Mount Toubkal Trek

Whether you’re a newbie trekker or a well-travelled walker, this hiking trip in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains is sure to lure you in. From colourful Marrakech, this seven-day trip will see you staying in mountain gites and hiking huts, trekking through mountain scenery and reaching the ‘roof of North Africa’ with an expert crew and some trusty pack mules. Climb to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, or Mount Toubkal, from base camp and discover a renewed love for mountainous landscapes and the adventure of being thousands of metres above sea level. As this trip gives you a day to acclimatise to the altitude and traverse the villages at your own pace, it’s perfect for trekkers of any level.

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech

Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you'll meet your fellow trekkers and trip leader. After, you might like to join your leader on a jaunt to Djemaa el-Fna Square in the centre of the medina. Huge crowds converge at night to see the singers, drummers, fortune tellers, dancers and bustling street food bazaars all vying for attention here. This square is one of the largest public meeting places in the world, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye tonight.

Day 2: Aroumd

Rise and shine early today for breakfast and a group meeting at 8 am. Your leader will go through everything you need to know about today’s trek before you set off into the mountains. Leave Marrakech behind and drive across the plains towards the ancient marketplace of Tahanaoute, with views of valleys and the Atlas Mountains along the way. Arrive at Imlil – a mountainous village 1740 m above sea level, then take a short hike to your mountain base in the village of Aroumd. In the afternoon, stretch your legs with a gentle orientation walk. Your accommodation tonight is a mountain gite (a traditional village house). Rooms are furnished in the Amazigh style, with low couches (which can be used as beds), tables, carpets and cushions. On warm nights, it’s often possible to sleep out on the terrace under the stars!

Day 3: Aroumd

Today, explore Aroumd on some of the local trails with your group. Get to know the terrain and acclimatise your body for the challenge of the summit ahead. Today’s main hike will depend on the weather and the group’s ability. Acclimatisation hikes are quite slow, with a relaxed pace. Wherever your trip leader chooses, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful Moroccan countryside, where children run freely through the valleys and farmers tend to their plots of land. Donkeys provide a mode of transport for both young and old, with stony pathways winding through the mountains to villages hidden from the main roads. When you arrive back in your gite, tuck into a hearty dinner and rest up for tomorrow’s challenge.

Day 4: Mt Toubkal Base Camp

This morning you’ll begin your ascent of Mount Toubkal – North Africa’s highest peak. From Aroumd, the trail crosses the floodplain of the Ait Mizane Valley, before climbing steeply in a zigzag up the mountainside. Along the way, pass the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamarouch, home to the tomb of the local marabout (Muslim holy man). Only Muslims are permitted to cross the bridge and approach the large white stone that serves as a shrine. From here, climb steeply through a series of switchbacks and traverse the flank of the valley above the river. Arrive at Toubkal Base Camp (3207 metres above sea level) and enjoy a hearty dinner and make sure you get plenty of sleep before the big ascent tomorrow.

Day 5: Summit day

Embrace an early start this morning as you tackle the rocky terrain that leads to the summit of Mount Toubkal. At 4167 m above sea level, this is truly the roof of North Africa. Take in the beautiful silence of the morning while you make the final climb, which can involve some scrambling. Your effort is rewarded by views from the summit, which on a clear day can include the entire Atlas Mountain range, the Atlantic coast to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east. After a rest at the summit and time spent marvelling at the view, descend to base camp. You’ll fuel up with a hearty lunch before heading back to Aroumd, where your local host will be waiting to welcome you back with a homecooked dinner to celebrate your achievements in the High Atlas Mountains.

Day 6: Marrakech

After breakfast, take one last glimpse at those high summits you conquered in last couple of days. Then, head back to Imlil and make your way back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour of the medina, including souqs devoted to different trades such as pottery, woodwork, carpets or spices. Then, continue to the 19th-century Bahia Palace and spend some time admiring the architecture. The rest of your time in the city is free for you to make your own discoveries. If you're keen to experience a traditional Moroccan bath, your leader can advise you where to find the nearest hammam. If you’ve enjoyed your taste of Moroccan cuisine so far, maybe indulge your inner foodie with a Taste of Marrakesh Urban Adventure tour.

Day 7: Marrakech

Your adventure ends after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend more time in Marrakech, just speak to your booking agent.

Departure Dates