High Atlas Mountains

Summit Morocco’s majestic peaks

Embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey through the High Atlas mountains. Our High Atlas Trekking Summits trip offers an unforgettable experience of reaching four 4000m peaks, including the highest, Mount Toubkal at 4167m. Traverse remote gorges, ascend steep passes, and enjoy the rich Berber culture, all within a 12-day adventure designed for avid trekkers.

12 days

From £1200

Overview

The High Atlas Trekking Summits expedition takes you through Morocco’s highest peaks, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. Starting from Marrakech, you’ll travel to the mountain hub of Imlil, where your trek begins. This unique route includes ascents of six major summits, four of which exceed 4000 meters, culminating in the climb of Mount Toubkal.

The trek kicks off with a drive from Marrakech to Imlil, where you’ll start your ascent towards the peaks. Each day brings new challenges and breathtaking views as you pass through high passes and remote valleys. Highlights include the seldom-visited Adrar n Dern and the scenic Kissaria gorge, a path so narrow even mules must take a different route. The trek also features the picturesque Tinzer River, offering opportunities to swim in natural rock pools.

Midway through the trek, you’ll descend to lower altitudes at Amsouzerte before climbing again to tackle Morocco’s three highest peaks: Ras, Timesguida, and Toubkal. The journey concludes with a return to Marrakech, where you can celebrate your accomplishments and explore the vibrant city.

Full details

The High Atlas Trekking Summits trip is designed for those seeking a true mountain adventure. The trek involves a variety of terrains, from mule tracks and riverbeds to steep ascents and rocky ridges. Each day presents a new challenge, with ascents of multiple peaks and passes, ensuring a physically demanding yet immensely rewarding experience.

Your journey begins in Marrakech, where you’ll meet your guide and prepare for the trek. From there, you’ll travel to Imlil, the starting point of your adventure. The initial days involve trekking through the Imenane valley and ascending the first peaks, offering spectacular views of the Atlas mountains.

As you progress, the trek takes you through the Kissaria gorge, a highlight of the trip with its narrow paths and rock pools. The ascent of Adrar n Dern is a challenging but rewarding climb, leading to one of the most remote summits in the region.

After descending to Amsouzerte, the final days of the trek focus on climbing Morocco’s highest peaks. The summit of Mount Toubkal offers a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains, a fitting climax to your journey. The trek concludes with a descent back to Imlil and a return to Marrakech, where you can relax and reflect on your adventure.

Why choose Impact Ascents

We are bespoke and specialist to make the most of the mountains! The team at Impact Ascents shares a true passion for adventure and mountaineering that is kinder to the environment and to the people living in remote mountain communities. We have traveled the world and seen expedition companies that prioritize profits and summits rather than the positive impact they can have for others.

Impact Ascents is focused and specialist. We offer a program of mountaineering and trekking expeditions each year alongside a flexible, tailor-made planning service that uses our contacts and networks in-country to create your ideal trip. We can even advise on your training program ahead of a big ascent.

Weekly Hints, Tips and Hacks

Stay connected and prepared with Impact Ascents’ weekly WhatsApp updates. Receive tailored hints, tips, and hacks specific to your expedition, designed to enhance your experience and ensure you’re well-equipped for every challenge. Our expert advice will help you make the most of your adventure.

Client testimonial

“Impact Ascents made my trekking experience in the High Atlas mountains truly unforgettable. The team’s expertise and dedication to our safety and enjoyment were evident throughout the trip. Highly recommend!”

Steve W

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech and meet your guide for a trip briefing.
  • Day 2: Drive to Imlil, trek to Tacheddirt.
  • Day 3: Ascend to Tizi n’ou Addi, summit Oukaimedene, descend to CAF refuge.
  • Day 4: Trek through Ourika valley to Tiourdiou.
  • Day 5: Ascend Tinzer River, traverse Kissaria gorge, camp at Azib Tifnoute.
  • Day 6: Climb Adrar n Dern, descend to Tinzer River camp.
  • Day 7: Descend to Amsouzerte, trek to Lac D’Ifni camp.
  • Day 8: Ascend Tizi Ouanoums, descend to Neltner refuge.
  • Day 9: Summit Ras and Timesguida, return to refuge.
  • Day 10: Climb Mount Toubkal, descend to Aremd village.
  • Day 11: Trek to Imlil, drive to Marrakech.
  • Day 12: Free day in Marrakech, departure.

Practical information

Whats included
  • Estimated international flights from London.
  • Accommodation: 2 nights in hotels, 3 nights in chalets/lodges, 6 nights camping.
  • Meals: 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 9 dinners.
  • Park fees and all road transfers in-country.
  • Local guides and qualified UK group leader (subject to minimum numbers).
  • 24-hour back-up and support from our UK staff.
Whats excluded
  • Travel between Marrakech airport and hotel.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Drinks and personal spending.
  • Tips for local staff.
  • Meals not indicated in ‘inclusions’.
  • Visas (if required).
  • Museum and monument entry fees.
Requirements
  • Good physical fitness and the ability to handle high altitude and long days of trekking.
Equipment
  • Personal trekking gear including boots, trekking poles, and warm clothing.
Cancellation
  • Cancellations 90 days before departure: full refund
  • Cancellations 60 days before departure: 50% refund
  • Cancellations less than 60 days: no refund
Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance with mountaineering coverage is required

Leaders

Our trip leaders are experienced mountaineers with numerous high-altitude climbs. They provide expert guidance and support throughout the expedition.

FAQs

What fitness level is required?

A good level of fitness is required as the trek involves long days of walking and significant altitude gains.

What equipment is provided?
Will I have a personal guide?
Are international flights included?
What is the altitude of Mount Toubkal?
What are the accommodation arrangements?
Is prior trekking experience necessary?
What if the weather is bad on summit day?
Is travel insurance mandatory?
How do I book this expedition?

Costs

  • The trek cost starts at £1200. Additional costs may include personal gear, travel insurance, and tips.

Enhance your trip

For those looking to add extra support and comforts to their high-altitude adventure, explore our Expedition Extras page. From additional oxygen supplies to 1:1 personalised guidance, discover the options available to make your journey more secure and enjoyable.

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