance: Find the best travel insurance for Morocco
  • Getting around : Rent a car in Morocco or travel by bus or train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. How to get from Marrakesh to Imlil

Imlil is very easy to reach from the bustling busy city of Marrakesh . It’s so close to the famous city that it’s often considered as one of the best day trips from Marrakesh .

Because this village is located almost right in the center of the country, it also means that it can also be reached without too much effort from Essaouira and Merzouga .

A visit to Imlil and Mount Toubkal could fit perfectly in a 3-week trip through Morocco . 

How to get from Marrakesh to Imlil by shared taxi

The easiest way to get from Marrakesh to Imlil is to take a shared taxi or a grand taxi as they are called in Morocco. The small mountain village is just 60 km from Marrakesh so getting there doesn’t take much time (75-90 minutes)

There is a grand taxi station across the street from the Jemaa el-Fnaa bus stop.

Once you get to this taxi station, it’s possible to hire the whole taxi for yourself for 250 MAD to 300 MAD or you can share it with other passengers. If you wait for the taxi to fill up, the price will be much lower (around 50 MAD to get to Imlil).

If there is no shared taxi going to Imlil when you reach the station or if the taxi takes too long to fill up, you can also reach Imlil by a combination of a bus to Asni and then catching a taxi from there to Imlil.

street of imlil morocco - man riding horse in imlil morocco - toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

How to get from Marrakesh to Imlil by bus and taxi

It takes around one hour and a half to reach the small town of Asni from Marrakesh by bus. From there one can easily catch a shared taxi to Imlil for 10 MAD or hitchhike the remaining 17 kilometers to Imlil.

You can get a bus from the central bus station in Marrakesh.

How to get from Marrakesh to Imlil with your own car

If you have your own car or if you are renting one , you can also drive directly to the small village of Imlil. Expect the drive to be very pleasant.

The road is almost completely paved all the way to the mountain village and will take you through some gorgeous landscapes. The road there is relatively safe but during winter it tends to be covered by rocks that fall from the cliffs nearby so drive carefully.

What is needed to rent a car in Morocco?

Everything you need to know about renting a car and driving in Morocco

As you travel there, the countryside around you will completely change. You will see the environment change from arid dust to green, leafy foliage.

blossoming trees near Imlil and toubkal - nature near toubkal - imlil morocco - journal of nomads

The trees blossoming near Imlil…

The temperature will also become cooler. As you approach the village, the hills become gradually filled with more and more fruit trees. After a year and a half of traveling around Morocco, I have to say that this is probably my favorite part of the country.

When Cynthia and I visited Imlil for the first time, we were amazed by the amount of apple and cherry trees blossoming in the hills and mountains surrounding the village.

imlil river near toubkal morocco - imlil morocco - hiking to toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

2. Where to stay in Imlil

Imlil has a lot of small but beautiful guesthouses where hikers and nature enthusiasts stay all year round before starting the long trek to the summit of Toubkal. The prices and comfort they offer vary quite immensely.

After going around town and having a look at different properties, here are the top places where we would recommend you to stay in Imlil:

Top picks for low-budget:

  • Dar Amadine
  • Targa Imoula

Top picks for mid-range budget:

  •   Berber Family Lodge
  • Atlas Imoula

Top picks for riads:

  • Riad Dar Omar
  • Riad Atlas 4 Seasons

mountains near Imlil Morocco - Toubkal near Imlil Morocco - nature near Imlil - Journal of nomads

Morocco T r a v e l G u i d e : 19 useful things to know before traveling to Morocco

3. Where to eat in Imlil

Imlil has all kinds of restaurants, sandwich stands, and little shops that sell shawarma and pizza. My girlfriend and I became really fond of a few places in town and we kept going back to the same few restaurants day after day to eat.

Here are the restaurants that we think are worth checking out in Imlil:

Riad Imlil has also one of the best restaurants in town. If you want comfort and great food in one place, you should definitely come here.

It’s located right on the edge of a little river and it’s quite soothing to hear the sound of the water as you eat on the terraces or in the garden.

Because we were there during the blossom season, all the fruit trees of the garden were in flowers and it created a beautifully romantic atmosphere.

Guesthouse Ain Mizane

This guesthouse/café had a very nice outdoor little garden where we would go to enjoy delicious tagines and big portions of couscous.

The staff there is super friendly and I really enjoyed speaking Moroccan Arabic with them on a daily basis.

This cozy little café is on the main road between the entrance of Imlil and the first bridge.

restaurants of Imlil Morocco - restaurants near Toubkal Morocco - streets of imlil - Journal of nomads

4. Best hikes in and around Imlil

There are plenty of beautiful hikes around Imlil. The most popular one, of course, is the Mount Toubkal Trek.

There are a few hikes that leave from the mountain refuge near the summit of Mount Toubkal and bring you to other neighboring mountains. These are as beautiful and as epic as Mount Toubkal itself and I will cover a few of them in this article.

There are also a few shorter day hikes that start in Imlil. Here are three hikes we recommend:

1) Hiking from Imlil to the radio tower

This is a very quick and easy day hike from Imlil. The radio tower can be seen from almost everywhere in town and It doesn’t take a lot of time to reach the top of the small mountain where it is.

From there you can see all of Imlil, the villages of Myzyk and Armound, and the surrounding valleys.

This small but relatively challenging hike is also a great way to acclimatize yourself to the mountains and prepare for the trek to Mount Toubkal.

radio tower in imlil - radio tower hike imlil morocco - radio tower in imlil near toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

2) Hiking to the waterfall near Armound

This is another very easy hike from Imlil. If you plan on spending only a few days in this part of the Atlas mountains, this is the hike I would recommend.

It’s only a kilometer and starts in the village of Imlil. From the center of town walk towards Riad Imlil and before you reach it, you will encounter a street that goes uphill to your right.

If you follow that street up you will reach a small trail that follows the river and leads directly to the waterfall and the village of Armound. If you get lost, don’t worry, the locals are super friendly and will gladly point you in the right direction.

The small waterfall is quite lovely and filled with water during winter. At the base of the waterfall and around the river you’ll find small shops where Moroccans sell fresh orange juice and snacks.

If you continue walking from the waterfall in the direction of Mount Toubkal, you will eventually reach the small village of Armound.

the view on imlil from armound - foggy mountains near imlil toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

This village is on top of a small hill and overlooks Imlil. It’s quite a picturesque place and it feels like traveling back in time.

The small streets are filled with traditional Berber shops and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a mint tea while admiring Mount Toubkal in the distance.

the village of Armound near imlil - berber village near toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

3) Hiking along the river from Imlil to Asni

This is not really a popular hike in Imlil as it takes you in the opposite direction of Mount Toubkal. The views along the river, however, are totally fantastic, especially during summer when all the trees are lush and green.

The distance between Imlil and Asni is only 17 kilometers so you can easily do this hike in a day. Because the paved road that connects the two villages follow the river, it’s easy to get back on it at any point during the hike.

This hike can only be done during summer because during winter and spring the rains raise the water level in the river quite drastically and it can be dangerous.

river near imlil - hiking along the river in imlil - hiking from imlil to asni near toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

5. A few things to consider before you hike from Imlil to Mount Toubkal

Do the people in imlil and toubkal speak english.

Hiking in the Moroccan mountains and especially near Imlil is becoming easier and easier since more guides now speak English. However, do remember that a big part of the population still speaks only Arabic and Berber.

Learning a few words or expressions in those languages before visiting the high Atlas mountains will definitely be helpful.

If you would be interested in learning Moroccan Arabic you could read Tips and tricks to learn Moroccan Arabic.

If learning languages is not your thing, I would recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic phrasebook and dictionary . It’s packed with thousands of sentences that will help you in different situations and scenarios.

It will be useful to ask your guide where you will be sleeping in the mountains and how much the food or the trek will cost.

friendly mountain guides - Toubkal atlas mountains Morocco - Journal of nomads

Is it safe to hike to mount toubkal?

The Mount Toubkal trek is becoming safer and safer since the installation of three police checkpoints along the way. They know who went up the mountain and who hasn’t come down yet.

If you would fall from a rock or a ledge, they would be alerted relatively quickly and could provide help and assistance as soon as possible.

porter with his donkey on trek to toubkal - checkpoint on the trek to toubkal - police checkpoint while trekking to toubkal - journal of nomads

But do remember that mountain hiking anywhere in the world comes with a certain dose of risk. Regardless of your skills as a mountaineer, hiking in completely new and different terrain is not the safest thing.

Some of the passes between the mountain refuges and the peak of Mount Toubkal are very high and can be quite treacherous at certain times of the year.

mountain pass near toubkal morocco - toubkal morocco - toubkal near imlil morocco - journal of nomads

Therefore it is paramount that you have good travel insurance before going on a trek to Toubkal.

The insurance we recommend is IATI Backpacker Insurance . It covers almost anything that could virtually happen to you in high mountain altitudes and covers you on treks of up to 5,400 meters.

The IATI Backpacker Insurance is also one of the few policies that won’t require you to be in your home country to purchase, renew or extend your insurance. If your trip happens to go on a little longer than planned, you can easily extend your plan online. Read more about this policy here .

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What kind of weather should you expect in the mountains around Imlil?

The best time to visit Toubkal is between the months of May and September. The weather is much more comfortable during that period of time and there is barely any snow on the summit.

During winter and early spring, however, the weather can be very cold at night depending on how high you are. The average temperature during the day can be around 3°C (37°f) and -7°C (19°f).

At night the temperature easily goes down to 0°C and sometimes even reaches -11°C (32°f and12°f).

snow on toubkal - toubkal during winter - toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

During winter it rains a lot in Imlil and Toubkal is covered in snow. I’d recommend you bring a good warm sleeping bag and some warm clothes regardless of the time of the year you hike around Imlil.

snow on toubkal - cold mount toubkal during winter - winter on toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

6. What should you bring on the Mount Toubkal Trek?

You will need to bring very different equipment depending on the time of the year you hike to Mount Toubkal.

If you go there in summer, you will be fine with walking poles and your summer clothes.

If you go there in winter, however, you will need to rent some crampons in the town of Imlil as well as hiking p o l e s before heading up the mountain.

You will also need to bring warm winter clothes , a warm winter beanie , and some gloves .

crampons and hiking gear for toubkal morocco - hiking gear for hiking in the atlas - hiking sticks for toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

Here are other very important things you should bring with you to Toubkal:

  • Your passport:

It’s now mandatory to have your passport with you on the hike to Mount Toubkal. You will have to show it at three different police checkpoints along the way.

  • Snacks for the way up:

I would suggest buying peanuts and dry raisins for the hike. These snacks will give you a lot of energy and they can be bought in any of the small shops in town before you start your trek.

  • Money for sleeping in the refuges:

There are two small mountain refuges located near the top of Mount Toubkal. People usually hike up to them during the first day of the trek, sleep there for the night and then reach the summit the next morning.

I reached the summit in one day but I still had to sleep in the refuge at the end of the day. I went back to Imlil the following day after spending an awesome night in the mountains.

The two mountain refuges have different prices. I stayed in one called ”Les Mouflons” and it cost me 280 MAD to sleep there with dinner and breakfast included.

refuge du toubkal - refuge les mouflons - mountain refuge near toubkal - toubkla mountain refuge morocco - journal of nomads

  • Topographic hiking map:

Most of the shops in Imlil where you can rent crampons and walking sticks also sell topographic maps of Toubkal and the surrounding mountains.

Although you do need a guide to hike up to Toubkal, I would strongly suggest getting a map of the mountain for extra safety. If at any point you would get separated from your guide or lost, having a map like this could save your life.

These maps are very detailed, super useful and a must to take with you so you know where you’re going and what you can expect during the trek.

  • Hiking GPS :

If you’re not good at reading topographic maps (I still have a hard time with that myself), a hiking GPS could be very useful and provide extra safety on your hike to Toubkal.

The one we recommend is the Garmin Instinct Outdoor watch with GPS . Check out this awesome GPS here .

  • First-aid kit:

Here’s what you should include in a first-aid kit when you do the Mount Toubkal trek:

  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Compresses and band-aids
  • Painkillers – it’s not much fun hiking when you got a huge headache
  • Anti-diarrheal medicine – it’s definitely not much fun hiking when you got diarrhea!
  • Altitude sickness pills – Mount Toubkal lies at 4,167m. If you’re sensitive to high altitudes, these pills could help you. Please seek medical advice first.

If you want a great compact first-aid kit specially made for hiking, camping, trekking, and outdoor adventures, check this one out .

  • Biodegradable toilet paper :

You won’t find many toilets in the mountains on the way to Mount Toubkal. If you do find one, it will probably be without toilet paper.

You’ll find normal toilet paper in nearly every corner shop in Morocco. However, if you want to be eco-friendly, It would be better to bring biodegradable toilet paper on your trek.

It’ll be harder to find this type of toilet paper in a Moroccan shop so I suggest you buy it in advance in your local supermarket or order it here .

On my way up to Toubkal, every hiker I met coming down had a reddish face burnt by the sun. The sun rays were even stronger because they were amplified by the snow.

The sun can be quite vicious in the high mountains of the Atlas so definitely do not forget to bring some sunscreen with you.

  • Emergency survival whistle :

This is another very important item that can be a lifesaver in case you get lost on the mountain. Let’s imagine you would get lost or you would fall in a crevasse and wouldn’t be able to use your phone to call for help.

Even if you would shout, your voice would be covered by the wind. Blowing in a whistle is a lot less tiring and the noise can be heard from miles away across the mountains.

Any shepherd or hiker who might be in the area will hear you and locate your position by following the noise. This is the whistle I recommend .

  • H e a d l a m p :

It’s very popular to do the hike to Toubkal in two days. Because of this, many people start the second day of the hike around 4 AM. By doing this they can admire the sunrise from the summit.

In winter this can mean that you will be hiking in the dark for about 3 hours unless you have a good flashlight.

I suggest you use a headlamp so you have your hands free to hold on to walking sticks while you on your way to the summit.

  • Hiking boots :

Hiking for a full day up mount Toubkal can be extremely demanding on the feet unless you have a good pair of hiking boots. Bring comfortable hiking shoes that will protect your feet from rocks and hard uneven surfaces. The shoes should have a good grip, ankle support and be light enough for you to move easily with them.

We usually hike with boots from the brand Columbia .

  • Rain gear :

All of Morocco gets a lot of rain in winter. Whether you’re hiking in the Riff mountains near Chefchaouen or up to Toubkal, bring a good rain jacket with you. The rain jackets from the North Face are great ones to bring!

guide to toubkal - crampons on toubkal - hiking gear on mount toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

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7. Do you need a guide to hike to Toubkal?

You might have heard the tragic news of the murder of two Scandinavian girls in the Atlas mountains. Since this terrible day, it is now mandatory to hike to Toubkal with a guide.

Between Imlil and the summit of the mountain, there are three police checkpoints that verify you are accompanied by a guide.

You can hire one for a day or multiple days trek to Toubkal by going to the ”Office of Mountain Guides of Imlil” or by contacting them ahead of time on their website . You can also call them at 00212 (0) 524 48 56 26.

This is where the office is located in Imlil:

The “Office of Mountain Guides of Imlil” is an association that was created in the late eighties with foreign mountain guides. The aim of this association is to provide certified mountain guides in the region of Mount Toubkal.

However, I noticed that almost everyone in Imlil works as a mountain guide, with or without certification. When you walk in the village, a lot of men will approach you and ask if you need a guide to climb Toubkal.

guides in imlil - guides to toubkal - toubkal mountain guide - journal of nomads

A lot of men in Imlil work as mountain guides…

When I arrived in the small mountain town, I hadn’t done a lot of research on the matter and I ended up climbing to Toubkal with an uncertified guide.

The experience was really good and my guide Hassan was super knowledgeable about all the mountains in the region.

guide to toubkal - local guide in imlil toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

My guide Hassan that walked with a German couple and me all the way to the top of Toubkal

I hiked for two days with him and a German couple and the experience was one I’m not close to forgetting. After the hike to Toubkal, he invited us to his house to share a delicious couscous with his family.

I absolutely recommend the services of this guide. If you would wish to contact Hassan for a hike to Toubkal you can call him at +212 616-819298. He doesn’t speak a lot of English but he is quite fluent in French and Spanish.

hikers toubkal morocco - trekkers in toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

The German couple I spent the day hiking with from Imlil to Toubkal…

In case you’re not up for looking for a guide independently and rather join a group, you can also book a trek with tour organizations like  Toubkal Trekking in Morocco .

You can also organize your Mount Toubkal trekking tour in advance by booking them online.

Here are 2 trekking tours to Mount Toubkal that are highly recommended:

8. How much does it cost to hire a guide for the Mount Toubkal Trek?

Prices for guides to Mount Toubkal vary a lot. I

f you hire one with the “Office of Mountain Guides of Imlil”, you’ll pay a bit more. You will, however, benefit from having a guide that is experienced in mountain rescue and knows how to administer cpr.

Their prices also include transfers to and from Marrakech in modern safe vehicles, fully qualified English-speaking mountain guides, private cooks who prepare delicious full meals on the trail and porters and mules to carry your bags.

On their website , they offer an interesting selection of short day trips and longer multiple-day treks for a wide range of prices.

guide to toubkal - guide in the atlas morocco - journal of nomads

If you would prefer to hire a guide on the spot directly in Imlil, you can expect to pay between 400 and 700 MAD to go to Toubkal and back.

This price doesn’t include your food, the price of the crampons if you go there in winter and a night spent at the refuge halfway up the mountain where you will have to stay.

guides to toubkal - guides in the atlas Morocco - journal of nomads

9. How long does it take to hike from Imlil to Toubkal?

It took me about 4 hours to hike from Imlil to the mountain refuge. Once I got there, I took a little break and then continued towards the summit.

It took me another two hours and a half to reach the summit. So, all in all, it took me six hours and a half to reach the peak of Toubkal from the town of Imlil without trying to go extremely fast.

I reached the top of the mountain in one day but some people choose to do it in two days. It all depends on your fitness level and how acclimatized you are to high altitudes. It’s important to walk at a pace that feels comfortable for you and to stay safe.

hiking to toubkal - trekking near toubkal morocco - journal of nomads

10. Staying at the mountain refuges in Toubkal

There are two mountain refuges on the way to the summit of Toubkal. One is called ” Les Mouflons ” and the other one is called ” refuge du Toubkal ”.

During the low season (winter and spring), there is no need to contact them ahead of time to book your stay there. You can just show up and there should be plenty of room.

I stayed in ” Les Mouflons ” and it cost me 280 MAD for the night with dinner and breakfast included. They have different prices depending on the time of the year.

refuge near toubkal morocco - mountain refuge toubkal morocco- journal of nomads

If you visit Toubkal during the high season (summer and fall), I would suggest contacting the refugees ahead of time just to make sure they will have a bed available. These are the websites where you can contact them ahead of time:

  • Les Mouflons
  • Refuge du Toubkal

hiking in Toubkal Morocco - trekking in toubkal near imlil morocco - journal of nomads

I hope you have an awesome adventure hiking from Imlil to Toubkal. It was one of the most challenging hikes I ever did but it was totally worth it. If you do climb Toubkal, let me know in the comments below how it went.

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11 thoughts on “Mount Toubkal Trek: The Complete Guide to Imlil and Best Ways to Hiking Mount Toubkal in Morocco in 2024”

Hello, Thank you very much for these informations.

In your review, you mentionnned you ended up climbing the mountain with an uncertified guide. Does Hassan is an uncertified guide?

Is it a problem to hike toukbal with an uncertified guide?

Hi Maxime, that shouldn’t be a problem as Hassan was also uncertified but… you definitely need someone who knows the region well and knows what to do in case of emergency.

May I know when did you do your hike? I am looking to hike in February , would the weather still be very cold and harsh?

Hello Ann, Niko did this hike at the end of March and there was still a lot of snow up Mount Toubkal. You can definitely expect snow and cold weather in February. Please prepare well!

Hello Niko! Congratulations for your work and adventures. I am organizing a 3 days trekking trip on Atlas Mountain in october. Hike to Toubkal and Ounakrim. I am aware of the necessity of having a guide. Is it so easy to find unofficial guide in Imlil? The price you have written is for one person a day? I also would like to contact Hassan but I do not speak french or spanish and he has not whatsapp account… Thank you for all information!

Yes, that would be the average price per person for one day, even with an unofficial guide. It will be very easy for you to find a guide directly in the streets of Imlil or at the guide office on the main street. Hassan, unfortunately, doesn’t have a WhatsApp but you could contact him by getting a local sim card upon your arrival in Morocco.

Hello I want just to tell that Hassan has an WhatsApp account now

Thanks for the info!

This blog was a great inspiration. We did the Toubkal Circuit last week and loved it! Hope to get more inspiration here for future hikes!

Hi there! Thank you so much for this detailed journal about Morocco. It’s super helpful. I was wondering if the prices mentored here are still the same in 2023? Taxi from Marrakesh to Imlil still around 250-300 MAD please?

It might be more expensive but I haven’t received any updates yet. Please let me and other readers know if it would be the case.

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Toubkal National Park, Morocco

Toubkal National Park is located within the High Atlas mountains. Hikes to the highest peak is north Africa, Mount Toubkal start from the small village of Imlil. This guide explores hikes in the national park.

After a few days in the chaos of Marrakech , an escape is needed, to unwind and to see another side to Morocco. Many people escape north to the coast in Essaouira, but to the south are the mountains of Toubkal National Park and a small village called Imlil. This small village is the perfect place to start hikes into the High Atlas Mountains and Mount Toubkal.

View up the valley from Imlil in Morocco

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Toubkal National Park

Toubkal National Park is located in the High Atlas Mountains in southwestern-central Morocco and is just over 70km from Marrakech by car.

The national park was established in 1942 and covers approximately 380 km 2 . Over 80% of the park is arid mountains with just 15% being forested areas.

The park has 8 mountain peaks over 3660m, the highest and most well-known being Toubkal which stands at 4167m, the highest peak in North Africa. Other peaks include

Mountain Peaks in Toubkal National Park

  • Ouanoukrim – 4,089m
  • Plateau de Tazarhart – 3,995m
  • L’Aksoual – 3,995m
  • Ineghmar – 3,892m
  • Bou Iguenouane – 3,882m
  • Le Tichki – 3,753m
  • Azrou Tamadout – 3,664m

As well as the mountain peaks, Toubkal National Park has ancient petroglyphs that can be found with local guides close to the ski resort of Oukaimeden. Many have been destroyed in recent years but some still remain. These 5000-year-old (maybe more) rock engravings depict wild animals, domestic animals, weapons, warriors and scenes from hunting expeditions and battles.

