After 20 years of climbing Mount Toubkal in Morocco, here are our top tips for climbing Mount Toubkal. Toubkal offers an unforgettable adventure, combining stunning landscapes with a rich cultural experience. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable trek. For more information or to book your climb with us, get in touch today!
Top 10 Tips for Climbing Mount Toubkal in Morocco
Climbing Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 13,671 feet, is a rewarding experience for trekkers. With over 20 years of leading groups to this stunning mountain, we’ve refined the process to ensure our clients have the safest and most enjoyable climb. Here are our top 10 tips to help you prepare:
1). Acclimatization
Mount Toubkal is not a two day climb as you will see sold on the Internet. Unless you live at altitude and using to hiking eight plus hours per day, you need five days for the climb. We only a seven day itinerary with optimal safety in mind. Mount Toubkal’s altitude requires careful acclimatization.
Spending more than two days adjusting to the thinner air at higher elevations significantly increases your chances of success. Safety through acclimatization should be your Number one considerations when it comes to any high altitude adventure.
2). Physical Preparation
You need to be in good physical condition, capable of hiking for up to 8 hours on back-to-back days. The trails are rocky and can be steep in sections, so training on uneven terrain with a weighted pack is recommended.
We will set a manageable pace during the ascent and descent, but preparation is key to enjoying the experience.
3). Have the Correct Clothing
Morocco’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. If you climb in the winter you will need a very specific layers and equipment. Similarly, if you hike Toubkal in the summer the gear you need it critical for safety and success.
A detailed kit list will be provided in our trip dossier, but make sure you pack layers to adjust to varying temperatures. This includes a waterproof jacket, warm clothing for cold mornings, and breathable fabrics for sunny days. Contact us for further information.
4). Arrive Early in Marrakech
We recommend arriving early to acclimatize to the new environment, especially if you’re traveling from the US or another distant location. An extra day helps with jet lag and gives you time to explore the vibrant city of Marrakech. Starting your trek well-rested and relaxed makes a significant difference.
5). Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Hydration is critical at altitude. Drink plenty of water throughout the trek, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Eating a balanced diet, including snacks during the hike, will provide the energy needed for the climb. We ensure meals on the trek are hearty and nutritious.
6). Use Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are invaluable for reducing strain on your knees during steep ascents and descents. They also provide extra stability on rocky or uneven terrain. Ensure your poles are adjustable and lightweight for maximum comfort.
7). Choose the Right Footwear
Proper hiking boots are essential. Opt for boots with ankle support and a sturdy sole suitable for rocky trails. Break in your boots before the trek to avoid blisters or discomfort. Pair them with moisture-wicking socks for added comfort.
8). Pack Light but Smart
Your pack should contain essentials such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and extra layers. Keep your load light to conserve energy but ensure you have everything needed for a day on the trail. Our team can assist with gear checks before the trek.
9). Respect the Environment and Local Culture
Mount Toubkal lies within Toubkal National Park, a protected area with stunning biodiversity. Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and minimize your impact. Additionally, take the time to appreciate and respect Berber culture, as you’ll pass through villages where traditions are deeply rooted.
10). Trust Your Guides
Our experienced guides are there to ensure your safety and success. They set a comfortable pace, monitor your condition, and provide valuable insights about the mountain and its surroundings. Listen to their advice, follow instructions carefully so you get the most out of journey to North Africa’s Highest Peak.
Top Tips for Climbing Mount Toubkal
Don’t be Disappointed
Mount Toubkal’s summit stands at 4,167m (13,671 feet) above sea level, Mount Toubkal – also known as Jebel Toubkal – is the highest mountain in Morocco, the Atlas Mountains, North Africa and the Arab World.
I have been to the mountain many times over the last 20 years and although you will read about people making speed ascent and two ascents. Trust me, you need more time, especially if you live at sea level and not an avid hiker.Check out our itinerary.
