Mt Toubkal Climb

Day 1
Depending on your arrival time, there may be some time for self exploration of this wonderfully colourful city.

Day 2
After breakfast we transfer by minibus to Imi Oughlad, a journey that takes us from the plains around Marrakech into the heart of the High Atlas range. After meeting our mules and muleteers we start a 5 hour walk, climbing up to the Tacht Pass (2000m) and then descending into the Azaden Valley, famous for its beautiful juniper forests, for the night. 5 hours walking Alt. gain 643m, Alt. loss 300m

Day 3
A full day walking through the villages on the northern slope of Mt Toubkal. This famous mountain can be seen from Marrakech thanks to its unique shape. We travel through Azib Tamsoult and the Irhouliden cascade before we arrive at our camp for the night, which sits at an impressive 3030m. There is an optional ascent in the afternoon for those who want to try a more demanding 3-hour trek to the summit of Pic de Taddat (3800m), for excellent views of Mt Toubkal. 6 hours walking Alt. gain 1230m, Alt. loss 0m

Day 4
Today we cross the Aguelzim pass (3550m) where we can enjoy panoramic views of the Toubkal Massif. We then descend to Toubkal Base Camp and we can either enjoy a 2 hour optional climb to the summit of Ouanoums (3650m) or simply relax at our base for the night. The busy Neltner refuge, which sits at an altitude of 3207m, was constructed by Club Alpin Francais in 2000. We camp outside the refuge so we can benefit from the atmosphere and views of surrounding 4000m peaks. 5 hours walking Alt. gain 550m, Alt. loss 300m

Day 5
We make an early start for the ascent of Toubkal, climbing steeply through scree before traversing the southern ridge to reach the summit at 4167m. After enjoying the magnificent panoramic views, we descend back to Base Camp. 6 Hours walking Alt. gain 960m, Alt. loss 960m

Day 6
We have an exciting opportunity this morning to ascend another of Morocco's 4000m peaks - Mt Ouanakrim. Depending on weather and group ability, our leader will decide if this walk is achievable. We then leave base camp to walk to the village of Aremd (1904m). If there is time, we will spend the afternoon exploring the village and spend the night at a local gite. 4 hours walking Alt. gain 0m, Alt. loss 1300m

Day 7
The short walk down to Imlil is followed by the drive back towards Marrakech, where we have the afternoon and early evening to explore this wonderful city - perhaps for some serious bargaining for souvenirs. Djemaa el Fna, the open-air market place around which the traditional life of Marrakech revolves, has always been an exciting place to visit. The name literally means 'place of death' as it was the place where the Sultans used to display the heads of their enemies. Now, with the food-stalls, snake-charmers, water-sellers, travelling musicians and acrobats, the square is a place of entertainment for both Moroccan and visitors. The modern shopping centres and boulevards of the French-built new town are only a short walk away.

Day 8
Trip ends after breakfast.