Mount Toubkal 4167m, the highest peak in North Africa, is a challenging 2- or 3-day hike. But, don’t worry, anybody in good physical condition can do it. The trekking peak involves walking in crampons holding an ice axe for security (Nov to April). The summit allows you to appreciate staggering views over the Atlas Mountains, so don’t forget to bring your camera for memorable photos. The itinerary has been intended for keen walkers, as the ascent is non-specialized, however, includes some easy scrambling and snow slopes. Your group includes a local English talking guide, a nearby cook and donkeys to carry your gear. The tour, all in all, begins and end in Marrakech city, and includes transport to and from Imlil.
John F.K. International Airport (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Leaving the city behind, we drive south towards the jagged peaks and plunging valleys of the Toubkal Massif. Crossing the Haouz Plain, we go through the tiny village of Asni, from where we start to move towards the lower regions of the Massif. When we get to Imlil village, we leave our vehicle and join our group including the guide, the cook and the muleteers. Having loaded our luggage, we set for the Mizane Valley, where we visit two fundamental places. We first visit Armed, the largest village in the valley which provides intersecting terraced fields for traditional farming. For decades the local Berber villagers have worked these terrains creating corn, potatoes and walnuts. A short time later, we trek towards the sanctuary of Sidi Chamharouch. Continuing east and crossing the flood plain, our course takes us up into the high rocky cliffs over the valley. Crossing the river, we eventually come to the peaceful shrine of Sidi Chamharouch, which draws in both local individuals and vacationers. From here the trail keeps on hikeing steadily, zigzagging its way up to the Toubkal Refuge (3206m), our stop for the night. Approx 5hrs walking.
Today, we wake up early to hike Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa and one of the great touristic places in Moroccan High Atlas Mountains. Pliny, the great Roman scholar, once depicted the High Atlas Mountains as “the most remarkable mountains in all of Africa”. We cross the stream above the refuge and then head across the mountainous screen areas, which makes the walk very troublesome in some parts. However, it is moderately direct and the views along the way make the adventure more than worthwhile. Cresting the ridgeline, we wind up on the plateau, from where it is a short walk to the summit. From here, there are unhindered views in every direction, from the Marrakesh Plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. Retracing our steps, we return down the mountain and head back towards Imlil, from where we drive back to Marrakech.
