Experience Overview
Whether you’re a newbie trekker or a well-travelled walker, this hiking trip in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains is sure to lure you in. From colourful Marrakech, this seven-day trip will see you staying in mountain gites and hiking huts, trekking through mountain scenery and reaching the ‘roof of North Africa’ with an expert crew and some trusty pack mules. Climb to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, or Mount Toubkal, from base camp and discover a renewed love for mountainous landscapes and the adventure of being thousands of metres above sea level. As this trip gives you a day to acclimatise to the altitude and traverse the villages at your own pace, it’s perfect for trekkers of any level.
Highlights
- Strap on your hiking shoes and summit the highest peak in North Africa – Mount Toubkal – with your local expert guide leading the way.
- Get a real taste of adventure on your trek through the rugged Atlas Mountains and marvel at the spectacular scenery at every turn with views across the mountain ranges, Sahara Desert and Atlantic coast.
- Experience local life after hiking to your accommodation in a traditional gite (mountain house) in an Amazigh village nestled high in the Atlas Mountains.
- Enjoy a comfortably paced trekking trip – this trip is designed for hikers of all abilities, allowing less experienced trekkers to tackle this fantastic mountain peak and discover a passion for hiking, mountain climbing and exploring.
- Embrace the vibrant souqs, sights, sounds and smells of Marrakech on a walking tour of the medina and visit to Bahia Palace. With your local guide leading the way, you'll uncover all the best spots and learn more about the culture.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Education for All. Donations help them support girls in the High Atlas Mountains through secondary school, bringing a generation of women out of the cycle of illiteracy, poverty and early marriage.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3088
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Private minibus,walking
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: XMXO
Starts: Marrakech, Morocco
Finishes: Marrakech, Morocco
Duration: 7 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Demanding
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (6), Lunch (3), Dinner (4)Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights),Mountain Gite (2 night),Mountain Refuge (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $870 ($124 /day)
Itinerary
Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you'll meet your fellow trekkers and trip leader. After, you might like to join your leader on a jaunt to Djemaa el-Fna Square in the centre of the medina. Huge crowds converge at night to see the singers, drummers, fortune tellers, dancers and bustling street food bazaars all vying for attention here. This square is one of the largest public meeting places in the world, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye tonight.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine early today for breakfast and a group meeting at 8 am. Your leader will go through everything you need to know about today’s trek before you set off into the mountains. Leave Marrakech behind and drive across the plains towards the ancient marketplace of Tahanaoute, with views of valleys and the Atlas Mountains along the way. Arrive at Imlil – a mountainous village 1740 m above sea level, then take a short hike to your mountain base in the village of Aroumd. In the afternoon, stretch your legs with a gentle orientation walk. Your accommodation tonight is a mountain gite (a traditional village house). Rooms are furnished in the Amazigh style, with low couches (which can be used as beds), tables, carpets and cushions. On warm nights, it’s often possible to sleep out on the terrace under the stars!
Included Activities:
- Imlil to Aroumd guided trek
Accommodation:
- Mountain Gite (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, explore Aroumd on some of the local trails with your group. Get to know the terrain and acclimatise your body for the challenge of the summit ahead. Today’s main hike will depend on the weather and the group’s ability. Acclimatisation hikes are quite slow, with a relaxed pace. Wherever your trip leader chooses, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful Moroccan countryside, where children run freely through the valleys and farmers tend to their plots of land. Donkeys provide a mode of transport for both young and old, with stony pathways winding through the mountains to villages hidden from the main roads. When you arrive back in your gite, tuck into a hearty dinner and rest up for tomorrow’s challenge.
Included Activities:
- Guided acclimatisation hike
Accommodation:
- Mountain Gite (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning you’ll begin your ascent of Mount Toubkal – North Africa’s highest peak. From Aroumd, the trail crosses the floodplain of the Ait Mizane Valley, before climbing steeply in a zigzag up the mountainside. Along the way, pass the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamarouch, home to the tomb of the local marabout (Muslim holy man). Only Muslims are permitted to cross the bridge and approach the large white stone that serves as a shrine. From here, climb steeply through a series of switchbacks and traverse the flank of the valley above the river. Arrive at Toubkal Base Camp (3207 metres above sea level) and enjoy a hearty dinner and make sure you get plenty of sleep before the big ascent tomorrow.
Included Activities:
- Imlil to Mount Toubkal Basecamp guided hike
Accommodation:
- Mountain Refuge (Number of Nights: 1)
Embrace an early start this morning as you tackle the rocky terrain that leads to the summit of Mount Toubkal. At 4167 m above sea level, this is truly the roof of North Africa. Take in the beautiful silence of the morning while you make the final climb, which can involve some scrambling. Your effort is rewarded by views from the summit, which on a clear day can include the entire Atlas Mountain range, the Atlantic coast to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east. After a rest at the summit and time spent marvelling at the view, descend to base camp. You’ll fuel up with a hearty lunch before heading back to Aroumd, where your local host will be waiting to welcome you back with a homecooked dinner to celebrate your achievements in the High Atlas Mountains.
