Mt Toubkal Roof of the North 8 Day Trek

Dates & Prices Date range icon
Morocco, Africa
4000 - 6000m
8 days
£725pp or £29/18 months
This is Morocco done the mountain way. The 8-day Toubkal trek is more than just a summit mission, it’s a full journey into the heart of the High Atlas. Starting in the bustling souks of Marrakech and winding through remote Berber villages, rocky passes, and rugged valleys, this route gives you time to really soak up the landscapes and culture before taking on North Africa’s highest peak. With time to acclimatise, explore hidden corners of the Atlas, and savour mint tea with locals along the way, this trek blends mountain challenge with cultural immersion. And when you do hit that summit at 4,167m? You'll be standing on top of North Africa, with views that stretch from the Sahara to the Atlantic.
Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

Find out all of the awesome details about the trip and download the full guide and walkthrough right here.

Trip Highlights

  • Summit Mount Toubkal (4,167m), the highest peak in North Africa, after a gradual and scenic build-up.

  • Explore remote Berber villages and experience life in the High Atlas far from the tourist trail.

  • Trek through dramatic landscapes - from lush valleys to rocky passes and windswept ridgelines.

  • Enjoy real acclimatisation time with side hikes and longer days on the trail.

  • Start and end in Marrakech, with time to dive into the souks, spices, and street food of the Red City.

Why choose us for this adventure?

  • Best Guides On The Mountain

    Based in the Berber village of Imlil, our guides are true locals with deep-rooted connections to the region. They bring your trek to life with captivating insights into the history, culture, and beauty of the Atlas Mountains, often highlighted as the best part of the journey.

  • Exceptional Local Service

    Our team in Morocco is led by a prominent member of the Asni region, ensuring seamless transfers, top-notch accommodation, and deep connections in the local community

  • High Summit Success Rate

    With extensive planning and expert support, we maintain an exceptional success rate for Toubkal treks. Our guides summit Toubkal hundreds of times each season, using their unmatched knowledge of mountain conditions to keep you safe. Private Camps & Toilets

  • Winter & Summer Adventures

    Whether you prefer a sun-baked summer trek or a snowy winter challenge with crampons, EverTrek offers unforgettable experiences year-round.

  • More Than a Summit – A Full Atlas Adventure

    This 8-day itinerary gives you time to acclimatise, explore hidden valleys like Azzaden, and soak up Berber culture, not just race to the top. It’s the ultimate Toubkal experience, with more trail time, less altitude risk, and better summit success.

The EverTrek Difference

We go the extra mile – before you even hit the trail!

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Training Plan

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What's Included

  • 1-night accommodation at a local Riad or hotel in Marrakech/1 night in our Lodge in Imli/1 night in Mt Refuge near Toubkal. (shared accommodation is standard across all trips: solo trekkers will share twin hotel/Riad or Two-man tent with another of the same gender. The Toubkal Refuge is a mixed-gender dormitory.)
  • Fully qualified mountain guides & mountain crew (Porters, cook, muleteers)
  • National Park fees
  • Trek accommodation including Toubkal Lodge - tents may be used during the warmer months
  • EverTrek first aid kit (carried by guide)
  • Airport transfers
  • All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
  • EverTrek Trip Planner Mobile App
  • Exclusive equipment discounts from Ellis Brigham, Osprey, The Altitude Center and loads more

What customers say about us

Difficulty Gauge

Difficulty:

Moderate

How challenging is the trek?

The Toubkal 8-Day Trek offers more than just a quick summit. It’s a well-paced adventure through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, taking in remote valleys, traditional Berber villages, and high passes before the final push up Mount Toubkal (4,167m), the highest peak in North Africa.

The summit is non-technical, but don’t underestimate the challenge. With rocky trails, big elevation gains, and the effects of altitude, this trek demands a good level of fitness and strong legs, especially for summit day.

The beauty of the 8-day itinerary is that it gives you plenty of time to acclimatise, build your rhythm, and enjoy the cultural side of the trail and is overall less intense than the short weekender trip.

