Sixty three kilometers from Marrakech in the Toubkal National park stands majestic J’bel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4167m above sea level. Set in the dramatic Atlas Mountains, Toubkal is an invigorating and accessible hike for weekend walkers and seasoned trekkers alike. The High Atlas in central Morocco rises in the west at the Atlantic coast and stretches eastward to the Moroccan-Algerian border.
Winter provides a particularly beautiful aspect to the mountains. The mountains are virtually deserted and the air is crystal clear. The High Atlas are snow-capped and the hiker is rewarded with superb views in all directions. Experienced mountaineers may not require guides for the normal route as it is a fairly straightforward hike and orientation is not a problem. For the less experienced, qualified local Berber guides may hired, as well as mules and porters to carry equipment and suppliers higher into the mountain. Crampons and ice axes may be required on many of the days, but the hike is non-technical and achievable who are new to winter walking, however a level of physical fitness and stamina is required.
The slopes and fertile valleys of the Atlas Mountains are traditionally home to the Berber people. Berbers have lived in Africa since the earliest recorded time. Although stereotyped in the West as nomads, most Berbers were in fact traditionally farmers. Berbers are a very hospitable people with a fascinating history. Hiking Mt. Toubkal will provide the visitor with an opportunity to meet with the local Berber people and witness their way of life which has not changed much over the centuries