Mount Toubkal and Marrakech Grade: Challenging
£1,160.00
This Moroccan adventure combines spectacular High Atlas landscapes, traditional Berber villages and culture, and the
challenge of reaching Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest mountain in North Africa. We also take time to soak up the unique atmosphere of vibrant Marrakech.
Imagine waking up in the High Atlas Mountains, surrounded by rugged peaks, traditional Berber villages and spectacular Moroccan scenery. Trekking Mount Toubkal is an exhilarating adventure that takes you to the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest mountain in North Africa.
Your journey begins in the mountain village of Imlil, where you’ll meet your local guide and begin trekking through valleys and terraced hillsides. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with rocky mountain passes, remote valleys and panoramic views stretching across the Atlas range.
You’ll spend a night at the Toubkal Refuge, before making an early-morning summit attempt. The final ascent is challenging, with steep, rocky terrain and high altitude, but reaching the summit is immensely rewarding. From the top, you’ll have breathtaking views across the Atlas Mountains and, on a clear day, far into the surrounding Moroccan landscape.
After the trek you return to Marrakech where ochre-coloured buildings, bustling souks and the scent of spices immediately immerse you in a completely different world. Your afternoon tour begins in the atmospheric medina, a UNESCO World Heritage setting filled with winding alleyways, traditional markets and hidden courtyards.
You’ll explore magnificent sights such as the Koutoubia Mosque and the beautiful Bahia Palace while your local guide brings Marrakech’s fascinating history to life. There will also be plenty of time to wander through the souks, where you can browse handmade leather goods, colourful textiles, ceramics and Moroccan crafts.
As evening arrives, make your way to Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech’s famous central square. The atmosphere transforms as food stalls appear and the square fills with music, performers and the aromas of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Itinerary (subject to change):
DAY 1 — ARRIVAL IN MARRAKECH
Upon arrival at Marrakech Airport, your driver will meet and welcome you to Morocco before transferring you to
your hotel in Marrakech. The journey takes approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore the historic Medina. We will meet for dinner in the evening.
DAY 2 — MARRAKECH → IMLIL → MATAT → TIZI OUDID → TIZI OUSSEM
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle to Imlil/Ait Souka (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). Meet your English-speaking mountain guide, muleteers and mule team. The trek begins through traditional Berber villages and terraced fields, crossing Matat Valley and climbing towards Tizi Oudid. After a freshly prepared picnic lunch, continue towards Tizi Oussem, a traditional Berber village surrounded by impressive peaks and valleys.
• Distance: approximately 11 km
• Walking time: approximately 5–6 hours
• Starting altitude: approximately 1,740 m
• Highest point: approximately 2,200 m
• Level: Moderate
• Terrain: Mountain trails, villages and valleys
• Accommodation: Berber family guesthouse in Tizi Oussem
DAY 3 — TIZI OUSSEM → TAMSOULT WATERFALLS → TIZI MZIK → ARMED
Begin one of the most spectacular days of the trek. Climb towards Azib Tamsoult and visit the impressive Ighouliden
Waterfalls, among the highest waterfalls in the High Atlas. Continue towards Tizi Mzik Pass (approximately 2,500 m), enjoying panoramic views before descending towards Armed (Aremd), the highest permanent village in the Imlil Valley.
• Distance: approximately 13 km
• Walking time: approximately 6–7 hours
• Highest point: approximately 2,500 m
• Elevation gain: approximately +700 m
• Level: Moderate to challenging
• Terrain: Mountain trails, waterfalls, rocky paths and mountain passes
• Accommodation: Berber family guesthouse in Armed
DAY 4 — ARMED → AIT MIZANE VALLEY → TOUBKAL REFUGE
Ascend towards the Toubkal Massif following the Ait Mizane Valley. The landscape changes from Berber villages and
cultivated terraces to rugged alpine scenery. Pass through Sidi Chamharouch, a famous mountain settlement and
pilgrimage site, before continuing to the Toubkal Refuge at approximately 3,200 m. The afternoon is reserved for rest and acclimatization.
• Distance: approximately 10 km
• Walking time: approximately 4–5 hours
• Starting altitude: approximately 1,900 m
• Refuge altitude: approximately 3,200 m
• Elevation gain: approximately +1,300 m
• Level: Challenging
• Terrain: Rocky mountain trails and high-altitude terrain
• Accommodation: Toubkal Refuge – shared dormitory
DAY 5 — TOUBKAL REFUGE → MOUNT TOUBKAL SUMMIT → REFUGE
Wake very early, normally before sunrise, and begin the ascent to Mount Toubkal at 4,167 m. The climb is steady and
demanding, with rocky and sometimes steep terrain. Conditions vary by season and weather. After reaching the summit, enjoy panoramic views across the High Atlas before descending to the refuge to rest.
• Distance: approximately 8–10 km round trip
• Walking time: approximately 6–7 hours total
• Refuge altitude: approximately 3,200 m
• Summit altitude: 4,167 m
• Elevation gain: approximately +950 m
• Elevation loss: approximately -950 m
• Level: Challenging
• Terrain: Rocky, steep high-altitude mountain terrain
• Accommodation: Toubkal Refuge – shared dormitory
• Important: The summit attempt depends on weather and mountain conditions. The guide will decide the safest route and timing.
DAY 6 — TOUBKAL REFUGE → SIDI CHAMHAROUCH → ARMED / IMLIL
After breakfast, descend through the Ait Mizane Valley, passing again through Sidi Chamharouch before continuing
towards Armed and the Imlil Valley. Once back in the village, relax and enjoy the evening in a traditional Berber setting.
• Distance: approximately 10 km
• Walking time: approximately 4–5 hours
• Starting altitude: approximately 3,200 m
• Finish altitude: approximately 1,900 m
• Elevation loss: approximately 1,300 m
• Level: Moderate
• Terrain: Rocky mountain trails and valley paths
• Accommodation: Berber family guesthouse
DAY 7 — IMLIL → MARRAKECH → GUIDED MARRAKECH TOUR
After breakfast, return to Marrakech by private vehicle (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). After checking in and
refreshing, enjoy a half-day guided tour of Marrakech. Depending on opening hours and the final sightseeing schedule, the tour may include Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, the historic Medina, traditional souks and Jemaa el-Fna Square. Final dinner in Marrakech.
DAY 8 — MARRAKECH → AIRPORT
After breakfast, your driver will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to Marrakech Airport according to your
flight departure time.
Mount Toubkal is physically challenging rather than technically difficult. The terrain underfoot is a mixture of boulders, uneven ground and scree. As you are walking at altitude, the trek will feel more difficult due to thin air. You must be mountain fit for this trek with experience of hiking in mountainous terrain (Lake District/ Scottish Highlands for example). Mount Toubkal and Marrakech Grade: Challenging
Challenging, Trekking HolidayMount Toubkal and Marrakech Grade: Challenging
£1,160.00