HIGH ATLAS: TOUBKAL HIKE
INTRODUCTION: TOUBKAL SUMMIT ASCENT
A 3 Day High Atlas Trek
The Toubkal region of the High Atlas contains all the highest peaks of Morocco and Mount Toubkal, at 4,167m (14,000ft) is the highest of them all.
For climbers, Toubkal is the most frequently visited peak in the High Atlas. The views from the summit of Toubkal provide a wonderful opportunity to see many high peaks of the High Atlas.
Located in the western part of the High Atlas, the Toubkal ancient rock massive overlooks the Haouz Plain to the north and the mountains Siroua and the Anti-Atlas to the south.
Remarkably, the starting point for the trek and climb is only 1½ hours by good road from Marrakech. The Toubkal summit can be tackled (up and down) in just 2 days for good, fit, high mountain hikers who are used to this sort of terrain but a three day trek is to be recommended to allow good acclimatisation.
As well as enjoying the challenge of the trek and the rewards gained on reaching the Toubkal summit, being amongst the Berbers, the people of the mountains, is a great bonus. Berber culture and heritage have a rich tradition of hospitality, generosity and friendliness towards others. Meeting such people and enjoying interaction is very warming and heartening.
CAUTION: There can be snow on the route to Toubkal from December through till late March, it just depends that particular winter’s weather. For trekkers who are used to walking on snow and with the ability to use an ice axe then the summit trek is still possible. It can be very cold too, of course, in these winter months so appropriate clothing and trekking gear are needed (such items are available for hire in Imlil, at a supplement).
HIGHLIGHTS
Passing through a range of mountain zones as you ascend, their changing nature and their Berber activities
Feeling of fullfillment and of enhanced wellbeing
Enjoying the companionship of your guide(s) and that of the Berber people whom you meet
Watching the sun setting … and the sun rising over the High Atlas
Spending time under the starry night skies
Achievement (and relief!) of summiting
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IncludedHIGH ATLAS: TOUBKAL HIKE
FROM OUR GALLERY
Day 1:
DAY 1: Marrakech to Imlil village (1,740m) to Toubkal Refuge (3,200m): 6 hour trek
In the morning you travel to Imlil, the starting point of your trek. Transport is in an executive minibus, a 4x4 vehicle or a taxi.
Having crossed the Marrakech Plain, you soon enter the foothills of the High Atlas. Dramatically and most impressively the scenery changes.
On arrival to Imlil, your trek begins. Your English speaking Mountain Guide (other languages available; just request at time of booking) and mule will be with you for the trek’s duration. The trek to the Refuge today is on mule paths and the going is easy/gentle for the most part.
You first pass by Sidi Chamharouch, high up in a narrowing river valley where 2 rivers converge. You are truly surrounded by the wonders of the High Atlas, both the natural environment as well as the Berbers and their fascinating communities and activities.
A picnic lunch is enjoyed in Sidi Chanharouch.
After lunch you continue to Toubkal Mountain Refuge for an overnight stay.
Meals included: lunch and evening meal
Day 2:
DAY 2: Toubkal Refuge (3,200m) to Toubkal summit (4,167m) and then return to the Refuge
An early departure is needed after breakfast for the ascent of Toubkal. The trek from the Refuge to the summit today is on a clear path and the going is moderate to steep for the most part.
At the summit you will enjoy fantastic 360o panoramic views of the High Atlas, the peaks of the Anti-Atlas (including its highest point, Jbel Siroua at 3,304m) and the Haouez Plains.
Plenty time is taken to enjoy the views, take photographs (including the impressive summit metal ‘cairn’) and to relax a little before beginning the descent. You then return to the Refuge for rest, recovery and an overnight stay.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and evening meal
Day 3:
DAY 3: Toubkal Refuge to Marrakech
After breakfast (included; a later one than yesterday!), your trek continues downwards past Sidi Chamharouch shrine and back to Imlil Village.
You then return to Marrakech by arranged transport.
NOTE: The above trek allows you to conquer the Toubkal summit in a 3 day trip. For this, good fitness and mountain trekking experience is needed and makes it very achievable. Should you wish to add an extra day, however, to make the trek less demanding, please enquire.
TOUR LOCATION
WHAT ANZAL TOURS INCLUDES
- Return private transport from your accommodation in Marrakech to Imlil
- A local, experienced and qualified Moroccan Countryside Guide, English speaking, throughout your hike
- A planned hiking route that takes you from Imlil to Toubkal Refuge and to the Toubkal Summit, and return
- A mule to carry your belongings
- Two nights accommodation in the Toubkal Refuge
- 3 lunches, 2 breakfasts, 2 evening meals
- If you wish fuller details, simply please contact Anzal Tours
WHAT ANZAL TOURS EXCLUDES
- All items not mentioned in the WHAT ANZAL TOURS INCLUDES shown above
Prices for this tour, based on the itinerary described and the listed inclusions for this tour
GROUP SIZE, TWO PERSONS Price 11,386 MAD
GROUP SIZE, FOUR PERSONS Price 15,940 MAD
GROUP SIZE, SIX PERSONS Price 20,496 MAD
For all other group sizes, please simply make contact with Anzal Tours
NOTE: This hike is not available for School or College Groups