mt toubkal Roof of the North Weekender
Spend a long weekend trekking through the spectacular Atlas Mountains and climb Mt Toubkal 4167m. The highest peak in North Africa.
Your go to high altitude experts from Everest to Kili and all the adventures inbetween What's inside?
About the Toubkal - Roof of the North Weekender 3 Why trek with EverTrek? 4
What’s included? 7
What to expect 8
FAQs 9
Your trek itinerary 12
Equipment list 18
Chat to our Yeti’s 21
2 about mt toubkal This is a tough ascent of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa taking place over four epic days in Morocco. You will trek along the Berber Mountain Trails and experience the fantastic hospitality of the Berber people as you climb through the Atlas mountains to the ‘Roof of the North’ Mt Toubkal at 4167 meters. The four day itinerary starting on a Friday is designed to maximize your weekend and your annual leave. What an awesome way to spend four days.
3 Why trek with eveRtrek?
Are the mountains calling you again? EverTrek are the UK’s leading specialists in hardcore high altitude trekking.
Why our customers think we’re awesome?
We spend more time on preparing our EverTrekkers and truly believe they are the best prepared trekkers on the mountain with a success rate of over 95% (industry standard 65%).
You get a personalised trip planner which will be your trekking bible for both before and during the trek to help prepare you practically, mentally & physically.
Access our training portal for mountains of knowledge in the EverTrekkers Members Hub to get clued up on everything you need to know about your trip, training & trek.
Get booked up on one our awesome UK based training weekends to kick start your trek training, socialise with other EverTrekkers & get pick the brains of our experienced Adventure Experts (or as we call them - the Yetis).
Saving the world one trek at a time
Over the last couple of years, we have made it our priority to find a solution to the environmental issues that our industry faces in Nepal and the other countries we operate in.
We became one of the very first companies to offer fresh filtered drinking water in Nepal using water filters on every trip. Customers no longer need to buy plastic bottles or use chlorine tablets. This means less plastic and a far more pleasant experience for our customers.
We have also teamed up with Mossy Earth where we now plant a tree for every customer that books with EverTrek. .
4 Flexible Yeti’s
We like to remain as accessible and as flexible as possible having our Adventure Experts on hand to supply all the information you need for a successful and worry-free trip.
We offer lifetime deposits, instalment plans, private transfers & airport pickups/send offs and if you need to change your trip for an emergency you won’t be stung with any admin or surprise-fees.
All your food and fantastic accommodation on the trek is covered by us, so you don’t need to stress over the details. You can feel confident that our quality assured accommodation is completely taken care of so you can focus on having a ton of fun on your trip.
customer reviews “Has to be one of the best run and professional companies I have come across.”
This trip was exceptional from start to finish. Has to be one of the best run and professional companies I have come across. Before we even started we were sent weekly emails and lots of correspondence to get us excited for the trip. Any questions and worries were answered straight away - some even by video replies!! The actual Everest base camp trip itself was one of the best experiences of my life, however very tough! Everything from start to finish was run perfectly. I couldn’t have asked for more from Andy, Dave and the Sherpas they provided! A 5 star service all round!
Lee Wardle
“The guides were truly amazing, professional and were always on-hand to look after us.”
Thanks guys for the experience of a lifetime. What can I say about EverTrek! Simply brilliant. From the moment we spoke with Andy and signed up it was all taken care of. The guides were truly amazing, professional and were always on-hand to look after us. Listen, this is a tough challenge but it’s well within the reach of most of you out there considering the possibility. I’ve kept myself pretty fit all my life (63 years young) but trying to keep up with my sons was, at times, pushing my limits. The scenery is so beautiful it becomes an emotional challenge at times. Our guides, Rahul and Krishna were meticulous in making sure we were looked after every step of the way and needless to say we have become friends for life. I cannot recommend EverTrek highly enough. Don’t think about this for too long - just do it. They’ll get there and you’ll never forget the experience. So,as soon as I have some pics ready I’ll upload and share but please do not hesitate to contact me while I’m still flying through thin air!!! Thanks again Andy and EverTrek.
Alan Irwin
5 Destination: Mt Toubkal - Roof of the North Weekender
In a nutshell: Trip duration: 4 days Accommodation: 2 nights camping/1 night hotel/Riad Tour detail: 3 days trekking Max altitude: 4167m (13,671ft)
Mt Toubkal has grown in popularity over “Toubkal is super accessible being the last 10 years but it’s still something of so close to Europe. One of the best places to get your first test of high a hidden jewel in high altitude trekking at it altitude ifg you are thinking of going lies so close to Europe. higher to places like Everest Base Although Mt Toubkal sits above 4000m, you can ascend Camp or Kilimanjaro. quickly to the summit as long as you get back down once it’s The itinerary we have created gives completed. That’s why this quick 4 day ascent is possible you ta chance to maximise your maximising your weekend. weekend. Although you never want You start your trek in the Imlil valley and camp under the to rush a 4000m peak, the itinerary stars in the high Atlas Mountains as we get closer to the is designed to summit and come historic Toubkal peak. down enough that altitude won’t really effect you. There is nothing quite like watching the sunrise as you reach the summit of Mt Toubkal. The views are immense. It’s a challenging and tough climb but the views are worth it. You will have reached the roof of North Africa. Andy Moore Head Yeti
6 what's iNcluded?