Pre-Trek Fitness Prep

Before taking on Toubkal, you should aim to:

  • Hike for 5 to 7 hours a day, carrying a 6 to 8kg daypack

  • Climb 800 to 1,000m in a day, with rough, uneven ground

  • Be comfortable trekking on consecutive days

  • Include hill walking, stairs, or elevation hikes in your training

If you’re looking for a manageable but still challenging summit goal, Toubkal is ideal. It’s achievable for fit beginners, and a great warm-up for higher-altitude expeditions.

What to expect on the trek

Altitude Challenges

Toubkal tops out at 4,167m, so while it's not extreme, the altitude is still noticeable, especially on summit day. The 8-day itinerary gives you time to acclimatise gradually, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and giving you a much better shot at enjoying the summit push.

You’ll cross several high passes over 3,000m, and spend at least one night at Toubkal Refuge, where you’ll launch your early morning summit attempt.

Duration

This is a full 8-day experience, including:

  • Time exploring Marrakech

  • Several trekking days through the Imlil Valley, Azzaden Valley, and surrounding Berber villages

  • A summit day from the refuge, which typically starts before dawn

Expect to walk 5 to 7 hours most days, with summit day being the longest around 9 to 10 hours of up and down, depending on pace and weather.

Terrain

The terrain is classic High Atlas: rugged, rocky, and steep in parts. Expect:

  • Mountain switchbacks, mule tracks, and loose scree

  • A mix of well-worn trails and uneven, rocky sections

  • No technical climbing, but the summit push involves a steep ascent and descent over scree

During winter or early spring, snow may cover parts of the summit trail, in which case crampons and an ice axe may be needed (your guides will provide them and show you how to use them safely).

Weather

Conditions in the Atlas Mountains vary by season:

  • Spring and autumn offer cool, clear conditions ideal for trekking

  • Summer can be hot in the lower valleys but more manageable at altitude

  • Winter brings snow, especially above 3,000m

Even in warmer months, mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially at the refuge. Layering is key, and a good-quality down jacket is recommended.

The Toubkal 8-Day Trek is the perfect trip if you’re after a challenging summit without the long-haul flight, want time to explore the High Atlas more deeply, and still want to bag a major peak. It’s physically demanding but very achievable, and ideal for anyone looking to prep for bigger mountains or squeeze in a big adventure in just over a week.

Essential Kit

Take a look at the recommended essential kit below to ensure you're fully equipped and ready to enjoy your trip to the fullest. A full and detailed packing list can be downloaded.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable Tourism

Because we only use local guiding teams it ensures your trip directly benefits the local mountain communities.

8-Day Mt Toubkal Roof of the North 8 Day Trek Itinerary

Upon arrival in Marrakech, a friendly member of the EverTrek team will be there to greet you and welcome you to the start of your adventure. You’ll then be transferred to your local hotel or Riad, where you’ll have time to relax or begin exploring this vibrant, historic city.

Marrakech is a feast for the senses, from the colourful souks and bustling streets to the scent of spices in the air and the rhythmic sounds of street performers in the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. You’ll be left in no doubt that your adventure has truly begun.

Wander through the maze-like markets in search of treasures, sip traditional mint tea, and soak up the lively energy as you chat and barter with local traders offering everything from exotic spices to handcrafted jewellery.

Meals included: Dinner

Today you’ll rise early and, after a hearty breakfast, complete the final preparations for your adventure. Then it’s time to hit the road, travelling through the rolling foothills of the Atlas Mountains.

The scenic drive takes you through the beautiful Mizane Valley to Imlil, your first trekking destination and the heart of the High Atlas. Along the way, the dramatic peaks begin to reveal themselves, and on a clear day, you may even catch your first glimpse of Mt Toubkal, your ultimate goal.

Imlil, with its stunning trails and traditional Berber charm, was chosen by Hollywood as a filming location for the movie Kundun. It’s the perfect place to settle in, stretch your legs, and take a gentle walk in the afternoon to begin the acclimatisation process.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is all about acclimatising and enjoying the stunning surroundings of the Imlil Valley.

