The 6-day, 5-night Toubkal Circuit trek is one of Morocco’s top hiking trails, with the slower pace allowing you to truly unwind and feel the power of the mountains. This long-distance hike will take you through the most beautiful trails of the High Atlas Mountains, giving you views of the majestic Mount Toubkal from all perspectives. You will walk through deep valleys, step back in time in remote Berber villages, climb breathtaking passes, view the serene Lake Ifni, and of course, reach the summit of the otherworldly Mount Toubkal, the tallest mountain in North Africa. All this with the help of our local, friendly guides!
Trip highlights
- Step back in time in remote Berber mountain villages
- Camp under the stars with nomadic shepherds
- Climb numerous mountain passes, which will greet you with breathtaking views across long valleys
- Relax near Lake Ifni, Moroccos largest alpine lake
- Watch the sunrise from the spectacular Mount Toubkal
Itinerary
We will pick you up from your accommodation in Marrakech, and drive you in a secure, air conditioned vehicle to the High Atlas Mountain village of Imlil via Asni. Imlil is the principal trailhead for walkers and it's also a busy market town. There is a constant flow of people coming down from the mountains, and an equal supply of activity from those about to embark on their adventure. We meet our mule team and once all our gear is loaded we begin walking along the valley towards Tacheddirt, some 8kms beyond Imlil. Soon the trail begins to rise as we climb up to the pass at Tizi n'Tamatert (2279m). We then descend to the pretty village of Ouaneskra and continue, for a further half-hour or so, to Tacheddirt (2300m), where we will camp near the river. Total walking time approximately 4hours.
After breakfast, we leave for the ascent to Tizi n'Likemt mountain pass (3550m), where we stop to admire the view of Tachdirt Valley and the surrounding mountains. After a short descent, we stop for lunch, then continue for an hour before reaching our camp near Aazib n'Likemt, where we will meet nomadic shepherds with their flocks of goats and sheep. Total walking time approximately 6hours.
We start the day from our high mountain pasture camp, with a gentle climb to the Tizi Ourai pass (3109 m), where you will have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. After the descent to the Tinzar Valley, we stop to have our lunch and enjoy the traditional architecture of the Berber villages. From there we cross the ridge of the High Atlas to reach the southern slopes of the Atlas. We will stay overnight in a Berber lodge. Total walking time approximately 5.5hrs.
We descend into the valley of Islani through Ibrouane and the villages in Tisgouane Takatert until we reach Lake Ifni (2295 m), which is at the bottom of a valley surrounded by the peaks of Jebel Toubkal. We spend an awesome night at the lake. Approximately 5 hours of walking.
We start the day with a nice slow climb to the neck of Ouanoums (3670m). From the pass, we enjoy the view of surrounding 4000m peaks, then we descend down to the shelter, which is a popular meeting place for hikers and nature lovers. We spend the night in tents near the refuge. The walk is 6 hours.
We will have an early departure on the final day, to reach the the summit of Mount Toubkal (4167 m), the roof of North Africa. We'll stop to enjoy the scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment. From there we descend to the refuge for a well-deserved lunch, and then we return to Imlil village, and transfer back to Marrakech. Expect 8hrs of walking on this final day
Included
- Return transfer from Marrakech to Imlil (A/C modern vehicle )
- Local licensed English / French speaking mountain guide
- Mules for luggage and meals transportation
- 2 nights in village guest houses
- Meals and mineral water (full board)
Excluded
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic/ soft drinks
- Tips and souveniors
Others Information
Medium – difficult
A lot of distance is covered in this long-distance hike, but we aim to take it slow and minimize hours of walking daily, breaking up the hiking so that you can enjoy and soak up the surroundings. As we gradually build up the distance and elevation, your body will be well-trained to push for the summit on the final day and achieve what you never believed was possible. Step out of your comfort zone and go deep into the mountains!
- This tour is best enjoyed between May-October. However if you prefer a winter experience, do not hesitate to contact us.
- We run these treks continuously throughout this period, so please get in touch! You are welcome to join us independently, or within a larger group (subject to demand).
- We can combine this trip with other tours around Morocco, get in touch and we can give you a quote.
- Day 1: Mountain camp in Taceddirt
- Day 2: Mountain camp near Aazib n’Likemt
- Day 3: Mountain lodge in Amsouzarte
- Day 4: Mountain camp on the shores of Lake Ifni
- Day 5: Mountain refuge Neltner
We will ensure you will get a great night’s sleep in the camps, through the provision of warm and comfortable sleeping mats, sleeping bags, and solid, high-quality tents.
You will eat delicious, fresh, local meals cooked by your guides or in the accommodation. And do not forget about the liters of mint tea! Example meals include:
- Breakfast: Moroccan breakfast of bread, jam, honey, peanut butter, olive oil, tea, coffee, milk
- Lunch: Salad, tomatoes, seasonal fruit and nuts, lentils, beans
- Dinner: Traditional Moroccan tajine, fresh bread, soup
What about my dietary requirements?
Let us know in advance, and we are more than happy to cater to your specific dietary needs.
You will be picked up in a private, air-conditioned vehicle directly to and from your accommodation in Marrakech. Want to spend another night in the mountains? No problem! We can cater to that.
We accept payments in Moroccan dirham, euros, dollars, or British pounds. Payment in cash, or by bank transfer. If you wish to pay in another currency, get in touch! Together we will figure it out.
Rural Moroccans still live a traditional way of life. So it is advised to dress a little more conservatively than you are used to. For women, this means that the shoulder, chest, and knees are covered, and for men, shoulders, and knees. It will also protect you from the hot sun, and help you to stay cooler.
Your luggage for the trip will be carried by mules, to help take the weight off your shoulders. If you have some additional luggage you wish to keep in Imlil, we can arrange a secure place for you to store these items.
