mt toubkal Roof of the North 8 day Trek
Trek through the spectacular Atlas mountains and take on the highest peak in North Africa including Mt Toubkal(4,167m) plus optional ascent of 2nd highest peak Mt Ouanoukrim.
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 8 day trek 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 an epic climb of Mount Toubkal which offers truly stunning views that, on a clear day, can reach Marrakech. Our awesome eight-day itinerary is designed to give you the full Toubkal experience, giving you the chance to experience the hospitality and beauty of the Berber people and villages plus not only climb North Africa’s highest peak but also an opportunity to summit North Africa’s second highest peak, Mount Ouanoukrim.
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
In a nutshell: Trip duration: 8 days Accommodation: 6 nights camping/2 nights hotel Tour detail: 6 days trekking Max altitude: 4167m (13,671ft)
“Toubkal is super accessible being Mt Toubkal has grown in popularity over so close to Europe. One of the best the last 10 years but it’s still something of places to get your first test of high altitude ifg you are thinking of going a hidden jewel in high altitude trekking at it higher to places like Everest Base lies so close to Europe. Camp or Kilimanjaro.
As with all of our treks, acclimatisation is super important The itinerary we have created gives and taking the longer route to Mt Toubkal means you will you the best chance of reaching the have a better change of reaching the summit at 4167m. summit in the best shape possible so You start your trek in the Imlil valley and camp under the you can spend a bit of time enjoying stars in the high Atlas Mountains. There are 2 days of the summit. You also have the acclimatisation and ascent as we get closer to the historic option of climbing the 2nd highest Toubkal peak. mountain in North Africa the day after which makes acclimatisation so There is nothing quite like watching the sunrise as you reach important. 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 2 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 Arrival in Marrakech
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 transfer you to the hotel. You will then have time to explore and soak up the sights, sounds and colours of this ancient city. You will be left in no doubt that the adventure has begun as you explore the city’s souks (Markets) and thriving central square. For the brave of heart there are plenty of bargains and fun to be had as you mingle and banter with the local traders of exotic spices and jewellery. You will meet up with the rest of the group and head out for some food before the trek starts for real tomorrow.
11 Day 2 Transfer to High Atlas mountains and Imlil for the start of the trek.
Today you’ll wake up early and after a hearty breakfast you will complete the final preparations before driving through the low hills of the Atlas Mountains. The journey will take you through the beautiful Mizan valley to your first destination and the start of your trek at Imlil. From here you can already see the mighty peaks of the Atlas range and on a clear day you will see your ultimate goal of Mt Toubkal. This area was was chosen by Hollywood as the location for parts of numerous movies including Lawrence of Arabia and Alexander. It’s picturesque paths and trails are the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take some gentle walks in the afternoon to help your body acclimatise.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3 Acclimatisation day in and around the Imlil Valley. YToday you will be acclimatising in the beautiful Imlil valley. Your guide will take you on the local Berber trails so you can experience the rich history of the Berber villages and people. If the weather is playing ball, you will hopefully have the chance to climb some of the smaller peaks reaching an altitude of 2500m, from here you can take in the extraordinary views of the Imlil valley. This will also be great practice for the terrain of the next few days. You will return to Imlil in the afternoon for some food and rest to further aid your body in acclimatising. Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
12 Day 4 Trek from Imlil to the mountain refuge.
Today your trek towards Toubkal begins with a hike up through the Mizane Valley to the holy shrine of Sidi Chamarouch at 2310m. Here you can take some time to appreciate this special place which is a site of pilgrimage for many Moroccans. From here you will re-fuel before starting to gain some altitude. The trail slowly takes you up towards your ultimate goal of the day, whic is near the Toubkal Refuge at 3207m. Here your guide will make sure you’re prepared for the next day’s summit attempt and you will spend the evening resting and adjusting to the altitude around the campfire. Have an early night so that you can be strong & ready for the long day tomorrow and your goal of stepping foot on the highest point in North Africa. Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
13 Day 5 Summit of Mount Toubkal The day you have all been waiting for, there is nothing quite like waking up on summit day! You’ll get up and start the trek under the cover of darkness, head torches leading the way. The trail is immediately steep as you ascend a scree slope and the thin air makes the climb tough. 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 ridge and step foot on the summit plateau 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 Roof of the North. 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 rocky terrain you will retrace your steps back to the Toubkal refuge area, mission accomplished. Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
14 Day 6 Optional ascent of Mt Ouanoukrim
Today you wake up and have a decision to make. Those who wish to, can head out for a second day in the mountains and the chance to summit North Africa’s second highest peak, Mt Ouanoukrim. After an early breakfast, the summit team will leave the refuge and head to Tizi Quagane at 3750m and after a short break you’ll move on to the summit. The route to the summit involves some scrambling to get through a loose rock section, it is relatively straight forward and your guide will be there ensuring your safe accent. After the scrambling it’s on to the always fun ‘false summit’ and across a ridge to the true summit of Mt Ouanoukrim, after celebrating your success you’ll retrace your steps back to the refuge. Anyone who didn’t do the climb will be waiting for you at the refuge where you’ll all spend one last night. Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
15 Day 7 Descend from refuge to Imlil and transfer to Marrakech
Your last day hiking in the mountains is a nice and steady decent back to Imlil, taking in the stunning views of the Atlas Mountains for one last time before you say your farewells to the guides and porters who supported you during the accent. You will drive back to Marrakech and arrive back in the late afternoon, even more time to explore the city with your newfound knowledge and experience before enjoying a farewell feast with your fellow EverTrekkers Meals included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
16 Day 8 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.
Trip Your trip may be over, finished but the memories will last a lifetime.
17 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 Winter Kit (Available to hire in Imlil) gloves or mittens Ice Axe Headtorch and spare batteries 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)
18 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 8 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
20 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.