Just an hour and a half from Marrakech, the village of Imlil is the gateway to Toubkal National Park and the best starting point for hiking in the High Atlas.
Imlil, the hikers’ village
Imlil lies at about 1,740 meters, in a valley of walnut and cherry trees and terraced fields. Routes for all levels start here: walks of a couple of hours to Berber villages such as Aroumd, or treks of several days between valleys.
Climbing Toubkal
Jebel Toubkal, at 4,167 meters, is the highest peak in North Africa. The usual ascent takes two days: on the first you walk from Imlil to the refuge (about 5-6 hours) and on the second you climb to the summit before dawn to watch the sunrise and then descend back to Imlil. Outside winter no climbing experience is needed, but you do need good fitness and a mountain guide, which is compulsory in the national park.
Easy routes in the valley
If you don’t want to summit, there are beautiful walks: the Imlil waterfall, the village of Aroumd, the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch or the Tizi n’Mzik pass, with views of Toubkal. Along the way it is common to stop for tea in a Berber house.
When to go
May to October is the best time to climb Toubkal without snow. In winter the summit is snow-covered and you need crampons and an ice axe. In spring the valleys are green and full of flowers.
Tips
- Wear hiking boots and bring warm clothes and sun protection.
- Acclimatize well and drink plenty of water: you will feel the altitude.
- Always hire an accredited local guide.
Recommended trips in the High Atlas
- The High Atlas Mountains in Morocco
- Ourika Valley from Marrakech
- Excursion to Ait Ben Haddou from Marrakech
- Tours from Marrakech
Travel with Vamos a Marrakech
We organize excursions to the High Atlas from Marrakech and cross it on all our desert routes. Write to us and we will plan a tailor-made trip for you.