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Things to know before you climb Mount Toubkal

Want to climb Mount Toubkal? Here's all you need to know about the trek, from how long it takes to what to pack. Our experts guide you through what to expect.

Updated by: Aimee White - Copywriter at Explore
Updated: 23 October 2025

 

Mount Toubkal (Jebel Toubkal) in Morocco stands at 4,167m (13,671ft), making it the highest peak in North Africa. Located in Morocco's Atlas Mountains, it's a magnet for trekkers seeking a rewarding challenge and it's popular for its accessibility, as you can complete the ascent in a couple of days.

 

While the altitude can be demanding (especially for those unaccustomed to thinner air), as with most treks, preparation is always going to be key. For the top local expertise, logistical support and added safety, a guided climb is highly recommended. When it comes to the best time to tackle Toubkal, aim spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is stable and trails are clear. 

 

Our handy guide breaks down everything you need to know about planning your Mount Toubkal climb and what to expect, from packing lists to delicious local Moroccan cuisine:

At a glance:

  • At 4,167m, Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa
 
  • It can be climbed in two days via Imlil and the refuge
 
  • ​Best months: May-June and September-October, for milder temperatures and clearer trails
 
  • Difficulty: Strenuous hiking. You won't need technical gear in summer, but in winter you'll need snow skills and awareness
 
  • Start point: Imlil (1,800m/5,905ft). Allow time to acclimatise
   

The classic two-day ascent:

Day 1

Start in the village of Imlil (1,740m/5,707ft), where you mountain guide leads you along the Mizane Valley, before reaching the village of Aremd (1,900m/6,230ft). This is the largest village in the valley and is home to the local Berber community, where you can take in views of farms, gites and pathways. 

 

Crossing the flood plain, you'll follow mule tracks and up into the rocky cliffs, crossing the river to reach Sidi Chamarouch. This village sites beside a tranquil waterfall. The final push of the day, you'll climb up to the snowline to reach your camp at 3,206m/10,520 ft. The campsite offers incredible views over the valley below.
 

Day one of the trek covers 11km/6.8 miles with a total ascent of 1,460m/4,790ft, and should take you around five hours total.

 

Day 2

Rise and shine! Day two is an early start, as you follow the steep south cirque. This leads to the Tizi n'Toubkal saddle (3,975m/13,040ft) and from here, the altitude becomes a little more difficult. Remember to admire the vistas as you trek across scree fields and carpets of boulders.

 

Finally, you reach the summit – congratulations! After a well-deserved respite and appreciation of the views, you'll retrace your steps back down to camp, with the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.

 

Day two of the trek covers 4.5km/2.8 miles and has a total ascent and descent of 960m/3,150ft, and should take you around six hours total.

When to go:

Timing your ascent of Mount Toubkal depends on what kind of experience you're after. Here's a season-by-season guide to help you choose the best time to go:

 

Summer: Between June to August, you can expect dry conditions and chilly nights at altitude. This is peak season, so trails and refuges can be busy. It's a great time for clear skies and stable weather, but be prepared for crowds.


Shoulder seasons: Toubkal's two shoulder seasons are in May and June, and September and October. These months offer a sweet spot: fewer trekkers, milder daytime temperatures and stunning visibility – just think of the views!


Winter: Snow and ice transform the mountain into a dramatic alpine scene. However, the winter season is only suitable for experienced hikers. Avalanche risk is real, so proper gear and a qualified winter guide are essential.

Altitude and acclimatisation:

Mount Toubkal presents a challenging yet rewarding trek that is perfect for regular walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. With roughly 40% less oxygen than at sea level, the altitude of Mount Toubkal will undoubtedly make this hike harder.

 

To  help your body adjust, your experienced local guide will set a steady, manageable pace and ensure that you have plenty of food throughout the hike. Spending time in Imlil (Toubkal's gateway village) is a great way to begin acclimatising before the ascent. We also recommend a gradual elevation gain and conservative pacing to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and keep your energy levels up.

 

Staying hydrated is essential, so your Water-to-Go bottle will be a vital companion, allowing you to safely refill from almost any water source thanks to its built-in filtration system. With the right preparation and support, you'll give yourself the best chance of reaching the summit and enjoying the incredible views from the top.

A triangular metal structure with graffiti stands on a snowy mountain peak under a clear blue sky. The sun shines brightly through the top, casting flares.

Do you need a guide, permits and registration?

Our guided treks to Mount Toubkal are carefully crated by both our in-house team and trusted local experts, with your safety and comfort as the top priority. By joining a group, you'll benefit from a well-organised itinerary, making the logistics of navigating Toubkal much easier.

 

From the moment you arrive in Morocco, everything is taken care of, and all baggage is carried for you. A dedicated team of staff, including a cook, ensures you're well-fed and looked after, and you'll be provided with a comfortable mattress for a good night's rest.

 

In terms of permits, rules can change – some trekkers report registering at the park entrance near Imlil. We advise going with a licensed local guide or operator (like us!) who handles the current requirements.

What to pack:

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. You can find detailed packing lists on the trip page.

 

Year-round packing list for Mount Toubkal:

  • 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
  • Breathable walking trousers
  • On summit day you'll need a warm hat, scarf, waterproof/windproof gloves and a head torch for the pre-sunrise trek
  • Walking boots with ankle support, paired with liner socks under a pair of reasonably thick loop stitch socks. Make sure you've worn them in before tackling this trek!
  • Good-quality sunglasses or ski goggles will protect your eyes from glare at high altitudes
  • High factor sunscreen
  • Water-to-Go filtration bottle (click the link for 15% off)
  • A 20-30 litre backpack (the rest of your kit will be carried by a team of staff or mules)
  • A silk or fleece liner for your sleeping arrangement is also useful

 

In addition to the above, make sure you pack the following depending on the season you're travelling:


Summer packing list for Mount Toubkal:

  • June to August: 3-season high-quality sleeping bag
  • May, September and October: 4-season high-quality sleeping bag
 

Winter packing list for Mount Toubkal:

  • Crampons
  • Axe
  • Gaiters
  • Goggles
  • Winter gloves

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 28°C and 37°C during the 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 -5°C at night, while in summer on our Toubkal Long Weekend they stay above 10°C on average. If you fancy a more challenging Mount Toubkal trekking experience, book our Toubkal Climb tour in May or October when the temperatures are lower, and there's a chance of some early/late snow on the summit.

What is the best food for climbing Mount Toubkal?

Trekking burns off lots of energy, so 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 your water levels topped up at all times to prevent dehydration.

Don't just travel, Explore!

Ready to climb Mount Toubkal? If you'd like to stand at the top of the highest mountain peak in North Africa and Morocco, join our Toubkal Climb or Toubkal Long Weekend Trip for an unforgettable hiking adventure.
More about our Toubkal trekking tours
Hikers stand atop a rocky mountain peak, gazing at expansive, layered mountain ranges under a clear blue sky, suggesting an adventurous outdoor setting.

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