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. 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. 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 mountains.

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 back) in just 2 days for good, high mountain hikers who are used to this sort of terrain and are fit. ATS offers, however, a wide range of treks in Toubkal Massif area, of any number of days’ duration. as well as ascending the summit, such longer hikes include hiking passed Berber villages, their farmscapes and activities, in the many very beautiful valleys of this area. This allows time to “explore and encounter”, very much an aim of all ATS programmes. walking through such a stunning mountain landscape, barely touched by the fast paced, modern world, provides the opportunity to reflect and re-evaluate our own lives.

The Berber culture and heritage has a rich tradition of hospitality, generosity and friendliness towards others. meeting such people and enjoying conversation and interaction (as well as enjoying their superb, freshly cooked food in tagine style) is a real bonus to the hikes.

Morning: travel from Marrakech to Imlil, the starting point for our trek, by executive minibus, 4x4 or taxi. It is about 1.5 hours from Marrakech to the starting point in Imlil. From Imlil we start our trek passing by ‘Sidi Chamharouch’, high up a narrowing river valley where 2 rivers converge. We will have lunch close to this shrine, which regularly attracts groups of religious pilgrims.

After lunch we continue to Toubkal Mountain Refuge. After a well deserved dinner of traditional Berber fayre, we spend the night camping nearby (or in the Refuge itself).

Early departure after breakfast for the ascent of Toubkal.

At the summit we will enjoy fantastic 360 degree panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, the peaks of the Anti-Atlas including its highest point, the Siroua (3304m) and the Haouez Plains.

Time to enjoy the views, take photographs (including the impressive summit metal ‘cairn’) and relax a little before we begin our descent.

We return to the Refuge, passed Sidi Chamharouch shrine and back to Imlil village.

We then return to Marrakech by executive minibus, 4x4 or taxi.

In the morning you travel to Imlil, the starting point of your trek. Transport can be 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 Mountain Guide and mule will be with you for the trek’s duration.

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.

An early departure is needed after breakfast for the ascent of Toubkal.

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.

After breakfast (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.