Trekking Morocco

Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, a private driver will greet you and escort you to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Marrakech is the fourth largest city in Morocco and is a feast for the senses. The “Red City” is a magical place, brimming with markets, gardens, palaces, and mosques. 

Suggested free time activities:

• Wander the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square for street performances, food stalls, and local crafts.
• Visit a rooftop café for mint tea and people-watching.
• Explore the colorful souks (markets) for spices, textiles, and handmade goods.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as Nomad, Le Jardin, or Café des Épices.

Begin your day early with an optional sunrise hot-air balloon ride over the Marrakech countryside, offering panoramic views of palm groves, Berber villages, and the distant Atlas Mountains. A traditional Berber breakfast is served after landing.

Later, enjoy a guided city tour through the vibrant medina, historic sites, and cultural landmarks, blending ancient charm with modern life. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour typically begins at the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, followed by a visit to the opulent Bahia Palace and the ornate Saadian Tombs. You’ll wander the labyrinthine souks of the medina, where artisans sell spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods, and explore hidden gems like the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into Morocco’s traditions, Islamic artistry, and daily life, all while experiencing the sights, sounds, and aromas that make Marrakech unforgettable.

After breakfast in Marrakech, you’ll leave the bustling city behind and begin your adventure into the tranquil High Atlas Mountains. Your journey starts with a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive toward the trailhead in the village of Imi Oughlad (1,450 m / 4,757 ft). As you travel, you’ll pass through a mosaic of vibrant neighborhoods, rolling plains, olive groves, citrus orchards, and small Berber settlements, with the snow-dusted peaks of the Atlas Mountains slowly rising in the distance.

Upon arrival in Imi Oughlad, you’ll meet your local muleteer team and begin your trek into the heart of the Azzaden Valley. The trail ascends gradually, winding through lush green valleys, terraced farmlands, and peaceful walnut groves. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Berber villages, where the architecture is harmoniously blended with the natural surroundings and life moves to the rhythms of nature.

As the elevation increases, so do the panoramic views. The trail may include gentle switchbacks and occasional rocky paths, offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks and the peaceful valleys below. Midway through the trek, stop for a scenic picnic lunch, where you’ll rest and refuel while soaking in the serenity of the mountains.

In the afternoon, you’ll reach the village of Tizi Oussem (1,850 m / 6,070 ft), a picturesque hamlet tucked away in the stunning Azzaden Valley. Surrounded by high cliffs and terraced hillsides, this village offers an authentic window into traditional mountain life. Once settled into your local lodge, you’ll have time to explore the village, chat with friendly locals, or simply relax with a cup of mint tea as the sun dips behind the peaks. The day concludes with a home-cooked Berber dinner, made from fresh, local ingredients—an ideal end to your first full day in the mountains.

Est Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours driving
Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Est Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Elevation: 1,450 m/ 4,757 ft to 1,850 m/ 6,070 ft

After a hearty breakfast in the quiet village of Tizi Oussem, you’ll begin your trek toward the bustling mountain hub of Imlil. The day’s trail offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and scenic transitions as you descend through the dramatic Azzaden Valley. The path begins with a gentle descent through terraced fields and walnut groves, following the course of the Azzaden River. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Berber villages where life moves at a slower pace—shepherds guide their flocks across the hills, and women can be seen tending to gardens or baking bread in communal ovens.

As you make your way along narrow mountain paths and cross rustic stone bridges, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including glimpses of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest mountain, in the distance. Wildflowers and alpine vegetation dot the trail, while the sounds of cascading waterfalls and birdsong provide a soothing backdrop.

The trek typically takes 5 to 7 hours, depending on pace and stops, and covers approximately 15 km (9.3 miles). As you approach Imlil, the landscape shifts from remote wilderness to a livelier atmosphere, with more foot traffic and mule trains carrying goods through the mountain pass. The village of Imlil, sitting at 1,800 meters, welcomes you with its charming stone houses, colorful markets, and panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. Here, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the warm hospitality and vibrant energy of this mountain gateway.

Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
Est Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 1,850 m/6,070 ft to 1,800 m/ 5,900 ft

Today marks a significant and scenic ascent as you leave the village of Imlil (1,800 m / 5,900 ft) behind and begin your journey deeper into the High Atlas Mountains toward Refuge Toubkal (3,207 m / 10,522 ft), the base camp for your summit of Mount Toubkal.

The day begins with a nourishing breakfast before setting out on foot through a beautiful, well-trodden trail that winds its way through dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber hamlets. Early on, you’ll pass through the villages of Aroumd and Sidi Chamharouch, the latter known for its white-painted shrine and spiritual significance, often visited by local pilgrims. This is a great place for a brief rest and a refreshing cup of mint tea while taking in the energy of trekkers and traders passing through.

