Jebel Toubkal Weather: What to Expect When You Climb

Understanding Toubkal Weather

Jebel Toubkal weather is famously changeable. Expect hot, dry lows in the valleys and far cooler conditions higher up. In Marrakech summer days often hit 35–40°C. Up on the mountain it’s cooler, but still exposed: around 5–15°C by day near the refuge (~3200m) and close to freezing on early-morning summit pushes.

In winter the summit (4167m) can drop to around −10°C on a bad day, colder with wind chill. Snow, ice and strong winds are all possible from roughly December to April, with shoulder months swinging either way.

I was there in January 2024 and we had very pleasant temperatures so good days are very possible in winter but don't bank on it.

Wind matters as much as temperature. A moderate breeze can feel fine; 50–70 km/h on the ridge can be brutal and dangerous. UV is strong year-round at altitude and snow can make the glare intense.

Check a mountain-specific forecast before you travel and keep an eye on updates while you’re there. Signal can be patchy higher up, so plan ahead.

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Toubkal Weather by Season

Spring (March–May)

• Mostly mild with variable conditions. March and early April can still hold firm snow/ice high up; late April into May trends milder. Traction may be needed early spring—check conditions before you go.

Summer (June–August)

• Base (Imlil, ~1700m): 20–30°C; generally dry with possible afternoon storms; wind 5–15 km/h. Light clothing recommended—pack a waterproof for showers.
• Refuge de Toubkal (~3200m): 10–20°C; generally dry with possible afternoon storms; wind up to 25 km/h. Temperature and wind vary—layer up.
• Summit (4167m): 5–15°C; generally dry with possible afternoon storms; wind up to 25 km/h. Expect much cooler temps at the top and strong sun.

Autumn (September–November)

• Often a sweet spot for trekking: cooler, clearer and quieter than summer. First snows can arrive from late October/November—reassess crampon/ice axe needs as the season advances.

Winter (December–April)

• Base (Imlil): 5–15°C; snow likely, especially Dec–Feb; wind up to 15 km/h. Chilly but manageable—pack warm clothing.
• Refuge de Toubkal: around 0°C; snow likely, especially Dec–Feb; wind up to 40 km/h. Conditions can be harsh—bring full winter gear.
• Summit: down to −10°C; snow likely, especially Dec–Feb; wind up to 40 km/h. Extreme cold—proper winter equipment and skills required.

Here's a summary table I created as a useful reference:

Toubkal Weather Forecast

Use a mountain forecast that gives data by elevation for Toubkal (e.g. summit and 3000–3500m levels), not a city forecast for Marrakech. Check:

• Wind speed at 4000–4200m (comfort and safety hinge on this).
• Freezing level (tells you where snow/ice may sit).
• Precipitation timing (snow versus rain) and thunderstorm risk windows.
• Updates close to your climb; forecasts degrade quickly in mountains.

Remember that forecasts are just guides and may change fast. Carry what you need for wind, rain/snow and sharp temperature drops. Expect the mountain’s weather to be very different from the rest of Morocco.

Preparing for the Climb:

Knowing how Toubkal weather behaves helps you pack smart and move safely. Conditions shift with season and altitude, and they can swing within a single day. Start early, pace steadily, and choose layers you can add and strip quickly.

Best Time to Climb Jebel Toubkal

The most reliable windows are spring (late April–May) and autumn (September–October): milder temperatures, generally dry underfoot, and fewer crowds than peak summer.

• Summer (June–August) is perfectly doable, but hot and exposed. Carry plenty of water (aim 2–3 litres per day; more in heat), manage sun, and expect busier trails in holiday periods.
• Winter (December–April) is a brilliant adventure if you’re equipped for it: cold, snow and ice add spice and scenery. You’ll need crampons and an ice axe and to know how to use them. Beginners are welcome on our guided trips—your guide will give you the skills.

Staying Safe on the Mountain

• Weather hazards: snowstorms and whiteouts in winter; strong winds year-round; heat exhaustion and dehydration in summer; sudden temperature drops with cloud and wind.
• Sensible cut-offs: if winds at 4000m are severe or storms are building, turn back or delay. The mountain will be there tomorrow.
• Avalanche note: after heavy fresh snow, some slopes can load up—follow current advice and your guide’s decisions.
• Start times: pre-dawn summit starts help you use firm morning snow in winter and dodge heat/thunder in summer.
• Hydration and fuel: sip steadily and snack often. In cold, insulate your water.

What to Pack (by season)

Summer

• Sun hat, high-factor sunscreen and lip balm; UV category 3–4 sunglasses.
• 2–3 litres of water capacity; electrolytes help in the heat.
• Light, breathable layers; waterproof jacket for surprise storms.
• Trekking poles save knees on long, loose descents.

Spring/Autumn

• Warm mid-layer and lightweight insulated jacket for the summit.
• Windproof gloves, beanie, and waterproofs—conditions flip fast.
• Depending on conditions, traction (microspikes or crampons). Check before you go.

Winter

• Proper winter boots, crampons and an ice axe (hire is possible locally).
• Warm layers, including thermals, insulated jacket, good gloves (liner + insulated + shell if it’s really cold), and a buff/balaclava.
• Goggles or high-protection sunglasses for snow glare.
• A 4-season sleeping bag if you’re staying at altitude; otherwise a warm 3-season bag usually suffices the rest of the year.

Pro tip: trekking poles can be a game-changer for long, uneven descents. I never used to like them—now I’m a convert.

Want more on Toubkal?

Dive into our Ultimate Guide to Toubkal, including an interview with a local guide with over 30 years’ experience.

Want to learn more about our Toubkal trips?

click Mount Toubkal Trek

Or if you want a winter trip, Mount Toubkal Winter Trek