Included Activities:
- Mount Toubkal guided summit trek
Accommodation:
- Mountain Refuge (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, take one last glimpse at those high summits you conquered in last couple of days. Then, head back to Imlil and make your way back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour of the medina, including souqs devoted to different trades such as pottery, woodwork, carpets or spices. Then, continue to the 19th-century Bahia Palace and spend some time admiring the architecture. The rest of your time in the city is free for you to make your own discoveries. If you're keen to experience a traditional Moroccan bath, your leader can advise you where to find the nearest hammam. If you’ve enjoyed your taste of Moroccan cuisine so far, maybe indulge your inner foodie with a Taste of Marrakesh Urban Adventure tour.
Included Activities:
- Marrakech - Medina walking tour
- Marrakech - Palais Bahia
- Toubkal Base Camp to Imlil guided hike
Optional Activities:
- Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage (750 MAD)
- Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure (605 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure ends after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend more time in Marrakech, just speak to your booking agent.
Optional Activities:
- Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride (2090 MAD)
- Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch (2000 MAD)
- Marrakech - Palmery Cycling Tour (540 MAD)
- Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure. (640 MAD)
- Marrakech - Quad Biking the Rock Desert & Palmgrove (715 MAD)
- Marrakech - Magical Marrakech City Cycling Tour (438 MAD)
- Marrakech - Quad Biking Barrage Lalla Takerkoust (1650 MAD)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Liz - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was well organised and great value for money. Our guide Omar was outstanding with his local knowledge and professionalism
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Elizabeth - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was well organised and great value for money. Our leader Omar was outstanding! He was professional and had exceptional knowledge but was friendly and approachable
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2024
Fiona - Traveled, September 2023
I would encourage everyone to do this trip to Mount Toubkal. It is an amazing experience and is so well organised. The guide we had Omar went beyond his role for us, and made the experience feel so submissive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Elizabeth - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was well organised and great value for money. Our leader Omar, was outstanding! He was professional, knowledgeable and friendly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Ilona - Traveled, August 2023
Very much enjoyed this trip with a great group, and a great guide Omar. The hiking definitely requires a decent level of fitness, especially when descending on scree, so good to be aware of that in advance. The gite in Aroumd is vey peaceful, and the views of the night sky in the mountains are incredible! Note that travelling in August, Marrakech is very hot, so this part of the trip was a little less comfortable, but the temperatures in the mountains were lovely. Would definitely recommend this trip for anyone outdoorsy who wants to see the more peaceful side of Morocco!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/26/2023
Guadalupe - Traveled, August 2023
This trek was amazing and so well organized. Omar was kind and very approachable. He made sure that every single one of us made it to the summit and back down safely.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Marta - Traveled, July 2023
Intrepid is able to organize a trip taking care of every aspects, thanks to excellent local guide: you can forget every worries and just enjoy the trip! The best is to have a local who teaches you every secret about the country you are travelling in. With Intrepid you can travel without worries also if you're leaving alone, because they make you sharing the experience with great group of people from all over the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023
Marta - Traveled, June 2023
Intrepid is able to organize a trip taking care of every aspects, thanks to excellent local guide: you can forget every worries and just enjoy the trip! The best is to have a local who teaches you every secret about the country you are travelling in. With Intrepid you can travel without worries also if you're leaving alone, because they make you sharing the experience with great group of people from all over the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Daniel - Traveled, August 2023
The trip has really changed my perception of Morrocco. I thought of the country to be like what is seen in the films with the souks. However, to stand at the top in the majesty of the Atlas as the sun rose was a perfect honeymoon experience. One I will cherish forever - Thank you Intrepid. Our guide Omar Ait Ahmad was the catalyst that made the trip exceptional, it was his enthusiasm and professionalism that made this trip 5 stars for me.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Matthew - Traveled, July 2023
This was an affordable and amazing trek, highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, June 2023
Perfect fun experience with the best views ever. A mix of city and mountains with Omar and Hassan being amazing encouraging guide that were so well organised. We had such fun. No one got ill or injured on that difficult but rewarding climb. Omar looked after each one of us
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Lisa - Traveled, June 2023
This trip is not to be underestimated - the climb is tough, very rocky terrain including boulder hopping in parts. Also consider altitude issues ! if you are well prepared it is a very rewarding experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Graham - Traveled, June 2023
This was the first trekking holiday I had ever done, as well as the first one at altitude. I was nervous to say the least. Im glad to say all our group managed to reach the summit. A thoroughly enjoyable experience. I recommend it to everyone. It has changed my future outlook on life and has encouraged me to take any challenge in my stride. Thank you
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Krisztina - Traveled, June 2023
What a fantastic adventure - a great physical challenge combined with a lovely cultural experience shared with a group of like-minded people. From arrival to departure, we all had a good time thanks to our exceptional group leader, Omar and his team! The memories of the view from the Toubkal summit along with the fantastic stay at Imlil/Aroumd, being welcomed like family during Eid celebration by Omar and Hassan's family and the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh will stay with us for a long time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Lisa - Traveled, June 2023
This trip is not to be underestimated - the climb is tough, very rocky terrain including boulder hopping in parts. Also consider altitude issues ! if you are well prepared it is a very rewarding experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Hannah - Traveled, June 2023
