Thinking about trekking up Mount Toubkal in Morocco?
This 8-day trip with Atlastriptour will challenge your stamina and reward you with stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains.
Each day offers new challenges and chances to meet Berber villagers, making your adventure more than just a physical test.
With hikes that change in length and difficulty each day, the journey ends with you reaching the highest peak in Morocco.
Want to know the detailed itinerary and what you need to prepare? Let’s dive into the details together.
Main Points
- Climbing Mount Toubkal is an 8-day adventure, with 5 days dedicated to hiking.
- Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in Morocco, stands at 4,167 meters.
- Best hiking season is from April to October for favorable weather.
- Cultural experiences with Berber villagers and scenic views of the High Atlas Mountains.
- Packages include transfers, accommodation, and professional guides, starting from EU 164.
Overview of Summiting Mount Toubkal, Morocco
Climbing Mount Toubkal in Morocco is a tough but exciting journey that takes 8 days, with 5 days of hiking. You’ll climb the highest mountain in Morocco, which is 4,167 meters tall.
The hike through Toubkal National Park shows you beautiful views with rough trails, green valleys, and snowy peaks.
Hiking in Morocco isn’t easy. The weather in Toubkal can change quickly, with hot days and cold nights. You need to be ready for both hot and cold temperatures. You should be in good shape because the paths can be steep and hard.
You start in Marrakech and travel through Berber villages and green valleys before getting to the Toubkal base camp. At the base camp, you’ll rest and get used to the height before the final climb.
You usually start the final climb at dawn to see a stunning sunrise over the Atlas Mountains.
With expert guides helping you, you can focus on enjoying the trip, making the Mount Toubkal hike an amazing experience.
Highlights of 8-Day MT Toubkal Trek
The 8-day Mt Toubkal journey is an exciting mix of tough hikes and cultural experiences, taking you through remote Berber villages and beautiful High Atlas sceneries.
Here are some of the trek’s best features:
- Cultural exchanges: Meet friendly Berber villagers and learn about their customs and traditions.
- Scenic views: Enjoy amazing views of the High Atlas Mountains and the dramatic landscape.
- Physical test: Challenge your stamina with daily hikes between 4 km and 11 km.
- Peak achievement: Reach the top of Mount Toubkal for unbeatable panoramic views.
The best time to hike Mount Toubkal is from April to October, ensuring good weather conditions for a memorable adventure.
8 Days Climbing Mount Toubkal – Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
When you get to Marrakech, you’ll have the chance to explore the lively city at your own pace.
This first day is for you to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of this southwestern Moroccan gem before you start your Toubkal trekking adventure.
As you stroll through the busy markets, historic palaces, and beautiful gardens, you can get excited about the hike up Mount Toubkal.
Marrakech is the perfect starting point for your trip to Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa and the Arab world, standing at 4,167 meters.
The city’s magical atmosphere will set the tone for your adventure whether you arrive today or a few days earlier. You’ll be staying in a comfy hotel to rest and get ready for the trekking days ahead.
Think about visiting the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square or the peaceful Majorelle Garden as you explore.
You can choose your own meals today and enjoy tasty Moroccan food, getting energized for the Toubkal trekking adventures that are coming up.
Enjoy this mix of relaxation and excitement before the real hiking begins.
Day 2: Marrakech – Imi Oughlad (1355m) – Tizi N’Techt (2000m) – Tizi Oussem (1800m)
How do you feel about starting your trek today with a beautiful drive from Marrakech to Imi Oughlad, where your adventure really begins?
After a two-hour ride, you’ll meet your mule drivers and start your hike through a forest of holm oaks. The climb up Tizi N’Techt is waiting, giving you your first look at the High Atlas Mountains’ rough beauty.
As you hike to a top altitude of 2000 meters, you’ll pass through several charming villages on the mountain slopes. The red soil adds a unique touch to the scenery, making every step fun to see.
The trek is about 5 hours of walking, with a 643-meter climb and a 300-meter descent, so take it easy and enjoy the trip.