Wildlife in Toubkal National Park

Toubkal National Park provides a range of environments from arid mountains to grasslands. There are forests of native Atlas cedar ( Cedrus atlantica ) and thuriferous juniper ( Juniperus thurifera ) as well as holm oaks ( Quercus ilex ) and walnut trees ( Juglans regia) .

The grasslands come alive in the spring months when prickly pears and poppies can be seen across the lower slopes of the Atlas mountains.

toubkal trek earthquake

The are a range of birds of prey who make the park their home including the endangered bearded vulture ( Gypaetus barbatus ) and the golden eagle.

Toubkal National Park has one of the largest colonies of Barbary sheep ( Ammotragus lervia ) in North Africa. These hardy sheep are adapted to live in the arid and harsh conditions found in the park. They can often be seen balanced on steep cliffs, feeding on vegetation that other animals cannot reach. They have distinctive spiralled horns and brown coarse coats with a ‘beard’ below their chins.

Imlil village

Imlil sits in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, at the end of the Mizine Valley at an altitude of 1800 metres. The village has a population of 5,000 during the summer hiking months, but over the harsh winter months, many move away. The mountains around Imlil are dotted with Berber villages, and small buildings clustered around a central mosque.

Walnut grove above Imlil in Morocco

Driving into Imlil the valley, the landscape is lush and green, prickly pears edge the road, gradually being replaced by small restaurants and guesthouses. The desert heat that suffocates Marrakech dissipates and the cool mountain air makes exploring so much easier. The annoying touts and menu holders that grab you throughout the souks and squares of Marrakesh are gone, replaced by calm and tranquillity.

This is off the beaten track, but well known in the trekking world as the start of the trail to Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. This can make the village busy at the beginning of the day as everyone heads off and again when the day visitors leave to head back to Marrakech. With accommodation being cheaper than in Marrakech, staying in this mountain retreat when everyone else returns is not a hardship. The stars are stunning and the atmosphere is relaxed for those who stay overnight.

What to do in Imlil

If you don’t like trekking then Imlil is not for you unless spending time with views of a mountain from your guesthouse is what you enjoy. This is the place to come to trek. Walking is the whole reason for this village’s expansion over the years. There is a whole range of walks from short meanders up to the waterfalls to intense treks to the summit of Jebel Toubkal.

Trekking in Imlil

Jebel toubkal.

The biggest challenge in Imlil is to reach the summit of Jebel Toubkal. Reaching Jebel Toubkal is a two-day hike with a night at a mountain refuge from Imlil. The peak of this mountain is at 4,167 metres, the 22nd highest in Africa and can have snow on the summit as late as June. It is not an easy trip with altitude being uncomfortable for some. It is best completed with a local guide. These can be arranged in Marrakech or picked up in Imlil. Omar, who looked after us was fantastic. A lucky find for us!

Imlil looking towards Mount Toubkal

Hiking to Armoud Morocco

If Jebel Toubkal is too much for you, but you have a full day of hiking, then there are still lots of options. Donkey tracks head into the mountains from Imlil. Guides can take you exploring these paths to Armoud Morocco, initially through walnut and cherry tree groves following the path upwards, and eventually rounding a sharp bend (one of many). From the bend, the village of Armoud Morocco can be seen with amazing views of Jebel Toubkal beyond. Reaching the village is the perfect excuse for mint tea with the villagers before heading back to Imlil along the irrigation channels and the numerous waterfalls.

Cascades d’Irhoulidene

Above Azib Tamsoult is the stunning waterfall called Cascades d’Irhoulidene. This waterfall is the perfect warm-up before attempting Mount Toubkal or as a long day hike in its own right.

Hiking to the Waterfall of Imlil

A shorter hike visits just the waterfalls at Imlil . This is a circular route taking just a couple of hours. The path is rough and uphill all the way to the falls. It wanders through walnut groves along the irrigation channels that keep this valley so lush.

The falls are beautiful with numerous drops and you can work your way up and down the various plunge pools. However, the rocks are slippery and paths are extremely rough. As you approach the falls there are orange juice sellers, making the most amazing juice or mint tea for hot walkers!

waterfall in morocco with blue sky

Hiking Toubkal National Park

There are a lot of hiking options in the Toubkal National Park. If you are looking for something extreme then the 7-10 day Toubkal Circuit can be completed in summer months.   Guides and guesthouses can suggest routes and help with planning.

Book your Toubkal trek HERE

Mountain guides in Imlil

Most people arrive in the village with guesthouses, tours, and guides prearranged.   If you haven’t got anything arranged the  Bureau des Guides will help you find someone to take you on your adventure. They speak English and will make all the arrangements for you. Their prices usually include accommodation and food as well as a guide.

We arrived without a guide and met Omar who was fantastic and took us exactly where we wanted to go. A guide is highly recommended as the paths are not well marked and the routes can be difficult. An assisted trek with a guide and cook is good value and makes for an enjoyable experience. Currently, all treks to Mount Toubkal have to be guided.

Trips can also be arranged by your guesthouse or online before you arrive if you prefer to know what you are doing in advance.

Is Toubkal National Park Safe?

The hiking in Toubkal National Park can be strenuous and a local guide is essential. Around Imlil, there is a calm feel, very different to the bustle of Marrakech, but this is a remote mountain region and personal safety should be considered.

Imlil was hit hard by the 2023 earthquake and you should always be aware of what needs to happen if you are caught in an earthquake.

In 2018 two Scandinavian women lost their lives on Mount Toubkal. Since then, the local authorities have introduced a number of measures to ensure all travellers are safe.

These measures include:

  • All attempts at Mount Toubkal should be completed with a qualified local guide. Qualified guides will hold a professional identification card issued by the Ministry of Tourism.
  • All individuals have to spend the night in an authorised hut or campsite
  • No attempts at the summit are allowed after 3pm

Food in Imlil, Morocco

Food in Imlil is standard Moroccan food. Tagines and couscous are easy to find in many of the small restaurants and tea houses.   There are also a few small grocery shops selling bread, vegetables and snacks for your adventures. 

Where to stay in Imlil

There are lots of guesthouses and beautiful riads in Imlil. There is even the Kasbah de Toubkal hotel linked with National Geographic if you want luxury. Imlil Refuge is a good option if money is tight with clean rooms and helpful staff.

Getting to Imlil and Toubkal National Park from Marrakech

There is no public transport to Imlil but you can take a grand taxi to Asni and then a second to Imlil. This will cost about 30 dirhams in total. These taxis usually leave in the mornings from the centre of Marrakech and will take about two hours to get to Imlil. The grand taxi is like a car share, where you share the cost with others going to the same place.

A private taxi from Marrakech will cost about 500 dirhams and can be organised by your guest or online. A private taxi is good if you want to stop on the way to take photographs or explore corners that catch your attention. A private taxi also means you can leave Marrakech early before the heat rises.

Imlil can be reached on some group tours , but time in this mountain village is limited and you will visit the Argan Oil co-operative and the Berber co-operative along the way as well as other locations reducing your time in Imlil.

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I'm Suzanne the traveller and photographer behind Meandering Wild. With over 30 years of experience travelling to different corners of the world in search of wildlife and remote locations nearly all of the advice on this website is from my own exploring.

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Climb Mount Toubkal – Complete Guide to North Africa’s Highest Summit

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Africa , Hikes , Morocco , Mountains

climb-mount-toubkal

Welcome to our complete guide to trekking Mount Toubkal ! Immerse yourself in the vivid culture of Morocco and climb the highest peak in North Africa.

With breath-taking views of the Atlas Mountains, green valleys, and endearing Berber villages, Mount Toubkal will not disappoint. The trek may be moderate in difficulty , but the journey will be difficult to forget.

Below you will find a full guide on everything you will need to know before you climb Mount Toubkal . We booked our guided trip through a company called Skyhook , and had so much fun on this experience (see video below).

Mount Toubkal Overview

Where is mount toubkal.

Mount Toubkal or Jebel Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa. Toubkal is apart of the Atlas Mountain Range and is located in the southwestern part of Morocco, about 60 km south of Marrakesh .

Can You Climb Mount Toubkal?

Mount Toubkal is a non-technical summit with its highest peak at 4,167 meters. At the peak awaits views of a dramatic border between land, ocean, and desert.

There are two approaches to reaching Toubkal, the South and the North. The Southern approach is the most popular and straightforward, while the Northern route is longer and best for experienced hikers.

One of the popular features about Mount Toubkal is that you can trek the mountain and be out of Morocco in 4 days. You would want to do this with caution in order to allow for acclimatization due to the high altitude, but this makes an excellent long weekend holiday full of adventure.

History Of Mount Toubkal 

In 1923, Vincent Berger, Hubert Dolbeau, and Marquis De Segonzac were the first Europeans to summit Toubkal. A year later, the height of Toubkal was formally recorded and the trigonometrical structure was carried to the peak in 1931.

How Fit Do You Need To Be To Climb Mount Toubkal?

Toubkal is for keen walkers and hikers with a moderate fitness level. Toubkal is a fun and challenging trek with gratifying views from the peak. You will see the remote villages of the Berber people, roaring waterfalls, rivers, and the crash site of a cargo plane, depending on your route.

If you join an organised tour group, your guide will bring along food and mules with muleteers will be used to carry all of your things. If you decide to trek independently, then you will need to arrange refuges to eat and rest, and carry your own gear.

Join a Mt Toubkal Hike

Book with our recommended local guide

Typical Itinerary

This itinerary follows the most common route to Toubkal on the South. We highly recommend itineraries that build in one or two more days for acclimatisation.

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech, drive from Marrakech to Imlil, and spend the night in Imlil      

Day 2: Trek to Refuge Camp and spend the night

Day 3: Trek to Toubkal via South Side and descend via South Side

Day 4: Return to Imlil and spend night

Day 5: Return to Marrakech Menara Airport

Toubkal-Winter-Ascent

A Toubkal Winter Ascent is an awesome challenge, but does require some technical mountaineering skills.

Independent Trekking vs. Guided Treks

Why hike mount toubkal without a guide.

An experienced hiker could most definitely trek Mount Toubkal alone. There are many villages and settlements on your way to the peak in case you get lost. If you are trekking during the spring, you are likely to be surrounded by numerous amounts of hikers who could guide you in case you get lost.

 There are two refuges at the base of the mountain (more on this below), where you can get food and sleeping quarters (please note: these refuges get busy during the peak season so booking ahead is advised).

It is important to note that there are many summits in this area. Ensure you are using the correct path to get up Mount Toubkal. Otherwise, you could get lost.

Why Hike Mount Toubkal With A Guide?

If you are not very experienced in hiking at altitude or just prefer having the logistics of a trip arranged for you, then we recommend you employ the services of a guiding company.

Guide companies typically arrange the whole trek for you. This is including accommodation, transport to and from Marrakech, food on the trek and mules to carry gear. 

A guided group trekking experience allows you to interact with other hikers. You will have the opportunity to make friends with people who have similar interests.

A guide provides peace of mind, so you can focus more on the views and less looking at a map. They are likely to have gone up Toubkal hundreds of times and know exactly where to go and when to take breaks.

Guides ensure you get plenty of food and water, which is crucial for any trek. There will be water sources along the way but it is best to bring your own water bottle and water purification tablets.

Overall, having a guide is best for convenience and safety. A guide is especially useful when visiting Toubkal in winter due to the dangers of slipping and getting lost in freezing temperatures.

Popular Routes

There are two main approaches to trekking Mount Toubkal - the South and North Side routes. There are a few other variations but these require more experienced hiking and a longer expedition. The most common route begins on the South side.

The Southern route is mostly commonly used because it is significantly easier and has worn paths making the trail easy to follow. It is followed by 98% of trekkers. The Northern approach is a longer route and requires a skilled hiker. Even when taking the more difficult route for the ascent, it is recommended that you use the popular South side route for your descent.

During the spring and summer months, Toubkal is certainly a hike/trek rather than a climb.

Toubkal-Refuge

A cool Refuge at Azib Tamsoult.

It is non-technical but moderately difficult due to some steep slopes (no climbing required, but you will need to scramble occasionally) and the high altitude. You should be prepared to walk for several hours each day, depending on the route and duration of your trek. There is a risk of altitude sickness , but this is easily avoided through proper acclimatisation.

During winter, Toubkal becomes a technical hike and requires special gear. You should highly consider booking a guide and ensure you are familiar with using an ice axe and crampons (see details on a winter ascent below).

Trekking Toubkal should take you 4-5 days in order to properly acclimate and allow for a nights rest at Imlil and the refuge.

Acclimatisation Hikes

As trekking Mount Toubkal requires your body being at high altitudes, it is crucial to allow time for adjustment.

A rule of thumb is “climb high and sleep low.” It’s important to gain height slowly, about 500m a day once you are at 2,500m. You should be drinking plenty of water as well.

The best way to acclimatize to trekking Toubkal is to start with a good nights rest in Imlil and then stop at one of the refuges to sleep for the night. This allows your body to adjust gradually, as the walk from Imlil to the Toubkal Refuges is about 12km alone.

After spending the night at one of the Refuges, you will wake up early, feeling refreshed, and begin your trek up to the summit of Toubkal.

It is best to begin your trek in the early hours of the morning, with a headlamp, to avoid returning too late in the day and being obligated to sleep at the Refuge again. It is also great to get up to the summit for sunrise!

berber-village-toubkal

Inside a Berber village. Many of these villagers have Gites (hostels), where you can sleep the night.

Another option to acclimatise is to spend the night in Aroumd. This is on the way from Imlil and the village has plenty of gites (villagers homes) available. This way you would spend one night in Aroumd and the other at the refuge.

For a longer acclimatization, you are able to begin the trek in Ouirgane rather than Imlil. Ouirgane is a Berber village further from Imlil. You will have to spend two nights in different gites before reaching the refuge. This route is ideal for those who want to ensure they are properly acclimatized.

mount-toubkal-trek-water

There are many streams in the High Atlas where you can collect water. Just make sure you bring water purification tablets to purify the water.

Toubkal Winter Ascent

Toubkal in Winter is more technical than a Spring or Summer trek as the terrain is completely covered in snow and ice.

Winter ascents of Toubkal start in November and run all the way through to the end of April.

A winter climb of Toubkal is achievable by someone who has never hiked on snow, but we highly recommend you do some basic winter mountaineering practice before undertaking the challenge.  

The skills you need to be confident with are:

  • Walking in crampons across snowy / ice surfaces, with mixed rock
  • Using a straight handle ice axe to sturdy your balance and anchor your hike in areas that are a little exposed
  • Confidence on 30-35 degree snow slopes
  • Ability to traverse steep sections (sometimes you may need to hold or clip into a fixed rope, although this is rare).
  • Ability to scramble up a mixed terrain surface of rock, snow and ice with crampons on

None of these skills are particularly difficult, but if you are doing this for the first time they can be scary and challenging. Hence, why we suggest you get some practice winter mountaineering skills.

Also, at high latitude and when the weather is bad, seemingly easy terrain can appear very challenging.  

We recommend taking an experienced guide / joining an organised group if you are not very experienced. Guides are not instructors though. Most will not be able to formally train you on how to hike in snow, use an axe and crampons. It is up to you to determine whether you can handle utilizing these tools and manage on snowy terrain.

Join a Winter Mt Toubkal Hike

Toubkal refuges, les mouflons vs. cabine alpine francais (caf).

When climbing Mount Toubkal, you will most likely begin from the village of Imlil. It will take you about 5-7 hours to get to the Toubkal Refuges. It is not recommended that you complete the trek to Mount Toubkal in one day. You should be stopping here or at other villages to get your rest before completing the trek.

There are two Mount Toubkal Refuges. There is Les Mouflons and Cabine Alpine Fancais (CAF). The Les Mouflons is named after a deer (Mouflons) found in the Atlas Mountains. Cabine Alpine Francais is also called the “Neltner”, named after Mr. Louis Neltner, a geologist, and mountaineer. You are able to book both refuges online in advance.

The Refuges’ are by no means luxury, but they do the job. They are dorm style and have shared bathrooms.

When choosing a refuge, Les Moulfons is less expensive than CAF, so if you are on a budget choose Les Moulfons.

CAF has slightly better amenities (kitchen, rooms, toilet / bathroom facilities) and because of the higher price tends to be less busy.

It is always a good idea to bring some snacks of your own, as the Refuges offer very basic food. Take advantage of your time in Marrakech and purchase some delicious dried fruits and nuts.

If the weather is good and you have camping equipment, it is possible to camp outside the Refuges.

Getting to Morocco and Toubkal

To get to Mount Toubkal, you need to fly into Morocco. The closest big city to Mount Toubkal is Marrakesh. The only international airport in Marrakesh is the Marrakesh Menara Airport. The drive from the airport to Imlil is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you are planning to trek with an organised group then most meet in Marrakesh where you will likely overnight and explore the city.

The trip from Marrakesh to Imlil will cost you around 75 dirhams ($8) per person in a shared taxi, or 300 dirhams ($30) in a private taxi. Be careful when taking a private taxi and agreeing on a price. They will overcharge so negotiate with the driver as much as you can. The shared taxi station is near the Sidi Mimoun Garden.

Please note: There is no need to obtain the Moroccan Dirham ahead of your trip. You will be able to exchange currency upon arrival in the airport. It is a good idea to have some cash on you for your taxi, food, and the tipping of guides.

Best Time to Trek Toubkal

best-time-to-trek-toubkal

During the Spring and Summer months, the weather is hot throughout the Atlas. Temperatures drop in the evenings and early mornings. Winter months in the High Atlas are cold. 

Trekking Mount Toubkal can be done all year round.

The best time to hike is in the Spring, April or May. The weather is not too hot and you are still able to see some snow on the mountains. Due to the rewarding weather, Spring is peak season.

The Summer months - June through to August - are usually very hot. Trekking in the Atlas is fine, but make sure you drink loads of water.

September and October are good shoulder months for trekking.

In Winter, from the month of November to April-May, Toubkal becomes a technical climb. You will need special equipment such as an ice axe, crampons, and fixed rope (see Toubkal Winter Ascents above).

How Difficult is Toubkal?

toubkal-difficulty

The summit of Mount Toubkal (4,167m)

Toubkal is a moderately difficult hike due to the high altitude. The actual hiking itself is pretty easy and the summit approach from the south side from May-October is relatively straightforward. 

Winter ascents from November through to April are much more challenging. To undertake a winter ascent we highly recommend doing a basic winter mountaineering course, where you will learn how to use crampons and an ice axe. You should know the basics of how to do an ice axe arrest and be confident on 30-35 degree snowy slopes. 

In terms of training, you will need to be comfortable walking for numerous hours each day for several days. At a minimum you should do one or two multi-day practice hikes that last 4-5 hours a day in your home country.

It would also be smart to build up endurance by doing a month or two cardio gym training before your trek. If you have managed multi-day treks in the past you will do just fine.

Mount Toubkal Gear List

The packing list for climbing Mount Toubkal is relatively straightforward. If you are trekking in the Spring and Summer months, then you can expect pretty good weather. Rain is always a possibility and temperatures in the Atlas mountains do get quite cold at night. 

In terms of clothes you should think about layers - base layer , fleece layer, warm outer layer. See recommend items below.

In terms of Winter ascents on Toubkal, you will need more layers - specifically a hard shell waterproof jacket and trousers, a warm outer jacket (down or synthetic) and additional layering for your hands, feet and head. You will also need some technical gear, like crampons (and rigid sole boots that can take crampons), a straight handle ice axe and potentially a harness and carabiners to clip into a fixed rope (please confirm requirements with your tour operator).

toubkal-packing-list

Packing list! In the summer and spring months, the climb doesn't require a lot of gear. Winter ascents will require more gear.

  • Thermal baselayers (temperatures decrease in higher altitudes)
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket
  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper
  • Trekking trousers and shorts in Summer
  • Good trainers for valley treks / to wear after a days hiking
  • Mid-weight hiking boots
  • Lightweight thermal or fleece gloves
  • Sunhat /warm hat
  • Head torch and spare batteries - the summit push usually happens before sunrise!
  • Personal lock (for unattended bags)
  • Water purification tablets or water filter
  • Trekking Poles
  • 4 season sleeping bag (winter), or light 3-season sleeping bag (summer)
  • Water bottle
  • Soft Sided duffel bag (50-80 liters) - carried by mules. If trekking independently, then a 50-60L backpack.
  • Lightweight day pack

Toiletries and First Aid

  • Sunblock for body and lips
  • Antibacterial hand wash
  • First aid kit: antiseptic cream, diarrhea treatment, throat lozenges, painkillers, plaster and blister treatment, hydration salts, insect repellent

Other Items:

  • Toilet paper
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Therm-a-Rest (cushion for sleeping bag) - optional!
  • Pen knife (keep in hold luggage when traveling)
  • Repair kit (thread, needle, duct tape)

Winter Trekking Gear 

  • Ice axe - straight handle (60-70cm)
  • Crampons - and hiking boots that can fit crampons
  • Waterproof hardshell jacket
  • Waterproof, lined trousers
  • A warm synthetic or down jacket
  • Gloves (inner thin and outer thick pair)

Important Info To Know Before Trekking Mount Toubkal

Visa, vaccinations and safety.

When entering Morocco, you are required to have a passport that has at least 6 months of remaining validity and two blank pages within the passport for entry and exit.

Most countries do not require a tourist visa to enter Morocco for a duration of 3 months. These countries include Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, U.S., Japan, and other EU countries. South African citizens require a visa. Check with your relevant embassy or official Moroccan consulate for other nationalities.

If you are arriving from an area at risk of Yellow Fever, you will need your International Certificate of Yellow Fever.

Other vaccinations that are a point for good measure include diphtheria-tetanus-polio, measles-mumps-rubella, hepatitis A, and typhoid.

Road safety in Morocco is a concern. Make sure you only take rides with licensed taxi drivers and don't be afraid to ask your driver to slow down.

Morocco is a predominately Muslim country and therefore a conservative approach to dress and public behaviour should be adopted at all times. Sexual relations outside of marriage and homosexuality is prohibited. If you are travelling with your partner it is not unusual to be asked to show proof of marriage before checking into a hotel.

For more information on safety whilst travelling in Morocco, check out the UK FCO website .

People, Culture and Other Things To Do

Moroccans are people of Berber, Arab and Arab-Berber descent. The population is 33 million and most people follow the Islamic faith.

Morocco has many other cultural influences from countries like Europe, The Middle East, and Sub Saharan Africa. Women and men dress in a djellaba and men wear a red cap, a burnoose, for special occasions.

