Mt. Toubkal (Jebel Toubkal)

The Basics

The trail up Mount Toubkal starts in Imlil, a town about 1 hour from Marrakech. On the first day, head up to the Toubkal Refuge, located at about 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level, where the air is crisp and cool, then take the final approach before dawn the next day up a steep, scree-laden slope. Many visitors hike the mountain with a tour operator that provides food and accommodations.

Things to Know Before You Go

• You must be physically fit to climb Mount Toubkal; many parts of the climb are challenging.
• You can make the climb to the summit in two days, but a less rushed three-day itinerary is optimal.
• Be aware that the trek takes you up to high altitudes; make sure you have plenty of water and take precautions against altitude sickness.
• Tours are not wheelchair accessible, and some may have age minimums.

How to Get There

The drive from Marrakech to the base camp at Imlil takes about 75 minutes. You can hire a private driver to take you to Imlil or take a “grand taxi” (a shared ride). Most travelers come with tours that include round-trip transportation.

When to Get There

The best time to climb Mount Toubkal is in the spring (April or May) or the autumn (September or October). Climbing Mount Toubkal in the summer (June through August) is difficult due to the heat. From November to May, you may need to use an ice axe and crampons.

What Goes Up Must Come Down

Most climbers descend the same way they go up—via the South Col, which is the most direct route. There is, however, another, more adventurous and dramatic way to head down: via the North Col. This route is less direct and passes the scattered remains of a Portuguese Army cargo plane, which crashed in the 1960s. From there, it’s about 4 to 6 hours to the refuge, where weary trekkers can enjoy a hearty meal.

What’s the best way to experience Mt. Toubkal?

There are plenty of ways to experience Mt. Toubkal. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Atlas Mountains & 5 Valleys Tour from Marrakech - All inclusive
• Atlas Mountains & 5 Valleys Day Tour from Marrakech - All inclusive
• Private Atlas Mountains and 5 Valleys Tour from Marrakech - All inclusive
• 3-Days High Atlas Mountains Hiking Tour from Marrakech
• 3-Day Mount Toubkal Climb from Marrakech

How much does it cost to visit Mt. Toubkal in 2024?

While you don’t need a tour to visit Mt. Toubkal, it’s highly recommended, and you must have a guide to hike to the summit. Guided group tours to the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech start from US$21, with views of Mt. Toubkal, while 2-day hiking tours start at US$50.

How difficult is the trek to the summit of Mt. Toubkal?

Hiking Mt Toubkal is considered an easy ascent for a mountain of its height—13,665 feet (4,165 meters) —as it requires no technical mountaineering experience. However, you will still need a good fitness level to manage the hike, as some tours will hike up to 10 hours a day.

Do I need a guide to hike Mt. Toubkal?

Yes. While you can visit the Imlil Valley and Atlas Mountains independently, hiring a local guide to hike Mt. Toubkal is mandatory. Checkpoints are stationed along the hiking trail and at the mountain refuge to ensure hikers' safety and verify your ID and your guide’s credentials.

What is the typical duration of a Mt. Toubkal trek?

Most treks to the summit of Mt. Toubkal take two days, although some tours take three or even four days. A standard 2-day trek includes about five hours of hiking on day one, followed by an up to 3-hour hike to the summit the next morning in time for sunrise.

What should I pack for a Mt. Toubkal trek?

To hike Mt. Toubkal, you’ll need proper hiking shoes or boots. Lightweight, layered clothing is recommended, including warm clothes for the evening and a sun hat. You should also bring a sleeping bag, a headtorch for the early morning climb, your passport, and plenty of water and snacks.