Mount Toubkal Trek

Common Questions

How hard is the walking?

This trip includes walks which are graded ‘moderate to demanding’ and the ascent of Mount Toubkal which is graded ‘strenuous’. You need to be reasonably fit to get the most out of this trip. The walk up to Mount Toubkal itself is not a technical climb, but is relentlessly steep. From the refuge at Neltner you climb up a scree slope and over a number of huge boulders. This is the hardest part and takes about 1½ hours to complete. From the 3,600m mark it’s another 1 ½ hours walk; the gradient is still steep, but the terrain easier to walk on. Although this trip contains a variety of walks, the main focus is ascent of Mount Toubkal, which should only be attempted by fit and experienced mountain walkers. It is possible to opt out of the Mount Toubkal ascent.

What is the food like?

Food in Morocco is generally very healthy and good. The traditional way to cook is to use a tagine, whereby meat and vegetables are cooked together in a clay pot over a high heat, with herbs and spices used for flavouring. The result is very flavoursome dishes. Vegetarians are well catered for. All meals are provided whilst in the mountains. Breakfast is bread and cheese, with fruit and yoghurt. Lunch is 2 courses, a main dish (lamb or chicken – never pork) with rice or potatoes followed by fruit. Dinner is 3 courses. Soup followed by a main dish & desert.

Do I need to take malaria tablets?

Although Malaria does exist in parts of Morocco it is not normally found in the areas visited on this trip. Bring insect repellent, containing Deet, or a natural one such as MosiGuard to reduce the number of insect bites. Consult a doctor or travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departing to get the most up to date information.

How much will I be carrying on the trek?

All you have to carry during the day is a daypack (minimum 25-litre) with daytime essentials such as waterbottle, camera, fleece, wet-weather gear etc. Anything not needed for the trek will be left behind in Aremd (a second bag for storage is advisable) whilst provisions and other baggage will be carried by mules.