The trekking ascent of Mount Toubkal (4.167m) follows the old mule tracks through Berber villages and green valleys in the prettiest part of the Atlas mountains
The High Atlas Mountains is sometimes called the « roof of Morocco » or the « roof of North Africa. » It forms a huge barrier, about 750 km, between the north and south.
The Atlas Mountains is not only an important place for grazing, but also became an open space where we can practice a variety of activities (hiking, climbing….).It still offers a good opportunity to make more trips.
Not far from Marrakesh, High Atlas preserves wild places between gorges, high plateaux, fields, magnificent landscapes, Berber villages… so a great adventure and a nice trip is waiting for you!!!
Marrakech
09:00
For Trekking Atlas Mountains you need to prepare as you would for walking in any mountain region; it can be warm and sunny during the day but the weather in the mountains can quickly change from sunshine to snow and cold winds (autumn through late spring). Please do not leave any rubbish behind you; carry out what you carry in.
Atlas Treks are tailored to match the season and your level of fitness. You have the choice of basing yourself in Berber Guesthouses, from where you can take daily walks, or you can Atlas Mule Trek for 2+ days. On mule treks you usually have the choice of staying in Berber Guesthouse/with families or wild camping in 2-person tents. In addition to regular packing, here is a Check List for Atlas Trekking:
A driver will meet you in the airport and transfer you to the riad in Marrakech
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the village of Imi Ouglad, located at 1,300 meters above sea level (4,265ft), just about 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Marrakech. Here you will be greeted by your muleteer and his mules, and after loading the gear you will begin the trek. Through the colorful and beautiful valley and over a pass at 1,500m /4,921ft. you come to the village of Imsker. From here you continue along ancient mule tracks to the Valley of Ousertik where you will stay overnight at a local guest house in the village of Gliz.
The hike continues up through beautiful Berber villages. The hardworking Berber people have for centuries worked to build the terrace fields on the hillsides. There are still people living here by the old traditions, and welcoming invite the passers-by to a glimpse of their daily lives. Further up it goes to Oukaimeden – the largest ski resort of Northern Africa. After a short break you will continue to Tizi ‘n Addi, from where you will experience a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, on a clear day. Then the trails take you downhill to Tacheddirt, the highest situated village in the Atlas region, where a tent camp is set near the riverside.
The trekking stage of today is a little shorter, for you to save a bit of energy and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You go over the Imnane valley, which is one of the most famous valleys in the Toubkal massif. After passing through the mountain pass Tizi ‘n Tamatert at 2,300m / 7,545ft, you end your trekking day in the Berber village Imlil. The rest of the afternoon is free for own disposal. Imlil is the starting point for many treks in the area, so here is crowded with mules, hikers and local merchants.
You continue along the Mizane Valley. After passing the village of Aremd, you continue in the direction of the Sanctuary Sidi Chamharouch. You walk in an eastern direction and after crossing the river plains of the trek continues on ancient mule tracks towards the high cliffs towering over the valley. After crossing the river, you finally arrive at Sidi Chamharouch. This sanctuary gives a fascinating insight into the local life, as people come here from all over the region, with offerings and prayers for good health and life, and maybe even with a hope to chase away an evil jinn or two. From here the trail goes into a steep ascent that winds its way up to the snowline and Toubkal Refuge (3206m / 10,518ft) where you stop for the night.
Early in the morning, before sunrise, you will begin the journey towards the top of Jebel Toubkal (4.167m), the highest mountain in Northern Africa. The route goes up through the southern basin and over the creek above Base Camp. The trek itself is not complicated, but the ascent and rocky passages occasionally makes it somewhat difficult. The views while ascending more than outweighs the effort. When you reach the summit, you will have an undisturbed stunning view in all directions. To the west you can see the plains of Marrakech and to the south the Anti-Atlas Mountains. After a short stay at the summit, you head back down towards Imlil, where you stay overnight.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Marrakech. Here the day will be free at your own disposal. Hunt for souvenirs in the small souks in the city, take a peaceful stroll in the Botanical Garden, and visit the square Djemaa el Fna, which also is a great place to enjoy your final dinner. Overnight in the riad.
Transfer to the airport for departure.
First we were quite suspicious, because Trekking Toubkal company had only good reviews. But everything was great: Houssain answered many questions we had very quickly beforehand. The organisation was superb.
I can really highly recommend Trekking Toubkal Company and especially Mohamed as a guide.
