Mount Toubkal Difficulty: Tips, Tricks & What to Expect

Climbing Mount Toubkal is right up there on many a would-be adventurer's bucket list. And we totally get why. Not only is Mount Toubkal North Africa's highest peak, it's slap bang in the heart of the stunning Atlas Mountains.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or never climbed a hill before, read on to know what to expect before you attempt your own Mount Toubkal ascent.

But should you worry about Mount Toubkal difficulty? Let's get into it!

How Hard Is It?

An ascent of Mount Toubkal is considered a moderate to challenging climb.

You won't need technical climbing skills, but you will need a good basic level of physical fitness and you'll probably need to train a bit to improve your endurance before you go.

Climbing Mount Toubkal involves a long, sustained hike through rocks and scree, which can be challenging.

Whatever time of year you decide to climb, having the right gear and preparing yourself is the key to ticking this bad boy off the list.

Let’s get into what makes Mount Toubkal a challenging but rewarding trek.

The Altitude Challenge: Altitude Sickness

We've all heard of altitude sickness. At worst, it can develop into High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema or High Altitude Cerebral Oedema, which can be deadly.

Now for the good news though...

Mount Toubkal isn't high enough to cause many problems and the vast majority of climbers are fine - mountain sickness is incredibly rare.

However, there is always a remote possibility and guides are trained to watch for any potential symptoms.

There are a few things you can do to help avoid problems;

Acclimatisation: A night in Imlil at a lower altitude and a night at the Mount Toubkal refuge will help your body to acclimatise before climbing Mount Toubkal.



Hydration: Carry plenty of water and make sure you drink regularly during your trek.



Pace Yourself: Go slowly to give your body ample time to get used to the thinning air.

As we said, altitude sickness during a Mount Toubkal climb is incredibly rare so shouldn't be an issue.

Want total peace of mind? When you climb Mount Toubkal with us, our guides are fully trained to watch out for any symptoms of altitude sickness.

How to Climb Mount Toubkal

Climbing Mount Toubkal is an epic achievement, but you'll need to prepare yourself for physical and mental challenges.

While climbing Mount Toubkal isn't technical, don’t underestimate it - on summit day you'll be trekking for several hours over steep and rocky terrain.

Training Tips:

Think Cardio: activities like running, cycling and swimming will all help to build your endurance and stamina. As a good rule of thumb, aim for at least 30 minutes of cardio, 3-4 times a week.



Strength Training: you'll need to focus on exercises that strengthen your legs and core muscles. Squats, lunges and calf raises are all great.



Endurance Training: Include some long walks. Gradually increase the distance and get used to carrying a backpack. Include some hills and rougher terrain in your long walks.



Flexibility: we know, we know, nobody likes stretching, but it may help prevent injuries. Stretch before and after your workouts for the best results. Trust us.



Speak to your GP: If you have any worries or pre-existing health issues it’s a good idea to get the go-ahead.

The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy the climb and that stunning scenery!

Time Commitment

Consider how much time you have available when planning to climb Toubkal.

Whilst the most popular itinerary is a 4-day trip, you'll usually only be trekking for 2 days, with the other 2 being transfers.

On the first day of trekking, you'll start from Imlil and head up to the refuge.

On the second you'll start early for a summit attempt before coming back to Imlil.

If you're going for a winter ascent, you could allow an extra day as a contingency for bad weather but it's not usually required.

Essential Gear

The right gear can make or break your trip. Here’s rough guide to what to take to climb Mount Toubkal:

For Summer Climbs:

Breathable Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials will help keep you cool.



Hiking Boots: Well broken in and with good ankle support.



Daypack: For carrying water, snacks and first aid kit, plus warmer layers and waterproofs.



Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen to protect from the summer heat.



Hydration: Carry at least 2 litres of water and purification tablets.



Trekking poles will protect your joints

For Winter Climbs:

Insulated Clothing: Dress in layers - warm hiking socks, thermal base layer and a down jacket.



Crampons and Ice Axe: Must have for icy terrain - these can be hired if needed.



Winter Boots: Must be able to fit a step-in crampon.



Gloves and Hat: It can be up to -10 at the summit.



Emergency Gear: Basic first aid kit, whistle and head torch.

Fancy climbing Mount Toubkal with Call to Adventure?

You can rent crampons and ice axes from the guide. They'll also train you how to use them.

Climbing Mount Toubkal: Why Do I Need A Guide?

Want to climb Mount Toubkal independently? Sadly it’s no longer an option. Following an incident in 2018 where two tourists died, the Moroccan government has made it mandatory to use a guide when climbing Toubkal.

Benefits of using a Guide:

Safety: Guides are trained to deal with emergencies and know the mountains like the back of their hand.



Logistics: From permits to meals - everything's taken care of so you can focus on those views.



Cultural Knowledge: Local guides will give you a great insight into Moroccan culture and the environment.



Equipment: You can hire this cheaply from the guide.

What to Expect During your Mount Toubkal Trek

Day 1 - transfer to Imlil

We’ll pick you up from Marrakesh Airport and whisk you off to the Berber village of Imlil, where we’ll spend the night in a lodge.

If you land early you'll have time to explore Marrakech. We do two pick ups from the airport, one at 11am and the other at 3pm. Or we can offer a custom pick up for a £10 supplement.

Enjoy your first views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains over dinner.

Day 2 - trek to Refuge de Toubkal

The adventure begins! We’ll follow the Mizane Valley pass the village of Aroumd, then climb steadily to the pilgrimage shrine of Sidi Charamouch. You need to try the fresh orange juice from one of the stalls!

From here the trail climbs gradually, zigzagging up to the snowline and the Mount Toubkal Refuge at 3,206m. This is our base camp - we’ll stay in the hut (or camp if needed) overnight for our ascent tomorrow.

Day 3 - Jebel Toubkal Summit day

This is the big one!

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll get an early start for our ascent of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa! Our route takes us up the South Cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge. Although the walking is relatively easy, the scree and the altitude can make it feel quite hard work, but we promise, the views from the top will be worth it!

Once we reach the 4,167m summit you’ll be blown away by the views. We’ll be able to see the Marrakesh Plain and the High Atlas mountains in the north, and, if we’re lucky, as far as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara Desert.

After a few summit selfies and taking in those incredible views we’ll retrace our steps back down the mountain and down to Imlil, passing back through Sidi Charamouch.

Back in Imlil we’ll transfer to Marrakesh where we’ll stay the night in a basic but comfortable riad.‍

Day 4 - transfer to the airport and home

We’ll transfer you back to the airport (or the city centre if you prefer) for a sad goodbye after an amazing adventure.

You in?

Conquering Mount Toubkal is more than a trek; it’s a Moroccan adventure you'll remember for years to come.

Are you ready to tackle the highest mountain in North Africa and have the adventure of a lifetime?

Secure your spot on our Climb Mount Toubkal trip

Want to know more about the Mount Toubkal trek before you book?

Check out our ultimate guide:

'Climb Mount Toubkal Tips From Local Expert'