Moroccans are known for decorations and rich colours. The red colour is found naturally in most of the buildings. Moroccan cuisine is something you must try while visiting. It is extremely flavourful. Moroccans are famous for couscous, tajine, pastille, halwa, and mint tea served from a traditional long spouted teapot.

morocco-colours

Moroccans are hospitable and welcoming to tourists. As most people follow the Islamic faith, it is important to be mindful of this. Both men and women need to be considerate of their dress, especially in rural areas. Women should cover their arms and shoulders, and wear garments that cover from the knees up. Men should cover their shoulders and be covered above the knee as well.

When entering a home, it is expected that you remove your shoes and follow the host. You are expected to leave tips. The rule of thumb is waiters at cafes receive about 1dh each, restaurants 5dh, and porters 5dh. However, taxi drivers do not expect a tip.

On Mount Toubkal you are able to go on skiing towers in wintertime, horseback and camel riding in the Atlas Mountains, and visit other mountains and Imperial cities. Morocco has so much to offer other than trekking Toubkal. Whether you want to shop the marketplace of Jemaa el-Fnaa, visit the Majorelle Garden, or explore the Sahara Desert and its wildlife. You are in for a vivid adventure.

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About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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i work as a guide in toubkal massif and i climb mount toubkal once a week everything you said is true thank you very much for sharing your experience with the world and making our region popular

2 Day Climb of Mount Toubkal

My girlfriend and I recently completed the 2 day Jbel Toubkal climb and it was without a doubt the highlight of a fantastic week in Morocco. We booked through Viator and were informed in our confirmation email that private-marrakech-day-trips.com would be our operator.

The transfers to and from the start point of the trek were good with a large and very road worthy 4×4 (i believe they also use these vehicles for the Sahara tours) taking us directly to and from Imlil the start point.

The trek itself is quite tough, with the first day taking 5 hours of uphill walking in moderate heat (this was July) and the second day being around 10 hours of walking! We were quite fit but relatively inexperienced so having a guide was a must. Omar our guide was excellent throughout.

A number of people we met on the mountain did not have a guide which did make me question the need for one. Regarding that question i can say emphatically that IT IS WELL WORTH HAVING A GUIDE! Even if you are a well experienced mountaineer the paths up Toubkal are very steep and not particularly clear at times. We saw many unguided people get abit lost and having to backtrack (usually to follow us). The guide also arranges all your meals and transfer of your excess luggage by mule, your accommodation and more. Having these done for you especially on the short 2 day trek is great. Also i doubt organizing these things would save you much money anyway as in Morocco there is a price the locals pay and a price tourists pay (as with most places).

Top tips: Take water with you as it is expensive on the mountain and your mule can carry the pre-bought supplies. If you want a more relaxed pace then go for a 3 day option (2days is quite intense). Take you camera because the scenery is amazing.

Hi – I’m considering doing this trek (probably in September/October time) and was wondering if you could tell me how much exposure there is? I’ve done quite a lot of trekking before but sometimes get a bit nervous if I have to hike along sheer drops for a long period of time. Is there much of this on this trek or is it mainly up the valley to the summit as it appears from your photos? Thank you – Anna.

Hi Anna, Sept / Oct is the summer season so there is basically no serious exposure. There are a few sections that require minor scrambling but in general Toubkal in the summer season is straightforward.

Very useful thanks. Just a bit surprised with the photo of woman in shorts and short sleeved tee shirt, just above paragraph on considerate dressing!!

Hi there, I enjoyed reading your article. I am in Morocco and I really want to hike the Toubkal mount but I want to do it in one day. I think I can say I’m an experienced hiker, recently I hiked Katahdin mountain in Maine USA. It’s not so long, around 8000 meters long and elevation gain of 3,982-ft, this trail is considered very strenuous clim and is very exposed. Do you think Toubkal can be done in 10-12 hours? And also alone without a guide. Just using trekking apps like Gaia.

Yes, Toubkal can be done in a day from Imlil, but you will need to be ultra fit and well acclimatised. Most people hike from Imlil to the refuges, overnight and then do Toubkal in the morning before returning to Imlil in the afternoon.

Great info, Thankyou. My husband has knee pain at the moment (usually comes and goes and settles down with time so he is still able to walk ok) but I’m wondering how bad the actual track is. I’m stressed if his knee is still playing up for our trip in Sept he won’t be able to go. Any extra advice/thoughts would be appreciated! 😫

Hi Mandy, the hike is pretty demanding and you will be on your feet for 5-8 hours a day hiking. The summit push is particularly long and hard. Coming down may be the biggest challenge for your husband. I recommend he takes a knee support and uses trekking poles.

Hi! We are going to trekking at the beginning of October. Is it true that taking a local guide from the control post at the village Armed is obligatory? We are experienced mountaineers and I am a certified Mountain Guide in Slovenia. Thanks for the answer.

Hi Marko, it’s been a while since we were in Morocco so things may have changed, but we didn’t need to take a guide when we went in 2014. If you do eeed a guide, you can get a super affordable deal on Skyhook: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/trips/toubkal-summer-ascent

Great information. Thank you for the post.

I will be climbing MT. Toubkal around July 23-24. Flying in Casablanca for a week to climb and tour Morroco. If anyone's itinerary is similar and would like to join would be great.

23rd Casablanca-Marrakesh-Imlil-Agadir-Essaouria-Safi-Casblanca. Flu out on July 28

Hi Abraham, you can join an open group trip here: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/trips/toubkal-summer-ascent

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices

The Complete Guide to Climbing Morocco's Mount Toubkal

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Mount Toubkal

Standing 13,671 feet (4,167 meters) in height, Morocco's Mount Toubkal holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain in Northern Africa. Located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, Toubkal is a popular trekking peak, drawing thousands of visitors on an annual basis. And while it may not be as tall as its African sibling Mt. Kilimanjaro , it still holds a significant challenge for hikers looking to reach its summit.

If you're planning on visiting Morocco in the near future and are looking for an adventurous outing, a Toubkal climb may be exactly what you're looking for. But before you set out for the High Atlas, here is everything you should know.

Difficulty of the Climb

While Toubkal is mostly a non-technical climb –– meaning it doesn't require ropes, safety harnesses, or crampons –– it still offers a moderate challenge for experienced hikers . The mountain's height can make a trek to the summit a difficult one for those who aren't use to the thin air that comes with altitude or aren't in good physical condition . That said, this is an approachable climb for anyone who has a good sense of adventure, doesn't mind roughing it a bit, and enjoys a walk along an alpine trail.

What Toubkal lacks in altitude however, it more than makes up for with prominence. The mountain ranks 36th in the world in terms of total prominence, which is the distance from its base to the summit. In this case, Toubkal rises 12,320 feet (3755 meters) above the surrounding landscape, and climbers will have to hike up that entire distance to reach the summit. That's a lot of vertical gain and loss throughout the hike.

As noted, Toubkal is mostly a non-technical climb, though loose scree on the upper slopes of the peak can make trekking just below the summit a challenge. During the summer months, hikers can scramble up this rock and debris without too much trouble, but in the winter, ice and snow can add an additional layer of difficulty. During those times of the year, it may be necessary to use an ice axe or crampons to make your way to the top.

Safety Tips

Much like climbing Kilimanjaro, a trek to the summit of Toubkal is very safe. The trails are clearly marked and very easy to follow. For the most part, this is simply a challenging hike to the summit of a tall mountain with limited exposure to any kind of real danger. Serious injuries to climbers are a rarity, as are fatalities.

That said, there are certain inherent risks that come with hiking in high alpine environments, including the chance of contracting altitude sickness. This can lead to headaches, upset stomachs, and cause nausea, amongst other symptoms. Altitude sickness can also make it difficult to sleep or maintain an appetite as well. In severe cases, it can even lead to severe illness or death.

Fortunately, Toubkal's relatively low altitude means that these issues aren't a concern for most trekkers, but it is important to be aware of them before setting out.

Hiring a Guide

You do not need to hire a guide to climb Toubkal. If you are an experienced backpacker and feel comfortable in the wilderness, you can choose to go it completely alone, and many trekkers do just that.

Hiring a guide does bring some nice benefits however, including connecting with like-minded travelers on the trail and having someone to show you the best way to get to the summit. A guided trek also brings a higher level of safety too, as you'll have someone who is familiar with the mountain watching over you and checking on your health and wellbeing along the way.

If you're looking to join a guided trek, there are a number of good ones that can be found online, and we'll share some of our favorites below. But if you decide to wait until you're in Morocco to hire someone, that is fine too. You'll find plenty of local operators to book with in Marrakech and Casablanca , as well Imlil, a village located close to the mountain itself.

How Long It Takes to Climb the Mountain

One of the most common questions that hikers have is "how long does it take to hike to the summit of the mountain?" The actual number of days varies depending on whether you hire a guide or choose to go it alone, as well as your own physical conditioning.

Most guided Toubkal treks spend three days on the mountain, with the bulk of the climbing done on the first two days, with the descent coming on the third and final day. Some tour operators may add an extra day or two to help with acclimatization or for bagging smaller peaks nearby.

If you're making a self-guided trek up Toubkal, you can choose to go at whatever pace you like, spending as few as two days or many more. However, chances are if you feel comfortable enough going it alone, you'll probably be able to complete the climb in two to three days as well.

The Best Time to Go

While it is possible to climb Mount Toubkal at any time of the year, there are certain months that are better than others. In the spring, April and May provide cool, comfortable temperatures, with little rain or snowfall, and in the autumn, September and October tend to mirror those conditions.

During the summer months (June, July, and August) temperatures can be quite hot, making it a difficult time to be on the mountain. You'll still find plenty of trekkers making their way up Toubkal's slopes, but the warm conditions bring an added level of challenge.

In the winter, the mountain tends to be less crowded, but conditions are more challenging too. Snow and ice can make sections of the trail difficult to walk on, and it is not uncommon to use crampons or ice axes when approaching the summit. Less experienced climbers and hikers are encouraged to avoid December, January, and February, as high winds, cold temperatures, and unexpected snowstorms can increase the level of danger.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of late May/early June and late August/early September are a good time to go. In both cases, the weather tends to be manageable, but trekkers haven't necessarily started showing up in large numbers yet.

What to Expect on the Trail

As already mentioned, most Toubkal trekking itineraries are usually about three days in length. They tend to start in the village of Imlil and head up into the mountains from there. The early stages of the trek are easily managed, with only a slight, gradual rise in altitude. The day 1 route passes through another village or two along the way, and it is not uncommon to encounter vendors along the path who are selling food and drinks too. The trail is very easy to follow and offers little in the way of challenge.

After about four or five hours of hiking you'll reach the CAF Refuge, your campsite for the nights spent on the mountain. The Refuge can be crowded depending on how many other hikers are on Toubkal, but generally speaking, it is a relaxing place to get some sleep prior to summit day.

The next morning you'll launch your attempt on the summit at about sunrise. The second day brings more challenging trekking with steeper trails and rock-filled scree fields. It takes about three to four hours to reach the top, which is marked with a colorful, pointed tripod. On a clear day, the views from the peak can be very nice, but oftentimes, high winds can blow dust and sand into the air, obscuring even other mountains in the Atlas Range.

After spending some time at the summit, you'll head back down. The descent tends to be faster, requiring only two or three hours, but tired legs can make the hike a surprisingly difficult one. Loose scree can make for precarious footing at times, but trekking poles can prove invaluable for keeping your balance.

Once back at the Refuge, some trekking groups will elect to continue back to Imlil, completing the climb in just two days. Others will spend another night at the campsite before proceeding down the following day, which helps to break up the trek to a degree.

Gear to Pack for a Toubkal Trek

Traditional hiking gear and overnight camping equipment are a necessity on any Toubkal trek. You'll want a good pair of sturdy and comfortable hiking boots for instance, as well as comfortable hiking clothes that includes trekking pants and a breathable base layer.

Other recommended items include the following:

  • Wind and waterproof jacket
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
  • Backpack to carry all of your gear
  • Tent (if trekking independently)
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Light insulating layer such as a fleece pullover
  • Light gloves
  • Basic toiletries (toothpaste, chapstick, etc.)

If you're climbing during the winter, you'll also want warmer gear, including winter boots , thick socks , a down jacket , and a warmer sleeping bag too.

Climbing Toubkal With a Trekking Company

There are literally dozens of local trekking companies and guides that you can hire in Morocco that lead hikers up the mountain on a regular basis. Most are quite good at their job and take pride in what they do. But if you'd prefer to book a guide before you go, there are also some outstanding adventure travel companies that can handle all of the details for you. Here are a few that we recommend.

Intrepid Travel (7 Days) Intrepid Travel's Toubkal Trek is a bit longer than some others, but that's because the trip includes a few days to ascend North Africa's highest peak and extra time in Marrakech. This trip includes a stay in a traditional Berber home and an opportunity to explore Marrakech more fully too.

Flash Pack (5 Days) Based out of the U.K., Flash Pack specializes in organizing small group adventures for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s. The company's Toubkal trek is just five days in length, reasonably priced, and includes a day of unwinding at a luxury lodge in Marrakech after the climb.

Exodus Travel (8 Days) A leader in the adventure travel space for decades, Exodus Travel offers an eight-day trek up Toubkal that includes some pre-climb hiking through Moroccan villages, time to acclimatize prior to summit day, and bonus time in Marrakech.

KE Adventure Travel (Varies) KE Adventure Travel boasts seven different options for climbing Toubkal, including one itinerary specifically designed for teenage hikers and another for road cyclers . For the truly adventurous, the company even offers a winter ascent of the mountain, delivering a true mountaineering experience.

For further options for trekking Toubkal search online for other itineraries and hiking companies.

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Who said Morocco was all sand, sun and sea? Join us on a Mount Toubkal Trek and you’ll probably see snow too. 

If you want to tick a serious mountain off your Bucket List but you’re not the most experienced of climbers just yet, Toubkal is the perfect peak to set your sights upon (and your crampons).  

This 4-day trek to the highest peak in North Africa will both challenge and reward you at every turn. On your way to the summit, you’ll learn about Berber life, see some of the most spectacular views on the planet, and test the strength of your calves too.  

Experience the unforgettable and discover one of Africa’s most authentic hidden gems as you conquer the majestic Mount Toubkal. (And yes, of course, you’ll get the chance to barter with the souks in Marrakech too.)

What is 'Mount Toubkal Trek' like?

What's included in our mount toubkal trek, all activities mentioned in the itinerary, max 16 travellers per group, 3* hotel, guest houses and refuge (twin share), private transport, porters to carry 12kg during the trek, 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners, expert guides with you throughout the trip, mount toubkal trek itinerary, day 1: arrive in marrakech and explore the souks.

ARRIVE IN MARRAKECH AND EXPLORE THE SOUKS You will meet your Bucket List Leaders at the airport and fly out as a group for Bucket Lister + Trips. If you have booked a Bucket Lister Trip we will see you in Morocco soon! If you have transfers with us we will take you to the hotel. For those making their own way, we will see you in Marrakech. Special Information: Your adventure begins with a Welcome Meeting at 6 pm today.  

Day 2: FREE DAY IN MARRAKECH AND OPTIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

FREE DAY IN MARRAKECH AND OPTIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE Today we will enjoy a free day in Marrakech. Walk through the colourful souks in search of souvenirs, and visit Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque. Alternatively, you can choose to enjoy an add-on experience, taking a hot air balloon ride from nearby. This is a unique way to see the Moroccan countryside in all its beauty. Before dinner, you will meet with your guide at the Riad for a trek briefing.

Day 3: TRANSFER TO IMI OUGHLAD, TREK TO TIZI OUSSEM

TRANSFER TO IMI OUGHLAD, TREK TO TIZI OUSSEM You will be transferred from Marrakech to Imi Oughlad (1350m). You will then trek to Tizi n’Tacht Pass (2100m) and Tizi Oussem (1800m) where you will sleep overnight at a Berber house.

Day 4: TREK FROM TIZI OUSSEM TO IMLIL

TREK FROM TIZI OUSSEM TO IMLIL In the morning you will trek from Tizi Oussem (1800m) to Tizi Mzik Pass (2489m) and then Imlil (1740m) where you will sleep overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 5: TREK FROM IMLIL TO REFUGE TOUBKAL

TREK FROM IMLIL TO REFUGE TOUBKAL Today you will trek from Imlil (1740m) to Refuge Toubkal (3206m). The route will climb up a river gorge, passing waterfalls, Berber settlements, and mountainside shops.

Day 6: SUMMIT MOUNT TOUBKAL

SUMMIT MOUNT TOUBKAL Trek from Refuge (3206m)  to the summit of Mount Toubkal (4167m). This incredible mountain climb affords stunning views over the High Atlas mountains, Anti-Atlas, and even the Sahara desert in the distance. Once we have reached the summit, we then descend via the Refuge to Imlil.

Day 7: TRANSFER BACK TO MARRAKECH

TRANSFER BACK TO MARRAKECH After breakfast we will be picked up from the guest house and driven back to the Riad in Marrakech. Enjoy one last evening in Morocco, eating delicious tagine and drinking a tasty Moroccan mint tea.

Day 8: RETURN FLIGHT TO THE UK

RETURN FLIGHT TO THE UK This marks the end of our Moroccan adventure.

Mount Toubkal Trek Food & Accommodation

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Bucketlister trips are our standard for all our incredible trips. When you book a Bucketlister trip we will organise everything for you from the first to the last location on your adventure and you'll have a local guide with you every step of the way. All you'll need to organise is your own flights and transfers. (Additional Options for Land Only Transfers)

Bucketlister+ Trips

Bucketlister+ trips are a done-for-you service from start to finish. We organise everything for you. You'll have a UK Guide with you all steps of the way and all you'll have to do is just pack you bag. (Additional Options for UK Group Flights & Transfers)

Trailblazer Trips

Trailblazer trips are our first run throughs of our trips. Get the benefits of a Bucketlister+ Trip at the cost of a Bucketlister and all we'll ask for in return is your feedback! For more information click here!

Bucketlister trips are our standard for all our incredible trips. When you book a Bucketlister trip we will organise everything for you from the first to the last location on your adventure and you’ll have a local guide with you every step of the way. All you’ll need to organise is your own flights and transfers. (Additional Options for Land Only Transfers)

Bucketlister+ trips are a done-for-you service from start to finish. We organise everything for you. You’ll have a UK Guide with you all steps of the way and all you’ll have to do is just pack you bag. (Additional Options for UK Group Flights & Transfers)

Trailblazer trips are our first run throughs of our trips. Get the benefits of a Bucketlister+ Trip at the cost of a Bucketlister and all we’ll ask for in return is your feedback! For more information click here!

Mount Toubkal Trek Dates & Availability

Mount toubkal trek reviews, here’s what some of our awesome customers had to say:.

Mt Toubkal trip Oct 2023. Information provided before the trip was excellent, especially in comparison with other travel companies I’ve used in the past. It was always super easy to get hold of someone and they were able to help with all my questions, many of which were already answered by information in the Vamoos app! On the trip our guide, Jake, is very experienced and capable and was able to help with all matter of request from our group. I was really impressed with how the needs of each individual were considered and catered for. Due to the earthquake there were some very small adjustments made to our itinerary – this did not at all affect the smooth running of the trip. – Beth Oct 2023

Amazing trip to Mount Toubkal. The BLC fantastic from start to finish. Jake, our guide, was so good. Nothing too much trouble. Highly recommended 👍 – Dave Oct 2023

Company was great from start to finish, really friendly team, very clear communication, a pleasure to deal with.

The trip itself was very well organised, all our guides were so knowledgeable and made everything run very smoothly. It was my first trip abroad by myself and to say I was nervous is an understatement but right from the meeting at the airport I felt in good hands due to the confidence and organisation from Jake our UK guide. I will absolutely not hesitate to use them again and have already started planning my next trip! – Emma Oct 2023

Had a brilliant week in really good company which was well organised and led by our very knowledgeable leader jake ,helped by the local guides and workers the 4 day trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal was an amazing and enjoyable experience. The week started wth our arrival in Marrakesh time to settle in then the group met up for a meal and an opportunity to introduce ourselves. The following morning some of us chose to take the opportunity to experience a hot air balloon trip which was amazing and highly recommended. The trek itself was quite testing but with guidance of local guide and leader with the companionship of the group it was very manageable and enjoyable with the bonus of amazing views. We were also well looked after with some really good food and comfortable over night stay ,for me it was a really good experience and i would not hesitate to book another trip in the future with this company, all stages were very planned and executed in a professional manner with safety and welfare in mind – Geriant May 2023

Jake is the best UK guide for TBLC. He makes every trip fun and it feels like you are going on holiday with an old friend (albeit one who knows his stuff when it comes to first aid, mountain safety and customer care). All of TBLC in country guides are knowledgeable and approachable and I have come away with some good friends from my trips over the years. Toubkal shouldn’t be underestimated, you do need to have a basic level of fitness but TBLC will do all they can to support you on summit night. I’m looking forward to my next trip 🙂 – Amy Oct 2023

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From: £200pp, mount toubkal trek frequently asked questions, take a look at some of our frequently asked questions for mount toubkal, how hard is mount toubkal (jebal toubkal).

Mount Toubkal is a trekking peak and requires no technical experience (unless you are doing a Winter Trek ). It is certainly achievable by people in a good condition of physical fitness.

Mount Toubkal is 4167m Tall. You can read more about this in our Article ‘How High is Mount Toubkal ?’.

With Mount Toubkal being above 4000m, it is always going to be a challenge. The altitude gain on Toubkal is great, so you need to go slowly and give your body as much time to acclimatise as possible.

You can read more about this in our full Article ‘ How Hard is Mount Toubkal? ’

How Long Does It Take To Climb Mount Toubkal?

Mount Toubkal is climbable in two days and many companies offer this. The general itinerary for a Toubkal trek is to get a transfer from Marrakech to Imlil (1800m) and then start your journey up to the Nelter Refuge at 3207m. You will stay overnight in the Refuge before waking early and starting your climb to the summit (4167m). It takes around 4-5 hours to get from the refuge to the summit of Jebal Toubkal. Once you have summited you head back down the refuge, and then back to Imlil.

At The Bucket List Company we feel this altitude gain over two days adds considerable pressure. So we offer the Toubkal Trek over 4 days. The last two days of the trek are the same as above, but the first two days we head over several high passes giving your body more time to acclimatise to altitude.

When is the Best Time To Climb Mount Toubkal?

The best times to climb Mount Toubkal are April to Early June and then end of September and October. These times offer the best conditions and temperatures. It is very hot during the summer months, so we always advise to avoid these times.

If you want to climb the mountain in winter conditions and use Crampons and Ice Axes then January and February potentially offer the best conditions.

What Equipment Do I Need For Mount Toubkal?

What gear will you need to climb Mount Toubkal? If you are climbing during the trekking season then you will not require any specialist equipment. If you are already a regular trekker in the UK you will already have everything you need for this trip.

You will need a sleeping bag, day pack, duffle bag for kit to be transported in and then your clothing to walk in.

If you are making a winter ascent of Mount Toubkal then you will also need a pair of crampons and a walking axe. You will also need some warmer clothing for the summits.

Is Mount Toubkal Safe?

After the incident in December 2018 the Moroccan government and the National Park changed the way you trek in the region. You can now only trek in the National Park with an authorised Moroccan Guide and you can’t be on your own.

There are now checkpoints on the route where you have to show your passports so the authorities know who is in the National park.

The Berber people are super friendly and we have never felt unsafe in Morocco with our groups.

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Mount Toubkal Trek: Your Comprehensive Guide to Climbing North Africa’s Tallest Mountain

toubkal trek earthquake

In this post you’ll find everything you need to know about hiking the Mount Toubkal trek, including routes, costs, preparation, what to pack and what to expect.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. All this means is that if you make a purchase through one of the links I have provided, I will earn a small commission as a result but the cost to you will remain exactly the same.

My friends and colleagues called me crazy when I told them I’d be spending almost the entirety of my four-day ‘holiday’ to Morocco climbing a mountain and sleeping in rudimentary mountain refuges at night, sharing a room with around 20 other hikers who may or may not have showered in the last few days.

Ok, I admit that I’m not a huge fan of the latter (pack your ear plugs and sleep mask!) but it’s all part and parcel of completing the three-day Mount Toubkal trek, and reaching the 4167 metre summit of North Africa’s tallest mountain.

The friends who I made the climb with had the slightly more sensible idea of spending a few days in Marrakech beforehand, to enjoy some relaxation time and an opportunity to acclimatise to the heat.  Whereas I decided to finish work on the Friday, travel to Marrakech on the Saturday (I left my hometown at 10am and arrived in Marrakech’s medina 12 hours later) and then start hiking on the Sunday.

I won’t mention the fact that I arrived home at 4:30 a.m on the Thursday and was at work four hours later.  Ok, my friends and colleagues may have been right after all 😉

Where is Mount Toubkal?

Mount Toubkal is located 63 kilometres south of Marrakech.  The start and end point of the Mount Toubkal trek is the village of Imlil, 1800 metres above sea level.  Imlil is a 90-minute drive from Marrakech.

When is the best time of year to make the climb?

This depends on exactly how much you want to challenge yourself!

Climbing Mount Toubkal in the Summer is difficult due to the heat (there’s not much shade on the trail) and in the Winter it’s bitterly cold and you’ll need additional equipment like crampons and ice picks.  So the Winter climb is a lot more technical and also more dangerous due to the snow and ice.

For the optimum conditions on the trail, the best time of year to do the Mount Toubkal trek is Spring (April or May) or Autumn (September or October).  We chose the former because we’d heard that there should still be traces of snow on the peaks and also some colourful Springtime flowers in bloom, both of which we thought would be good from a photographic point of view.

Looking back on to Imlil as we left on the first day. I love the colourful yellow flowers on the lower mountain slopes

How fit to I need to be?

It’s not a technically difficult climb, but there are long days of hiking and lots of relentless uphill sections.  I’d say that as long as you have a reasonable level of physical fitness and a positive mental attitude, then you’ll be fine.  I don’t consider myself to be very fit, but I do lead a moderately active lifestyle.  I walk to work and back every day, go running twice a week and usually hit the gym once or twice at the weekend.

One of the main issues with the Mount Toubkal trek is the altitude and the speed at which you ascend and descend. We climbed 450 metres on the first day, a whopping 1400 metres on the second day and then a further 1000 metres on the third and final day.  And then we made the 2850 descent all in one go, with a short break for lunch.

Hiking when you’re suffering from altitude sickness is hard .  Sometimes the symptoms can be so bad that you have no choice but to retreat to a lower altitude. Sometimes the symptoms come on so quickly and severely that you cannot even manage that.  In that instance four-legged help would likely be utilised in order to transport you back down the mountain as fast as possible.

Although no-one is immune from altitude sickness, you can take the following precautions:

  • Climb slowly .  There’s no point rushing to the top when doing so could mean you won’t make it there at all.
  • Eat carbs .  When you’re at higher altitude you need more calories.  So this is probably one of the few occasions you can gorge guilt-free on bread, pasta and potatoes. One of the symptoms of altitude sickness is a loss of appetite, so it’s important to eat even when you’re not feeling particularly hungry.
  • Drink water .  I’m so bad at remembering to drink water on hikes, but I made myself stop regularly to take a drink on this one and it absolutely paid off – apart from a bit of a headache on the way down, I didn’t suffer an ill effects at all.
  • Avoid alcohol .  This wasn’t hard for us in a Muslim country during Ramadan, but in most other situations, the temptation to have a cold beer at the end of a hard day’s hiking will probably be difficult to resist.

If you do get a headache, taking one or two ibuprofen tablets can help.

How long do I need?

It is possible to complete the ascent and descent in just two days (first day seven hours, second day around 10), but this route does involve returning to Imlil along the same trail you hiked in the opposite direction the day before.

Due to the high altitude, we didn’t want to rush the climb.  We also didn’t particularly want to retrace our steps (although you do have to follow the same route up and down for the final part of the climb from the Toubkal refuge to the summit), so we chose a circular route, which is completed over three days.

toubkal trek earthquake

Photo credit: Aztat Treks (atlastrekshop.com)

It’s also possible to book longer treks, which include stays in traditional Berber villages.  Having previously embarked on a similar adventure through the Atlas Mountains (but without the Mount Toubkal climb), I can thoroughly recommend this option if you have more time.

Can I make the hike independently?

Not anymore.  Following recent events ( a couple of Scandinavian hikers were murdered in 2018 and there has been more than one fatal slip on the trail), qualified guides are now required even for the normal Mount Toubkal trek routes.

What should I pack?

This all depends on the time of year, but for an April/May climb, I’d recommend the following.  The temperatures on the trail should range between 7 and 26 degrees, meaning it gets pretty chilly in the morning and at night, but daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm.

  • Good, sturdy, worn-in hiking boots.  I wore my Keen hiking boots .
  • A comfortable, well-fitting day-pack.  Around a 20-litre capacity should be sufficient.  I try not to pack too much because, well, I’ve got to carry it all.  And my DSLR already weighs a ton. I love my Osprey Tempest .
  • Leggings.  These take up less room than walking trousers, offer better freedom of movement, and are a lot more comfortable in my opinion.  My favourite brands for leggings are Sweaty Betty and North Face .
  • Good hiking socks .
  • Quick-drying tops.  I was advised that I should keep my shoulders covered (it being a Muslim country ‘n’ all), but I hate hiking in the heat when my underarms can’t breathe, so I did pack a couple of sleeveless tops as well as tees.  I took Salomon , Sweaty Betty and Rab tops.
  • A hat.  There’s not a lot of shade on the trail, so a hat or cap will help to protect your head from the hot sun overhead.
  • Sunglasses, obvs. Just make sure you get some that offer sufficient protection, preferably with polarising lenses.
  • A head torch .  Because you will be making the first section of final part of the climb to the summit in the dark.  It’s also helpful to find your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
  • Waterproof jacket.  Weather is always a lot more unpredictable up in the mountains.  We were lucky and I didn’t need mine, but there are no guarantees you will be. My Rab Downpour Jacket has never let me down, even when it was tested to its limit in Kerala .
  • Waterproof backpack cover .  Because there’s no point in keeping yourself dry if you’re going to have to put soaking wet clothes on at the end of the day.  Electrical equipment (cameras, phones, chargers) and water aren’t friends either.
  • Mosquito repellent.  It appears that mosquitoes are not deterred by the altitude. I prefer to use natural mosquito repellents and find that they are just as effective.
  • Long sleeve tops and a fleece to wear at night and first thing in the morning before the sun has fully risen. My current favourite fleece is this one by Rab .  I love the seaglass colour and the fact that it has zipped pockets.
  • Flip flops or alternative footwear to change into at camp.  Believe me, after seven hours (or more!) of hiking, your feet will not want to stay in those hiking boots a moment longer!
  • A quick-drying towel. I use this microfibre travel towel by Lifeventure .
  • A light down jacket. I take this Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket with me on every trip and I love that it comes with its very own stuff sack (like a sleeping bag, so you can attach it to your backpack when not wearing).
  • Trekking poles .  Although you can complete most of the trek without them and I am usually much more comfortable hiking without poles, I must admit that they were helpful for the latter part of the final summit. You can hire these though, so there’s no real reason to pack them.  The same applies to a sleeping bag .
  • Ear plugs and a sleep mask .  Because it’s the only way you’ll get a decent night’s sleep when staying in those mountain refuge dorms.

What can I expect from the trek?

In short, you can expect some incredible mountain scenery, gruelling climbs and welcoming Berber hospitality.  But, as I’m sure you’ll want the answer in a little more detail, here’s what you can expect from each of the three days on the Mount Toubkal trek.

Day 1 | Mount Toubkal Trek | Approx. 5 hours of walking

Our guide and driver met us in Marrakech at 8:30 a.m on the first day of our trek.  We’d transferred everything we needed for the Mount Toubkal trek into our daypacks and left the remainder in our main packs, which we could store for free at the trekking office in Imlil.

We had a short wait at the trekking office whilst our guide, cooks and muleteers got everything ready for our hike.  However, as is tradition in Morocco, there was a plentiful amount of mint tea for us to drink while we did so.

We left Imlil somewhere around 10:30-11:00 a.m, climbing steadily as we did so.  This is the part of the hike where the scenery is the most lush.   Dense evergreen forests cover the valley floor, trees line the pathway and patches of bright yellow flowers create vibrant bursts of colour across the lower mountain slopes.

Our mules following us out of Imlil, Mount Toubkal Trek

Another thing you’ll notice as being present on the lower slopes (but that disappears the higher you climb) is the sound of of bleating goats. Very quickly it became such a comforting, familiar sound that always managed to put a smile on my face.

Today’s hike is relatively easy in comparison to the following two days, but it will also probably be one of the warmest (heat doesn’t rise in the mountains; you lose around 10 degrees with every 1000 metres you climb) so you will still rejoice when you arrive at one of the mountain cafes serving huge glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice for just 15 dirham (£1.22).

Mountain cafe serving freshly squeezed orange juice, Mount Toubkal trek

Incidentally this was also the location of our lunch stop, 2489 metres above sea level and after around two hours of steady uphill walking. Our guide and porters assembled a couple of mattresses for us to sit on under the shade of the trees, and within minutes we were filling our bellies with a veritable feast of tomato, pepper and bean casserole, and an amazing pasta and cheese salad spread, accompanied by Moroccan bread and washed down with copious amounts of sweet mint tea.

Like my Inca Trail trek in Peru, I was amazed by the kind of food the cooks turned out on our Mount Toubkal trek, considering that all the food and everything they needed to prepare and cook it with had to be carried on the back of mules up the mountain.

Our beautiful lunch spread on the first day of our Mount Toubkal trek

And, in front of us while we ate, these are the kind of views we were rewarded with.

Lunch stop, Tizi-n-Mezzik mountain pass (2489m), Mount Toubkal trek

After lunch we started our descent to the village of Tamssoult, 2250 metres above sea level.

The narrow track clings to the edge of the mountain, sometimes a little too precariously for comfort considering the number of loose rocks around.  The spectacular views are both a help and a hindrance, providing a welcome distraction from the sight of your own feet but also the temptation to take your eyes of the track for a little while longer than it’s necessarily safe to do so.

Walking down to the village of Tamssoult, Mount Toubkal trek

We made plenty of water and photo stops though, before beginning our approach down to the Azib Tamsoult mountain refuge – our home for the first night of our three-day Mount Toubkal trek.

We had a sunny terrace to sit out on and enjoy countless cups of sweet, warming mint tea, surrounded by fertile farmland, grazing mules and goats bleating as they made their way down the mountainside on the opposite side of the valley 🐐🐑

We also had hot (yes, properly hot – and powerful!) showers. Considering that I’d not anticipated having anything more than a bit of cold water to wash in, this was absolute bliss!

I’d advise you to take full advantage of the washing facilities here because those at the next refuge really have nothing on those at Azib Tamsoult!

Our guide Mohamed, Tamsoult village

Day 2 | Mount Toubkal Trek | Approx. 7 hours walking

Breakfast was served at 4:30 a.m on day two, for a 5 a.m departure.  You may not feel like eating at this time of the morning, but trust me, you’ll need the fuel; the second day of this Mount Toubkal trek is a constant stream of relentless uphill stretches.

Be prepared for plenty of river crossings today as well.  I haven’t got the best balance in the world so these aren’t my favourite, although I must admit that I was more concerned about the damage it would do to my DSLR if I fell in, rather than the actual concept of falling in.  I was constantly taking my camera in and out of my backpack for the initial section of today’s climb.

The mules were much better at the river crossings than I was!

However, it was lovely to witness the sun slowly rising up above the mountains.

To begin with, just the very tips of the mountain peaks were bathed in soft golden light, and then gradually more and more of the landscape would move from shadow into sunlight.

Azzadene Valley, Mount Toubkal trek

The majority of our climb out of the Azzadene Valley was along winding mule tracks that zig-zagged their way, seemingly endlessly, towards the Aguelzim Mountain Pass.  I won’t deny it, in parts it was tough, and did require a lot of stubborn determination to make it through.

The best advice I can give you is to find your pace and to continue at that steady pace, stopping only briefly to catch your breath or to take a drink.

The photos unfortunately do not accurately reflect just how steep a climb this was and how thin the air was getting at over 3500 metres above sea level.

The killer switchback climb out of the Azaden Valley

At the top, the views really were something else.  We could literally see for miles, and it didn’t feel as though we could climb any further.  And indeed we wouldn’t be on day two; we’d already made our 1400 metre ascent from 2250 metres to 3650 metres before we sat down to eat our lunch, and our legs knew about it!

From this point onwards, we once again followed a narrow ledge that clung to the edge of the mountain, craggy peaks rising up on either side of the valley.

Agelzim Mountain pass, Mount Toubkal trek

By the time we stopped for lunch, it had been a very long time since breakfast and although we’d snacked on dried fruits and nuts along the way, we were all absolutely starving!  That said, we still couldn’t finish the delicious feast our cooks had prepared for us.

Seeing as though our guide and our cooks and muleteers were all observing Ramadan (I honestly don’t know how they do these treks without eating or drinking a single thing from 4 a.m until 7:30 p.m every single day for a month!), the mules ended up eating everything we couldn’t manage.  Ramadan is probably their favourite time of year 🙂

Day two lunchtime views, Mount Toubkal trek

After lunch, we were on the home stretch to Les Mouflons mountain refuge , where we would spend our second night of the Mount Toubkal trek.

This refuge was a lot bigger and busier than Azib Tamsoult , and unless you fancy a luke-warm shower in the dark, I really wouldn’t bother with the bathrooms here.  Every bed in our 16-bed dorm was taken before the evening arrived, and after realising that there was only one ladder down from the upper 4-bed bunk, I felt quite glad to have gotten there early and snagged one of the mattresses on the lower bunk.

Les Mouflons mountain refuge

It’s also worth pointing out that electricity is only switched on in these mountain refuges at around 6 p.m, and there’s usually only one or two sockets in each dorm, so good luck managing to get any of your electronics charged.  Pack a portable battery charger .  Mine has been a life saver on countless occasions.

Seeing as though we’d be setting our alarms for 3 a.m the next day, in order to leave for our Mount Toubkal summit climb at 4 a.m, we ate dinner at around 6 p.m – giving our guide and cooks enough time to clear up after our meal before breaking their fast and eating their own.

Day 3 | Mount Toubkal Trek | Approx. 10 hours walking

I think I must have been the only one in our dorm who slept almost all the way through the night.  Jayne had to shake me in order to wake me the next morning, I hadn’t even heard the alarm with my ear plugs in!  Seriously, get yourself some ear plugs ; I never travel anywhere without mine.

We were all feeling a little apprehensive about this final part of the climb, partly because our guide had warned us that the ascent was much steeper than the day before, partly because we’d read online about how the upper section of the mountain is littered with scree slopes, and partly because we were worried about how much the altitude would affect us, having a further 1000 metres to climb, in order to reach the summit.

Our guide, Mohamed had strongly advised us that we use walking poles for this section, so we duly retrieved the ones we’d hired (that the mules had been looking after for us up until now), and set out in all our warmest layers and with our head torches illuminating our path ahead.

I actually prefer making steep climbs in the dark, because I think it helps not being able to see the route ahead.  It was the same with the Trolltunga hike that I completed last year as part of a six-day budget adventure in Norway .  When Jayne and I were making the final part of our descent from Trolltunga back towards the trailhead, we couldn’t believe it was the same section we’d walked up nine or ten hours beforehand.  Yes, our legs were a lot more tired at the end of the hike than they were at the start, but that last downhill section was relentless, whereas at the start it hadn’t actually seemed that bad.

The initial section of our final Mount Toubkal climb consisted of scrambling over large boulders, which is rather difficult when you have a walking pole in each hand that you keep getting stuck between the rocks.  I consistently had to throw my poles aside whilst I used my hands to pull myself up between the boulders and to steady myself as I walked.  Half an hour in and I was getting ready to abandon them completely.  Fortunately though, they were a lifesaver further up, so overall I’m glad I took Mohamed’s advice.

The final part of the climb to the summit of Mount Toubkal was certainly the most varied in terms of the kind of terrain you have to cross and the kind of challenges you’re presented with.  For that reason, it required a lot more focus and concentration, which made it difficult to hike with my DSLR slung over my shoulder as I had done thus far.  As a result, I don’t have many photos of this part of the climb.  But here are a few mobile shots of a snowy section that was particularly treacherous – and freezing! Pack some gloves .  I didn’t and had to borrow some from another more organised hiker.

Snowy climbs, Mount Toubkal trek

I didn’t actually find day three of the climb as hard on the legs as day two had been.  I did have to check my breathing a couple of times when I noticed myself getting short of breath, but on the whole I found it more of a slog than a battle.

And we were at the top in a period of time that felt like a lot less than the (just shy of) four hours it had taken us. My advice for an equally painless ascent is to think back to Aesop’s Fable, ‘The Tortoise and the Hare,’ where “slow and steady wins the race.”  Successful high altitude climbs are all about being the tortoise: ascend slowly and keep a steady pace.  You’ll likely be trekking with a group anyway, so you’ll need to stay relatively close to the guide or guides and other group members.

At the top, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions.  The previous day it had reportedly been really windy and the day after rain was forecast.  But on the morning we reached the top we had nothing but sunshine and blue skies.

Jayne, Rob and I and the other Aztat Treks trekking group up at the summit of Mount Toubkal. Smiles all around! (And spot who forgot they were still wearing their head torch!!!)

My only complaint about about the summit was that we weren’t given long enough up there before making our descent.  By the time I’d congratulated my fellow hikers, downed a ton of water, and waited patiently for my turn to pose in front of the heavily-graffitied pyramid-shaped summit marker, Mohamed was gesturing that it was time to leave.  I would’ve appreciated maybe just 10-15 longer in order to snap a few more photos.

It was, after all, the only time I was going to find myself up there, 4167 metres above sea level, looking down upon the craggy peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.

Me at the summit of Mount Toubkal

The route down to the refuge seemed a lot longer than the route up had been (even though it actually took us just over half the amount of time), and I can’t quite believe that I managed to avoid falling over considering the amount of times I slid on the loose scree.  Downhill is definitely not my friend!

We were all so ready for lunch at 11:30 – which was actually equivalent to eating lunch at 3:30 p.m, if we’d have woken up at a reasonable hour.  After lunch we began our long (around 4 hours) walk back to Imlil.  Although this route was a lot busier than the one we’d walked from Imlil, the scenery was absolutely stunning, and we could look back down the valley to the snow-capped peaks of the mountains we’d climbed earlier that day.

The walk back to Imlil, Mount Toubkal trek

We kept ourselves entertained by singing (if you can call it that in my case) to each other.  Mohamad sang a lovely traditional Berber song and I returned the favour by singing the theme tune to ‘Fraggle Rock’! Hey, what can I say? It’s upbeat, it’s short, and I know all the words to it 😉

Towards the end of the hike, my legs were so tired that even the soles of my feet were aching.  I felt such an overwhelming sense of joy when we finally spotted Imlil in the distance.

Imlil, Morocco

But of course, we couldn’t rest just yet; we still had to make it back to the trekking office in order to pick up our transport back to Marrakech.

It had been an exhausting but exhilarating trek, and one I’m so glad I finally got to tick off my wish list.

Practical info

  • We booked our trek through Aztat Treks , primarily due to their fantastic customer reviews, and we weren’t disappointed.  We paid £190 ($241) per person, which included all accommodation, meals and transport to and from Marrakech, as well as a guide, cooks, mules and muleteers.  As we didn’t want risk being part of a large group, we paid a premium for Mohamed to take solely the three of us.  The cost of the trek comes down the more people there are booked on to it.
  • We stayed in this lovely Airbnb in Marrakech before and after our trek.  If you’ve not yet registered with Airbnb, you can get £25 of your first stay by following this link .
  • We booked our return flights from Manchester to Marrakech via Skyscanner – a site I use religiously for researching and booking flights.  I paid £85 for mine, but Jayne and Rob got theirs slightly cheaper, due to travelling out on a different date.

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Mount Toubkal Trek_ A Practical Guide _ Gallop Around The Globe

Kiara Gallop

Hi I'm Kiara, the travel blogger and photographer behind Gallop Around The Globe. I can usually be found hiking up mountains, getting lost in the cobblestone streets of my favourite cities, making friends with a furry feline or two, photographing cacti, or grazing on olives and cheese.

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Nice Article Kiara!

Mount Toubkal is absolutely gorgeous, your photos are amazing. Quick question though, in terms of gear that you took, what would you say was an absolute must have for anyone else looking to do the same trek? Apart from the basics.

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I did try to answer this in my article under the ‘What to Pack’ section. If I assume the basics to be hiking boots and clothing, I would definitely suggest that a head torch, warm layer and ear plugs/sleep mask are definite musts on top.

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Thank you 🙂 and I absolutely was! I woke up the next morning and could feel every muscle in my thighs. It hurt to bend down and walk downstairs, and even walking wasn’t completely pain-free!

