Wondering how to climb Mount Toubkal? At 4,167 m, Jebel Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa, and in summer it is a non-technical climb for fit hikers. This guide explains the routes, the difficulty, the best time to go and what to bring.
In short: start from Imlil, near Marrakech, sleep one night at the Toubkal Refuge (3,207 m) and reach the summit at sunrise. Go with a licensed local guide, and choose 3 days for better acclimatisation.
How to climb Mount Toubkal: the classic route
Almost every climb starts in Imlil (1,740 m), about 1.5 hours by road from Marrakech. From there, the path climbs past the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch to the Toubkal Refuge, in about 5 to 6 hours. The next morning, you leave before dawn and reach the summit in 3 to 4 hours, on a steep, rocky path.
2 or 3 days?
- 2 days: the fastest option, for fit hikers. See the Toubkal trek 2 days.
- 3 days: a quieter route through the Azzaden Valley, with an extra night to acclimatise. See the Toubkal trek 3 days.
How hard is it?
In summer, Toubkal needs no climbing skills, but it is physically demanding: the summit day includes about 960 m of ascent and more than 2,400 m of descent. In addition, some people feel the altitude above 3,000 m. Therefore, walk slowly, drink water and listen to your guide.
Best time to climb Toubkal
April to October is the main season. From about November to April, the upper mountain is usually covered in snow and ice, so crampons and an ice axe are needed. In winter, the Jbel Saghro trek is a great alternative.
Do I need a guide?
Local authorities ask trekkers on Toubkal to go with a licensed mountain guide, and rules can be checked on the way up. Besides, a guide knows the path, the weather and the refuges, and a mule can carry your heavy bags.
What to bring
- Hiking boots and walking poles.
- Warm layers, a windproof jacket, a hat and gloves.
- A head torch for the early start.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and water.
- A sleeping bag for the refuge.
How to climb Mount Toubkal: FAQ
How long does it take to climb Mount Toubkal?
Usually 2 days from Imlil, or 3 days on a quieter route with better acclimatisation.
Is Toubkal suitable for beginners?
Yes, for fit beginners in summer. In winter, experience with crampons helps.
Where do you sleep on Toubkal?
At the Toubkal Refuge, at 3,207 m, in shared dormitories.
Can I climb Toubkal in one day?
It is not recommended: it is too long and does not allow acclimatisation.
Want an easy taste of the mountains?
Try the Atlas Mountains day hike from Marrakech.
Climb Toubkal with us
Our private treks include transfers from Marrakech, a licensed guide who speaks English and Spanish, a mule, refuge nights and meals. See all our Morocco trekking tours.
Ready to plan your Morocco trip?
Tell us your dates and group size. We will send you a private route with your own driver, hand-picked riads and the price.
Main photo: Toubkal4167, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.