Mt Toubkal Long Weekend

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 leave Marrakech and drive to Imlil. We continue on foot from here to Arroumd which is a short walk of approximately one hour. After lunch, we follow winding mule tracks for another 5 hours. This is a stunning walk through the breathtaking mountain scenery of the valley of Ait Mizan. We may stop for a visit to the Marabout of Sidi Chamharouch before continuing on to the Neltner Hut at Toubkal Base Camp (3207m) for dinner. 6 hours walking Alt. gain 1470m, Alt. loss 0m

Day 3
We start early for our Toubkal ascent, walking over rocky paths as there is less vegetation at this altitude. Once we pass the 4000m point, we can appreciate the magnificent panoramic views across the tranquil valleys and lower summits of the High Atlas Range. The achievement of standing on the summit is unforgettable and the views from the summit are simply magnificent. To the north we can see the fertile plains of the Magreb and Marrakech, and to the south, the wild rugged landscape of the pre-Sahara. All around us are the many jagged peaks of the High Atlas stretching into the distance. We descend to the Neltner Refuge for lunch, then continue our descent to Arroumd and our gite for the night. This is a long but extremely rewarding day of walking. 9 hours walking Alt. gain 960m, Alt. loss 2260m

Day 4
In the morning, we take a short walk to Imlil to meet our vehicle which will take us back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, we have free time in Marrakech and there is no shortage of things to do. You might like to head to the souks and try your hand at bartering for souvenirs. Or perhaps you would prefer to take a Calèche ride (a bright green horse drawn carriage) to the Majorelle Gardens. These small but tranquil gardens are decorated throughout in Indigo Blue and there is a small and charming museum of Islamic art in the grounds. A final treat would be to go for a hammam, a traditional Moroccan steam bath. In the evening we can visit the Djemma el Fna, the open-air central square around which Marrakech revolves. 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, travelling acrobats and musicians, it is a place of entertainment at night. 45 mins walking Alt. gain 0m, Alt. loss 170m

Day 5
For those on group flights, these depart in the morning and will arrive in the UK the same day.