Berber Culture & Toubkal Summit: A 4-Day Journey

overview

This 4-day trek through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains combines cultural encounters with natural wonders. Beginning in Marrakech, the journey takes you through the picturesque valleys of Imlil and Azzaden, dotted with traditional Berber villages like Tizi Oussem and Aroumd. Along the way, you’ll explore Toubkal National Park, home to impressive waterfalls and scenic juniper forests, before reaching the sacred site of Sidi Chamarouch. The adventure culminates with the ascent of Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest peak in North Africa, rewarding you with breathtaking views across the Atlas Mountains.

ITINERARY

• 01 Marrakech – Imi Oughlad – Tizi Tacht Pass – Tizi Oussem (1,950 m)

  After breakfast in Marrakech, we drive 1h30 to Imi Oughlad, where you’ll meet your guide and mule team. Once our gear is loaded, we begin the trek with an ascent to Tizi Tacht (2,005 m), offering superb views over the Imlil and Azzaden valleys. After a picnic lunch in peaceful surroundings, we descend through the villages of Tahliouine and Id Aissa, observing Berber daily life along the way. Overnight in a traditional Berber house in Tizi Oussem. (6 hours walking)

• 02 Tizi Oussem – Tizi Mzik Pass – Imlil – Aroumd

  Today we explore Toubkal National Park, passing by the region’s highest waterfalls (2,300 m). We then climb to Tizi Mzik Pass (2,500 m), where stunning views open over the Aït Mizane and Azzaden valleys. After lunch in Mzik, we continue to the village of Aroumd, the largest settlement in the Imlil Valley. Overnight in a Berber guesthouse. (5–6 hours walking)

• 03 Aroumd – Sidi Chamarouch – Toubkal Refuge

  We hike toward the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch, passing juniper trees and crossing the river to reach this site of pilgrimage, nestled beside a small waterfall. From here, the trail climbs steadily toward the snowline, leading us to the Toubkal Refuge (Neltner Hut). Overnight at the refuge, in preparation for the summit attempt. (5 hours walking)

• 04 Toubkal Refuge – Toubkal Summit – Return to Imlil – Marrakech

  An early start takes us to the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4,167 m). The climb, though challenging due to scree and altitude, rewards us with sweeping views across the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara. After enjoying this unforgettable panorama, we descend back to the refuge, continue down to Imlil, and transfer to Marrakech, arriving in the late afternoon. (9–10 hours trekking; +900 m / –2,500 m)

GALLERY

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