Overview
Get ready for an epic 5-day trek through Morocco’s stunning High Atlas Mountains, where you’ll conquer Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters. This adventure is the perfect mix of jaw-dropping scenery, rich Amazigh (Berber) culture, and challenging but incredibly rewarding hikes. Your journey kicks off in the vibrant city of Marrakech, from where you’ll head to the charming Imlil Valley, the starting point for Toubkal National Park. Over the next five days, you’ll hike through remote mountain villages, navigate rugged trails, and summit two impressive peaks: Jbel Ouankerim (4,088m) and Mount Toubkal itself.
Led by expert local guides, you’ll get a true taste of the region, spending nights in cozy traditional guesthouses and the Toubkal Refuge, where you’ll have time to adjust to the altitude. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just someone with a thirst for adventure, this trek offers unforgettable panoramic views, heart-pumping climbs, and a chance to deeply connect with the local culture. It’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come!
Itinerarary d/d:
Your journey begins with a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Marrakech to Imlil (1,740m), a charming Amazigh (Berber) village nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of terraced valleys, winding roads, and traditional mud-brick homes.
Upon arrival in Imlil, you’ll be greeted with traditional Moroccan mint tea and meet your trekking guide and muleteers. After a short briefing, enjoy a gentle acclimatization hike around Imlil Valley, visiting nearby villages such as Aroumd and Mzik. Here, you can observe daily Berber life, from shepherds tending to their flocks to women baking fresh bread in communal ovens.
- Trekking Time: 2–3 hours (optional acclimatization hike)
- Accommodation: Guesthouse in Imlil
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, begin your trek towards the Toubkal Refuge, following a well-trodden path through picturesque valleys and rugged terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass Sidi Chamharouch (2,310m), a sacred site where a white shrine stands beside a rushing mountain stream. This is a popular rest stop where locals come to seek spiritual blessings.
After a lunch break near Sidi Chamharouch, continue your gradual ascent through rocky trails, surrounded by towering peaks. As you gain altitude, you’ll feel the crisp mountain air and witness the stark yet beautiful landscape of the Toubkal National Park. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Toubkal Refuge (3,207m), your resting place for the night. Spend the evening acclimatizing, sharing stories with fellow trekkers, and enjoying a warm meal before settling in for the night.
- Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
- Accommodation: Toubkal Refuge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today’s trek offers an exciting opportunity to climb Jbel Ouankerim (4,088m), one of the lesser-visited peaks in the Toubkal range. This climb serves as an excellent acclimatization before summiting Mount Toubkal the following day.
The ascent is steep and rocky, requiring some scrambling in places, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the Toubkal massif. From the summit, you can see deep valleys, jagged peaks, and even glimpses of the Sahara Desert in the distance. After taking in the scenery, descend back to Toubkal Refuge for lunch and rest. The afternoon is free for relaxation, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude.
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
- Accommodation: Toubkal Refuge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The highlight of your trek begins before dawn as you set off for the summit of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167m. The early start allows you to witness the sunrise from the summit, casting golden hues over the vast Atlas range and beyond.
The climb is physically demanding, involving steep rocky paths and sections of loose scree. However, with a steady pace and determination, you’ll reach the summit in 3 to 4 hours. The view from the top is absolutely spectacular—on clear days, you can see as far as the Sahara Desert to the south and the rugged Atlas peaks stretching endlessly to the north.
After celebrating your achievement and taking plenty of photos, begin the descent back to Toubkal Refuge, where a well-earned meal awaits. Spend the afternoon resting and reflecting on your incredible feat.
- Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
- Accommodation: Toubkal Refuge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, start your descent back to Imlil, retracing your steps through the stunning High Atlas landscape. As you descend, enjoy the contrast in scenery, from the barren rocky slopes of Toubkal to the lush green valleys of Imlil.
Upon reaching Imlil (4–5 hours later), freshen up at a local guesthouse and enjoy a final lunch before meeting your driver for the return journey to Marrakech. Along the way, you may stop at Asni, a bustling weekly market town (on market days), before arriving back in the vibrant city of Marrakech by late afternoon.
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
- Accommodation: Not included (drop-off in Marrakech)
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Inclusions:
- 1 night in a traditional guesthouse in Imlil (shared or private room).
- 3 nights in Toubkal Refuge (dormitory-style accommodation).
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners throughout the trek.
- Moroccan tea and snacks upon arrival at accommodations.
- Vegetarian and special dietary meals available upon request.
- Private transfer from Marrakech to Imlil (Day 1).
- Private transfer from Imlil to Marrakech (Day 5).
- Licensed English/French-speaking mountain guide.
- Muleteers & mules to carry luggage and supplies.
- Cook to prepare fresh meals during the trek.
- Mules to carry your luggage (you only need a small daypack).
- Toubkal National Park fees and permits.
