Mountains of contrast: exploring Toubkal and the Atlas Mountains
Just a short flight from Europe, Morocco’s Atlas Mountains offer an experience unlike any other—where soaring peaks meet centuries-old traditions, and the vibrant energy of Marrakesh fades into the timeless silence of high-altitude trails. Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, is at the heart of this landscape, drawing hikers and mountaineers eager to explore its rugged beauty. Whether tackling its summit, embarking on the multi-day Toubkal Circuit, or simply wandering through Berber villages and mule tracks, this region offers adventure, culture, and a true sense of escape.
Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, rises dramatically from the rugged landscapes of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Just a short-haul flight from Europe, this region offers an experience that feels a world away. From the moment you arrive, you are immersed in an entirely different culture – the vibrant sights of Marrakesh, the scent of spices drifting through the air, the rhythmic call to prayer, and the dazzling colours of traditional Berber clothing. Arabic script adorns the streets, while the city’s souks buzz with energy, filled with snake charmers, food stalls, and handcrafted treasures waiting to be discovered.
Once an isolated country, Morocco has opened its doors to travellers, offering an authentic and safe destination that remains unspoiled despite its growing appeal. It’s also surprisingly affordable, making it an accessible adventure for those seeking something truly different. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural intrigue of Marrakesh or the wild beauty of the mountains, Toubkal and its surrounding region offer incredible exploration year-round.
The Atlas Mountains unfold in a striking contrast to the city’s bustle – vast and timeless, with mule tracks winding through terraced valleys and ancient Berber villages. The journey to Toubkal begins in the foothills, where lush fields give way to dramatic ridges and deep gorges. The trek itself is a walking route in summer, manageable for those with good fitness, while in winter, the ascent transforms into a mountaineering challenge, requiring experience and the right equipment.
Beyond Toubkal itself, the region is a hiker’s paradise, offering both single-day and multi-day treks through the stunning landscapes of Toubkal National Park. The Toubkal Circuit, a six-day trek covering 68km (42 miles), circumnavigates the mountain, crossing high passes between 2500m and 3700m and passing through remote Berber settlements. The high mountain passes (tizis) offer some of the most spectacular views, with Tizi n’Ouanoums revealing the dramatic valley leading to Base Camp. Camping at Lake Ifni, Morocco’s highest lake, is another unforgettable highlight.
The Cicerone Toubkal guidebook details both the popular Ikhibi Sud and the less-travelled Ikhibi Nord routes to Toubkal’s summit. Ikhibi Sud is the more popular choice, known for its steady ascent and a shared sense of camaraderie among trekkers setting off in the early morning. Ikhibi Nord, by contrast, offers a quieter route, with a short scrambling section and even the haunting remnants of a 1960s plane crash in summer. Acclimatisation is key, as altitude sickness can catch visitors off guard, and the guidebook includes acclimatisation hikes to help trekkers adjust before heading higher.
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains is accessible year-round, with summer ascents running from June to August, while winter climbs—more challenging and requiring proper mountaineering experience—are best attempted between December and March. Off-season trekking is possible but comes with less predictable conditions. Most trekkers start from Imlil, the gateway to Toubkal and nearby peaks, and stay in traditional mountain villages or at Toubkal Basecamp before their summit push.
For experienced hikers, the possibilities extend far beyond Toubkal itself. The region boasts an extensive network of trails, leading through remote villages, high passes, and untouched wilderness. Aguelzim, a peak on the opposite side of the valley, provides one of the most stunning views of the entire Toubkal massif, from Imlil across to Tizi n’Ouanoums. Ouanoukrim, the second-highest mountain in Morocco, is another rewarding climb, along with several other 4000m peaks that provide breathtaking panoramas. Oxford Alpine Club maps are included for all major routes, with GPX files available for download to aid navigation.
Beyond the climb, the Atlas Mountains offer an immersion into Berber culture – warm hospitality, traditional tagines, and mint tea provide the perfect welcome after a day in the mountains. Unlike many well-trodden alpine routes, Toubkal retains a sense of adventure, where every step feels like a discovery. Choosing the right guide can make or break a trip, and many experienced local guides now have websites or social media where trekkers can connect before their journey.
Easily reached from Marrakesh, yet worlds apart in atmosphere, Toubkal and the surrounding Atlas Mountains offer an unforgettable trekking experience, combining dramatic landscapes with a deep sense of history and culture.
Climbing Toubkal
Climbing Morocco's Jebel Toubkal in summer and winter - hiking the Toubkal Circuit
£18.95
Guidebook to hiking Jebel Toubkal in Morocco's Atlas Mountains. Both summer and winter ascents are included along with acclimatisation routes. The Toubkal Circuit multi-day trek, which circumnavigates Jebel Toubkal, is also described in 6 stages. OAC maps are included for all routes.
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