As you leave Sidi Chamharouch behind, the trail becomes more rugged and the ascent steeper, weaving through a mix of rocky terrain, alpine meadows, and high-altitude paths. The air becomes cooler and thinner as you gain elevation, with dramatic cliffs and the peaks of the Toubkal Massif rising ahead. Along the way, you’ll likely spot mountain goats, mules, and the occasional shepherd guiding flocks through the highlands.

After approximately 5 to 7 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Refuge Toubkal, a sturdy stone mountain refuge nestled beneath the summit. At 3,207 meters (10,522 feet), it offers basic but cozy dormitory-style accommodations, hot meals, and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers from around the world. From here, the surrounding views of jagged peaks and sweeping valleys are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Spend the rest of the afternoon resting, acclimatizing, and enjoying the refuge’s simple comforts. Enjoy a warm, hearty dinner, then settle in for the night as you prepare both mentally and physically for the early morning summit attempt of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak.

Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Est Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 1,800 m/5,900 ft to 3,207 m/ 10,522 ft

Today is the pinnacle of your trek—both literally and figuratively—as you set out to conquer Mount Toubkal (4,167 m / 13,671 ft), the highest peak in North Africa. The day begins well before dawn, with an early wake-up call at Refuge Toubkal (3,207 m / 10,522 ft). After a quick, energizing breakfast and final gear check, you’ll begin your ascent by headlamp, the trail illuminated only by the glow of stars and the soft light of early morning.

The route to the summit is steep and demanding, with rocky switchbacks, scree slopes, and sections that require sure-footedness. The thinning air at high altitude makes pacing, hydration, and steady breathing essential. But as you climb higher, the views become more expansive and the sense of solitude and serenity deepens.

As the first rays of sunlight stretch across the horizon, the surrounding peaks of the High Atlas Mountains are bathed in golden light—a moment of quiet awe and natural beauty. The final push to the summit is the most strenuous, requiring focus and determination, but the reward is unparalleled: standing at the top of Mount Toubkal, 4,167 meters (13,671 feet) above sea level, with 360-degree views stretching across the Atlas range and the vast Moroccan landscape below.

At the summit, you’ll have time to celebrate, reflect, take photos, and soak in the deep sense of accomplishment. The panoramic vistas and crisp mountain air make this moment unforgettable.

After spending some time at the top, you’ll begin the descent back to Refuge Toubkal, retracing your steps through the same alpine terrain. The descent is faster but still requires care on the loose scree and steep sections. Back at the refuge, a warm meal and a hot drink await. The rest of the day is yours to rest, share stories with fellow trekkers, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.

Distance: Approx. 4 km (2 miles) round trip
Estimated Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Elevation Gain & Loss: From 3,207 m (10,522 ft) to 4,167 m (13,671 ft) and back

After a final breakfast at Refuge Toubkal, it’s time to begin your descent back to civilization. The trek down to Imlil retraces your path through the high alpine landscape of the Toubkal Massif, offering new perspectives on the dramatic scenery you’ve already passed—jagged peaks, sweeping valleys, and the occasional herd of mountain goats grazing in the distance. As you lose elevation, the landscape gradually shifts from rocky slopes and sparse vegetation to verdant terraces and walnut groves, passing once more through the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamharouch and the welcoming village of Aroumd.

The descent takes approximately 4 to 6 hours, covering about 12 km (7.5 miles), and while easier on the lungs, it still requires steady footing on rocky trails. Upon reaching Imlil (1,800 m / 5,900 ft), take a well-earned break and enjoy some time to rest and refresh before boarding your private transfer for the return drive to Marrakech.

As you re-enter the vibrant rhythm of the city after days of serenity in the mountains, the contrast is striking and invigorating. Once checked back into your traditional riad, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to relax or explore at your own pace.

Optional free time suggestions:

• Indulge in a hammam spa treatment to soothe your tired muscles.
• Visit the lush and tranquil Majorelle Garden and the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
• Sip tea or enjoy sunset views from a rooftop café overlooking Jemaa el-Fna Square.
• Shop for souvenirs in the souks or browse artisan boutiques for handwoven rugs, pottery, and spices.

Whether you choose to unwind or dive back into the sensory overload of Marrakech, today offers a perfect blend of reflection, comfort, and celebration after your successful summit.

Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Estimated Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Elevation Change: 3,207 m (10,522 ft) to 1,800 m (5,900 ft)
Drive Time to Marrakech: 1.5 to 2 hours

Today is departure day and there are no planned activities. Depending on the time of your flight, you’ll have some free time to knock off any shopping you haven’t finished or possibly an optional activity. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure from Marrakech.