Not far from Marrakech, at 4,167m, Mount Toubkal (4167m) is the highest mountain in North Africa. The hike to the summit is challenging, but it requires no mountaineering experience and the panoramic view from it summit makes the hard work worthwhile.
Day 1: After a transfer to the little village of Imlil we begin our trek. Heading along the Mizane Valley, we first pass the village of Aremd and then onto the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. We then continue east by crossing the flood plains our route takes us along mule tracks and up into the high rocky cliffs above the valley. Crossing the river we eventually come to the pastoral shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, which attracts tourists and pilgrims. From here the trail continues to climb steadily, snaking its way up to the snowline and the Toukbal Refuge (3206m), our stop for the night.
Day 2: Early in the morning we make our attempt on the summit of Jebel Toukbal. Our route takes us up the south cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge. The walking is relatively straightforward, but the screen and the altitude will make the going quite difficult in parts. The views along the way make the journey more than worthwhile. From here there are unrestricted views in every direction, from the Marrakesh Plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. We will retrace our steps when we return down the mountain and head back towards Imlil.