Mount Toubkal is 4,167m and is North Africa’s highest peak. The climb is best completed from June to September, although it is possible for experienced walkers in May or October if you don’t mind lower temperatures. The ascent only takes two days from the town of Imlil. However, it can be incorporated into a longer trek through the foothills to build up your stamina and make it a more rounded experience. 

The traditional two-day climb starts with an 11km walk (5 hours) from Imlil towards Neltner Refuge at 3,207m – the Base Camp of Mount Toubkal. There are two lodges here, but only offer communal dorms, so we like to set up a private camp for you. The ascent takes place the following day, heading up the south cirque leading to Tizi Toubkal (3,975 m). You largely walk across scree and rock, so you need to be an experienced walker with a good natural balance. The views from the top are outstanding. The climb itself takes 2-3 hours. To the north, you see Marrakech and the south, the golden hue of the Sahara Desert. 

You then descend the return via the interesting Berber Village of Aroumd to Kasbah De Toubkal. The total day’s trekking is long, taking about 10-11 hours. We suggest a night at Kasbah De Toubkal as you will be crying out for a Hamman, a cold beer and their superb tajines. 

There are a few alternative ways of doing the trek. The first variation adds two nights and is for very experienced hill walkers. Firstly, you embark on a 3-4 hour walk to Azzaden Lodge. The next day, you walk towards the village Lepiney and stay in a traditional hut. Following this, you cross the Tizi n’Ougelzim pass at 3,500m before descending to Neltner Refuge.

You can also add variations such as climbing Ouanoukrim (4,089 metres) or trekking to Tizi Ouanoums to take in the views of Lake Ifni. The longer trek is the ‘Toubkal Circuit’. You start the trek in Imlil before heading east to Tacheddirt. You then spend seven to 10 days trekking throughout the High Atlas Mountains, including summiting Toubkal. We provide a full team of guides, mules, food and a private camp each night.