Your guide will lead you along traditional Berber trails, giving you the chance to experience the rich history and culture of the local villages and their welcoming communities. If the weather is on our side, you may even have the opportunity to summit one of the smaller nearby peaks, reaching heights of up to 2,500 metres. From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views across the valley, a perfect taste of what’s to come.

This day not only helps your body adjust to the altitude, but also gives you a chance to familiarise yourself with the terrain you’ll be tackling in the days ahead.

You’ll return to Imlil in the afternoon for a well-earned meal and some rest, allowing your body to continue adapting as you prepare for the next stage of your adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today marks the start of your ascent towards Mt Toubkal as you trek through the stunning Mizane Valley towards the sacred shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, sitting at 2,310 metres.

This spiritual site, nestled beneath dramatic mountain slopes, is a place of pilgrimage for many Moroccans. You’ll have some time here to rest, take in the atmosphere, and refuel before continuing your journey upward.

From here, the trail gradually gains altitude as you make your way towards the Toubkal Refuge at 3,207 metres, your base for the night and the final stop before summit day. On arrival, your guide will brief you on the next day’s summit attempt, ensuring you’re fully prepared for what lies ahead. The rest of the evening is yours to rest, adjust to the altitude, and enjoy a well-earned meal.

Be sure to get an early night, tomorrow you’ll be aiming for the highest point in North Africa!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day you have all been waiting for, there is nothing quite like waking up on summit day!

You’ll wake before dawn and leave the refuge under the cover of darkness, your head torch lighting the path ahead as you begin your ascent.

The trail rises steeply from the outset, climbing a scree slope where the thin mountain air adds to the challenge, but every step is a step closer to the summit. After a steady push, you’ll reach a wide mountain pass offering incredible early morning views and a brief chance to rest. From here, the route turns towards the summit ridge for the final climb. As you ascend and step onto the summit plateau at 4,167 metres, you’ll be rewarded with an overwhelming sense of achievement, you’ve reached the highest point in North Africa.

The summit is marked by a distinctive metal tetrapod, making it a perfect spot for a celebratory photo. On a clear day, the views are breathtaking, stretching all the way back to Marrakech, a powerful reminder of how far you’ve come, both physically and mentally. The descent follows the same route, where you'll tread carefully back down to the Toubkal Refuge. With the summit behind you and the challenge conquered, it’s mission accomplished

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you have a choice to make, enjoy a restful morning at the refuge, or take on another exciting challenge with the option to summit Mt Ouanoukrim, North Africa’s second-highest peak.

After an early breakfast, those joining the summit team will begin the climb, first heading up to Tizi n’Ouagane at 3,750 metres. After a short break to catch your breath and take in the views, the route continues towards the summit.

This ascent includes a section of hands-on scrambling over loose rock, nothing too technical, and your experienced guide will be with you every step of the way to ensure a safe and steady climb. Once past this section, you’ll encounter the always-entertaining false summit, before crossing a rocky ridge to reach the true summit of Mt Ouanoukrim at 4,089 metres. After taking time to celebrate your achievement and soak in the panoramic views, you’ll retrace your steps back to the refuge.

Those who opted not to summit will be waiting at the refuge, where you'll all enjoy a final evening together in the heart of the High Atlas, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your final day in the mountains begins with a gentle, steady descent back down to Imlil.

As you make your way through the trails, take in the breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains one last time and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. On arrival in Imlil, you’ll say farewell to the amazing guides and porters who supported you throughout your ascent, a moment to share your gratitude and celebrate the team effort.

From here, you’ll travel back to Marrakech, arriving in the late afternoon. With a bit of extra time on your hands, you’ll be free to explore the city with fresh eyes, shaped by your mountain adventure.

In the evening, gather with your fellow EverTrekkers to enjoy a well-earned farewell feast, the perfect way to end an unforgettable trip.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your time in Morocco has come to an end, and your transfer will be waiting to take you to the airport for your journey home.

Depending on your flight time, you may have a final opportunity to soak up the sights, sounds, and vibrant colours of Marrakech, a last taste of the magic that makes this city so unforgettable.

