A Toubkal trek, rising majestically to 4,167 meters, is situated in the highest peak of the Atlas mountains and all of North Africa. Located in southwestern Morocco, just 63 kilometers south of Marrakech, this mountain is a magnet for trekkers and mountaineers from around the globe. Mount Toubkal is more than just a climb, but a journey through Berber culture, rugged natural beauty, and personal endurance.
Toubkal Trek
Despite its imposing height, a Toubkal trek is considered a non-technical climb during the summer months, meaning you don’t need ropes, crampons, or alpine climbing experience to reach the summit. This accessibility makes it an attractive option for adventurers seeking a high-altitude challenge without the complications of more extreme mountaineering.
However, the altitude and steep terrain still demand good fitness, preparation, and respect for the mountain. The trek is typically completed in two to three days, although some trekkers extend the experience to explore nearby valleys and passes. What truly sets the Toubkal trek apart is the blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion.
Along the way, trekkers pass through traditional Berber villages, interact with locals, and witness life in the High Atlas, largely unchanged for centuries. Most Toubkal treks begin in the mountain village of Imlil, sitting at around 1,740 meters. Easily accessible by road from Marrakech, it serves as a gateway to the High Atlas.
The village is equipped with basic guesthouses, gear rental shops, and experienced guides, from Climbing Mount Toubkal, who can lead groups or individual trekkers. From Imlil, the trail heads up toward the village of Aroumd, and soon enters the Toubkal National Park. The terrain consists of rocky paths, switchbacks, and mule tracks.
Mules are often used to carry gear and supplies, making the Toubkal trek more manageable for climbers focusing on the ascent. The first day of trekking usually ends at the Neltner Refuge, located at around 3,200 meters. This stone-built mountain hut is the primary base for summit attempts. It offers basic dormitory-style accommodation and meals, providing a warm and communal environment for worldwide climbers.
Spending the night at the refuge helps with acclimatization, and the camaraderie among trekkers creates a special atmosphere. The high altitude can affect some people, so taking it slow and staying hydrated is crucial. The summit push typically starts early, around 4:00 or 5:00 a.m., to reach the top before clouds roll in and to enjoy sunrise from the highest point in North Africa.
The climb from the refuge to the summit takes about 3 to 5 hours, depending on fitness and weather conditions. The trail is steep and rocky, with sections of scree and occasional snow patches, especially in spring and autumn. In winter, Toubkal becomes a different challenge entirely, requiring crampons, ice axes, and cold-weather gear.
Reaching the summit is an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views stretch across the Atlas range and, on clear days, as far as the Sahara desert to the south. A metal pyramid-shaped summit marker welcomes climbers to pause, reflect, and take in the vastness of Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
After soaking in the summit views, trekkers return to the refuge for a short rest before continuing back down to Imlil, either the same day or the following morning. While descending is easier physically, it can be tough on the knees and legs, so trekking poles can be a useful addition. One of the great joys of the Toubkal trek is the opportunity to experience Berber culture firsthand.
The Berbers, indigenous people of North Africa, have inhabited the High Atlas for centuries. Their hospitality, resilience, and deep connection to the land are evident in every village and mountain trail. Local guides and muleteers are often from nearby villages, and hiring them not only ensures a safer trek but also supports the local economy.
Many tours also include meals prepared with traditional Moroccan flavors, with tagines, couscous, and mint tea offering a delicious way to recover from the day’s exertions. The best time to trek Toubkal is from May to October, when the weather is generally stable and snow is minimal. However, spring and early summer bring wildflowers and lush valleys, while autumn offers cooler temperatures and dramatic landscapes.
Winter treks, from November to April, are possible but require proper mountaineering gear and experience, as snow and ice cover the trails and make the ascent significantly more challenging. The Toubkal trek is more than just a mountain climb. It’s a transformative experience that challenges the body, engages the spirit, and connects travelers to a culture that thrives amid the peaks.
