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Classic Toubkal
This popular 8-Day Classic Toubkal Trek circumnavigates the highest point in North Africa as well as summiting it. An excellent value trip that is virtually all inclusive in country.
On arrival in Marrakesh, you will overnight in a traditional Riad just minutes from the Djemaa el Fna square (the traditional centre of the city), which comes alive at dusk with a plethora of live local entertainment.
The following day you have a 90 min drive into the foothills of the High Atlas from where your English speaking Moroccan Guide will lead you through some very varied countryside dominated by Berber villages (mountain people). Many of the villages are literally dug into the hillsides and you can be sure of a warm welcome wherever you go. You will slowly gain altitude as you progress over a few Passes, which will see some scenery changes from harsh stony ground to lush terraced farmland.
On day 5 you will reach the mountain Refuge of Nelter (3200m); a large remote building which marks the entrance to the ascent of Toubkal. You will stay here the night in preparation for your ascent the following day.
It is, on average a 4hr ascent to the summit and you will therefore need an early start to ensure that you reach the summit during optimal weather conditions. The weather is never guaranteed so you will need to be well prepared for all eventualities; the conditions can change rapidly in this micro-climate. Although the descent will be much faster, there is a fair amount of scree on this route so trekking poles are a good investment to assist your footing and balance.
The height of the summit (4167m) is more than enough to catch those more susceptible to altitude sickness. A delayed headache might occur but it should subside as quickly as it appeared once you descend. You may have to rest a while if it persists.
Your final trekking day will see you arrive at Imlil and then back into Marrakesh for a final night’s celebration before you head for the UK the following day.