As you head home, take a moment to reflect on your incredible journey and the unforgettable achievement of standing on the summit of Mt Toubkal. You've experienced something truly special, a story that will stay with you for years to come.

Meals included: Breakfast

Departure Dates & Prices

Saturday 16th August 2025 –
Saturday 23rd August 2025

£725pp

Sold Out Sold out
Sold out

Saturday 22nd November 2025 –
Saturday 29th November 2025

£725pp

Limited Availability Limited – only 3 spaces available
Book now

Saturday 14th March 2026 –
Saturday 21st March 2026

£745pp

OR £109 / 5 months

Available 5 spaces available
Book now

Saturday 23rd May 2026 –
Saturday 30th May 2026

£745pp

OR £78 / 7 months

Available 8 spaces available
Book now

Saturday 21st November 2026 –
Saturday 28th November 2026

£745pp

OR £42 / 13 months

Available 8 spaces available
Book now

Saturday 13th March 2027 –
Saturday 20th March 2027

£775pp

OR £34 / 17 months

Available 12 spaces available
Book now

Payment Flexibility

Save More When You Pay in Full

Bag yourself £100 off when you pay for your trip in full using code FULL100 at checkout when you book more than 3 months before departure.

Make Your Trip More Affordable

With our interest-free monthly payments (available on plans up to 18 months for trips booked 4+ months in advance) your dream trip just got more affordable and hassle-free.

Secure your space

Choose 'Book Now' to secure your spot or choose 'Save a Space' and we'll hold your spot for three days.

Don't see your preferred date? Just get in touch with us and we will see what we can do.

Food & Accommodation

When you’re trekking towards the highest peak in North Africa, you need great food and a good night’s sleep to keep you powering forward. During your time in Morocco, you’ll experience a fantastic mix of hearty meals, authentic Berber hospitality, and scenic, rustic accommodation.

Below is a breakdown of what you can expect for food and where you’ll rest your head throughout the trip, including the different accommodation styles depending on the season.

Food


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Throughout the adventure, meals are freshly prepared to keep your energy high and your spirits even higher.

While in Marrakech and Imlil, you’ll enjoy breakfasts and evening meals at the hotel or local lodges, giving you a chance to sample classic Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and harira soup. Think big flavours, warm spices, and plenty of hearty ingredients to keep you trekking strong.

Once you’re up on the mountain, meals are provided at the Toubkal Refuge or at camp, prepared by our fantastic mountain chefs. You’ll be well-fueled each day with nutritious, fresh dishes tailored to keep you going in the high-altitude environment. Vegetarian and other special dietary requirements can easily be catered for, just let us know in advance.

Typical Meals:
  • Breakfast: Moroccan breads, eggs, jam, porridge, fruit, tea and coffee to start your trekking day.
  • Lunch: Usually a picnic or cooked lunch with items like salads, pasta, tagines, or sandwiches eaten along the trail or at a scenic resting point.
  • Dinner: A full evening meal with soup, a hearty main course like couscous or chicken tagine, and something sweet for dessert.

Snacks: You’ll be provided with trail snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, biscuits, and chocolate bars for energy during the hiking days. Feel free to bring your favourite snacks from home too!

Drinks & Water: Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided daily during the trek. Tea, coffee, and juices are available at meal times. Alcohol is generally not available in the mountain lodges and refuges, but there’s plenty of mint tea to keep you refreshed.

Accommodation


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You’ll stay in a combination of comfortable hotels, traditional Berber lodges, and mountain refuges or tents depending on the season you trek.

  • Marrakech and Imlil: You’ll stay in carefully selected 3* hotels or charming local guesthouses featuring twin-share rooms with private bathrooms, hot showers, and a welcoming Moroccan vibe, the perfect place to relax before and after your trek.
  • During the trek: Winter Trips (Approx. November-March):
    You’ll stay at the Toubkal Refuge (also known as the Neltner Refuge) at 3207m. The refuge is basic but cosy, with bunk rooms and shared washing/toilet facilities. Sleeping bags are essential (you can hire these through EverTrek if needed). Summer Trips (Approx. April-October):
    During the warmer months, you’ll have the option sleep under the stars at scenic camping sites. High-quality two-person tents and thick foam mattresses are provided. Campsites offer basic facilities and are situated close to the refuge or nearby flat areas with stunning mountain views.