Fantastic trip, very well organised and well balanced itinerary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/01/2023
Melinda - Traveled, June 2023
Amazing trip/hike! From the communication and planning to meeting our amazing guide and the amazing hike, 5 stars all around!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Claire - Traveled, May 2023
Excellent trip, fantastic guide Lahcen who was so supportive throughout the trip. Definitely recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2023
Robert - Traveled, September 2023
Mt Toubkal hike was well worth it, specially with our guide Hussain, which made it even that much better with his local knowledge, organisation skills and laughters along the way. Most definitely recommend and tick of a bucket list.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Elizabeth - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was well organised and great value for money. Our leader Omar was outstanding! He was professional and had exceptional knowledge but was friendly and approachable
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2024
Fiona - Traveled, September 2023
I would encourage everyone to do this trip to Mount Toubkal. It is an amazing experience and is so well organised. The guide we had Omar went beyond his role for us, and made the experience feel so submissive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Elizabeth - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was well organised and great value for money. Our leader Omar, was outstanding! He was professional, knowledgeable and friendly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Sayde - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was great! Really enjoyed the experience. The hike was difficult but doable. Our guide, Omar, was phenomenal, and everything about the trip exceeded my expectations. As a packing note, I didn't bring a sleeping bag and ended up just fine with sweatshirts, long sleeves, and fuzzy socks. Would also recommend bringing an overnight bag inside your suitcase since most people left their suitcases in the Marrakesh hotel and took just overnight bags into the mountains for the 4 days of hiking, which was perfect.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Ilona - Traveled, August 2023
Very much enjoyed this trip with a great group, and a great guide Omar. The hiking definitely requires a decent level of fitness, especially when descending on scree, so good to be aware of that in advance. The gite in Aroumd is vey peaceful, and the views of the night sky in the mountains are incredible! Note that travelling in August, Marrakech is very hot, so this part of the trip was a little less comfortable, but the temperatures in the mountains were lovely. Would definitely recommend this trip for anyone outdoorsy who wants to see the more peaceful side of Morocco!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/06/2023
Guadalupe - Traveled, August 2023
This trek was amazing and so well organized. Omar was kind and very approachable. He made sure that every single one of us made it to the summit and back down safely.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Daniel - Traveled, August 2023
The trip has really changed my perception of Morrocco. I thought of the country to be like what is seen in the films with the souks. However, to stand at the top in the majesty of the Atlas as the sun rose was a perfect honeymoon experience. One I will cherish forever - Thank you Intrepid. Our guide Omar Ait Ahmad was the catalyst that made the trip exceptional, it was his enthusiasm and professionalism that made this trip 5 stars for me.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Sayde - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was great! Really enjoyed the experience. The hike was difficult but doable. Our guide, Omar, was phenomenal, and everything about the trip exceeded my expectations. As a packing note, I didn't bring a sleeping bag and ended up just fine with sweatshirts, long sleeves, and fuzzy socks. Would also recommend bringing an overnight bag inside your suitcase since most people left their suitcases in the Marrakesh hotel and took just overnight bags into the mountains for the 4 days of hiking, which was perfect.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Matthew - Traveled, July 2023
This was an affordable and amazing trek, highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2023
Marta - Traveled, July 2023
Intrepid is able to organize a trip taking care of every aspects, thanks to excellent local guide: you can forget every worries and just enjoy the trip! The best is to have a local who teaches you every secret about the country you are travelling in. With Intrepid you can travel without worries also if you're leaving alone, because they make you sharing the experience with great group of people from all over the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, June 2023
Perfect fun experience with the best views ever. A mix of city and mountains with Omar and Hassan being amazing encouraging guide that were so well organised. We had such fun. No one got ill or injured on that difficult but rewarding climb. Omar looked after each one of us.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Lisa - Traveled, June 2023
This trip is not to be underestimated - the climb is tough, very rocky terrain including boulder hopping in parts. Also consider altitude issues ! if you are well prepared it is a very rewarding experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Graham - Traveled, June 2023
This was the first trekking holiday I had ever done, as well as the first one at altitude. I was nervous to say the least. Im glad to say all our group managed to reach the summit. A thoroughly enjoyable experience. I recommend it to everyone. It has changed my future outlook on life and has encouraged me to take any challenge in my stride. Thank you
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Krisztina - Traveled, June 2023
What a fantastic adventure - a great physical challenge combined with a lovely cultural experience shared with a group of like-minded people. From arrival to departure, we all had a good time thanks to our exceptional group leader, Omar and his team! The memories of the view from the Toubkal summit along with the fantastic stay at Imlil/Aroumd, being welcomed like family during Eid celebration by Omar and Hassan's family and the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh will stay with us for a long time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Hannah - Traveled, June 2023
Fantastic trip, very well organised and well balanced itinerary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Melinda - Traveled, June 2023
Amazing trip/hike! From the communication and planning to meeting our amazing guide and the amazing hike, 5 stars all around!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Claire - Traveled, May 2023
Excellent trip, fantastic guide Lahcen who was so supportive throughout the trip. Definitely recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2023
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