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How to climb Toubkal, Morocco's highest peak

Dec 17, 2019 • 5 min read

toubkal trek earthquake

Reaching the top of North Africa on the summit of Toubkal in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains © Lukas Hodon / Getty Images

From the summit of  Toubkal , North Africa's highest peak (4167m), views stretch from the city of Marrakesh  across the breadth of the High Atlas Mountains and on to the Sahara Desert in the south.

With such compelling vistas, it's understandable that on most mornings of the year a twinkling line of hikers' headlamps snakes its way to the top of Toubkal; the goal is to complete  Morocco's most popular climb  for sunrise before slowly descending back down the rocky slope to base camp and to the villages beyond. It's important to know that the rules for the climb have changed since a tragedy on the mountain, so here we detail the process from start to finish.

A climber in a yellow jacket and blue trousers stands with their back to the camera on the snowy summit of Toubkal; in the distance are more snow-covered peaks beneath a blue sky.

Toubkal in the headlines for all the wrong reasons

Long a favourite of trekkers in Morocco , Toubkal made international news for all the wrong reasons in December 2018 as two young female trekkers were murdered in the night by self-declared religious extremists. While the mountain reopened almost immediately to tourism, it did so with a heightened police presence and a new regulation that all hikers are now required to travel in the company of a local – typically this will be a guide or porter hired locally, and multiple police checkpoints along the trek will verify both your passport information and that of your local hiking partner.

A walking path ascends along the side of a valley towards the distant (and towering) peak of Jebel Toubkal; some small dwellings sit beside the path on the steep hillside.

The start of proceedings

The trekking experience starts in the village of Imlil , once a quiet agricultural community but now a popular hikers' hub at the junction of three valleys (and trailheads). Independent travellers can stock up on stove fuel and basic foodstuffs here, as well as hiring a guide and/or porters (in the summer this will typically be a donkey and handler, while in the winter traditional porters make the snowy ascent to base camp) at the Bureau des Guides near the bottom of the village.

Climbing through dense walnut forest out of Imlil, trekkers must stop in for passport checks at the first of several police checkpoints below the village of Aroumd  (known alternately as Armed), an Amazigh (Berber) community made richer by tourism but which has managed to retain much of its traditional architecture and culture. Many trekkers use Aroumd as an alternate base for the mountain, particularly for a few days to relax and immerse themselves in local culture after descending from Toubkal. Guides, unlicensed faux guides, and porters all wait at the police checkpoint above Aroumd for last-minute hires by hikers who have neglected to make arrangements in town; however numerous visitors have reported paying higher prices for worse service when making arrangements here, so it's better to do so in advance whenever possible.

A single track hiking path meanders along the steep side of a rocky valley en route to Jebel Toubkal; the valley is barren, with just some small scrubby bushes dotting the slopes.

Climbing out of Aroumd

From Aroumd the route begins to climb gently for the first hour to the Shrine of Sidi Shamharoush (2430m), a local Saint of pre-Islamic origins whose tomb is still a place of sacrifice for those hoping for intercession in personal problems (particularly women trying to become pregnant). Past the shrine, and a second police checkpoint, the trail steepens considerably for the remaining climb to the Toubkal Refuge at 3207m.

A lone hiker on a ridge who is dwarfed by the hulking mass of Jebel Toubkal in the background.

Touching down at Toubkal base camp

The two mountain huts that constitute Toubkal base camp – CAF's Nelter Refuge (3207m) and privately-owned Mouflon Refuge just below – operate year-round as shelter for hikers and climbers heading to the top of Toubkal and surrounding peaks.  While it is possible to depart Marrakesh in the earliest hours of the morning to reach Toubkal Peak and return the same day, the majority of trekkers spend one night at base camp (dorms, private rooms, and campsites are all available) in preparation for a summit climb. Your local guide will need to register your passport information once more with the police upon arrival to base camp, after which you're free to lounge around either of the lodges or head up a handful of side trails for short day hikes. Nelter often has the livelier atmosphere, while local guides agree that Mouflon typically has better food, but your choice will likely simply depend on which has availability when you book (both fill quickly in the summer and winter high seasons).

Summit morning

Summit morning typically starts early – most trekkers aim to reach the peak by sunrise, and with nearly 1000m of vertical gain over just 3.5km you'll generally leave at least three hours before dawn; more if hiking in wintry conditions or at lower fitness levels. In summer the route is over rocky, loose scree, but it's non-technical and is suited to all skill levels. Winter, on the other hand, provides some technical challenges due to the peak's exposed face; climbing at this time of year should not be taken lightly. Several hikers die or are seriously injured in a typical winter season, primarily because they were unprepared for the rope and ice-axe skills necessary.

The long climb from base camp to Toubkal Pass (3970m) is primarily a mental challenge – in the pre-dawn darkness, with no sense of the views or surrounding peaks, and with no real visual reference to the progress made, this can feel like an ascent to a non-existent endpoint. But at the pass, as the lights of Marrakesh twinkle in the hazy distance and as the early morning blueness silhouettes the peak of Toubkal, the highest point of North Africa suddenly feels just out of arms' reach.

This image looks up a path in the snow towards a triangular cairn at the summit of Jebel Toubkal; a climber is seen approaching the top. The blue sky has wispy clouds.

The final push

The sudden gain in elevation towards the summit – particularly for those who transfer to the mountain from Marrakesh's lowly 470m elevation – leaves many hikers gasping for air after every four or five steps along the final ascent. It's slow but steady going, though at these heights the view has opened up and the growing light slowly brightens the outlines of successive rows of peaks on the eastern and western horizons. Reaching the top, crossing one final flat stretch to the summit marker, the entire High Atlas spreads out below, from the Tichka Plateau in the west to the Middle Atlas in the east. Windblown, sleepy and often surprised by the summit crowds; most hikers don't linger long atop Toubkal before beginning the slow sliding descent back down the scree slopes to base camp and on to Imlil. 

You might also like: Essential Moroccan experiences you won't want to miss Why Tangier should be your first port of call in Morocco Solo parenting in the foothills of Morocco's Atlas Mountains Where to get off the beaten track in Morocco

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It's Definitely Morocco Next

Climb Mount Toubkal The Complete Guide in 2023

2 days Toubkal trek -Mountain-morocco-next

  • Toubkal Morocco

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MT TOUBKAL!

Mount Toubkal is a mountain peak found in Toubkal National Park in southwestern Morocco. With its height of 4,167 metres (13,671 feet), Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa. It’s situated in Morocco’s southwestern region about 60 kilometers south of Marrakech, just part of the Atlas Mountain Range. A popular destination for climbers, it is the highest peak for over 2000 km.

As well as it’s ever changing weather, Mount Toubkal s is also famous for its incredible views across the surrounding countryside(Dowar), attracting both experienced hikers and trekking newbies alike! If you’d like to climb Mount toubkal and experience the stunning highlands, here’s how to do it …

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Climb Mount Toubkal

WHEN SHOULD I CLIMB MOUNT TOUBKAL?

The best months to climb Mount Toubal are April and May, and September and October.However If you are an amateur walker, then you should only Clim Mount Toubkal during the summer months (June-September). Snow is often seen at the summit all year round, however during winter months the mountain is likely to be thick in snow and ice, covering the paths and making the journey to the top extremely dangerous.

Prior to setting off you should always double check the weather forecast . A day in June and July may feel like a lovely summer’s day at the bottom of the mountain, however by the time you reach the summit it can feel just like winter. The average annual temperature at the summit is below 0°! Therefore, it is so important to make sure you are fully prepared before setting off. Check out our Adventure Journal post, What Do I Need to Climb Ben Nevis, for a full list of packing essentials!

Also, avoid trekking to the summit of Mount Toubkal alone, ensure someone knows where you are going, what route and when you should be back and finally make sure you register your mobile phone or email with 999 for text messages (more information on this can be found HERE ).

toubkal trek earthquake

WHERE IS MOUNT TOUBKAL?

Mount Toubkal is located near Imlil village , The peak is situated 40 miles (60 km) south of Marrakech in the High Atlas (Haut Atlas) , and is part of Parc National du Jbel Toubkal

WHAT ROUTE SHOULD I TAKE TO THE SUMMIT?

There are two main routes to the top of Mt toubkal both varying in the difficult,The Mountain Path is the route taken by the majority of visitors is Imlil valley Path, Whilst The Lac Ifni route is a much more challenging invloing long time disctence and long scramble along the traverse of the arete.

The Ifni Lac route is challenging, but spectacular route involves 1506m of ascent and a total walking distance of 17.5km. This is a tough ascent – and should only be taken by experienced trekkers.

We highly recommend trekking to the summit of Mount Toubkal via Imlil Valley.

Climbing Mount Toubkal via Imlil Valley

Typical itinerary.

This itinerary follows the most common route to Toubkal on the South. We highly recommend itineraries that build in one or two more days for acclimatisation.

  • Arrive or be in Marrakech, drive from Marrakech to Imlil in the morning
  • Trek to Refuge Camp and spend the night
  • Trek to Toubkal via South Side and descend via South Side
  •   Return to Imlil then Marrakech

trekking -toubkal-summit-by-women

The Imlil valley Route is taken by the majority of visitors because it much easier and have 3 phases

The First Phase: From Imlil Valley 1340 meters to Chamharouch 1506m of ascent most of the route is normal and easy.

The Second Phase: From Chamharouch to the Refuge 3207 here you will stop for lunch which will be prepared for you. After, you will carry on walking uphill to the refuge where you will spend the night. It will take around 5 to 6 hours walk. The road here is not that difficult also very easy.

You will feel like you have accomplished half of the adventure when you arrive in the refuge, where you will meet other travelers from different countries. After dinner, we recommend preparing your gear before starting the journey to the summit.

There are two Mount Toubkal Refuges. There is Les Mouflons and Cabine Alpine Fancais (CAF). The Les Mouflons is named after a deer (Mouflons) found in the Atlas Mountains. Cabine Alpine Francais is also called the “Neltner”, named after Mr. Louis Neltner, a geologist, and mountaineer. You are able to book both refuges online in advance.

The Refuges’ are by no means luxury, but they do the job. They are dorm style and have shared bathrooms.

It is always a good idea to bring some snacks of your own, as the Refuges offer very basic food. Take advantage of your time in Marrakech and purchase some delicious dried fruits and nuts.

If the weather is good and you have camping equipment, it is possible to camp outside the Refuges.

  • Thermal baselayers (temperatures decrease in higher altitudes)
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket
  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper
  • Trekking trousers and shorts in Summer
  • Good trainers for valley treks / to wear after a days hiking
  • Mid-weight hiking boots
  • Lightweight thermal or fleece gloves
  • Sunhat/warm hat
  • Head torch and spare batteries – the summit push usually happens before sunrise!
  • Personal lock (for unattended bags)
  • Water purification tablets or water filter
  • Trekking Poles
  • 4 season sleeping bag (winter), or light 3-season sleeping bag (summer)
  • Water bottle
  • Soft Sided duffel bag (50-80 liters) – carried by mules. If trekking independently, then a 50-60L backpack.
  • Lightweight day pack

Toiletries and First Aid

  • Sunblock for body and lips
  • Antibacterial hand wash
  • First aid kit: antiseptic cream, diarrhea treatment, throat lozenges, painkillers, plaster and blister treatment, hydration salts, insect repellent

Other Items:

  • Toilet paper
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Therm-a-Rest (cushion for sleeping bag) – optional!
  • Pen knife (keep in hold luggage when traveling)
  • Repair kit (thread, needle, duct tape)

Winter Trekking Gear 

  • Ice axe – straight handle (60-70cm)
  • Crampons – and hiking boots that can fit crampons
  • Waterproof hardshell jacket
  • Waterproof, lined trousers
  • A warm synthetic or down jacket
  • Gloves (inner thin and outer thick pair)

refuge-toubkal-summit

Following dinner, you meet your guide and arrange tomorrow’s starting time

 It depends on the season and better. Getting to the summit at the right time is crucial, because if you go early, it will be too cold, and you won’t be able to stay for more than 20 minutes, which means you will miss the sunrise. 

The claim of tomorrow feels conformable to you as you sleep early

The Final Phase: From the refuge to the summit , As soon as you wake up early, you eat your breakfast. It’s better not to eat heavy food that will make you dizzy. You take your backpack and water and stuff to take pictures.

You leave the refurege in dark time (in the snow times you have to make your  shoes very well in a better and guide gonna help you)and then you listen to your guide advice and step by step because there is an upside there and stones 

Having a positive outlook and expectation that you will reach the summit, my advice as a professional guide is to walk slowly at first, but if you see your guide going faster, ask him to slow down. After 30 minutes on the path you will reach a place with a lot of stones. You need to take a few minutes to breathe (3-4 minutes)) When you stop for long periods of time in the winter, your blood will be cold and you need to drink lots of water during the rest time. Then you continue to the path until you reach a point called (Asaghli) where you find a small upside that takes 10 minutes to climb, so I advise you to watch in front of you and be cautious, and then you reach point 2 (Tizi).

Taking a little rest and taking a picture, walking for 10 minute until you can see the summit above you, your feeling now is great and happier.

 As you walk toward the edge of the last dangerous challenge place, you must pay close attention and go straight ahead, keeping yourself far from others. Once you pass this place, you finally reach the summit, where you rest and feel like you have won, and you become a successful adventurer.

As a suggestion, if you are taking pictures, stay in the center and see the sunrise with beautiful views. It is available only in North Africa. If you stay on the summit for 10 minutes in the winter and 20-25 minutes in the other months, you will be able to see Ourzazate city and Marrakech’s light.

toubkal-summit-morocco-next

 After returning to Tizi Point, there are two routes: there is a nearby place, which is very close to the Refige, but it is much more dangerous. For this reason, we recommend taking the other path, which is a little farther away, but is much safer as the stones don’t fall very often, so you don’t have to pay attention so much. Also, don’t ski because the cold ice is not skateable, so just walk, don’t spend too much time walking. 

Then when you arrive at the refuge (9-10am), you rest a little and collect your things. It is best to take a little time to collect your things and then decide if you would like to eat lunch in the refuge or on the trail. Afterwards, you walk through Chamhachoch and drink a Moroccan cup and see the white store, and then you see the path and you feel a good go back feel toward reach hard good but with work everything I’d checked the you arrive art you strategy point and my experience.

It's Definitely Morocco Next

Abdel Jalil Azadour

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Adventure Queens IWD Mt Toubkal Winter Trek

  • Map & Itinerary
  • Essential Info
  • Pics & Vids
  • Dates & Prices
  • Be part of the Adventure Queens team and tackle the highest peak in North Africa, Jebel Toubkal at 4167m 
  • Stand on the summit in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024
  • Trek amid a supportive and friendly group environment
  • Absorb the panoramic view of the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert and the environments that have enclosed them for centuries
  • Ideal intro to winter trekking with crampons and ice-axe training provided 
  • Discover traditional Berber villages and encounter their way of life
  • Enjoy delicious home cooked Moroccan meals 
  • Opportunity to further explore the vibrant and colourful city of Marrakech
  • Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot- print in Morocco
  • This trip is completely inclusive for anyone that identifies as a woman and we welcome fellow AQ solo travellers and friends
  • Watch the AQ’s team in action following their Mt Toubkal Trek to get a feel for the adventure ahead or
  • Take a look at AQ’s Jennifer’s blog following her Toubkal Trek, “ What’s Stopping You Climbing a Mountain? “

Starting from bustling labyrinth of Marrakech you will venture into the heart of the High Atlas Mountains to climb North Africa’s highest peak, Mt Toubkal at 4167m. This incredible mountain range provides some of the most spectacular winter trekking in the world! As part of an inclusive and supportive AQ team, we aim to celebrate IWD from the summit of Mt Toubkal (weather & conditions permitting).

Winter is a great time to trek in the Toubkal National Park as it offers a true winter mountaineering experience. The mountains are virtually deserted apart from the friendly local Berbers and fellow mountaineering enthusiasts. You’ll have plenty of time to learn their customs and enjoy hearty home-cooked meals during this epic mountain adventure. The views on the way up are spectacular, but nothing compares to what you’ll see (and feel) at the top. From the summit of Toubkal you will experience stunning 360-degree panoramic views which extend across the rocky Atlas ranges and southwards to Jebel Sahro and the Sahara Desert.

Mt Toubkal winter ascent is great intro to winter trekking and Morocco is a perfect alpine mountaineering destination right on your doorstep. Whilst not a technical climb, the use of crampons and ice axe are required on most trips and you will learn and practice these skills before summit day.

Mt Toubkal has captivated mountaineers for centuries. Your ascent up the rocky giant of North Africa is challenging, however it is accessible for anyone in good shape and willing to take a step outside their comfort zone in a supportive environment. Join us and experience a thrilling AQ adventure in the crisp mountain air to mark IWD together.

On departure of this Mt Toubkal Winter Trek  you’ll receive a free Water-To-Go Bottle   to help eliminate our plastic footprint in Iceland. By joining Adventurous Ewe not only will you have an incredible and insightful expedition, you can take pride in knowing your journey will help continue our support of the leading climate change charity,  Cool Earth .

Find out more

Flight from UK to Marrakech Airport, Morocco

Flight from London UK to Marrakech Morocco (approx 3.5 hours) On signing up for the trip, we will provide you with the recommended flights to book or alternately, we can book the flights for you through our ATOL protected Flight Agent at an additional cost. Flights are not included in your to give you the flexibility to travel from your nearest airport, use your frequent flyer points or extend your stay in Morocco if you wish. The recommended flights for this will include airport transfers in Morocco. There are direct flights from London and other major airports across the UK. Flights are operated by Easyjet, Ryan Air and British Airways.

Transfer from Marrakech to Imlil (1700m)

On your arrival into Marrakech Airport on the recommended Adventurous Ewe flight time, you will be met with a private transfer to the mountain Berber village of Imlil. You’re welcome to arrive earlier into Marrakech as there will also be a designated pick up point the centre of the city for the same transfer. The transfer will take approximately 1.5 hours.

On arrival you will have time to get to know your fellow AQ team-mates, make final preparations for your trek as your Leader will provide a full trek briefing over dinner and you’ll overnight in a local family run guesthouse.

Included Private transfer: From Marrakech to Imlil Accommodation: Imlil Family owned local guesthouse (twin/multi share basis) Meals: Dinner

Trek Imlil to Neltner Refuge (3208m) After a delicious Moroccan breakfast, your crew will load up all the equipment and food supplies ready for your trek of Mt Toubkal. You will leave the picturesque Berber mountain village of Imlil and head for the Neltner Refuge. 

Your trekking route will wind through walnut and cherry orchids and past Berber farms where goats & sheep are herded in the mountains as it slowly making its way up the Mizane Valley. You will have a welcomed break for lunch at the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch (2350m) nestled beside a cascading waterfall where a delicious freshly made meal will be served. You will continue your ascent making your way deeper into the spectacular High Atlas mountain range to reach the refuge in Neltner at 3208m. Approximately 6 – 8 hours of trekking (weather dependent).

Included Kit bag transfer: Main kit bag transferred from Imlil to Neltner Mountain Refuge on mules or porters (weather dependent) Accommodation: Mountain refuge (dorm rooms) Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Acclimatisation & winter skills day Today is a planned acclimatisation day which will help prepare you for your Toubkal summit attempt the following day (IWD). This is also the perfect opportunity to learn and practice some winter mountain skills which are appropriate for the conditions. An early morning start from the mountain refuge sees you continue up the Mizane Valley. As part of your acclimatisation and preparation, you will trek higher into the High Atlas Mountains. There will be time dedicated to learning and practicing winter skills – personal movement skills on snow, including kicking steps and using the ice axe for walking, use of crampons in ascent/descent, cutting steps and ice-axe self-arrest. All essential skills for this winter trek. Arriving back at the refuge in the late afternoon for another home cooked meal and rest ready for your big day ahead. Approximately 4-6 hours of trekking and mountain skills (weather dependent).

Included Kit hire: Crampons and ice-axe Accommodation: Mountain refuge (dorm rooms) Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Summit Mt Toubkal (4167m) An early start will take you to the top of the highest peak in North Africa on IWD (weather permitting). Your ascent starts climbing steeply as soon as you leave the Refuge. Your route winds and zig zags its way up the south cwm before traversing the south ridge to the summit. Here you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert and the environments that have enclosed them for centuries. With time to take celebrate IWD and capture some summit photos, you will then make your way back down to the refuge for a well-earned break and some lunch before continuing down to Imlil. Approximately 8 – 10 hours of trekking. Please note, this is a long day of trekking yet highly achieveable.

Included Kit hire: Crampons and ice-axe Accommodation: Imlil guesthouse (twin/multi share rooms) Meals: Breakfast, lunch & celebration dinner

Important information:

The itinerary is there as a guide and may change due to unusual weather patterns, the strength of the group, and other unpredictable factors. We will do our very best to keep to the set itinerary; however we cannot be held responsible for any last minute changes that may occur. In all such circumstances, your Trip Leader will have the final say.

Should you suffer from vertigo, it is worth considering that on most mountain treks there will be occasional exposure to sheer drops. You should, therefore, discuss the particular itinerary of your choice with us.

Imlil to Marrakech to UK After a relaxing breakfast it’s a short drive back to Marrakech.

Depending on your plans, you can either explore Marrakech and visit the Djemaa el Fna, an open-air market with food stalls, colourful spice stands, a huge array of clothing, leather goods and all sorts of trinkets, travelling musicians and acrobats. Or be transferred directly to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Included Transfer: From Imlil to Marrakech Airport or Hotel Ali Accommodation: Not included Meals: Breakfast only

Please note, if you wish to extend your stay in Marrakech, we can help you with plenty of recommendations of things to do and see, places to stay and suggestions on where to eat. Central Marrakech is only a short taxi journey to the airport plus there’s many other areas of Morocco which are worth exploring if your time permits. Chief Ewe, Jim, has lived in Morocco so he has plenty of helpful tips available once you’ve booked on this exciting adventure.

Supporting local tourism and local communities 

Since the devasting earthquake in Morocco in 2023, local tourism in the remote High Atlas Mountains has been impacted greatly as many local communities and livelihoods in this area rely on tourism. Together with Virgin Airlines, we donated a lot of kit to the local communities in the High Atlas to help them rebuild their lives. We also support the Eve Branson Foundation who create opportunities for local people in the High Atlas Mountains which can make a meaningful difference to their families and community. The Foundation have developed initiatives in four key areas of support: artisanal training; environment; healthcare and education. 

We’re also passionate about exploring off the beaten track routes in order to help communities who are in the shadow of mainstream tourist destinations. We also aim to create an adventure which is about discovery, immersing yourself in fascinating environments, customs and cultures and provides an understanding of history and people. On this trek you have the unique opportunity to connect with local people in a meaningful way, the true essence of travel.