Airport Pick-up and Drop-off service International flights to Morocco in a private vehicle Meals at the hotel except breakfast 1 nights B & B accommodation in and other mentioned meals Marrakech Personal expenses including Return transfer to Imlil valley mineral water, and alcoholic drinks High quality tents. and beverages EverTrek pre trip support Tips for guides & porters All meals (breakfast, lunch and Your altitude travel insurance dinner) on the trek Any other extended trips All accommodation whilst on trek or additional accommodatio in Tent Gear for your climb, Some equipment Pulse oximeters is available for rent at the hotel. EverTrek First Aid Kits Qualified guides & mountain crew & their accommodation Pack animals for duffel bags and gear Boiled water on the mountain EverTrek Trip Planner & Access to our online programme EverTrekker T-shirt & Neck Buff 15% discount with Cotswold Outdoor
7 What to expect on the trek
Food & Accommodation
When you think of a camping trip i’m sure tinned oranges and dried packet rations spring to mind. However, this is Morocco and the food is pretty damn good for where you are. You do have to remember where you are, the remote Atlast mountains and most of the ingredients used are locally sourced.
All cooking equipment is taken with us onto the trek and then back out again. These are carried by our awesome team of provided at the camps or refuges on the trek. Meals are prepared by our local cook for the entire trip and consist of breakfast, lunch and dinner. A mix of local dishes keeping us fueled for the summit climb.
Accommodation on the treks are in either tents or refuges at certain locations along the trails. All camping gear is carried by our mules/porters but you should bring along a decent sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner. Ohh and don’t forget your ear plugs.
8 When is the best time to go? Climbing in the Atlas mountains is available all year round. It depends on what sort of experience you are looking for. In winter, there will be snow and ice axe and crampons are a must. In summer, it’s warmer and generally great conditions. March through to June - The most popular This is the best conditions to climb in the Atlas mointains. It’s very warm and dry. The only downside being that it’s generally buiser at this time of year. September through to November - Low season This a great time to visit as it’s definitely quieter as most of Europe are not on holidays. Winter - Cold but awesome If you are up for taking on Toubkal in winter, it’s certainly challenging. However, the weather is perfect for winter hiking and you don’t need any technical skills to climb Toubkal. fa Q
All of our treks include land transfers, accomodation and all of our meals on the trekking part of the itinerary but here are a few other well known questions that crop up:
Transport All transport during the trip is included, whether private or public, including road transport and transfers as per the itinerary. Accommodation The standard of accommodation we use can vary from our comfy hotel or Riad in Marrakech to the super basic high mountain refuge and tents. We always try to choose comfortable accommodation with local character, although in some areas this may not meet Western standards. Where hotel accommodation is provided, this is based on twin occupancy. On climbing trips that require high camps, up to 3 people may on occasion be required to share a lightweight mountain tent although on most trips it is 2. Included Meals Wherever practical, all meals are provided within the trip price. Each trip description on this website gives an indication of the meals that are included for you when booking the trip. Staff All EverTrek groups are accompanied by a professional local guide selected on the basis of his or her experience and leadership skills. There will also be a local crew of drivers, cooks, porters and other appropriate staff. All of our guides are fulle qualified and medically trainined for high altitude. We have high standards when it comes to mountain guides. Some climbing trips will have 2 or more leaders, depending on group size.
9 how fit do i need to be?
As an adventure travel company we always suggest people who take part in any of our trips have some level of fitness and most treks require on average 4-6 hours of walking per day with some of the longer days reaching 8-10 hours. Hiking at altitude can be tough at times and we always recommend doing some CV exercise prior to the trek whilst also incorporating some hill walking to get the legs used to going up and down mountain paths. The more you do before the trip the more you will get out of it. If you want some advice on training for a trek just get in touch with us by email. Most of the treks and climbing expeditions we operate are at high altitude where the body and mind will be tested to its limits. The trips are meant to be tough and challenging and that’s what makes the journey so worth it but the decision to take part is one you will have to make yourself.
10 itineRary
Here is a detailed description of your itinerary on the Kilimanjaro trip.
Day 1 Arrive in Marrakech - 1.5 hours by 4 x 4 vehicle
Welcome to Morocco!
Upon arrival in Marrakech a member of the EverTrek team will be there to welcome you at the start of your adventure and drive you to our lodge in the Berber village of Imlil 1740m where you will spend your first night in the Atlas mountains. The journey takes around 1 1/2 hours to reach Imlil where you will have some spare time to explore the village and the surrounding area depending on what time of day you arrive. You will meet up with the rest of the group and try some of the local dishes before the trek starts for real tomorrow.
