The walk from Imlil to Arroumd is easy as you follow the Mizane River. A well-defined mule track zigzags above the river before dropping to the valley floor before a crossing point to Arroumd, the largest village in the mizane valley.
Toubkal and the other major summits are for serious hikers. In winter, they are only for properly equipped, experienced mountaineers and not for walkers. Even in late spring, if ice and snow has not melted, mountaineers may need an ice ax and crampons.
Highlights Of Toubkal Trek :
Perched village of Arroumd
Walnut forest of Imlil
Mizane Valley with its small waterfall
Sidi Chamharouch shrine
Mount Toubkal
Trip details
Depending on your arrival time, there may be time to explore the exotic city of Marrakech.
After a leisurely morning and lunch in Marrakech, head to Imlil by minibus, a trip of just under two hours to the heart of the High Atlas range. In the afternoon, we’ll take a short walk to our mountain gite in Arroumd and explore the area.
Leaving the fields and walnut trees of Arroumd, follow the Mizane Valley to the small shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, a place of pilgrimage for many Moroccans. See the tomb of the local marabout (holy man) from a distance as non-Muslims are not allowed to cross the footbridge. Continue the climb up to the Neltner refuge. Check equipment and practice on surrounding snow. Depending on conditions, the guides will give basic instruction on using an ice ax and crampons.
6 hours walking, Alt. gain 1200 m, Alt. loss 0 m
Set off early to climb Jebel Ouanakrim, starting with a gentle walk up to the start of the valley. From here, there are several routes to the summit. Some sections are quite steep. The guide will decide the best route on the day. From the top, the views of Toubkal and the surrounding mountains are spectacular. In the late morning descend back to the refuge for a warm drink and a relaxing afternoon.
6 hours walking, Alt. gain 900 m, Alt. loss 900 m
Start early from Neltner Hut, our refuge, to to ascend Toubkal by climbing steeply through snow before crossing the southern ridge to reach the summit. Reaching the summit is a great accomplishment and offers spectacular views. Descend by the same route to the refuge for a late lunch.
6 hours walking, Alt. gain 960 m, Alt. loss 960 m
Head for a narrow pass, Tizi Ouanoums, in a steep gorge on the side of Toubkal. From here, look down the steep south face to the emerald green Lac D’Ifni below. After enjoying the views, return on the same route past the refuge to Arroumd.
7 hours walking, Alt. gain 457 m, Alt. loss 1664 m
After a short walk to Imlil, drive to Marrakech. Explore this exotic city. Bargain for souvenirs. Visit Djemaa el Fna, the city’s exciting, bustling open-air market place. The name means ‘place of death’ as it was where the Sultans used to display their enemies’s heads. Today, the square is a place of lively entertainment with its food stalls, snake charmers, water sellers, travelling musicians and acrobats. The modern shopping centers of the French-built ‘new town’ are close by.
After breakfast, head to the airport.