We’ve crunched the numbers to work out the total carbon footprint of the Mt Toubkal Winter Trek, and plant or protect enough trees to suck 2x as much back out the atmosphere.

What’s the number? It works out on average at  221kg  of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, leaders, crew and office operations.

The only thing not included is travel to Morocco. Given that our beloved guests travel from all parts of the UK for this adventure we have no way of reliably knowing their travel plans therefore we’re unable to include an individual number in the figure on display here.

What does the number mean? To give you a snapshot of the numbers:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you).
  • A return economy class flight London – New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air over a period of 5 – 10 years.

What are we doing about it? Our adventures are relatively low-carbon by design, and we’re working to develop long term carbon reduction plan. Following much research into climate change organisations, we carefully selected to support the environmental charity, Cool Earth . They’re a sustainable operation and work with rainforest communities across the globe to halt deforestation and it’s impact on climate change. We invest 1% of our revenue into supporting critical conservation projects world-wild with Cool Earth .

On a local level here in the UK, we’re an ongoing business member  of the Snowdonia Society, plus Jim and Sue, together with some of our local leaders, also help the Society with their local projects such as planting native trees in Snowdonia. This is to help preserve the landscape and enhance wildlife habitat here in Snowdonia.

Want to know more? We believe that with great travel, comes even greater responsibility. Tourism is one of the most important and largest industries on the planet. It employs more people worldwide than any other, with millions of families relying on tourism for their daily needs. At Adventurous Ewe we believe that our type of small scale, positive impact tourism can bring benefits to many communities, help preserve the environments we travel to see, and provide real and positive social exchanges. Here is our plan to do our part towards helping reduce factors that we can contributing to climate change as part of Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency .

We’ve joined the movement to reshape the Future of Tourism!

We are excited to announce that Adventurous Ewe has signed the new set of Guiding Principles launched by the Future of Tourism Coalition. As a signatory, we commit to place destination needs at the centre of our recovery strategies and do our part to build a better tomorrow for travel and tourism.

These transformative principles outline a bold vision for the future of tourism – one that retains the integrity of destinations, promotes inclusivity and equality, maximizes positive impacts for communities and environments, and fosters collaborative change.

As a collective, we can build a better future for all and we’re super excited to do our part.

Learn more at Future of Tourism #FutureofTourism

On booking your Mt Toubkal Winter Trek, you will receive all the exciting trip info via our free mobile travel app. You’ll have access to your itinerary, trip countdown, live updates, contact info, weather forecasts, know before you go trip info, kit lists and much more at the touch of a button 24 hours a day via your mobile phone. No more unnecessary use of reams of paper and the need of carrying around documents with you. The app is free to download and all info is customary to your adventure ahead. A’ppy days.

With being a small family business we pride ourselves with providing personal, professional and friendly service. We appreciate that everyone has different levels of experience and reasons for wishing to embark on the Mt Toubkal Winter Trek and therefore require varying levels of support and guidance. We’re here to help you every step of the way from the moment you join the flock all the way through to completing the challenge and beyond. Jim and Sue’s knowledge and expertise stems from dozens of years of travelling and exploring the destinations that we visit in order to fully support you in the lead up to your adventure.

Chief Ewe, Jim, has lived in Morocco so he has plenty of helpful tips and recommendations of things to do and see, places to stay, where to eat & drink and other areas of Morocco to explore if your time permits.

On signing up for the trip, we will provide you with the recommended flights to book or alternately, we can book the flights for you through our ATOL & ABTA protected Flight Agent at an additional cost.

Flights are not included in your to give you the flexibility to travel from your nearest airport, use your frequent flyer points or extend your stay in Morocco if you wish. The recommended flights for this will include airport transfers in Morocco. There are direct flights from London and other major airports across the UK. Flights are operated by Easyjet, Ryan Air and British Airways.

For any further info on flights, please feel free to get in touch with us at [email protected] .

All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 3 months beyond the intended length of stay in Morocco. For the latest entry requirements for Morocco, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements .

British nationals do not require a visa to enter Morocco for the purpose of tourism for up to 3 months. For the latest Foreign & Commonwealth updates and entry requirements, please click here .

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is an important part of any booking. It is compulsory that everyone who travels with us has taken out adequate travel insurance which includes, among other things, cover for the full value of your trip, medical (emergency, evacuation and repatriation) arrangements, trekking to an altitude of 4167 metres, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects and COVID-19 travel cover.

For UK residents we have partnered with  Campbell & Irvine Direct  to provide you with a travel insurance. If you would like to obtain cover for your trip please feel free to contact specialist Insurance Brokers, Campbell Irvine Direct for a quote.

Global Rescue Membership For peace of mind whilst trekking in the mountains, Global Rescue provides short term membership giving access to travel, security, medical advisory and evacuation services up to $US500,000.  They’re a specialised field rescue company, and assist from the point of illness or injury by getting you to the closest and most appropriate medical facilities to get stabilised. Once fit to fly if you require additional inpatient treatment Global Rescue will further evacuate and repatriate to your home hospital on record. These services are all covered through their upfront membership fee with no claims process.  For more info, please click here .

There are currently no mandatory vaccination requirements for Morocco. Recommended vaccinations include: Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A.

For the most up to date information on vaccinations, please consult with your GP or travel healthcare practitioner 6 – 8 weeks in advance of travel. For up to date vaccination information please check the NHS government website ‘ Fit for Travel ’.

Apart from the recent COVID-19 pandemic there are no other health risks in Morocco. We are monitoring and activating the guidelines and recommendations put in place by the respective governments and World Health Organisation as a result of COVID-19. You will receive our operational guidelines for this expedition when you join the trip and hand sanitiser and face masks will be provided for travel. Rest assured your safety and wellbeing is our top priority at all times.

Severe allergies If you have a severe allergy please inform us at the time of booking. We will do all we can to help, but unfortunately we are unable to guarantee an allergy free environment on this trip. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not carried as standard by AE leaders and crew. Whilst your leader is aware of our trekkers medical history, please also inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Adventurous Ewe puts the safety and wellbeing of you, our leaders & crew and the communities we visit at the centre of all our operations, always. Your safety and wellbeing is our top priority. The Mt Toubkal Winter Trek is intentionally challenging and requires individual preparation as the trip is designed to take you out of your every-day comfort zone and achieve something incredible. Rest assured we have a thorough Safety Management System, indepth risk assessments and risk management systems in place.

You will be accompanied by your Adventurous Ewe Leader for groups over 7 people and Local Mountain Guide. Our Leaders are First Aid trained and have extensive experience in leading groups in this region. They will be ultimately responsible for your safety on this trip, please respect their decisions on the during the trek.

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel advice website for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas your itinerary covers.

We also ask that you please ensure you use your antibacterial hand gel at all times to minimise the spread of any germs throughout your fellow flock of trekkers!

For more info, please visit our  Safety and Well-being  page. 

There will be a UK Mountain Leader who will accompany the AQ team. 

In addition, Adventurous Ewe’s Sue Blunt will also be travelling with the AQ team in a support role (at her own expense). As a Chief Queen of the North Wales & Liverpool group, Sue is all things AQ’s and having been lucky enough to have climbed My Toubkal 6 times now, is well placed to offer you plenty of support and guidance.

Your Local Leader is a key part to this trip. They are all expertly trained and experienced in every field of this high altitude trek, bilingual (English and Arabic) and qualified in first aid and/or Wilderness First responder. They also have a huge passion for what they do and have plenty of knowledge ready to share with you. They are responsible for ensuring the complete safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of the team whilst also retaining a flexible and fun attitude. The Leaders have radio and satellite phone contact with base, the local office and Adventurous Ewe’s HQ.

The arrival of Ramadan has always been associated with a certain amount of mystique and contemplation. The exact date of the month’s beginning is traditionally determined by religious scholars/authorities under the cover of night as they seek to observe certain sightings related to the appearance and cycle of the moon.

It’s important to note, however, that due to the cycle of the moon, Ramadan dates vary in different countries, albeit typically only by a day. So far, Ramadan 2024 is predicted to begin on 10 March 2024, corresponding to Ramadan 1445 in the Islamic calendar.

Ramadan 2024 is expected to last 30 days, which means that the Eid ul Fitr would most likely fall on Tuesday, 9 April or Friday, 10 April 2024. These dates will naturally be confirmed as we move closer to Ramadan 2024.

We pride ourselves in small group travel to minimise the impact on the environment and to make your experience more authentic and safe.

The minimum group size for the Mt Toubkal Winter Trek to run is 7 people and the maximum group size is 12 people.

This trip is completely inclusive for anyone that identifies as a woman and we welcome fellow AQ solo travellers and friends.

You are also welcome to use this trip as a fundraiser for the charity of your choice.

The Mt Toubkal Winter Ascent a strenuous trek in a remote area of North Africa. It is graded ‘Tough’ due to the winter conditions and high-altitude trekking. The trip is designed for confident trekkers who are new to winter walking as well as those who have some experience of trekking on snow. Some sections on Mt Toubkal can be steep and rough. It is expected that large parts of the mountainside will be covered in snow, therefore the use of ice axe and crampons will be necessary. Although these sections are not technically difficult, they are high and can be exposed. At high exposure areas your Guide will cut steps in the snow and/or provide use of a rope. It is essential that you listen to your Guide and follow their instructions accordingly. Snow cover will of course vary, but the use of ice axes and crampons is essential when crossing steep snowy terrain. Winter walking can be dangerous and although we take important steps to manage and minimise this risk, we can never eradicate it altogether. The main danger is from tripping then sliding down a snow slope. Your Guide will give a full briefing and run a training session before your ascent of which there will be time to practice winter mountaineering skills during your trek. Your Guides are also well trained and experienced in handling all scenarios and safety procedures on Mt Toubkal to ensure your safety.

Trekking to the summit of North Africa’s highest mountain (maximum 4167m) involves walking and sleeping at altitude, therefore altitude sickness is a possibility. Your base camp is at 3,208m and therefore mild symptoms may be experienced, such as headaches, nausea and loss of appetite. The best way to adjust to altitude is to walk slowly, rest as often as possible and drink plenty of water! Rest assured your Leader is experienced in high altitude trekking and will advise you accordingly if you are starting to feel the effects of altitude.

A bespoke trek training programme will be provided when join the AQ team for this adventure to help you with your preparations together with some top tips.

We have partnered with the women’s fitness comunity group – Her Spirit . For more info, please visit our  Training and Preparation  page.

The more you are prepared, the more you will enjoy the trek.

Our motto is: Train hard, smile harder and enjoy the journey!

A full kit list will be provided when you register for this winter trek. Good kit can make the difference between a fantastic adventure and an uncomfortable one. Well worn in waterproof hiking boots are essential together with a good quality waterproof jacket AND trousers. An exclusive Adventurous Ewe discount code will be provided for outdoor retailers on registering for this mountain adventure.

Ice axe and crampon hire are included in this trip. 

To help you get the very best from your Winter Toubkal Trek we will provide you with an exclusive Adventurous Ewe discount code to use in an outdoor retailer both online and in store. They offer a large choice of kit that the staff themselves use while climbing, hiking, mountaineering, running, travelling or enjoying expeditions across the globe and they pride themselves on sharing their experience and knowledge of equipment so you can choose the right gear to suit you and this trek.

Marrakech is likely to be warm (rather than hot) during the day, and a little chilly at night. In the mountains expect temperatures to vary from 10°C or so degrees in the sun during the day, to below freezing out of the sun and at night. Any warmth provided by the sun soon vanishes after the sun disappears behind the mountains in the late afternoon.

Heavy snowfall, rain and storms can be expected in the mountains during winter, but they are normally short-lived. Although it would be unusual to experience more than two days in a row of bad weather, you should be prepared for all conditions. If there is a stable high pressure system over the mountains in winter, which is common, you will enjoy clear, cold crisp days, and nights with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Make sure you check out the skies on a clear night for a magnificent display of a stars. The first snows often come in late October or early November, but some years can see little snow cover up to December.

We recommend that you check the mountain weather forecast in the days leading up to your trek by visiting: https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Toubkal/forecasts/4167.

Guesthouse (2 nights twin/triple share rooms) and mountain refuge (2 nights shared dorm rooms)

We’ve sourced our accommodation very carefully in Imlil and picked a locally owned guesthouse in line with the Adventurous Ewe style of travel, but please note that service and accommodation in Morocco may be different to western standards. The rooms are on a twin or multi share basis. Whilst some rooms have ensuites, others have a shared bathroom.

In the mountain refuge you will be staying in shared dorm rooms with shared bathroom facilities. The Neltner Mountain Refuge has very limited heating options as this would be a major financial and environmental strain. It’s also a case of energy supply and timing provisions, which is limited. Please be prepared for cold nights and cold showers should you wish to have a shower. Please note, there is no single room accommodation facilities available in the mountain refuge.

Single travellers

Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation in order to keep the cost at a minimum for you. Single rooms may be organised for an additional cost however this is dependent on accommodation availability. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note that the accommodation in the mountain refuge is on a mixed gender share basis in large dorm rooms. For more info, please get in touch with us at [email protected] .

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners included

On your trek the food is a mixture of local and Western, all purchased locally and cooked for you by your trek cook. Breakfasts are continental style, with tea and coffee, orange juice, cereal, bread, jam and honey. Lunches will be provided on the days of trekking. Dinner will be provided in the guesthouse and mountain refuge. Dinner usually consists of rice, pasta, couscous, with a vegetable stew (or tagine) and maybe some meat (usually chicken, lamb or beef). Meat is not prominent on the menu. All dishes come with traditional sauces which are rarely (spicy) hot. To round off dinner, there is the usual range of hot drinks.

Vegetarians can be catered for but there is a fairly limited choice of cous cous and tajine or omelettes. This is particularly the case during the more rural or trekking sections of the trip. Please note that if you have any special dietary requirements you should inform Adventurous Ewe at [email protected] prior to the trip. If you have a specific medical/dietary need (i.e. coeliac or vegan) you may find it helpful to bring some items of food with you from home.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. You should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles. Bottled water can be purchased throughout the trip, but we strongly discourage buying these as it contributes to plastic waste. Please note recycling is not fully established in Morocco so plastic bottles are an increasing waste problem.

Adventurous Ewe has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates over 99.99% of all microbiological contaminants from any non-salt water source – for more info please click here . Adventurous Ewe trekkers will receive a free Water-to-Go bottle when departing for our Mt Toubkal Winter Trek, and better still, 15% of the purchase value for replacement filters will be donated to our environmental charity partner, Cool Earth. Please note that if the water freezes it will clog up the filter – in this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes. Please help us reduce the volume of single use plastic in this pristine environment.

Deposit of £95 per person is required on booking. Remaining balance of £500 per person is due for payment no later than 4 weeks prior to the trip start date.

We’ve got you covered – financial protection   If your adventure needs to be cancelled for any reason, like say a global pandemic, you won’t be left stuck and you’ll be offered plenty of alternative options thanks to our financial protection arranged by Towergate Travel through Zurich Insurance PLC.

Pay in instalments, interest free We’re well aware that adventures can be a significant investment, so we’ve set out to make it easy to afford. Once you’ve put down your deposit, you can pay the remaining balance off in monthly instalments with no extra charges so you can get out there and live your dream.

All your trip info will be sent to you through a travel mobile app via Vamoos which is free to download. You will receive an email from Adventurous Ewe with your personalised log in code for this app. For the latest and greatest from the land of adventures, simply follow us at:

Youtube: Adventurous Ewe Facebook: @adventurousewe Instagram: @adventurousewe Twitter: @adventurousewe LinkedIn: Adventurous-Ewe-Ltd

You’re most welcome to use the hashtags #ewecandoit #thisflockrock #adventurousewe

Your Adventurous Ewe Leader/s and Crew will have a mobile phones and radios communications in case of emergencies. The team are trained to deal with these situations. Please ensure you listen to your Leader during these times and refrain from putting any posts on social media. Should you find yourself unable to continue with the trek, your Leader and crew will make the necessary arrangements. Depending on the situation, you will be met by the support vehicle (depending on access) and you will be transferred back to your accommodation or nearby medical facility as required. Your Emergency Contact at Adventurous Ewe HQ is Jim Young on +(0)7747 346 588.

Cool Earth We are very excited to have teamed up with leading climate change charity Cool Earth, who share our mission to protect the planet’s precious environment in a sustainable manner. The future of rainforest protection is where everyone makes a difference to climate change! We invest a % of our revenue into supporting critical conservation projects around the world through Cool Earth. You are most welcome to help make a difference too by sparing a few pennies. Please give what you can and help save the world’s rainforests today by clicking here . Just £2.50 will save 10 trees and lock up 10 tonnes of CO2. Together, we can all make a difference in helping preserve this precious and wonderful planet. Thank-ewe

For more insight direct from previous Adventure Queen’s who have taken part in the AQ Mt Toubkal Trek, simply visit the links below:

What’s Stopping You Climbing a Mountain , Jennifer Doohan

Summit Knickers and a Smile, the things they don’t mention on your kit list , Jo Maslen

Adventure Queens IWD Mt Toubkal Winter Trek

What's Included?

  • Personalised trip support in the lead up to your trek from Adventurous Ewe
  • Trek training guide
  • Discount on personal kit from outdoor retailers both in shop and online
  • Trip info supplied via our free mobile travel app
  • Public liability insurance
  • Financial Protection for your booking
  • Monthly payment plan available
  • Risk assessment and emergency management planning
  • Free Adventurous Ewe Water-to-Go Bottle

During your trip:

  • Adventurous Ewe UK Mountain Leader 
  • Local Mountain Guide
  • All ground crew per your itinerary including cook and luggage transfer on the trek via mules (please ensure your kit bag does not exceed 10kgs for the mules)
  • Satellite telephone and VHF radio
  • 2 night’s guesthouse accommodation (twin or multi share)
  • 2 night’s mountain refuge accommodation (dorm rooms)
  • All meals as outlined in your itinerary – 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners
  • Crampon and ice-axe hire
  • Private vehicle transfers as outlined in your itinerary
  • Safety equipment and first aid provisions
  • Risk assessments, safety management and emergency planning
  • All trip management and hygienic cleaning procedures of equipment before, during and post trek.

What's Not Included?

Currently not included but can be organised at an additional cost

  • Return flights from the UK to Marrakech Morocco. Flights operated by EasyJet, Ryan Air and British Airways. These can be arranged for you at an additional cost through our Flight Agent who is ATOL protected
  • Any trip extensions or additional night’s accommodation

Items not included

  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Clothing and equipment as detailed on the Kit List
  • Any personal snacks, electrolytes, water purification tablets and medication
  • Single room supplement (only available for the guesthouse in Imlil)
  • Personal spending money, cash is needed for purchases of snacks & drinks along the trek route
  • Tips for local crew
  • Other items not listed on your itinerary
  • Any expenses incurred with leaving the trip early ie. hotel accommodation or change of flight costs.

Trip Extension

If you wish to extend your stay in Marrakech, we can help you with plenty of recommendations of things to do and see, places to stay and suggestions on where to eat. Central Marrakech is only a short taxi journey to the airport plus there’s many other areas of Morocco which are worth exploring if your time permits. Chief Ewe, Jim, has lived in Morocco so he has plenty of helpful tips available once you’ve booked on this exciting adventure. For more information, please contact us at [email protected] .

Thoughtful and Responsible Tourism

Adventurous Ewe is committed to delivering our trips in a responsible and ethical manner with sustainability at its core. We respect and aim to operate our adventures to benefit local people, their economy and the environment!

Some of the ethical features embedded in our Adventure Queens IWD Mt Toubkal Winter Trek are:

  • Using local crew who are qualified Guides, support crew and drivers who are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced
  • Staying in smaller-scale locally owned accommodation
  • Buying locally produced food and drink, and dining in locally owned restaurants
  • Minimising plastic waste wherever possible
  • Free Water-to-Go Bottle given to each trekker to help eliminate our plastic footprint
  • Careful management of limited energy and water resources
  • Offering real life experiences which promote cross-cultural understanding
  • Operating with a ‘leave no trace’ ethos – take only memories, leave only footprints
  • Adventurous Ewe will make a financial contribution to the environmental charity, Cool Earth , as part of our business partnership.

As Sir David Attenborough said:

“Helping Cool Earth to halt tropical deforestation makes a real difference. Perhaps the biggest difference we will make in our whole lives.”

We will continue to invest a % of our revenue into supporting critical conservation projects around the world through Cool Earth and we invite you, our valuable flock, to do the same. Please give what you can and help save the world’s rainforests today by simply clicking here . Just £2.50 will save 10 trees and lock up 10 tonnes of CO2.

Together, we can all make a difference in helping preserve this precious and wonderful planet.

toubkal trek earthquake

Had a great experience with Adventurous Ewe on the Winter Toubkal Trek. Good communication beforehand and quick responses to any questions I had. The knowledge of Jim and our guides meant we summited Toubkal in the best weather window. Everyone was looked after well during the trip and I really appreciated the different needs of the group being managed so well! Lots of fun and great memories!

Top notch service, guidance and support from this excellent team of professionals. I thoroughly enjoyed the Winter Toubkal trip and felt safe, in good hands, supported all the way. I would recommend Adventurous Ewe for any adventure/ trek/ climb as from start to finish the attention to detail has been great. Thank you for keeping us all safe and I cannot wait to book my next trip with you guys.

Just returned home from the Winter Toubkal Trek and my second trek with Adventurous Ewe. It was an amazing experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery and would recommend to anyone wanting a challenge at altitude. Jim and Sue were a great team with a wealth of knowledge about the local area and guides. 10/10!

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The Hiking Life

Toubkal Circuit: Independent Hiker’s Guide

Posted on March 15, 2018 February 12, 2023 Author Cam 35 Comments

The Toubkal Circuit is one of Africa’s finest multi-day treks. Situated in Morocco’s Atlas mountains, it takes hikers on a 60 km (37.3 mi) loop around Jebel Toubkal, which at 4167 m (13,671 ft) is the highest peak in the Arab world. Along the way it traverses  oasis valleys, mountain passes and panoramic ridges.  Walking the same trails that the native Berbers have trodden for millennia, hikers will experience a memorable fusion of natural and cultural elements, the latter coming in the form of ancient villages and the legendary local hospitality. I hiked the Toubkal Circuit in October, 2008. All logistical information has been updated as of March, 2018. 

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Toubkal Circuit Overview (photo credit frostyfootprints.wordpress.com ).

Distance :   60 km (37.3 mi) – 72 km (44.7 mi) if you include an ascent of Jebel Toubkal.

