Most High Atlas trekkers make Jbel Toubkal (4167m/13,670ft), the highest peak in North Africa, their first goal. Toubkal is easy to reach from Marrakesh and can be tackled in just 4 days. This is not a trek to be taken at a great pace but slowly with plenty of rests. Happily for most, it is not a technical climb and the majority of people who tackle this Classic trek do manage to reach the summit.

Most successful treks are tailor made with client requirements, age and numbers in consideration. Please have dates in mind and approximate number of people.

All our treks include an English speaking guide, mules and a cook, transport to and from Marrakech and all food whilst on the trek.

Walking Itinerary

Day 1: MARRAKECH – IMLIL – AREMD

Set out from Marrakech for 1 hour drive south way up to Imlil. From Imlil we start our trek through delightful groves of walnut trees to the Berber village of Aremd (1950m). Our local guides are from this village and will treat us to some traditional Berber hospitality. We base ourselves out of Aremd and in the afternoon can go for an acclimatisation hike in the surrounding hills. 2-3 hours trekking

Day 2: AREMD VILLAGE – NALTNER REUFEGE  

Leaving the green fields and walnut trees of Arroumd, we follow the Mizane valley and come to the small shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, a place of pilgrimage for many Moroccan people. There is time to view the tomb of the local marabout (holy man) albeit from a distance as non-Muslims are not allowed to cross the footbridge. After stopping for a drink we continue the climb up to the Neltner refuge at an altitude of 3,209 m. If conditions are right and the hut crowded, we may bivouac. Refuge (or Camping).(Total walking approx. 7 hrs)

Day 3: TOUBKAL SUMMIT – AREMD VILLAGE.   

We make an early start for the ascent of Toubkal, climbing steeply through scree before traversing the southern ridge to reach the summit at 4,167 m. On the April and October (and occasionally May) departures there could well be snow on the mountain in which case crampons and ice-axes may be necessary (please see equipment section). After enjoying the magnificent views in all directions we descend to the Neltner hut and walk back to the village house in Arroumd. Village house.  (Total walking approx. 9 hrs)Overnight in Berber village house L (included meals: B, L, D).

Day 4: AREMD VILLAGE – MARRAKECH

Day 4: A short walk leads to Imlil where you will meet driver and vehicle to transfer to Marrakech (1 ½ hrs drive). After the rugged Toubkal climb you will enjoy seeing the lush green walnut trees, terraced fields and colourful dresses of children in the mountain villages. On descending from the mountains you cross the plain to enter the imperial city of Marrakech whose old town is surrounded by a cordon of protective ramparts. The afternoon is free to explore the souks or enjoy a revitalising hammam.