Your first campsite is under the trees by the N’Ouazzaden River, near the village of Tizi Oussem. Here, you’ll set up camp and rest after a day full of new sights and experiences.
The calm surroundings and the sound of the river will be the perfect backdrop for a good rest before you continue your adventure.
Day 3: Tizi Oussem – Tazaghart-Lepiney Refuge (3030 m)
As you leave Tizi Oussem, you walk through juniper forests and pass Berber villages. The path takes you to high-altitude sheepfolds and farm terraces.
It gets harder as you climb 1230 meters over about five hours. You’ll see amazing views of the rough landscape, and the air gets cooler as you go higher.
You’ll pass the sheepfolds of Tamsoult, where shepherds look after their sheep. Next, you’ll see the beautiful Ighoulidem waterfalls, which are refreshing to look at among the rocks.
As you keep going, the plants become fewer, showing that you’re entering the high-altitude desert.
Day 4: Tazaghart Refuge – Tizi Aguelzim (3550 m) – Neltner Refuge (3207 m)
You start Day 4 by leaving Tazaghart Refuge and walking towards the Tizi Aguelzim pass, which is at a high of 3550 meters.
The trail is a bit tough, with a climb of 670 meters. As you go up, the amazing views of the High Atlas Mountains appear, making your hard work worth it.
When you get to the Tizi Aguelzim pass, you see a stunning view of the mountains. This is a great place to enjoy the scenery and take some awesome photos.
After a short break, you start going down to the Neltner Refuge, also called the Toubkal base camp, at 3207 meters. This downhill walk drops 343 meters, which is easier after the morning climb.
At the refuge, you’ll stay for the night in a simple camp with tents, giving you rest and shelter for the big day tomorrow. There’s an optional climb to the Ouanoums pass at 3650 meters if you have extra energy.
This side trip gives you great views of Toubkal’s southern slope and Lake Ifni, adding 2-3 more hours to your hike.
Day 5: Ascent of the highest peak in North Africa: Toubkal
After a good night’s sleep at the Neltner Refuge, you’ll wake up early, around 5 am, to start climbing Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167 meters.
This tough climb begins in the dark with headlamps lighting the way, and the path gets steeper as you go. The air is cool, and everyone in your group feels excited.
The climb takes about 5 to 6 hours, going up 960 meters. As you get higher, the sun rises and lights up the beautiful Atlas Mountains.
You’ll walk through rocky areas and might see some snow, depending on the season.
Reaching the top is an amazing feeling. From there, you can see the whole Atlas range, the Siroua massif, and the Imlil valley.
On clear days, you might even see the plains and the faraway desert. Standing on the highest point in Morocco and North Africa is a moment to enjoy.
After enjoying the views and taking some photos, you’ll go back down to the Neltner Refuge the same way you came up.
Day 6: Neltner Hut – Aremd (1904 m)
Start your hike down from the Neltner Hut early in the morning, heading towards Aremd. The walk today will take about four hours, with a drop of 1300 meters.
On your way down, you’ll go through Sidi Chamharouch, a special spiritual place with a big white-painted rock and a small shrine. This hike down offers amazing views and a chance to think about your journey so far.
When you reach Aremd, your team of muleteers will warmly welcome you. The village, located at 1904 meters, is a beautiful Berber village with terraced fields and stone houses.
You’ll stay in a gîte, giving you a cozy and authentic local experience.
In the afternoon, you can take a short walk around the village. This is a great chance to explore the area, maybe visit local markets, or just enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
This day mixes adventure and cultural experience perfectly, setting the stage for the final part of your Mount Toubkal trek.
Day 7: Aremd / Marrakech
Start the morning with a calm walk to Imlil. This walk takes about an hour and lets you enjoy the High Atlas Mountains one last time. As you go down 200 meters to Imlil, you’ll think about the amazing trip you’ve had.
In Imlil, you’ll get on a minibus for a comfy two-hour ride back to Marrakech, which is 64 kilometers away. The change from the quiet mountains to the busy city shows you different sides of Morocco.
When you arrive in Marrakech, you’ll check into your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the lively city. You can walk through the busy markets, visit old buildings, or just relax at the hotel.
You can choose where to have lunch and dinner today, so you can try the local food whenever you want.
Whether you go for a traditional Moroccan tagine or a refreshing mint tea, the food in Marrakech will be delicious.
Day 8: Dispersion
After breakfast, you’ll head to the airport to catch your flight home, ending your amazing Mount Toubkal trip.
Today is all about finishing your journey and thinking about the awesome things you did this past week.
As you leave the High Atlas Mountains, you’ll remember the stunning views, the friendships with other hikers, and the pride of climbing North Africa’s highest mountain.
We’ve taken care of all the details, like your ride to the airport, so you can relax and enjoy your last moments in Morocco.
This day isn’t just the end of your hike but the start of many stories to tell your friends and family. You’ve tackled tough trails, experienced Berber village life, and watched an incredible sunrise from the top of Mount Toubkal.
Your adventure might be over, but the thrill and sense of accomplishment will stay with you long after you get home. Have a safe trip, and may your next adventure be just as amazing!
8 Days Mount Toubkal Ascent – Price
Included in the Trekking Package
This trek includes everything you need to focus on the climb and enjoy the amazing views of the High Atlas Mountains.
Here’s what’s included in your tour:
- Professional Guides: Experienced guides will lead you, who know the area well and can provide help and information.
- Accommodation: Your stays at mountain refuges or local guesthouses are covered, whether you choose a 2-day or a 5-day package. These places offer a comfy spot to rest after a day of hiking.
- Meals: All meals during the trek are included to keep you energized. You’ll have hearty breakfasts, packed lunches, and tasty dinners to fuel you for the climb.
- Transfers: Transfers to and from the starting point of the trek are included, starting and ending in Marrakech. This makes your trip easy and stress-free.
With all these essentials covered, you can fully enjoy the exciting experience of climbing the highest peak in North Africa.
Not Included in the Trekking Package
The tour price doesn’t cover some costs, so plan ahead. Knowing this will help you avoid surprises and have a smooth hiking trip.
Here’s what you need to pay for yourself:
- Insurance: You have to get your own travel and health insurance.
- Registration fees: You need to pay for any permits or formalities.
- Tips: Tipping the guides and porters is optional but nice.
- Personal expenses: Souvenirs, snacks, and other personal buys aren’t covered.
Meals in Marrakech, which cost about €15 to €20 each, aren’t included. There’s an extra cost for a single room or tent.
Also, the budget for drinks during the trek and anything else is not listed as ‘included.’
FAQs About Mount Toubkal Expedition
How Long Does It Take to Climb Mount Toubkal?
Climbing Mount Toubkal takes about 2-3 days. The last part of the climb is 11 km long and takes 4-6 hours. You start from Imlil, aiming to reach the summit at sunrise for amazing views.
Is Mount Toubkal Difficult to Climb?
Yes, climbing Mount Toubkal is hard. The paths are steep and tiring, especially as you get higher up.
You need to be in good shape. But even though it’s tough, the amazing views and the feeling of success make it worth it.
Can You Climb Mount Toubkal on Your Own?
Yes, you can climb Mount Toubkal on your own. But it’s safer to hire a guide to help you find the way.
Solo trekking is possible if you’re experienced in high-altitude hiking and well-prepared.
How fit do you need to be?
You need to be in good shape. You’ll walk 4 km to 11 km each day through remote villages and terraced fields. If you prepare well, you can enjoy the trek in both summer and winter.
How big are the groups?
The group sizes vary, which allows for a more personalized experience. Local guides are experts and will share a lot of information about the region while keeping you safe.
Wrapping Up
Going on the Mount Toubkal Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
You’ll climb Morocco’s highest mountain, learn about Berber culture, and see amazing views of the High Atlas Mountains.
It’s tough but worth it because it pushes you to your limits and makes you feel proud.
So, pack your bags and lace up your boots if you’re ready for an unforgettable experience that you’ll always remember.