The Great Atlas, Morocco

Tour around Morocco and ascent on Jebel Toubkal (4167m)

The Atlas massif is a true adventure for all lovers of hiking and untouched nature. It connects Morocco, Algeria and Tunis. In addition to ascending the highest peak of North Africa – Toubkal (4167m) – we will visit the ancient cities of Morocco and their most interesting cultural monuments. You will be surprised how many streams flow from all around, in a seemingly desert landscape. Massive waterfalls in the mountains seem especially unreal because you are in North Africa.

The village of Imlil is most fascinating, hidden among a thousand walnut trees. Starry skies above the Himalayas are a unique experience, admittedly, but in the mountains of North Africa their beauty is just as impressive. Sunrise is a memorable experience. The first rays of sun spread across the village like a hand fan, illuminating the houses and tree tops. Breakfast on the terrace with the aroma of local dishes mixed with the fresh morning air will bring peace to anyone. The locals live in simple houses with a flat roof, located in a drained swamp area. They speak mostly Berber, Arabic or French. They live in an interesting community and are very hospitable. Before you even manage to look around, you’ll find yourself surprised by this unusual journey full of sun rays, snowy peaks, new experiences and fun moments.

Itinerary

Day 1

MARRAKESH- IMLIL

Meeting at the airport. Transfer from Marrakesh to Imlil (about 1 hour drive). Imlil is a picturesque Berber town, located in the western highlands of the Atlas. Accommodation in a guesthouse. Dinner.

Day 2

IMLIL – TOUBKAL MOUNTAIN CHALET

After breakfast, trekking through the Mizane valley. A short stay in the authentic village of Aremd. Passing near the Sidi Shamarouch shrine whose beauty attracts tourists and pilgrims. Walking to the East, taking the direction which loaded mules had been taken for centuries. Passing by the large rocky parts typical for this region, and then hiking the windy road to the Toubkal mountain chalet (3206m). Accommodation. Dinner.

Day 3

TOUBKAL MOUNTAIN CHALET- JEBEL TOUBKAL (4167m) - TOUBKAL MOUNTAIN CHALET

Breakfast. Early morning hiking to the highest peak of North Africa – Jebel Toubkal (4167m- about 6 hours of hiking). After a short stay at the top return to Toubkal mountain chalet. Well-deserved rest and dinner.

Day 4

TOUBKAL MOUNTAIN CHALET – IMLIL

Breakfast. Descent to Imlil for a proper rest and celebration of the ascent of the Great Atlas. Dinner. Overnight stay.

Day 5

IMLIL - MARRAKESH

Breakfast. Transfer from Imli to Marrakesh. Accommodation in the hotel. Day scheduled for visiting Marrakesh (Ali ben Youssef Medersa, The Koutoubia, Bahia Palace). On the streets and bazaars of Marrakech you can find a variety of interesting things (from snake handlers to traders that offer Berber magical love potions). Dinner.

Day 6

MARRAKESH

Breakfast. A day devoted on visiting museums and cultural monuments in Marrakesh with a guide. Dinner. Overnight stay.

Day 7

MARRAKESH – ESSAOUIRA (MOGADOR)

After breakfast, transfer to the famous city on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodation at the hotel. Tour of the fort and the bazaar. Those who wish can try surfing, windsurfing & kitesurfing as this is the top destination for these activities. Dinner. Overnight stay.

Day 8

ESSAOUIRA (MOGADOR)

Breakfast. A day for sightseeing and leisure activities. Dinner. Overnight stay.

Day 9

MARRAKESH

Breakfast. Transfer to the Marrakesh airport for your flight home.

Dates & Prices

July 3rd, 2023
Spots available: 7 950 €, Per Person

F.A.Q.

What’s included in the price?
To maximize convenience, we include as much as possible, so you can just relax and think about hiking. Here’s what’s included:

  • Minibus transfers from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the airport
  • Minibus transport on the route Marrakech – Imlil – Marrakesh
  • Train transport on the route Marrakech – Mogador – Marrakesh
  • Accommodation in 4* hotel  in Marrakech based on half board in 1/2 rooms
  • Accommodation in 4* hotel  in Mogador based on half board in 1/2 rooms
  • Accommodation in 3* guest house “Dar Adrar” in Imlil in 1/2 and 1/3 rooms, half board.
  • Accommodation in Toubkal mountain lodge in multi-bedded rooms, half board.
  • Professional guide during the trek
  • Trekking permits and fees for National Park

What does not included in the price?

  • Flights to/from Marrakesh
  • International Health Insurance
  • Visa for Morocco (if needed)
  • Tickets for individual visits to museums, national attractions, etc.
  • Personal costs

You will need to cover flights; insurance and extra spend. You’ll need to book your flights to and from Marrakesh, travel insurance and cover other personal expenses (etc. drinks, souvenirs…).

What’s the hike like?
The hike is moderate. The first-day hike lasts around 5 to 6 hours, with easy pace. You will walk on the mountain trail. It is safe and solid. It can be very hot and you need some sun protection and a lot of water in your backpack. Second day we stay at Toubkal mountain chalet and take a hike around 2-3 hours. Third day is the summit day when you walk up 4 hours and back 2 hours.

What’s the city tour like?

All-day city tour is organized with a tour guide and transportation. We will see the most important cultural and historical monuments in Marrakesh.

What skills/experience/fitness do I need?

You need moderate level fitness level. The previous hiking experience at altitudes up to 4000 above sea level is not mandatory. Your guide will give you full instructions and a safety briefing at the start.

What do I need to bring with me?

  1. Backpack (up to 50l)
  2. Sleeping bag
  3. Trekking trousers
  4. Gore-Tex jacket (or anything waterproof)
  5. Hiking shoes
  6. Socks (thermal + cotton)
  7. Cotton T shirts
  8. Base layer shirt and thermal long underwear pants (active underwear)
  9. Woolen cap (or polar)
  10. Hat (sun protection)
  11. Polar fleece
  12. Gloves
  13. Towel and toiletries kit
  14. Sunglasses
  15. Head lamp
  16. Water Bottle 1Lx2
  17. Medicines and vitamins
  18. Sunscreen ( SPF 30 or higher) + lip cream
  19. Raincoat
  20. Trekking poles

 

 

What are the guides like?
All the activities on this trip will be led in English by qualified and licensed UIAA guide.

What’s the food like?
All food is local and is freshly cooked, hearty mountain meals. These include domestic cheese and other local milk products, dry meat specialties, fish, local fruit, fresh fruit and vegetable. We can organize your meal in the way you like. The drinks are not included.

Can my dietary requirements be catered to?
Absolutely. Just let us know when you fill in your travel documents.

When can I go on this trip?
Book on to our pre-set dates above. If you are considering alternative dates, the perfect time for this adventure is during May/June and September/ October

What’s the weather like?
Early summer and early autumn are the best periods to visit this region. In summer the average temperature in Morocco can be around is 40 degrees, but on the mountain is colder and the temperature is around  20 degrees Celsius. Autumn is slightly chillier but still really pleasant and the colors are stunning. On the top of the mountain there can be some snow parts.

Which flights should I book?
You should book flights to Marrakesh airport.

How do I meet the transfer?
At your arrival, the transfer will be holding a sign with the name of the tour. We’ll give you all extra details before traveling.

How big will the group be?
This trip will run with a minimum of 6 people, and a maximum of 15. Please note, if there are not 6 people booked the trip may be rearranged or cancelled. Please contact us for confirmation before booking your flights, or book with a credit card.

Can I customize the trip?
Of course! For private groups of six or more, the trip can run on any days you wish, be extended or changed to suit your needs. Enquire now for a private trip.