Courses
Prep Peak: Toubkal
Enjoy a cultural rollercoaster ride from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the wild and quiet Atlas Mountains in just 5 days. Climbing Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167m, is challenging but suitable for newcomers to trekking mountains. The combination of mountain and culture on this trip is what makes it extra special.
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Duration
5 Days
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Start Location
Marrakech, Morocco
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Date(s)
All Year
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Price
From €450.00
Adventure Snapshot
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+ 8
Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains
Morocco is well known for its rich culture, delicious food and welcoming people. But did you know it is also home to many beautiful 4000m mountains? The Atlas Mountain range over 2,500km across northwestern Africa, separating the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean coastline from the Sahara Desert. The mountainous terrain is scattered with Berber villages, huge canyons and ravines. The highest peak is Toubkal, which is situated 80km south of Marrakech. This expedition is a unique experience mixing local cultures, tasty food and new mountain scenery.
Marrakech is the start and end point for this trip with its well-served international airport. You'll stay in the old town (medina), which is a densely packed, high-walled medieval city dating to the Berber Empire, with a maze of small alleyways leading you to bustling souks (marketplaces), delicious street food stands and local services such as hammam massages.
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
You should be fit enough for 3 days of trekking covering approximately 1000m of ascent / descent per day. You don't need previous trekking or mountaineering experience but you will need to arrive in good health and with a high level of fitness. The summit day is tough but very rewarding as you reach the roof of North Africa and are greeted with amazing views.
If you're looking for a mountain adventure combined with a culture hit then this trip is perfect for you. This is a great trip to begin your trekking and mountaineering journey. If you're still not sure whether you're ready, no sweat! Get in touch and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.
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Duration
5 Days
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Start Location
Marrakech, Morocco
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Date(s)
All Year
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Guide Ratio
4:1
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Ability
Level BLevel B
You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing. You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more 'aggressive' environments. Let's dial it up!
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Price
From €450.00
Adventure Overview
LIVE THE ADVENTURE
Check out Dave's video
15:44Today I climb MT Toubkal which stands at 4167 meters tall, it lies in north Africa - Morocco and is undoubtedly the jewel of the Atlas Mountains! Hiking to the top of this great mountain was absolutely brilliant...
Adventure Base: Through our clients eyes
00:53We asked our clients to let us know how their trips went. They decided to show us instead. Below is footage captured by our clients on some of our favourite adventures. Thanks guys.
Meet The Team
01:48Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary. Certain items can be rented or bought locally.
For the full downloadable Toubkal Kit List please click here.
Hardshell hooded jacket
GORE-TEX® or similar
Down jacket
Lightweight and thin down jacket
Soft shell jacket
Light technical jacket ideally with hood
Lightweight fleece
Something light and thin
Top base layer
Tech T-Shirts
Highly breathable, lightweight synthetic technical t-shirt.
Hardshell trousers
GORE-TEX® or similar
Hiking pants
Bottom base layer
Softshell Trousers
Stretch, durable mountaineering trousers.
Shorts
Good to have for approaches to the mountain huts especially in warmer temperatures
Warm Hat
Ideally thin and single layered so it can fit under the helmet.
Sun Hat
Choose your hat of choice as long as it shields you from the sun.
Bandana / Buff
Category 4 sunglasses
Must have high level of sun glare reduction and good UV protection.
Sun cream
Factor 30-50 High Mountain sunscreen
Lip balm
Fleece windproof gloves
Mountaineering Gloves
Thick and built for the cold
Trekking boots
Boot gaiters
To protect your trousers from crampons and to keep any snow out if it's deep
Trekking Poles
Foldable or telescopic poles are best
Sleeping bag
Rated to -15 °C comfort temperature
Water bottles
You must be able to carry at least 2L of water in your backpack
Day Trek Pack
30-35 litre day pack to carry spare layers, water, food, camera, etc.
Daypack Raincover
Duffel or Large Backpack
70 - 100 Litres. Comfortable to wear.
Trekking Towel
Earplugs
Highly recommended for the mountain huts
Head torch
Don't forget to pack spare batteries. They're essential
First aid kit
Blister kit, paracetamol, etc
ID and documents
Passport / Driver's license, Visa, Insurance
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
On arrival day you are picked up from Marrakech Airport at 16:00 and taken directly to Imlil (1hr drive) to our base at Imlil Lodge.
What's Included?