11 Day 2 Trek from Imlil to the Toubkal refuge at 3206m - 5-6 hours walking
Today we wake up early and hike the Berber tails up through the Mizane Valley to the holy shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. Here we can take some time to appreciate this special place which is a site of pilgrimage for many Moroccans. After a short rest, we then start to gain some real altitude as the trail slowly takes us up towards 3206 meters and our ultimate goal of the day, the Toubkal Refuge. This is the main base for everyone heading to the summit of Mt Toubkal and is an exciting hub of energy as fellow trekkers all rest and watch the sunset before the excitement of summit day.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
12 Day 3 Summit of Mount Toubkal - 8 - 10 hours walking
Summit Day! There is nothing quite like waking up on summit day! You’ll leave the refuge still under the cover of darkness, head torches leading the way. The trail immediately steepens as you ascend a scree slope and the thin air makes the climb a little tough but hugely rewarding. After some steady climbing, you come to a wide pass which will offer some stunning views and a small break before you turn towards the summit ridge and the final push. As you ascend the summit ridge and step foot on the ‘Roof of the North’ reaching an altitude of 4167 meters, you will be hit by the massive sense of achievement that you are standing on the summit of the highest peak in North Africa! The metal tetrapod which marks the summit is a great photo opportunity and the views are incredible. On a clear day you will be able to see all the way back to Marrakech and take in how far you have come, both physically and mentally. The descent takes you down the same route, treading carefully through the snow as you retrace your steps back to the Toubkal refuge and then back to Imlil where we will then get picked up and transferred down to Marrakech where you will spend your final night. Mission accomplished.
This a tough old day with around 9-10 hours of walking so you will definitely sleep tonight. Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
13 Day 4 Departure Day
Your time in Morocco has come to end and your transfer is waiting to take you back to the airport. You may have time to once again experience the sights, sounds and colours of Marrakech before starting your homeward journey and reflecting on the amazing achievement of reaching the summit of Mt Toubkal.
IMPORTANT - If you choose to trek on one of our winter summit dates, the conditions can force us to alter the itinerary meaning we head a different route to Mt Toubkal. We still climb and ascend to the mountain refuge but through the valley next to the Mizane valley due to the crossing a ski area. We will try to keep to the schedule as much as we can but the main aim is to summit Toubkal via the safest route and this will be determined by our mountain guide before the trek commences.
Your trip may be over, but the memories
Trip will last a lifetime. finished
14 equipment list
Over the years, we have gained an incredible amount of experience and expertise in outdoor equipment and clothing. We have applied this to each trip that we offer and recommend what we believe to be the most suitable items for your trip. The packed weight of your trek bag while trekking should be no more than 15 kgs. It is possible to leave clothes or other items not required on trek at the group hotel.
Hiking boots Water bottles 1 Litre x2 Socks Washbag and toiletries Trekking trousers Toilet paper (you can also buy this in the lodges if necessary) Underwear Antibacterial handwash Baselayer shirts Travel towel Fleece jacket or warm jumper Selection of dry bags (to Waterproof jacket keep trek bag contents dry) Warm Down Jacket Small padlock (to lock trek bag) Sunhat/Warm hat/Beanie Daypack roughly 30 litres Neck Buff Sleeping bag (comfort rated –10ºC)* Sunglasses Basic First Aid Kit Thermal gloves
Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens Winter Equipment (Available to rent in Imlil) Headtorch and spare batteries Ice Axe Sun protection Crampons
The following items are optional:
Trekking poles Sleeping bag liner Trainers or similar Ear plugs (particularly if for use in the lodges you are not the one snoring) Spare laces Travel clothes Shorts Camera Long johns (thermal underwear) Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage) Gaiters Repair kit (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
15 personlised tRip planneR
When you book a trip with us and become an ‘EverTrekker’ you also get access to a FREE personalised trip planner! Book with us, save money and help support a country we love.
View more details geneRal information
The 4 day Toubkal Roof of the North trek is a full board package that includes all meals and accommodation during the trek with bed and breakfast being included in Marrakech.
Passport & Visas
You don’t need a visa to travel if the purpose of the visit is tourism so you won’t need one for this trip
While it is not required by the immigration authorities, some airlines require passengers to show proof of onward travel (e.g. an airline ticket) in order to travel to Morocco so keep a copy of your flights on you just in case. Tips for your guide and porter
Tips are a great way to reward your guides, porters and on the ground staff for their hard work. Although not compulsory it’s culturally expected in Morocco and you should budget for this accordingly.
We recommened these figures for the staff:
Chief guide: $50 per trip
Mule drivers/porters $15-$20 per trip
17 are you ready for a trip of a lifetime?
Andy and the rest of our team at EverTrek are trekkers, climbers and travellers just like you. We use our personal experience and specialist knowledge that comes from this to help plan your next adventure.
Call or email Andy & the team today to discuss your next trip:
02920 003216
Your go to high altitude experts from Everest to Kili and all the adventures inbetween.