- Use of basic trekking equipment (crampons & ice axe in winter).
Location:
Departure from Marrakech. Hotel pickup Guaranteed
video from the region:
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (requires good fitness)
Best Time to Trek: April–October (summer) / November–March (winter conditions, may require crampons)
Accommodation: Mountain guesthouses & Toubkal Refuge
Support Team: Local guide, muleteers & cook
Extras:
- Briefing and gear check in Imlil before departure.
- Cultural immersion in Amazigh (Berber) villages.
- Summit certificate upon completion.
Exclusions:
✘ International & Domestic Flights to/from Morocco.
✘ Travel insurance (mandatory – must cover high-altitude trekking).
✘ Personal trekking gear (hiking boots, clothing, sleeping bag).
✘ Snacks, soft drinks & bottled water (available for purchase at refuges).
✘ Tips for guides, muleteers & cook (recommended but optional).
✘ Additional stays in Marrakech or elsewhere before/after the trek.
✘ Extra expenses due to weather conditions or personal decisions (e.g., extra mule rental, emergency evacuation).
Mt Toubkal Winter Climb Private Trek
Are you ready for an unforgettable winter adventure? Join us for a private trek to summit Mount Toubkal (4,167m), North Africa’s highest peak, amidst the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains.
This exclusive winter climb is tailored for those seeking a personalized and immersive experience. With expert local guides, top-quality gear, and a carefully planned itinerary, we ensure your safety and comfort while you conquer the icy slopes of Toubkal.
Dates for 2025:
What to know before booking this trek?
Climbing Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, requires different preparations depending on whether you’re tackling it in winter or summer. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for each season:
Climbing Toubkal in Winter (November to March)
Climbing Toubkal in Summer (June to September)
General Tips for Both Seasons:
Climbing Toubkal in Winter (November to March)
Winter conditions on Toubkal are harsh, with snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures. Proper gear and preparation are essential for safety.
Essential Gear for Winter:
Clothing:
Base layers: Thermal tops and bottoms (moisture-wicking).
Insulating layers: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
Outer shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
Winter gloves: Insulated and waterproof.
Warm hat and neck gaiter or balaclava.
Thermal socks (wool or synthetic).
Footwear:
Mountaineering boots: Sturdy, insulated, and crampon-compatible.
Crampons: Essential for icy and snowy terrain.
Gaiters: To keep snow out of your boots.
Equipment:
Ice axe: For stability and self-arrest on icy slopes.
Trekking poles: Adjustable and with snow baskets.
Headlamp: With extra batteries (days are shorter in winter).
Backpack: 30-40 liters, with a waterproof cover.
Other Essentials:
Sleeping bag: Rated for at least -10°C (14°F) for overnight stays in the refuge.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: High UV protection for snow glare.
Hydration system: Insulated water bottles or a thermos to prevent freezing.
High-energy snacks: Nuts, chocolate, energy bars, etc.
First aid kit: Including blister care and altitude sickness medication.
Guides and Safety:
Experienced guide: Highly recommended for winter climbs due to avalanche risks and navigation challenges.
Avalanche safety gear: In some cases, a beacon, probe, and shovel may be required.
Climbing Toubkal in Summer (June to September)
Summer conditions are warmer and less technical, but the altitude and rugged terrain still demand proper preparation.
Essential Gear for Summer:
Clothing:
Base layers: Lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms.
Insulating layer: Light fleece or softshell jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
Outer shell: Lightweight waterproof jacket (for sudden rain showers).
Hiking pants: Quick-drying and breathable.
Light gloves: For early morning starts.
Sun hat or cap: To protect against strong sun.
Footwear:
Hiking boots: Sturdy, broken-in, and ankle-supporting.
Hiking socks: Moisture-wicking and comfortable.
Gaiters: Optional, depending on trail conditions.
Equipment:
Trekking poles: Highly recommended for steep and rocky terrain.
Headlamp: For early morning summit attempts.
Backpack: 20-30 liters, with a rain cover.
Other Essentials:
Sleeping bag: Lightweight, rated for 0°C (32°F) for refuge stays.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: High SPF for intense sun exposure.
Hydration system: At least 2 liters of water capacity (hydration bladder or bottles).
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, etc.
First aid kit: Including blister care and altitude sickness medication.
Guides and Safety:
Guide: Optional but recommended for navigation and cultural insights.
Map and compass: If trekking independently.
General Tips for Both Seasons:
Acclimatization: Spend a day or two in Imlil or the Toubkal Refuge to adjust to the altitude.
Fitness: Toubkal is a challenging climb, so ensure you’re in good physical condition.
Permits: A local guide can help arrange the necessary permits for Toubkal National Park.
Weather: Check forecasts before starting your climb, as conditions can change rapidly.
Whether you’re climbing in winter or summer, Mount Toubkal offers an incredible adventure. Just make sure you’re well-prepared, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment!