Toubkal Summit And Berber Villages Trek

Day 1 : Marrakech → Imi Oughlad → Tizi N’tachte → Tiziane

We commence our 5-day Toubkal summit and Toubkal trek with an early departure from Marrakech, embarking on a scenic journey southward through winding roads that lead us to Moulay Brahim gorge and the upper valleys. Eventually, we reach the higher foothills of the Western High Atlas Mountains. Our trailhead of Imi Oughlad offers stunning views of Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa (4167m), Aglzim (3650m), and Aksoual (3847m), their imposing heights looming before us as we ascend. Upon arrival, we meet our expert guides and the Berber muleteer crew.

Handpicked for their unparalleled local knowledge of Toubkal National Park, our guides ensure an enriching and exciting 5-day trek through the Berber villages. We kickstart our adventure with a 2-hour acclimatization hike towards the North-East, followed by a transition to mule tracks. Our route takes us through barley corn fields, pine forests, and juniper tree groves until we reach Tiz n’Tachete (2000m).

Pausing briefly to admire the panoramic views of Imlil and Ait Oussaden valleys, we marvel at the sight of Berber villages dotting the mountainsides. Continuing for another half-hour, we arrive at Imi n’Ifri, where we enjoy a picturesque picnic on the plateau. Following our break, we embark on a leisurely hike for approximately two and a half hours southwestward, tracing a dirt track through Assif n’Ait Oussaden to the ancient red clay terraced village of Tiziane (1750m).

Resting for the night in a cozy guest house, we prepare to continue our unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains

Day 2 : Tizziane → Tizi N’taghrhourte → T’kint

Our day begins with a hearty breakfast, preparing us for an exhilarating hike up to the Assif n’Ait Oussaden Valley. Meandering through walnut groves, we ascend to Tizi N’taghrhourte (1995m), reaching the tranquil Assaka spring. Here, we’re greeted with a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains and vistas, offering a moment of serenity amidst nature’s beauty.

Taking advantage of the peaceful surroundings, we indulge in a delightful field picnic, relishing the tranquility of the wilderness. Our afternoon journey leads us along the forest’s edge as we descend to the Berber village of D’knt (1870m) or Agouns n’Assoul, where we’ll savor a delicious dinner before retiring for the night in a cozy guest house.

Day 3 : T’kint → Tizi N’tagdalte -→Azib Tamsoult Hut

Begin your day with an energizing breakfast to prepare for a scenic 3-hour morning hike amidst lush walnut groves and sprawling cornfields. En route, you’ll encounter friendly sheep and goat herders, while glimpsing hardworking women and children carrying bundles of faggots and dried herbs on their backs.

Traverse the picturesque Tizi n’Tagdalte pass, descending through fragrant juniper forests until reaching a serene spring nestled among the trees. Take a leisurely break for a delightful field picnic, recharging amidst nature’s beauty.

Continuing on, wind your way down meandering paths along the upper slopes for another 3 hours, eventually arriving at a tranquil river marking the entrance to the Assif n’Ait Oussaden valley. Enter the charming village of Tizi Oussem (1850m), then ascend to the quaint summer settlement of Tamsoult, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy local hut.

Day 4 : Azib Tamsoult Hut → Tizi Agelzim → Toubkal Hut

Experience an invigorating journey after breakfast, heading eastward along moderately challenging mule tracks toward the majestic Tizi Aguelzim peak, towering at 3550m above sea level.

Following this ascent, continue on a scenic 3-hour hike to the south-east, leading you to the Toubkal Refuge. Situated at 3207m, this refuge serves as a pivotal point marking the transition to the spring snowline. Here, indulge in a satisfying dinner and spend the night nestled in the comfort of the Toubkal Hut, ready to embrace the adventures of the following day.

Day 5 : Toubkal Hut → Jbel Toubkal Summit → Imlil → Marrakech

Today, we’ll rise a bit earlier to evade the intense sun as we ascend Toubkal Mount. After a challenging 3-hour climb, we’ll conquer the highest peak in North Africa, soaring at 4167m above sea level.

The breathtaking panorama from the summit will effortlessly overshadow any physical discomfort, rewarding your efforts tenfold. When you’re ready, we’ll embark on a guided descent via the Ikkhibi Sud or South Cirque, a straightforward 2 to 3-hour journey back to the Refuge where a delightful picnic awaits.

Following a satisfying lunch, our journey continues northward along steeply descending, zigzagging trails through the higher slopes of the Assif N’isougane N’ouagounss Valley towards the Shrine of Sidi Chamharouch. Nestled beside a picturesque waterfall, this sacred site hosts a pilgrimage ‘Marabout’ shrine, believed to have roots in pre-Islamic culture yet restricted to non-Muslims.

After another 2-hour descent, we’ll arrive at the village of Imlil, a popular starting point for many treks, before concluding our adventure with a scenic car journey back to Marrakech.