Trip Overview
Embark on the ultimate express challenge to conquer Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North
Africa at 4,167 meters. This intense trekking adventure takes you deep into the heart of the
High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking alpine scenery and a profound sense of
achievement.
Starting from the village of Imlil, you will ascend through rocky trails and dramatic
valleys before reaching the summit at sunrise. This tour is designed for experienced
trekkers who want to maximize their time and push their limits in one of the most
spectacular landscapes on the continent.
Highlights
- Summit Mount Toubkal (4,167m) at sunrise
- Experience dramatic high-alpine scenery
- Overnight stay at the historic Toubkal Refuge
- Authentic Berber mule support for gear
- Panoramic views of the Atlas range
- Challenging steep ascent and descent
Flexible Itinerary Options
Option 1: The 1-Day Challenge (Express)
Route: Imlil → Toubkal Refuge → Return OR Imlil Valley
Exploration.
A punishing but rewarding day. You'll depart Imlil at dawn, climbing 1,500m to
reach the snow-line and the Refuge, or choose a scenic loop through the Azzaden
pass (Tizi Mzik) for the best views without the extreme altitude.
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Best for: Elite athletes or those on a very tight schedule.
Option 2: The Classic 2-Day Summit
Day 1: Hike from Imlil (1,740m) up to the Toubkal Refuge
(3,207m). Stop at Sidi Chamarouch shrine for lunch. (5-6h)
Day 2: 3:00 AM start for the summit push (4,167m). Experience
sunrise over the Atlas. Descend all the way back to Imlil. (9-10h)
Best for: Peak baggers who want the direct route.
Option 3: 3-Day Toubkal & Azzaden Valley
Day 1: Trek from Imlil over Tizi Mzik pass (2,500m) into the
beautiful, red-soiled Azzaden Valley. Overnight in a Berber lodge.
Day 2: Climb up the valley to the Toubkal Refuge via the
Aguelzim Mountain pass (3,500m). Excellent for acclimatization.
Day 3: Summit Jebel Toubkal early morning and return to Imlil
via the standard route.
Best for: Hikers wanting a loop route with better success rates
due to acclimatization.
Option 4: 4-Day Toubkal Circuit
Day 1: Imlil to Tacheddirt village (2,300m) via Tizi n'Tamatert
pass.
Day 2: Tacheddirt to Imlil Valley via the high meadows and
remote trails.
Day 3: Ascent to Toubkal Refuge (3,207m).
Day 4: Summit Day (4,167m) and descent to Imlil for your
transfer back to Marrakech.
Best for: Exploring hidden valleys and traditional villages
before the climb.
Option 5: 5-Day Grand Atlas Experience
Day 1: Imlil to Tacheddirt.
Day 2: Cross Tizi n'Likemt (3,550m) to the remote sheep-folds of
Azib n'Likemt.
Day 3: Trek to Amsouzerte village, one of the most beautiful in
the region.
Day 4: Hike to Lake Ifni (2,300m), then climb the steep screen
slope to Toubkal Refuge.
Day 5: Early summit push and long descent back to Imlil.
Best for: Hardcore adventurers seeking the most dramatic
landscapes.
Option 6: 6-Day Ultimate Toubkal & Valleys
The definitive High Atlas journey. This route covers the lush Azzaden Valley, the
high alpine pastures, Lake Ifni, and multiple passes over 3,000m before reaching
the summit. It offers total immersion in Berber culture with overnight stays in
various villages and high refuges.
Details: Standard 5-day route plus an extra day for exploration
or relaxation in the southern valleys.
Best for: The complete North African mountain experience.
Accommodation & Meals
- Accommodation: 1 Night at the Toubkal Refuge (Mountain Hut). Dormitory
style with shared facilities.
- Meals: Full board is included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner). Meals are
prepared by our mountain cook using fresh local ingredients to keep your energy high.
What to Bring
- Good quality hiking boots (broken in)
- Warm clothing layers (fleece, down jacket)
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Headtorch with spare batteries
- Sleeping bag (3-4 season recommended)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Refillable water bottles
Fitness & Difficulty
This is a Very Hard trek. It requires excellent cardiovascular fitness and
stamina. You will be hiking at high altitudes (above 3000m) which adds significant
difficulty. Previous hiking experience is strongly recommended. Prepare for 9-10 hours of
walking on summit day.
Know Before You Go
- Altitude sickness can affect anyone; drink plenty of water.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly in villages.
- Temperatures at the summit can be below freezing even in summer.
- Mules carry your main luggage to the refuge; you only carry a daypack.
Best Time to Go
The best trekking season is from late Spring to early Autumn (May to
October) when the snow has cleared. Winter ascents (November to April) require
crampons and ice axes and are technical winter climbs.