How Long Does it Take to Climb Mount Toubkal?
The Mount Toubkal ascent requires five days. There are some 6+ hours days of hiking to best be prepared for hiking on uneven terrain. We will follow a zigzagging path up into the rocky valley towards towering snow-dusted peaks on the horizon.
We spend three nights at the Refuge at 3,207m at the base of Toubkal where we’ll enjoy the best rooms and our base for our acclimatization hikes.
What is the Weather Like on Mount Toubkal?
Located in Morocco’s Atlas Mountain range, Mount Toubkal is often considered a hot trekking destination. However, while temperatures in Marrakech will range between 80°F and 100°F during the summer trekking season, the valleys of the High Atlas Mountains are typically cooler, especially the further up you walk.
The weather is mostly dry, with very little rainfall and clear blue skies, but clouds of mist can roll in over the mountains as you gain altitude. In winter the temperatures can drop to around 20°F at night, while in summer on our Toubkal Long Weekend they stay above 50°F on average.
If you fancy a more challenging Mount Toubkal trekking experience, book our Toubkal Climb tour in April, May or October, November when the temperatures are lower, and there’s a chance of some early/late snow on the summit. We also manage full winter ascents.
What is the Best Food for Climbing Mount Toubkal?
We have designed our menu to support the depends of a multi-day trekking adventure. It’s vital that you eat enough of the right food to get you up and down Mount Toubkal safely.
Every day, our hard-working trekking support team cooks up delicious freshly-prepared meals to replenish your energy reserves and refuel you for the next leg, including a very hearty breakfast on summit day.
Tuck into juicy fruit and crisp salads, as well as nuts and dates throughout the day, and if you want extra supplies, snacks are available to buy along the route. Last but not least, it’s crucial to keep well hydrated at all times to prevent dehydration.
What Should I Pack to Trek up Mount Toubkal?
To make the most of your Mount Toubkal trek, make sure you’re well prepared. The weather can change in an instant up in the mountains so pack layers of moisture-wicking clothing that you can easily add or remove depending on the conditions.
Temperatures tend to drop dramatically at night, so a warm fleece, a good-quality down jacket and a wind and waterproof shell jacket are essential. We recommend bringing some breathable trekking pants and on summit day, you’ll also need a warm hat, buff waterproof/windproof gloves and a head torch for the pre-sunrise trek.
For your feet, we suggest trekking boots with ankle support paired with liner socks under a pair of merino wool full cushion trekking socks. Good-quality sunglasses (category 4) will protect your eyes from glare at high altitudes and make sure you use a high factor sunscreen. We will provide an itemized kit list on signing up.
A High-Quality Sleeping Bag
A high quality sleeping bag is an absolute must, whatever the time of year you visit Mount Toubkal. A 3-season sleeping bag (15F) is recommended June – August and a 4-season (0F) one in April, May, September, October and November.
Bring a refillable Camel bak hydration reservoir along with a Nalgene bottle. We won’t have electricity at some of the stopovers, so bring a power bank to charge your phone or camera, and you might want some extra batteries for your torch.
Finally, take a 30L backpack to carry everything you need during each leg of the hike. The rest of your kit will be carried up to the next camp by our mules.
Consider Nuun tablets or Luquid IV for optimal hydration. Consider some energy bars, protein bars and trail mix that can be used on the summit day.
Treat Your Feet Well
Never underestimate having the correct trekking boots and the importance of good socks. We recommend have two pairs of merino wool socks and an additional pair for the summit night and one more for your change of clothing in camp.I prefer smartwool products.
It is worth having compeed blister pads with you. We will provide you with a full list of everything you need for the climb.
Break in your Trekking BootsI
If you are hiking on a regular basis this should not be a problem, but if you have been doing most of your training on a stair master. It’s a good idea to do some hiking in the boots you’re going to wear prior to climbing Toubkal.