- Climb Toubkal (4,167m)
- 2 nights at base camp Toubkal full board
- 1 night at Imlil Lodge full board
- 1 night at a Riad in Marrakech with breakfast
- Group airport transfers to / from Marrakech Airport
- Welcome dinner on the first night
- Hand picked local guides
- Bag transport by mule to / from base camp
- Expedition cook and English speaking guide during the trek
- All water included on the trek
- All transport costs included in the trip price
What's not Included?
- Flights
- Private airport transfers if not with the group
- Personal snacks and drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal equipment rental
- Gratuities for the guides
This Trip is running on the following dates
december 2023
2 Datesfebruary 2024
1 Dateapril 2024
2 Datesmay 2024
2 Datesjune 2024
2 Datesseptember 2024
2 Datesoctober 2024
2 Datesnovember 2024
2 DatesJoin the waiting list
Adventure: Prep Peak: Toubkal
What to expect from your accommodation
This trip combines comfort and practicality across 3 different locations in 5 days. 1 night in our comfortable lodge in Imlil, 2 nights on the mountain and 1 night in Marrakech.
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+ 4
Imlil Lodge
The lodge in Imlil boasts 2 salons, garden, large roof terrace and 7 rooms with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and heating. It's a perfect base for your first night in Morocco.
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Duration
1 Night
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Twin / Triple / Quad
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Food
Full Board
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Base Camp
We spend 2 nights at the Toubkal base camp. Depending on the time of year, we will either camp in comfortable 2 person tents (spring / summer / autumn) or stay in the rustic refuge (winter). The sleeping arrangements are fairly basic but comfortable and you'll always be well fed and looked after.
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Duration
2 Nights
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Twin share tents / Refuge dormitory
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Food
Full board
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+ 1
Marrakech
We spend the last night of the trip in a beautiful Riad located in the Medina of Marrakech, amongst the souks and vibrant hustle and bustle of city life. There is time to pick up souvenirs before catching your flight home. And why not add on a couple of extra nights?
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Duration
1 Night
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Twin / Triple / Quad
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Food
Breakfast
WHAT TO EXPECT
HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY
Please note this is a suggested itinerary only. While we try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes have other ideas. You must be capable of sticking to the required group pace in order to complete the tour. If ability or fitness is hindering the trip, you may be asked to drop out of the tour at your own expense. You can check out the full itinerary here.
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Day 1:
Arrival Day in Marrakech
Fly to Marrakech and meet the local Adventure Base team at the airport. Pick up from the airport in Marrakech at 16:00* and transfer straight to Imlil (1hr15mins). If you arrive early or late and wish to have your own transfer we can arrange that for an additional cost. Spend the night at Imlil Lodge with a delicious dinner, meet your guides and get ready to head into the mountains the following morning. *There is the possibility of the time being adjusted depending on the group arrival time
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Day 2:
Approach the Toubkal Base Camp (3206m)
After breakfast you begin your trek. Heading along the Mizane Valley, you pass the village of Aremd and then onto the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. Your route takes you along mule tracks and up into the high rocky cliffs above the valley. Crossing the river you eventually come to the pastoral shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, which attracts tourists and pilgrims. From here the trail continues to climb steadily, snaking and zigzagging its way up to the refuge (3206m), where you will have a hearty dinner before spending the night.
12km 1450m up 0m down (6-8hrs) -
Day 3:
Summit Day
Early in the morning you make your attempt on the summit of Toubkal, the highest peak in Northern Africa. The route takes you up the south cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge. The walking is relatively straightforward, but the scree and the altitude will make the going quite difficult in parts. The views along the way make the journey more than worthwhile. When you reach the summit you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas across the surrounding landscape. From here there are unrestricted views in every direction, from the Marrakech Plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. You will retrace your steps to return down the mountain and spend the night at Base Camp.
8km 1150m up 1150m down (6-7hrs) -
Day 4:
Marrakech!
Today you head back towards Imlil and say goodbye to your wonderful guide team over a traditional cup of Moroccan tea and lunch. After lunch you transfer back to Marrakech (1hr15mins). You arrive in time for a wander around the souks before your last dinner together in the Medina. Spend the night at a Riad in Marrakech.
12km 0m up 1450m down (4-5hrs) -
Day 5:
Departure Day
After a well deserved night's sleep in the Riad, it is time for one last breakfast before the trip ends and you make your journey home. We arrange for one group transfer to the airport based on the flight times of the group. If you would prefer to book a private transfer it can be arranged for an additional cost.
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
TK: Marrakech Airport Check-In
TK: Altitude
When you go over 2,700m your body begins to feel the effects of altitude. Shortness of breath, headaches and nausea Read more
When you go over 2,700m your body begins to feel the effects of altitude. Shortness of breath, headaches and nausea are just a few of the symptoms that you might experience. Most people are fine as we ascend the mountain gradually over a number of days however if there are problems then are team are on hand to help. Your safety is our no1 priority.
