Climbing Jebel Toubkal: A Practical Guide from Imlil
At 4,167 metres, Jebel Toubkal is the highest mountain in North Africa, and one of the most accessible big peaks anywhere. In summer it is a long hike, not a technical climb. You can reach it from Marrakech in a weekend.
At a glance
- Height
- 4,167 m
- Start
- Imlil, about 1.5 hours from Marrakech
- Time
- 2 days, one night in a refuge
- Season
- Late May to October for no snow
In this guide
The basics
Most people climb in two days. On day one you walk from Imlil (around 1,740 m) up a mule track to the Toubkal refuge at about 3,200 m, which takes 4 to 6 hours. On day two you start before dawn, summit in 3 to 4 hours, return to the refuge and descend to Imlil by afternoon. It is a long day but not technically hard in summer.
When to go
- Late May to October: the trail is mostly snow-free. July and August are hot lower down but fine up high.
- November to April: snow and ice. You will need crampons, an ice axe and winter experience, or a guide who provides them.
- Spring snowmelt makes river crossings tricky.
Do you need a guide?
In summer the path is obvious and many people walk without a guide, but a local mountain guide adds safety and context, and is the better choice in winter or in poor weather. Hire an official guide through the guides' bureau in Imlil or through your hotel. Mules to carry bags are also available.
Altitude
Going from Marrakech to 4,000 m in two days can cause altitude sickness. Drink water, go slowly, and if you have a headache, nausea or dizziness at the refuge, do not push higher. A rest day in Imlil before you start helps.
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, broken in.
- Layers: temperatures at the summit can be near freezing even in summer. Windproof jacket, hat, gloves.
- Head torch for the pre-dawn start.
- Sun protection and 2 to 3 litres of water per day.
- Poles are useful on the scree. See our packing list for general kit.
Where to sleep
The refuge offers dorm beds and meals; book ahead in peak season. Some hikers sleep in Imlil guesthouses and do the whole thing in one long day, but that is exhausting.
Getting to Imlil
Imlil is about 65 km from Marrakech. Take a grand taxi from the Bab Er-Rob area or arrange a transfer, about 1.5 hours. The area was affected by the 2023 earthquake, and some paths and buildings changed. Ask locally for current conditions before you go.
Easier alternatives
If you do not want the summit, there are half-day and day walks from Imlil to villages like Aroumd and the Berber hamlet of Tamatert. Our day trips from Marrakech article covers the lowland alternatives. Combine your trip with Marrakech or an overnight in the Sahara route.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to climb Toubkal?
Two days is typical: 4 to 6 hours to the refuge on day one, and the summit round trip plus descent on day two.
Is Toubkal a technical climb?
Not in summer. It is a steep hike on scree. In winter it needs crampons and an ice axe.
Can I do Toubkal as a day trip from Marrakech?
Only as a very long, hard day for strong hikers. Most people spend a night at the refuge.