North Africa’s highest mountain is the centerpiece of that incomparable view southwards from Marrakech, often shocking with its unexpected silvering of snow, but it also holds out an easier summer ascent.
For Atlas Trekking you need to prepare as you would for walking in any mountain region; it can be warm and sunny during the day but the weather in the mountains can quickly change from sunshine to snow and cold winds (autumn through late spring). Please do not leave any rubbish behind you; carry out what you carry in.
Atlas Treks are tailored to match the season and your level of fitness. You have the choice of basing yourself in Berber Guesthouses, from where you can take daily walks, or you can Atlas Mule Trek for 2+ days. On mule treks you usually have the choice of staying in Berber Guesthouse/with families or wild camping in 2-person tents. In addition to regular packing, here is a Check List for Atlas Trekking:
Pick up from the airport in Marrakech and transfer straight to Imlil (1740m) where you will spend the night at Imlil Lodge or Kasbah Imlil.. Transfer about 1,5 hour.
After breakfast you will start your trek. Heading along the Mizane Valley, we first pass the village of Aremd and then onto the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch. You then continue east and by crossing the flood plains your route takes you along mule tracks and up into the high rocky cliffs above the valley. Crossing the river you eventually come to the pastoral shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, which attracts tourists and pilgrims. From here the trail continues to climb steadily, snaking and zigzagging its way up to the snowline and the refuge (3206m). Here you will spend the night in a tent nearby the refuge. About 5 to 6 hours walking.
Early in the morning you make your attempt on the summit of Jebel Toukbal, the highest peak in Northern Africa. Your route takes you up the south cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge. The walking is relatively straightforward, but the scree and the altitude will make the going quite difficult in parts. The views along the way make the journey more than worthwhile. When you reach the summit you will see that the vistas across the surrounding landscape are quite breathtaking. From here there are unrestricted views in every direction, from the Marrakesh Plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. You will retrace your steps when you return down the mountain and head back towards Imlil. Transfer back to Marrakech. About 9 to 10 hours walking. Night in a riad in Marrakech.
Transfer back to the airport and departure back home.
Reserve your ideal trip early for a hassle-free trip; secure comfort and convenience!
Leave a comment: