Morocco·January 1 - 5 2025
Climb the highest mountain in North Africa, enjoy amazing Berber hospitality & celebrate in the incredible city of Marrakesh
ENQUIREJust a few hours flight from the UK and a world away lies the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco and the mighty Toubkal, its tallest peak at 4167m. Known among the Berber people as ‘Idraren Draren’ (Mountains of Mountains), the High Atlas Mountains are a distinct in their red colour and run across Morocco for 1000 km, separating the Mediterranean coastline from the Sahara desert. Climbing Toubkal is an exhilarating experience and one of the best short adventures within striking distance of London, combining a unique mountain environment with unbeatable culture and hospitality. Climbing in winter adds an extra level to the challenge. In February there will likely be cold conditions and snow on the ground necessitating the use of crampons and ice axe to reach the summit, making it the perfect proving ground for future climbs in the Alps, Andes or Himalayas and one hell of a climb in its own right. Our four night, fully guided adventure starts at Marrakesh airport, from where we head to the mountain town of Imlil and the excellent Read dar Imlil for a welcome dinner, rest, acclimatisation and final preparations for the climb. From here we begin the trek, heading up the mountain, passing through Berber settlements, and sandstone gorges to the Refuge du Toubkal, our launchpad for the summit. After reaching the summit of North Africa's highest peak we return for a second night in the refuge, before descending to Imlil and heading to Marrakesh for our post climb celebrations.
A detailed breakdown of all we've managed to pack into this five day expedition to North Africa's highest peak
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The perfect first night's accommodation, this excellent riad is situated deep inside Toubkal National Park and close to the town of Imlil, the gateway to the High Atlas Mountains.
Opened in its current guise in 1999, the Refuge du Toubkal is a European-style mountain refuge which remains true to Moroccan mountain heritage.
A super comfortable contemporary Moroccan-style hotel 300 metres from Marrakesh's Jamaâ El Fna Square. You can relax in the pool or enjoy views of the Atlas Mountains from the rooftop terrace.
All Transport Once in Morocco
Accommodation at Dar Imlil
Permits
Guided Ascent of Toubkal
Satellite Phone
Private Twin Rooms at Refuge du Toubkal
Thursday Night Welcome Dinner
All Meals on the Mountain
Accommodation at Riad Bahia Salam
International Flights
Insurance
Sunday Night Dinner
Alcoholic Drinks
Monday Brunch
Tips to High Mountain Crew
Snacks
Conditions on Toubkal in winter can be cold and windy, but the summit push is relatively short at just 4-5 hours. Anyone with a good level of fitness and determination should be able to make it.
A night in Imilil, (1800m) and a night at the Refuge du Toubkal (3200m) should provide ample opportunity to acclimatise ahead of the summit push.
A good level of fitness is required. This equates to being able to comfortably hike 5-7 hours a day for three days running.
Weather in February in the High Atlas can vary massively. It's best to prepare for cold conditions and adhere to the kit list you'll be provided with.