Average Time :  4 – 6 days

Difficulty Level :  Moderate

Start / Finish :

  • The village of Imlil.
  • Grand (shared)   taxis regularly ply the route between Marrakech and Imlil. As of February, 2018, it costs 50 dirham (dh) / US$13.6 per person for the 75 to 90 minute journey. Alternatively, you can book out an entire taxi for 300 dh (US$81.7).

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Berber Village on the slopes of the High Atlas (Photo credit  Gestalten Publications & Alex Frood) | The Toubkal Circuit is one of 32 featured hikes in the book Wanderlust: Hiking on Legendary Trails) .

  • Late spring and early autumn are the ideal times to do this trek. Summer, despite the heat and lack of water, is peak season and is often crowded with foreign trekking groups (mostly around Jebel Toubkal itself).

Maps and Information :

  • Topographic Map : The  1:50,000 Jebel Toubkal (1994)  sheet and a compass is all you need for navigation purposes. It is widely available for purchase in Marrakech, or alternatively you may be able to pick up a copy at the the Bureau des Guides in Imlil. It can be downloaded for free at GISEnglish.com (Geographical Information Systems).
  • Guidebooks :  As of March, 2018, there appear to be two principal options that cover the Toubkal Circuit: 1. The High Atlas (2012 – Cicerone Press / Available in Kindle), and; 2. Moroccan Atlas: The Trekking Guide (2015 – Trailblazer Publications). Both contain trekking notes, sketch maps, and logistical details for the circuit. Please note that I haven’t personally seen either of these books (I hiked in 2008), but for what it’s worth, the reviews for both seem mostly positive.

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The descent into the village of Imlil from Tizi n’Mzik (2489m), the final pass of the hike (if done in a clockwise direction).

  • Supplies:  These should be brought from Marrakech, as choices in Imlil may be limited. Note that it is possible to obtain meals and basic supplies along the way in some of the villages such as Tacheddirt and Amsouzert. The latter is by far the largest village on the route, and sports a range of restaurants, shops and accommodation options.
  • Water : There are a few natural springs along the route from which good water can be obtained. Otherwise, all H2O should be purified.
  • Guided Vs Independent : The vast majority of people (more than 90%) hike the Toubkal circuit as part of a guided group. However, for those with the above mentioned map and/or guidebook, good equipment and decent navigation skills, there are no issues with doing the trek independently. If you choose to go sans agency, you can lighten your load by eating at least some of your meals at villages along the way. The food is very tasty and reasonably priced.

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Gorgeous riverside campsite on Day 1 of the circuit.

  • Cultural Considerations : Although famous for their hospitality, the Berbers are a conservative people whose dress code reflect those values. As a sign of both courtesy and respect, foreigners should dress modestly (pants rather than shorts, no sleeveless shirts) during their stay in the Atlas mountains. It is also recommended to make the effort to learn some basic Berber phrases; this particularly holds true if you are hiking independently. If people see that you are genuinely trying to communicate, nine times out of ten they will make the effort to understand and help in any way they can. If on the other hand you just start rambling on in English without making any effort whatsoever, then chances are that people will be a lot less likely to assist you. For more tips on hiking in developing countries see Cultural Considerations when Hiking Abroad .

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Solitude and snowy passes on the Toubkal Circuit in mid-October, 2008.

Route / Conditions :

  • Route: Starting and finishing in the picturesque village of Imlil, the Toubkal circuit traverses a  series of interconnected valleys and mountain passes during its 60 km course. Though the trail is generally clear and easy to follow, for those that choose to hike independently, good navigation skills are required. This particularly holds true during the shoulder seasons when snowy conditions are often encountered on the higher sections.
  • Terrain : In regards to the terrain, the climbs to the passes are often rocky and long, and the adjoining valleys range in character from lush and cultivated to barren and windswept. One of the standout natural features is the beautiful Lac d’Ifni, an emerald colored jewel situated just west of the village of Amsouzert.

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Lac d’Ifni (Photo credit brmc-adventure.org.uk)

  • Berber Culture :   Aside from the impressive landscapes, one of the highlights of hiking in the Atlas mountains is experiencing the Berber culture. During the course of the circuit, the trail passes through several ancient villages that provide the trekker with a fascinating insight into local way of life. The mud brick dwellings, children splashing around in the river, a local shepherd wandering through the main street with his flock in tow; in many ways it feels like not much has changed over the centuries. 

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Descending to the village of Amsouzert,

  • Side Trips : During the circuit there are multiple side trip options for those with the time and energy. The most notable are excursions to the summits of Agounss N’Tiniline and Jebel Toubkal . The latter peak is the highest mountain in Northern Africa. Standing some 4167 meters above sea level, the trail to the top is non-technical, easy to follow and unlike the rest of the Toubkal Circuit, remains a popular option with hikers all year round. The side trip up to the top of Jebel Toubkal is definitely worthwhile. I imagine the views would be spectacular in fine weather. The summit was covered in cloud whilst I was there.

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Ascending Jebel Toubkal in less than ideal conditions.

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I’d been hoping for a break in the weather during the ascent of Jebel Toubkal. Suffice to say, my panorama wishes were not granted.

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The view from the top in clearer weather (photo credit summitpost.org) .

Accommodation :

  • Camping, staying at  Gite d’Etapes  in the villages, or a combination of both. There is also a large mountain hut at the base of Jebel Toubkal which sleeps 80 people. Note that this can often be crowded with groups that have come to the area solely to climb Jebel Toubkal.
  • I’d personally recommend spending at least one or two nights in the villages. B e sure to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. My favourite were the Tajines – slow cooked savoury stews prepared in an earthenware pot. 

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Yours truly about to tuck in to a tasty Tajine.

The Toubkal Circuit offers hikers the chance to experience one of the world’s most unique cultures. When combined with the impressive mountain vistas, excellent food, and legendary local hospitality, it makes for an irresistible combination. It may only be a short drive away from the hustle bustle of Marrakech, but walking the ancient pathways of the Berbers, you can’t help but feel like you have been transported back to a simpler time and place. One in which the primary mode of transport is still by foot, and all the people nod and say hello as you pass them by.

35 Replies to “Toubkal Circuit: Independent Hiker’s Guide”

Is it possible to do this hike with a mule or donkey?

Organized trekking groups often use them, but I don’t know whether it is possible to arrange for one privately.

Yes you can at the trekking bureau in Imlil

I’m planning on doing the toubkal circuit around the 7th April with a friend. We would like to do it without a guide and have good navigation skills, however I’m worried about the weight of carrying a tent, sleeping bags etc. Is it possible to stay in huts, villages and get food all the way along. Or do we have to camp a couple of nights? Therefore need tent, sleeping bag and supppies. Thanks

Depending on how far you hike every day, you could stay exclusively in villages and/or with locals. That said, I’d still take your own sleeping bag. No worries in regards to picking up supplies as you go.

And do you know if it is reasonably easy to communicate with the Berbers to arrange shelter for a night? and would it be worth bringing a matt as well as a sleeping bag? Thanks for you help

Yes, it should be be relatively easy to arrange accommodation. Generally, there should be something to sleep on, but personally I would also take a sleeping mat as well.

Sorry, last question! For doing the circuit in early April, would you recommend a 2 or 3 season sleeping bag? I realise this depends on a few factors. But trying to decide, especially to save on weight.

A three season bag (say 25-30°F) should be fine, especially if you are staying indoors.

Hello, my name is Boris and I come from Slovenia. In September 2018, I want to complete the Toubkal Circle with my girlfriend. My question is if it is possible to complete the Toubkal Circle in four days. If it’s feasible, in which places you recommend to spend the night. Thanks for the reply.

Yes, it is possible to do it in four days. You can either camp along the way (pretty much anywhere outside of the populated areas) or stay at Gites in the villages. Pick up either the Cicerone or Trailblazer guide for specific accommodation suggestions. Best of luck on your hike.

Thanks for the quick reply. I like the site, a lot of useful information.

Does anyone know how much to tip for a 6-day trek in a guided tour? Do we need to tip individually? The guide, cook, muleteer,etc? Thanks!

Hello I work as tour Guide in atlas mountains and i climb mount Toubkal once a week its very nice to find people saying very good tings about my area, its attract more tourist thanks a lot for sharing this with world

Such a useful blog this – thank you! We’re headed to the Jebel Circuit in a couple of weeks time. We’re experienced hill walkers happy with navigation, wild camping etc. We weren’t planning on arranging a muleteer/cook. Having done some reading, I’m a little anxious about provisions. We’re planning on staying at Gites where they are available, but it is the summer so I know you can’t rely on them. What did you do for lunches and so on? Can you pick up basic fresh fruit, bread and water etc in all the villages or is it restricted to Imlil and Amsouzerte? Will Gites provide you with a lunch or lunch provisions if you request? I don’t fancy being hungry for a week!

I hiked in October, and purchased virtually all of my food along the way. You definitely won’t go hungry for a week on this trek.

You may want to pick up one of the guidebooks I reference in the article for more detailed information on what’s available in the villages.

Any reccomendations on guides? I plan on going the circuit in Oct.

I know the Bureau des Guides in Imlil has been around since the 80’s, but other than that I have no information in regards to guides for the circuit.

Hey, thanks for the great information! I looked at your gear list page but didn’t see this trip on there (perhaps because it is non-technical and not too long). Would it be possible to ask for a brief list of essentials you found or things you wish/didn’t wish you brought?

Thanks again!

Thanks for the kind words. Of the many hikes listed on the website, only a handful have gear lists. As you can imagine, it isn’t really practical for me to go back to all the hikes I’ve done in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s and put together gear lists for each trip. That said, in regards to the Toubkal Circuit, if you are hiking in the recommended shoulder seasons I would recommend the following: 1. Carry a lightweight tent rather than a tarp; 2. 20F to 30F Sleeping bag or quilt; 3. Carry a pack with a capacity of no more than 60 L; 4. Go stoveless and don’t carry too much food from the outset as there are various places to purchase supplies along the way; 5. Pick up one of the guidebooks listed, which will be of help on the logistical front; 6. Learn some words/phrases in Berber.

Best of luck on your hike.

How about trekking Toubkal Circuit in December? Is there a lot of snow? Can you find the place/hut to sleep, or better to have tent with you?

It is possible, but yes, there is likely to be a lot of snow (varies year to year). In addition to a tent, you should plan on carrying an ice axe and crampons.

Hello and thank you a lot for this wide range of useful information! Anyway, I have two questions… 1) I want to do the hike (and if possible also the summit) in March. Do you think that is too early in the season? Might there be snow also in the lower areas? 2) I want to go by myself. Do you think traveling as a girl alone in an Arabic country is combined with a lot of hustle in Marakkesh ad so on, even one is quiet experienced in traveling in foreign cultures? I´m not sure if you are able to answer (as a not-female person and not knowing the area during the hole year), anyway, if you can give me hints, that´ll be great. Ciao T.

In answer to your questions: 1. Snow levels vary from year to year, so it really depends on recent falls and your experience in negotiating such conditions. To the best of my knowledge in an average year, in March it’s likely that there will still be a lot a of snow on the passes and the sections leading up to them; 2. That’s a toughie. I know quite a few girls that have travelled solo in Arabic countries without issues, but I’ve also heard stories of others that have had a difficult time. If you decide to go by yourself, my only advice would be to dress conservatively, learn as much of the language as possible, and do as much research as you can before your trip. People that give the impression of being lost or not sure (whether it be a guy or a girl) always make for easier targets than those that look like they know what they are doing and where they are going.

All the best on your trip!

Can I ask if you went in march? If so, how did you find it? I’m going 20th of march and have the same questions as you did!

To note that since the tragic murder of a pair of female hikers in December 2018 just up from the village of Aroumd it is no long possible to hike here without a local guide. There are a number of police check points and people walking without a guide are likely to be stopped by locals. Understandable given the reliance of the local economy on tourism and desire to ensure that people have a safe visit to Morocco

Hi there, I’m wanting to run this circuit in March. I’m just trying to work out where to use as a base each night and I’m assuming it would be completed by running in 2/3 days? Could you possibly advise on checkpoints for the night so I could look at booking etc. Also is there a hire shop for crampons etc at the foot village of toubkal? Thankyou! James

A strong/experienced hiker carrying a light pack can comfortably do the circuit in two or three days. In regards to your questions, I suggest you purchase one of the guidebooks mentioned in the post. That will provide you with the logistical details you are looking for. All the best on your trip.

Hi My trail name is the Spaniard I am an avid hiker, 3 crown, the TA plus Camino del Norte and frances, would like to hike from Imlil to the Tobkal mountain need some clarification if you can: is a permit mandatory, and can this be done in one day. Thank you

Hi can you hire a guide in imlil from the street.or must you go to an agency. And cost of a guide

If possible I would try to organise a guide before you arrive in Imlil. However if you don’t you will be able to get a guide from the street, your gite or from the bureau. The price per person will depend on the number in the group but for your money you will get a guide, mule, meals and accommodation on route.

In your experience do you feel like this is a safe hike to do solo as a female?

Thanks, Sophia

Hey Sophia, In times past, Toubkal was always considered fairly safe. However, as you may know, in 2018, a couple of Scandinavian girls were killed while camping in the area. In the aftermath, I believe a guide was obligatory, however, I’m not sure if the situation has changed again over the last few years. Your best bet might be to ask around in Imlil upon arrival. Sorry I can’t be of more help. Best of luck, Cam

Any updates if you need a guide to do the circuit? We are a couple, but would like to do this unguided. We’re hoping the first week of April. Any insight is appreciated.

This blog was posted a few months ago ( https://www.pinyourfootsteps.com/jebel-toubkal-climbing-the-highest-mountain-in-morocco/ ) – “There is a police checkpoint after Aroumd village where your passport as well as the ID of the guide will be checked. The requirement of having a guide was imposed in 2018 after the murder of two Scandinavian tourists. So it’s not that much related to trail difficulty but rather overall safety. I have seen some hikers walking without a guide but they were all coming from the direction of Ifni Lake, possibly doing longer traverses of this section of Atlas Mountains. I believe there is no police checkpoint in Imhilene village but getting there from Marrakech is much more difficult (over 4 hours by car).” and this looks recent – https://thebucketlistcompany.co.uk/do-you-need-a-guide-to-climb-mount-toubkal/

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Toubkal Ascent Trek 2D/1N

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Mount Toubkal ascent trek! Located in the stunning Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Mount Toubkal stands tall as the highest peak in North Africa. This two-day trek will take you through breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and immerse you in the rich Berber culture.

Detail about the package

toubkal ascent trek

The Mount Toubkal ascent trek is a thrilling adventure that takes you to the summit of North Africa’s highest peak. Over the course of two days, you’ll hike through rugged terrain, picturesque valleys, and stunning landscapes, led by experienced local guides.

Starting from Marrakech, transportation is provided to the starting point of the trek. As you make your way up, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Atlas Mountains, encountering unique flora and fauna along the way. The trek is challenging but rewarding, offering incredible views and a sense of accomplishment.

On the final day, you’ll wake up early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise from the summit of Mount Toubkal. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys are truly awe-inspiring. After reaching the summit, you’ll descend back to the starting point, cherishing the memories and the incredible achievement of conquering this majestic peak. The Mount Toubkal ascent trek is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion in the heart of Morocco.

Discover the beauty of Mount Toubkal with our knowledgeable local guides. They'll ensure your safety, provide cultural insights, and make your trek a memorable experience. Book your guided adventure today!

Transportation is included from Marrakech, making it convenient for you to join our Mount Toubkal trek. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of your journey to the mountains.

Food & Beverages

Enjoy the convenience of having food included in the price of your Mount Toubkal trek. Savor delicious meals prepared with local ingredients, fueling you for your adventure in the Atlas Mountains.

lady setting on rock enjoying the view

Day 1 : Marrakech - Imlil - Toubkal Refuge :

mule carring tourists luggage to toubkal

Day 2 : Toubkal Refuge - Toubkal Summit - Imlil :

An early morning start awaits as we embark on the final push to the summit of Mount Toubkal. As we ascend through rocky terrain, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and awe at the stunning vistas unfolding before you. Reaching the summit, at an impressive 4,167 meters, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. After celebrating our achievement, we’ll begin the descent back to the Toubkal Refuge. As we make our way down, take in the beauty of the landscape from a different perspective. Upon reaching the refuge, we’ll continue our descent to Imlil, where our trek concludes.

man standing on rock with head lamp

Places to be

Maps & info

Book now to secure your spot on this incredible journey! Our experienced guides will ensure your safety, provide valuable insights, and make your trek a memorable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to conquer Mount Toubkal and create lasting memories in the heart of the Atlas Mountains

  • Group 1 person        :  260€
  • Group 2 – 3 people   : 180€/person
  • Group 4 – 7 people   : 160€/person
  • Group 8 – 12 people : 125€/person

NB : Extra 20 /person extra from Nov to April to cover porters & extra for mountain hut winter ratesIncluded.

  • English speaking guide, and cook
  •  Muleteers and mules for luggages
  •  Full board on trek + mineral water, coffee and tea
  • Accommodation at Neltner Mountain hut
  • Ground transfers by minibuses / taxis: ( hotel – trek – hotel 
  • Mess, cooking & toilet tents (camping option )
  • Porters for luggages from snow line to Mountain hut (Winter treks)
  • Travel insurance.
  • Soft/alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and personal expanses
  • Rented Equipments ( crampons Ice Axce …) ( Winter )

This Trek runs all year round and can depart at any date of your preference.

  • Good walking boots and socks / good trainers for valley treks
  • Personnel First aid Kit
  • 3 to 4 season sleeping bag ( winter) or light Sleeping bag ( Summer)
  • Lightweight waterproof over-trousers / rain-pants
  • Water bottle or camel back (recommended)
  • Soft-sided bag (50-80 litres)
  • Lightweight daypack
  • Torch and batteries
  • Towel & all personal toiletries

Most of those equipment can be rented locally from our equipment shop in Imlil :

  •  Crampons : 5 €/ Day/pair
  •  Ice Axe : 3 €/day
  •  Walking boots : 5 €/day
  •  Sleeping bags : 2.5 €/day
  •  Rain Jackets : 3 €/day
  •  Walking Poles : 3 €/day/pair   
  •  Back packs : 3€/day
  •  Stoves : 2€/day 

Easy – Medium – Hard

The Accommodation during this trek can either be in a mountain hut for the winter treks or on camping if prefered from June -Octo

NB : If accommodation is required in the Atlas Mountains either before or after the trek, we can always book you at our Place in Imlil

The most affordable price

LEt's start your journey!

Our Recommendation

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The one thing you didn’t know you had to do in Morocco: Trek Toubkal

Mount Toubkal Morocco

I’d never hiked a mountain. I’d pranced around the English countryside of Epping Forest and run away from ponies on Dartmoor, but I’d never come close to hiking a mountain.

So it’s fair to say I was completely out of my comfort zone when I took on Mount Toubkal in Morocco .

Our local guide challenged me with the phrase: “Walk with your mind, not your muscles” which sounds biologically impossible (because it is) but the poetry of it starts to ring true once you embark on this epic climb.

It was quite the challenge, but here’s why you should consider it.

To the Atlas Mountains

Despite the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, most people would associate Morocco with wandering around the souks, camel rides through the desert and enjoying copious amounts of mint tea. While the latter is true, Mount Toubkal is a peak that isn’t so well known amongst non-mountaineers, but stands at an impressive 4,167 metres (13,671 ft) with incredible views of rural Morocco.

Mount Toubkal Morocco

The walk from Imlil to Aroumd

We ventured on a condensed version of Intrepid’s Mount Toubkal Trek trip, which took us just two days from Aroumd and back again, rather than the usual three. Why? Well, a group of staff members from the UK and Marrakech office were taking on the Toubkal challenge to raise money for The Intrepid Foundation project, Education For All  – an organisation which provides girls from rural areas of Morocco with access to education by building and running boarding houses.

And so, with boundless trepidation and many packs of blister plasters, 12 of us headed out of the city to tackle the highest peak in North Africa.

EXPERIENCE MOROCCO’S WONDERS FOR YOURSELF ON A SMALL GROUP TOUR WITH INTREPID

On our first day we were dropped at the mountain village of Imlil, from there we took a short walk to Aroumd, where we settled in for the night at a traditional mountain gite. Getting to know each other over tagine, we talked as the sun set behind the mountains that surrounded us. We couldn’t quite see the peak, but we knew that the next few days would be challenging.

From Aroumd to base camp

Our guide, Youssef, prepped us the day of the hike, advising us that this would be a long journey to the summit and not to take it lightly. Already a little apprehensive, I hoped that mistakenly pouring olive oil over my porridge instead of honey on the morning we set off wouldn’t be a bad omen, but I tried to cast that aside and concentrate on getting to base camp.

Zigzagging through the beautiful Ait Mizane Valley, we made our way on a six-hour hike, stopping every now and then to snap a picture and take in the beauty of it all. The paths leading us there were rocky and steep, but the high peaks and scattered waterfalls made it a breathtakingly scenic hike. We had to be mindful not to take too much time dawdling, as Youssef would yell “yallah yallah” as a polite way of telling us to hurry up, a phrase which we’ve since all adopted into everyday use.

READ MORE: 10 (OTHER) EXPERIENCES EVERY TRAVELLER SHOULD HAVE IN MOROCCO

Passing Berber families and mules along the way, I enjoyed every minute. It was so peaceful up in the hills and every time I looked around I couldn’t quite believe the scale of the mountains around me. “You’re climbing a mountain”, I kept reminding myself and for a cause that I felt truly passionate about.

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All 12 of us shared a dorm the night before the hike to summit, sleeping in the base camp refuge. With just a few hours sleep to rely on, we woke up at 5am to start the climb. I was incredibly thankful for the early start as the first ascent isn’t quite as daunting when seen in total darkness! With the help of our walking poles we clambered over rocks and journeyed upwards.

Mount Toubkal Morocco

Every time we stopped I felt more and more confident that we could do it. It was going well, and although a steep climb, it was completely doable and made worthwhile each time I stopped to look behind and see how far we’d come.

TREK TOUBKAL WITH INTREPID ON OUR 7-DAY ADVENTURE

After some time we stopped again and Youssef announced that we were at 4,000 metres above sea level, just one last little push and we would be there! The adrenaline was kicking in and I felt I could almost run to the top. Walking past other trekkers smiling and reassuring us that we weren’t too far from the summit was incredibly encouraging and before we knew it, there we were, right at the top of Mount Toubkal.

Mount Toubkal Morocco

A trek to remember

While the walk back down was as much of a challenge as the walk up, we were able to watch the mountains and think about what an incredible trip it had been.