Accommodation is based on twin-share as standard throughout the trip. If you would prefer a single room or tent, this can be arranged for an additional supplement, just let us know at the time of booking.

Accommodation Summary Table
Day Location Accommodation Meals Included
1 Marrakech Hotel (3*) or similar Dinner
2 Imlil Berber Lodge Breakfast, Dinner
3 Imlil Berber Lodge Lunch, Dinner
4 Toubkal Refuge/Camping Refuge (winter) / Tents (summer) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5 Toubkal Refuge/Camping Refuge (winter) / Tents (summer) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6 Toubkal Refuge/Camping Refuge (winter) / Tents (summer) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7 Marrakech Hotel (3*) or similar Breakfast
8 Departure Day n/a Breakfast

FAQs

The Mt Toubkal, Roof of the North Weekender with EverTrek costs between £875 and £925, depending on your chosen departure year. This includes all accommodation, meals during the trek, internal transfers, the services of experienced local guides, and full support from our team. International flights to Marrakech, travel insurance, tips, and some meals in Marrakech are not included.

EverTrek uses the classic route from Imlil through the High Atlas Mountains, staying overnight at the Toubkal Refuge before the summit push. This well-established route offers incredible views across North Africa and a challenging but achievable ascent. The trek takes you through traditional Berber villages and allows time to explore the incredible culture and rugged landscapes of Morocco.

This trek is rated challenging. You’ll need a good level of fitness to trek 5 to 7 hours per day, including steep ascents and rocky, high-altitude trails. The summit day involves ascending to 4,167m, so strong legs, a steady pace, and mental determination are key. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not essential for success.

Training should focus on:

  • Cardiovascular fitness (walking, hill training, cycling, swimming)
  • Leg and core strength (strength exercises and loaded pack walks)
  • Endurance with back-to-back long hikes

We recommend training 3 to 5 times a week for at least 2 months before the trek. Joining an EverTrek UK training weekend (such as in Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons) is also a fantastic way to prepare physically and mentally.

You won’t need much money during the trek itself, as all meals, accommodation, and guiding services are included. However, you should bring some cash for tips, snacks, drinks in Marrakech, and souvenirs. Moroccan Dirham in small denominations is recommended, and cash is best for remote areas.

There are no showers during the trek, including at the Toubkal Refuge. However, toilets are available both at the refuge and along the trekking route. We recommend bringing wet wipes, biodegradable soap, and a flannel to stay fresh during the trek.

The best trekking seasons are:

  • April to October – Milder weather, clearer skies, and stable conditions for summiting.
  • November to March – Winter conditions, with snow on the summit. Technical equipment (like crampons) may be needed if you trek during these months, making it a more challenging winter mountaineering experience.

Tipping is customary in Morocco and greatly appreciated by your trekking team. We recommend budgeting around 10% of your total trip cost. For a trip priced between £645 and £695, a tip of approximately £65–£70 would be appropriate, this is usually pooled together by the group and allocated to the guides, chef and support crew.

Although Mount Toubkal is lower than major Himalayan peaks, altitude sickness can still be a risk above 3,000m. To minimise your chances:

  • Follow the gradual ascent itinerary
  • Drink 3–4 litres of water per day
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek
  • Recognise early symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness
  • Consider taking Diamox if recommended by your GP
  • Communicate openly with your guide about how you’re feeling — early intervention is key

Yes, your main duffel bag must not exceed 15kg, respecting porter welfare standards.
You will also carry a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, layers, and sun protection.
Pack light and smart, anything extra you don’t need on the mountain can be left securely at your accommodation in Imlil.

Mount Toubkal is a non-technical mountain, meaning you don't need any advanced climbing skills to reach the summit However, during the winter months (November to March), you will need to use crampons and a helmet to safely manage snow and ice conditions All necessary technical equipment for winter ascents is provided by the EverTrek team, so you won’t need to worry about bringing your own.