TK: Drinks
We don't recommend drinking the water and you shouldn't need to as we will provide plenty of water on the Read more
We don’t recommend drinking the water and you shouldn’t need to as we will provide plenty of water on the trip for you. You will be able to buy soft drinks when passing shops.
TK: Food
This trip is full board and you will not go hungry. Breakfast is as you would expect with cereals, breads Read more
This trip is full board and you will not go hungry. Breakfast is as you would expect with cereals, breads and fruit. Lunches and dinners will be traditional ‘Tagine’ dishes with both meat and vegetarian options. There will also be opportunity to pick up chocolate bars and snacks as you move along the trails from local side shops.
TK: Insurance
TK: Minimum Numbers
TK: Phone Signal / Internet
TK: Tipping
Tips are appreciated by the guiding team but are not expected. If you're happy with the service you received then Read more
Tips are appreciated by the guiding team but are not expected. If you’re happy with the service you received then a good rule of thumb is tipping 10% of the total cost of the trip.
TK: Weather
The weather will vary greatly depending on where you are in Morocco and what time of year it is. In Read more
The weather will vary greatly depending on where you are in Morocco and what time of year it is. In Marrakech the temperature can be as low as 15 degrees in Winter or 30 degrees in summer. On the top of Toubkal it can be as low as -5 degrees in winter or 25 degrees in the summer. In short, prepare for every temperature.
TK: What happens if the weather is bad?
We all know things can change in the mountains quickly so we keep an eye on weather conditions very closely. Read more
We all know things can change in the mountains quickly so we keep an eye on weather conditions very closely. As long as it’s safe to do so we will always try and attempt to summit Toubkal. However sometimes we will be forced to turn around if it becomes dangerous to do so.
MEET THE GUIDES
Miha
IFMGA Guide
Miha is an IFMGA guide from Slovenia based between the beautiful Julian Alps and Chamonix. He has been climbing for over 20 years all over the world, including expeditions to Nepal, Tibet, India, Pakistan, USA, Mexico and Peru. He summited an 8000er on his first expedition to the Himalaya, did a first ascent on the previously unclimbed Lasher peak in the Himalaya and climbed El Capitan and many routes over the Alps.
Pablo
IFMGA Guide
Pablo is originally from a small mountain village in Spain and came to Chamonix with only one dream to become a mountain guide. Based in Chamonix since 2013, Pablo made the Alps his playground as a guide and as an alpinist and has climbed many of the classic alpine routes. He combines mountain guiding with helicopter rescue work in Spain during the off seasons.
Fede
IFMGA Guide
"My favorite mountain is the Midi d’Ossau, in the Pyrenees. It is a volcanic and unique mountain, that a stands out from the other peaks around. It is a huge fortress with many different features that provides incredible rock climbing routes, and the most important thing is that is 20 minutes from my house ;)"
Roger
IFMGA Guide
Roger has spent over 15 years guiding around the world. He is a Guide instructor at the Spanish School of Guides and is fascinated by discovering mountains with clients. Roger has a big passion about showing people his beloved mountains and sharing climbs and descents with skis.
Jon
IFMGA Guide
"If asked about my favourite mountain or mountain range, it wouldn't be easy to answer since perfect places to climb, ski or explore can be found all over the world. But, if I had to choose one, I think I'd say the Pyrenees, not very high, but wild and still quite unknown: the mountains where I learnt when I was a child and where I can still live great adventures far from the crowd".
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Prep Peak: Toubkal trip is rated Level B, for those with some prior experience We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
- You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
- Little / no prior experience
- Shorter time duration
- No technical skills required but keen to learn
- Basic level of fitness
More your level?
Level B
For those with some prior experience
- You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
- You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
- Some basic skills
- Moderate fitness
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this level
Level C
For accomplished adventurers
- You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
- You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
- You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level D
For the pros
- You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
- You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
- Some level of technical skills
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level E
For the experts
- You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
- Good technical skills and knowledge
- Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
- Very high level of fitness
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Prep Peak: Toubkal
Enjoy a cultural rollercoaster ride, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the wild and quiet Atlas Mountains in just 5 days. Climbing Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167m, is challenging but suitable for newcomers to trekking mountains. The combination of mountain and culture on this trip is what makes it extra special.
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All Year
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Level B
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€450.00
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€790.00
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READY TO TAKE ON THIS EPIC CHALLENGE?
We hope you've found all the information you need above, but if not don't hesitate to get in touch. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
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