Mentally and Physical
Without the physical training it’s hard to apply the mental The hiking route, from the summit of Jebel Toubkal heading back to Imlil, where the hike starts. If you’re going to climb up and down it over the course of a weekend you’ll need to go at a fairly decent pace. On the first day of the climb, you’re walking 6.2 miles (10km) and racking up 1,540m of elevation. On the second day, it’s a full 10.5 miles (17km); 1,130m up, 2,530m down.
Needless to say, this isn’t your standard walk in the park. The days can be long, and you’ll have to call on your old friend ‘stamina’ in order to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Mentally speaking, the way down can be harder as you’ll feel like you’ve already achieved what you set out to achieve (and you’re going over old ground, albeit with a view in a new direction). Just remember to keep enjoying the incredible views, the brilliant company and the fact you’ve just summited a peak over 4,000m above sea level. Remember to smile.
Head Torch
Knowing exactly where your head torch is, and being able to access it easily, might sound like overly simplistic advice. But when you’re desperately scrabbling around for it in the darkness of the mountain refuge.
Refuge du Toubkal might be a step up on your standard Scottish hut in terms of amenities, but its size can also make it trickier to explore after dark.
The multi-storey refuge was built in 1938 and houses four dormitories. The biggest of these sleeps 27 in a relatively tight space (if you’re a light sleeper, you’ll be wanting to take some earplugs). Just over 80 people can stay here in total, making for a fun but crowded atmosphere in the dining area when it’s at capacity.
The refuge’s bathroom has two basic showers and three toilets, so you’re reasonably well catered for on that front – but the corridors are not, in my experience at my least, well-lit. Hence: head torch.
More importantly than helping you find your way to the toilet in the night, though, your head torch will come into its own when you leave the refuge well before daybreak in order to catch epic sunrise views up on the summit. Keep things efficient. Keep your mountain path well-lit. Keep that head torch close.
Respect the Altitude
Just because the Atlas Mountains are not the Himalayas, and Toubkal isn’t Mount Everest, doesn’t mean altitude sickness isn’t a thing. It is important to pick an itinerary with more acclimatization not less.
I see people with altitude sickness on Toubkal and it makes no sense. Are you coming on holiday to get sick? It is crazy to not have more days and nights sleeping at altitude to over a better experience. It is also a safety issue as you will not be as aware of your surroundings as you need to be.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
If you feel unwell on the mountain, tell one of our guides as they have a tool kit for high altitude. Even if you’re close to the summit, it’s always okay to stop or turn back.
What I would say to anyone thinking about taking on Toubkal. Take more time! and pick a longer itinerary. It is that it’s worth gaining some awareness of altitude sickness before signing up. Knowing the signs to look out for in yourself and others is sensible.
Listen to Our Guides
Our guides you’re with, of course, have a sharp sense for this kind of thing but you’ll make their job easier if you’re on the lookout too.
Even if you’re close to the summit, it’s always okay to stop or turn back. You should always carry Diamox and Ibuprofen is a must. Respect the mountain, respect how your body’s feeling and follow our pace for a safe and successful ascent and descent.
Drinking alcohol before or during a big climb should also be avoided, and can dehydrate you. Toubkal is a mountain at high altitude – so be smart.
Take Some Cash
It’s unlikely you’ll be doing much shopping on Toubkal. There are some lovely souvenir stalls on the trail; selling local handcrafted items. Contactless card payment opportunities are, unsurprisingly, rare so it makes sense to have some cash on you. If you are looking to buy something from one of these friendly vendors, we would – for obvious reasons – recommend doing so on the way down rather than the way up.
Tips The Team
I hope these Top Tips for Climbing Mount Toubkal were useful. Feel free to contact us today and learn more about our unique itinerary and service. We recommend USD $150 for a tip.
It is important to show some appreciation for your local mountain guides at the end of the trip. Not only have they helped get you and your gear up the mountain, they’ve also had to spend much of the last week supporting from from start to finish.