A highlight for me was the sense of togetherness that comes with travelling as a group. That’s not just the sharing of tissues, hand sanitizer and bites of cereal bars, but how we helped each other when we had a little doubt. We kept reminding each other why we were doing this and the difference we were making for the girls at Education For All .

First mountain climbed maybe, but hopefully the first of many.

Want to experience the magic of Toubkal for yourself? Check out Intrepid Travel’s Morocco hiking trip.

Education For All was established to help girls from remote, poor villages in the High Atlas region of Morocco receive an education. Living in these rural areas, access to education, particularly for girls, is not a given. Donations will go towards covering the costs of daily meals, transportation home at weekends and for holidays, access to educational materials, books and computers, the running of the boarding house and other essential items. Intrepid Group will DOUBLE whatever you give, so together we’ll be making twice the impact. To donate, click here .

(Image credits: Lauren Ellis x4, Sam Briggs, Lauren Ellis.)

Feeling inspired?

toubkal trek earthquake

Lauren Ellis

London born and bred, Lauren is the PR Manager at Intrepid’s Brixton office. Working in travel for a number of years, Lauren’s been lucky enough to travel regularly, exploring five continents so far. Having taken Intrepid trips to Iran, Northern Cyprus and Morocco in the past year, the question is, where next?

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Mount Toubkal Trek

Towering above Morocco's rugged landscapes, this iconic mountain offers adventurers a captivating ascent through diverse terrain. While a formidable mountain, it caters to all skill levels. With easy access and low technical requirement, it is the perfect mountaineering escape.

From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serenity of the High Atlas trails, Mount Toubkal beckons with its summit as a rewarding challenge that unveils panoramic views and a sense of achievement like no other. Whether it's trekking in the picturesque foothills or summiting the 4,167 metre peak, a Mount Toubkal trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no outdoor enthusiast should miss.

Featured Toubkal Treks

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Mount Toubkal in Winter

Winter trekking holiday to the summit of North Africa`s highest peak Toubkal (4167m) in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco

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US$1,275 without flights

Family Teenage Toubkal, Morocco. The Moss Family

Family Teenage Toubkal Ascent, Morocco

Climb Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest mountain, with your family. Perfect summit objective for teenagers.

US$900 without flights

Looking out over the Bougmez Valley

Across the High Atlas Trek

An epic trekking holiday to Mount Toubkal traversing the High Atlas Mountains including the three highest peaks in Morocco.

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20 Years of Trekking on Toubkal

KE Adventure has over 20 years trekking experience on Mount Toubkal. Over this time we have learned the best routes, the best places to stay and things to do and also built up an infectious rapport with our local guides and the wider Moroccan community. 

5 reasons why a Mount Toubkal Trek Should be on Your Bucket List

Trekking Mount Toubkal offers breathtaking vistas, cultural immersion, physical challenge and a real sense of accomplishment, making it a must-do bucket list experience.

Breathtaking Views

Throughout every stage of your Mount Toubkal trek, you'll have the opportunity to pause and savour the breathtaking views that unfold before you. As you ascend, the majestic Atlas Mountains will come into view, their peaks adorned with clouds, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere. On a clear day, you will be able to see the undulating sands of the Sahara Desert stretching out into the horizon, a stunning picture that showcases the diverse and awe-inspiring natural wonders of Morocco.

Friendly Locals

Moroccans welcome travellers with open arms. From the bustling medinas to the quiet oases, their infectious hospitality traanscends language barriers. With mint tea ceremonies, vibrant markets and tales of ancient cultures, they offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. Embracing visitors as honoured guests, they share the secrets of their land, creating lasting bonds that linger in the memory long after the journey ends.

Accessible All Year Round

Toubkal can be climbed all year round, and any reasonably fit and prepared person can reach the summit of this non-technical peak. In the summer and spring months, Mount Toubkal is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and the trails are clear of snow, making it an excellent time for hikers to revel in the stunning landscape and flourishing flora.

However, a winter trek in Mount Toubkal offers a different kind of allure, as the landscape is blanketed in snow, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Winter mountaineers flock to Toubkal during this time, seeking the thrill of snow-covered trails and a truly unique ascent. Regardless of the season, Mount Toubkal's rugged beauty and accessibility beckon adventurers from around the world to experience its grandeur.

Experience the Silence of the Moroccan Countryside

Escape the bustle and sensory overload of Marrakech and enter one of the quietest regions on Earth. Embarking on a Mount Toubkal trek immerses you in the peaceful embrace of the High Atlas Mountains , where the only sounds are the gentle rustling of wind through the valleys and the crunch of your footsteps on the mountain trails.

Sense of Achievement

Standing at the summit of Mount Toubkal, the enormous sense of achievement is overwhelming. Mount Toubkal’s peak stands at an impressive 4,167 metres, making it the highest peak in North Africa. The combination of the challenging ascent, the sheer altitude and the stunning vistas make you feel on top of the world, both figuratively and literally.

More Information About Mount Toubkal

Mount Toubkal's elevation is approximately 4167 metres (13,671 feet) above sea level making it the highest peak in North Africa.

The best time for Mount Toubkal treks is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and stable. The winter months offer a different experience for experienced trekkers but can be challenging due to snow and cold temperatures. However, Winter trekking of Mount Toubkal is still a very popular and rewarding way to do it.

Essential items include appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, comfortable hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a headlamp, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat.

Yes, many trekkers choose to combine their Mount Toubkal trek with visits to other Moroccan cities and attractions, such as Marrakech, Casablanca, or the Sahara Desert. It's a great way to experience the diverse culture and landscapes of Morocco.

Yes, acclimatisation is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Our trips to the summit often spend a night in a village like Aroumd or Imlil before attempting the summit.

KE has been taking groups to the summit of Toubkal for over 20 years and over that time we have built up a fantastic team of experts in the KE office and in Morocco. We have a superb team of leaders, local guides and trek crews with whom we have worked with for many years. Our expert team of local KE leaders receive regular winter and summer training, ensuring you are in the hands of some of the best leaders in Morocco.

A lot of positive thinking and plenty of trek preparation! The best way to prepare for any Toubkal trek is to lace up your walking boots and get out in your local hills combined with regular exercise to increase your overall level of fitness. Cycling, jogging and running are perfect for building up your stamina and this combined with hill walking days of 6 to 8 hours will ensure you are fully prepared. Try to get used to walking in the footwear you’ll be wearing for the trek and remember the fitter you are when you join the trek, the greater your level of enjoyment will be.

The summit of Toubkal is 4,167m and most people who are trekking in the High Atlas will feel some minor effects of altitude such as a slight headache and shortness of breath whilst ascending on the trail. These symptoms are a normal response to the shortage of oxygen and nothing to be concerned about. Furthermore our experienced local team will ensure that everyone walks at a pace which will help us prepare for summit day. It’s always good to arrive in Morocco fully rested and if you have a long flight, it may help if you arrive a day or two before the holiday starts so you can catch up on any lost sleep and start the trek feeling refreshed and fit. Keeping properly hydrated helps the acclimatisation process so it makes sense to drink plenty of water during your holiday along with the refreshing Moroccan mint tea! Trekking holidays are not the time to diet! Morocco offers a wonderful melting pot of flavours and a healthy balanced diet will keep you feeling energised and ready for the trail ahead plus help in your body’s acclimatisation process.

At KE we work hard to ensure that our local leaders, staff and pack animals are well looked after whilst trekking. Wherever possible we use local gites and guesthouses as we feel working directly with local accommodation owners helps build up relationships and contributes directly to the local community. On all our of Toubkal treks we recommend the use of water purification tablets to try and cut down on the buying of water in plastic bottles. Furthermore, we invest in our leaders by providing regular training courses which includes first aid, winter and avalanche training.

The beauty of group travel is trekking alongside a group of like-minded travellers with a wide range of ages, interests and abilities. Each day is planned to ensure there is plenty of time to take photographs, enjoy refreshment stops and take in the fantastic scenery. Although there is a certain distance to cover each day, a group holiday is not a “route march” so our leaders don’t expect everyone to walk at the same pace. At KE we’ll ask you about your previous trekking experience to ensure you book on the right holiday and grade for you; it is your holiday after all!

The summit of Toubkal is 4167m and most people who are trekking in the High Atlas will feel some minor effects of altitude such as a slight headache and shortness of breath whilst ascending on the trail. These symptoms are a normal response to the shortage of oxygen and nothing to be concerned about. Furthermore our experienced local team will ensure that everyone walks at a pace which will help us prepare for summit day. It’s always good to arrive in Morocco fully rested and if you have a long flight, it may help if you arrive a day or two before the holiday starts so you can catch up on any lost sleep and start the trek feeling refreshed and fit. Keeping properly hydrated helps the acclimatisation process so it makes sense to drink plenty of water during your holiday along with the refreshing Moroccan mint tea! Trekking holidays are not the time to diet! Morocco offers a wonderful melting pot of flavours and a healthy balanced diet will keep you feeling energised and ready for the trail ahead plus help in your body’s acclimatisation process.

At KE we work hard on having a responsible approach to travel and this includes the buying of mineral water in plastic bottles. For all our holidays in Morocco we ask you to take water purification tablets with you, which cuts down on the use of mineral water and also means that along the trail it is possible to fill up your bottle in local villages and and then pop in a couple of purification tablets - easy!

Morocco is so much more than couscous and one thing that people praise our local team on, is the food. Coucous is the main staple of North Africa but Morocco has a lot more to offer and you'll never go hungry on our trekking holidays. Each day you'll find yourself sampling a rich variety of local ingredients and fresh vegetables alongside soups, stews, pasta, potatoes and tagines. Colourful fresh salads decorated with olives, cheeses and lentils are also in abundance!

Remember Morocco is a Muslim country and any holiday is more enjoyable if you pack the right clothing. Knee-length or trekking shorts for both men and women are acceptable, whilst "zip-off" trousers are a fantastic item of trekking clothing, especially as the bottom of the trousers can be zipped on and off when needed. Technical, quick drying t-shirts covering the shoulders are perfect for trekking and more practical in higher temperatures than heavy cotton t-shirts. A long-sleeved trekking shirt is ideal for covering up in the daytime when the sun is strong or late in the afternoon when the sun is setting and temperature drops.

A lot of positive thinking and plenty of trek preparation! The best way to prepare for any trek is to lace up your walking boots and get out in your local hills combined with regular exercise to increase your overall level of fitness. Cycling and running are perfect for building up your stamina and this combined with some longer hill walking days of 6 to 8 hours will ensure you are fully prepared. Try to get used to walking in the footwear you’ll be wearing for the trek and remember the fitter you are when you join the trek, the greater your level of enjoyment will be.

We strongly recommend on our Moroccan treks that you take along a sturdy kit bag. The trek team will consist of a team of muleteers and their mules for transporting baggage in the Atlas Mountains. Each morning you'll say goodbye to your kit bag which will be packed onto the mules and transported to your next accommodation. This means no "heavy back-packing" which leaves you free to enjoy the views and the spectacular scenery. When you arrive at your next overnight your kitbag will be there ready and waiting for you!

At KE we pride ourselves on honesty so it wouldn't be true if we were to tell you that you'll have the High Atlas and Toubkal all to yourself! However with a wide range of routes available there is plenty of space for everyone and sharing the trail with a wide range of nationalities plus local and international travellers is one of the highlights of trekking. Meeting other travellers is after-all the reason why people chose group travel and the incredible melting pot of people you meet along the way are always willing to share their stories and experiences. On a few of our longer trekking holidays there will be days when you won't see any other trekking groups and will indeed have hours on the trail to yourself! We can't promise you complete solitude but we can promise you an unforgettable experience and memories to last a lifetime!

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We offer over 360 active adventures in 100 countries worldwide. Best known for our pioneering itineraries and challenging trips with an 'edge', we also offer a range of easier guided and self-guided walking, cycling, family and wildlife journeys throughout the world. Based in Keswick in the Lake District, we are passionate about creating unique travel experiences for our customers.

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Mount Toubkal Treks

Conquer Morocco's highest peak, Mount Toubkal, with expert guides. Experience stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and the thrill of reaching new heights on an unforgettable trekking adventure.

Our collection of the most popular Treks.

Mount Toubkal popular packages

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High Atlas mountains 6 Days Discovery Trek

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Imlil Day Trip From Marrakech

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Toubkal and Sahara Combined Trip

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Mount toubkal 2 days Climb

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Our Travel Categories

Toubkal Summit Travel Categories

12 tour packages

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Toubkal, Berber villages, and the Atlas Mountains. Choose from our diverse trekking categories, offering adventurous trips, cultural immersions, and stunning vistas. Whether you seek a solo adventure, a family-friendly experience, or a budget-friendly getaway, we have the perfect package to suit your travel style and create lifelong memories.

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Mount Toubkal Trekking Packages

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Morocco Berber Villages Treks

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Day Trips From Marrakech

Toubkal trekking adventures: explore morocco's majestic peaks, berber villages, and sahara desert.

Morocco is a top destination worldwide, drawing many travelers who seek adventure vacations. Visitors come from all corners of the globe to explore its magnificent mountain ranges, breathtaking scenery, rich history, and welcoming communities. We provide exceptional trekking experiences in Morocco, featuring the renowned Toubkal peak, Berber villages, and valleys that offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the generosity of these communities and the stunning landscapes. Another highly recommended option is a trip to the Sahara Desert, where you can ride a camel to the campsite and experience the tranquility of the golden dunes under the stars. We also offer combined tours to Morocco's historical cities, tailored to your specific needs. Simply send us an email, and we will be at your disposal. No matter what you choose, an incredible adventure awaits you in Morocco.

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Mount Toubkal Summit Blog

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Unveiling the Majestic Charm: A Guide to Trekking in Morocco

Introduction:Embark on an extraordinary journey through Morocco's diverse landscapes, as we explore the captivating world of trekking. From the towering peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a wealth of trekking opportunities that promise breathtaking...

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Traveling to the Moroccan Sahara Desert: Tips for a Memorable Adventure

The Moroccan Sahara Desert is an awe-inspiring landscape that attracts travelers from around the world. From the golden sand dunes to the vibrant culture of the nomadic Berber people, there is no shortage of adventure and beauty in this region. Here are some tips to help you plan your travel to the...

IMAGES

  1. 8 Days Toubkal Trek The Mt Toubkal Circuit Trek

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  2. Toubkal circuit & summit guided trekking tour in Morocco

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  3. Charity trek mount toubkal in Morocco

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  4. 6 Days Toubkal Circuit

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  5. How to Climb Morocco's Mount Toubkal: The Complete Guide

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  6. Toubkal circuit trek, Morocco, organised by Berber Treks

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COMMENTS

  1. Earthquake Response

    In the confusion of media reporting of the terrible destruction caused by the earthquake on Friday 8th there was inevitable confusion, especially as some of the higher mountain roads are still un-passable. Rumours have spread that Imlil suffered major damage resulting in death, and that Kasbah du Toubkal, perched as it is on the top of a hill ...

  2. After the Earthquake, Climbers Return to Snow-Capped Toubkal

    The triangular summit trig point at the top of Mount Toubkal. Photo: Hannah Marshall / Much Better Adventures. On September 8, 2023, just after 11pm local time, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck the remote High Atlas mountains of Morocco. Word spread quickly, and the next morning, the world woke up to the devastating news that thousands had ...

  3. Mount Toubkal Trek: The Complete Guide To Imlil And Best Ways To Hiking

    In case you're not up for looking for a guide independently and rather join a group, you can also book a trek with tour organizations like Toubkal Trekking in Morocco. You can also organize your Mount Toubkal trekking tour in advance by booking them online. Here are 2 trekking tours to Mount Toubkal that are highly recommended:

  4. Toubkal National Park, Morocco

    The village is the start point for trekking to Mount Toubkal in the summer months. ... Imlil was hit hard by the 2023 earthquake and you should always be aware of what needs to happen if you are caught in an earthquake. In 2018 two Scandinavian women lost their lives on Mount Toubkal. Since then, the local authorities have introduced a number ...

  5. Climb Mount Toubkal

    As trekking Mount Toubkal requires your body being at high altitudes, it is crucial to allow time for adjustment. A rule of thumb is "climb high and sleep low.". It's important to gain height slowly, about 500m a day once you are at 2,500m. You should be drinking plenty of water as well.

  6. Mount Toubkal Trek: Charity Trek

    Discover the stunning Atlas Mountains and trek to 'the roof of North Africa' Mount Toubkal. This adventure-filled trip will take you from the bustling cityscape of Marrakech, transport you into the out-of-this-world mountain region to meet warm locals, experience Amazigh culture, learn about the impacts of the recent devastating earthquake ...

  7. How to Climb Morocco's Mount Toubkal: The Complete Guide

    Phone +212 661-873771. Web Visit website. Standing 13,671 feet (4,167 meters) in height, Morocco's Mount Toubkal holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain in Northern Africa. Located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, Toubkal is a popular trekking peak, drawing thousands of visitors on an annual basis.

  8. Mount Toubkal Trek

    Day 5: TREK FROM IMLIL TO REFUGE TOUBKAL. TREK FROM IMLIL TO REFUGE TOUBKAL Today you will trek from Imlil (1740m) to Refuge Toubkal (3206m). The route will climb up a river gorge, passing waterfalls, Berber settlements, and mountainside shops. ... Due to the earthquake there were some very small adjustments made to our itinerary - this did ...

  9. Toubkal via Arumd-Sidi Chamarouch-CAF Refuge Trail

    I'd advise you to wake up very early and begin the trek in the dark; sunrise is beautiful, and you'll beat the slow crowds on the narrow trail. I did Toubkal today, in mid-April, and there was still tons of snow on the ground, as the entire hike from the refuge to the summit required crampons.

  10. Mount Toubkal Trek: Your Comprehensive Guide to Climbing North Africa's

    Day 1 | Mount Toubkal Trek | Approx. 5 hours of walking. Our guide and driver met us in Marrakech at 8:30 a.m on the first day of our trek. We'd transferred everything we needed for the Mount Toubkal trek into our daypacks and left the remainder in our main packs, which we could store for free at the trekking office in Imlil. We had a short ...

  11. How to climb Toubkal, Morocco's highest peak

    From the summit of Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak (4167m), views stretch from the city of Marrakesh across the breadth of the High Atlas Mountains and on to the Sahara Desert in the south. With such compelling vistas, it's understandable that on most mornings of the year a twinkling line of hikers' headlamps snakes its way to the top of Toubkal; the goal is to complete Morocco's most ...

  12. Climb Mt Toubkal

    Since the devasting earthquake in Morocco in 2023, local tourism in the remote High Atlas Mountains has been impacted greatly as many local communities and livelihoods in this area rely on tourism. ... Flights are not included in your Summer Toubkal Trek giving you the flexibility to travel from your nearest UK airport and/or extend your stay ...

  13. Climb Mount Toubkal The Complete Guide in 2023

    Mount Toubkal is a mountain peak found in Toubkal National Park in southwestern Morocco. With its height of 4,167 metres (13,671 feet), Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa. It's situated in Morocco's southwestern region about 60 kilometers south of Marrakech, just part of the Atlas Mountain Range. A popular destination for climbers ...

  14. We survived an earthquake whilst hiking Mount Toubkal in the ...

    We were in The High Atlas Mountains on a fundraising trek for Halton Haven Hospice when disaster struck.Such levels of destruction and devastation we could n...

  15. Climb Mt Toubkal in Morocco

    Since the devasting earthquake in Morocco in 2023, local tourism in the remote High Atlas Mountains has been impacted greatly as many local communities and livelihoods in this area rely on tourism. ... Just returned home from the Winter Toubkal Trek and my second trek with Adventurous Ewe. It was an amazing experience surrounded by breathtaking ...

  16. Toubkal Circuit: Independent Hiker's Guide

    The Toubkal Circuit is one of Africa's finest multi-day treks. Situated in Morocco's Atlas mountains, it takes hikers on a 60 km (37.3 mi) loop around Jebel Toubkal, which at 4167 m (13,671 ft) is the highest peak in the Arab world. ... Summer, despite the heat and lack of water, is peak season and is often crowded with foreign trekking groups ...

  17. Mount Toubkal Summit Hike: Imlil to Refuge du Toubkal

    Mount Toubkal Summit Hike: Refuge du Toubkal to Summit. The short but strenuous second day to North Africa's highest peak. Severe Hiking. Distance 6.7 km Ascent 986 m Descent 986 m. 8.4 km away. Ouanoukrim. A much wilder option than Toubkal, and one of the best viewpoints in the Atlas mountains. Severe Hiking. Distance 8.3 km Ascent 1 km ...

  18. 2-Day Mount Toubkal Ascent Trek

    Toubkal Ascent Trek 2D/1N. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Mount Toubkal ascent trek! Located in the stunning Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Mount Toubkal stands tall as the highest peak in North Africa. This two-day trek will take you through breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and immerse you in the rich Berber culture.

  19. Trekking Morocco's Mount Toubkal: Why To Go And What To Expect

    To the Atlas Mountains. Despite the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, most people would associate Morocco with wandering around the souks, camel rides through the desert and enjoying copious amounts of mint tea. While the latter is true, Mount Toubkal is a peak that isn't so well known amongst non-mountaineers, but stands at an impressive ...

  20. From Marrakech: 3-Day Mount Toubkal Climbing Trek

    Once on the pass we will be able to admire the summit of Toubkal. We then descend towards the Toubkal base camp, at 3200 m. Walking time: 6h30. ( Tamsoult to Toubkal Refuge - 10 kms, up 1200m, down 300m, 6 hours ) Day 3: Toubkal Refuge 3207m - Toubkal summit 4167m - Imlil 1740m - Marrakech Up early for the climb up Toubkal (4,167 m) from where ...

  21. Mount Toubkal Trek

    4000m Peaks of Morocco. Morocco. A classic trekking holiday through Morocco's incredible High Atlas Mountains including Mount Toubkal and time to explore Marrakech. Walk & Trek. Guided Group. CHALLENGING. 15 days from. US$1,915 without flights.

  22. MT Toubkal Trek

    At MT Toubkal Trek, Our travel agency specializes in Morocco private tours that cater to our clients' unique interests and preferences. Whether you are seeking Morocco tours in the majestic Atlas Mountains, witness the magic of the Sahara Desert, or immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Morocco's Imperial Cities, we have the ...

  23. Mount Toubkal Treks

    Toubkal Summit Travel Categories. 12 tour packages. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Toubkal, Berber villages, and the Atlas Mountains. Choose from our diverse trekking categories, offering adventurous trips, cultural immersions, and stunning vistas. Whether you seek a solo adventure, a family ...