Toubkal Trek and Marrakech Picture 1
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Best Time of Year: September to March
Toubkal Trek and Marrakech
Trek Adventure
Imagine a land of snake charmers, fire eaters, camel herders, and desert and mountain nomads. A land where the mountains separate red sand desert from the mighty Sahara. And a land where famous old bazaars and spice markets still evoke the memory of ‘A Thousand and One Arabian Nights’. Then, within just a short transfer, we are able to trek into the remote Atlas Mountains, and to conquer the highest peak in North Africa.
Unlike other tour operators our group ratios for the Toubkal Trek are smaller - We believe it is important to support the local tourism and utilise local knowledge of the area therefore we will always use a local mountain guide along with one of our own experienced UK mountain guides, this way we ensure that we can provide the best service for you. - To ensure we are providing the best service possible.
The Atlas Mountains in Morocco has it all, in abundance. And best of all, from the UK we can reach Morocco easily – flying directly into Marrakech Airport. From here it’s a few minutes to the Djema El Fna – the main square downtown, where all the fun and games happen, and from Marrakech the Atlas Mountains rise up just a short taxi drive away. So all in all this is a perfect recipe for Adventure. Our trek lasts for 4 days, 3 of which are very manageable, the 3rd summit day is a big day, and one that you won't forget in a hurry! We shall then complete the trek the following day returning all the way down to the Valley Base, where we shall return to Marrakesh.
Itinerary
DAY 1: fly from UK and arrive in Marrakech, transfer to your Marrakech hotel
DAY 2: Pick up from your hotel and transfer by private minibus to the start of the trek in Imlil in the High Atlas mountains. The journey isn’t far, but on twisty roads with great views. Meet the local guide and trek to the village of Around. gite FB (approx. 5km and 250m climb)
DAY 3: Trek to High refuge of Neltner via Sidi Chamarouch. Starting off following the Assif N Ouagounss valley, the trek is a steady climb past the juniper and scrub of the lower valley to the rockier terrain around Sidi Chamarouch , an old shrine at 2350m. After a rest keep on going up the track into the middle of the Highest peaks of North Africa. Night in Neltner gite at 3207m FB (approx. 8km and 1100 m climb)
DAY 4: Summit day! Start early from the gite and take the short but steep climb upto the summit. The guide will show you the best route to the top at 4167m. Enjoy the views and the achievement of getting there. The path can be stoney and in winter taking crampons and ice axes are recommended, even if they are not needed. The route returns to Neltner refuge FB (approx. 6km, 1050 m climb)
DAY 5: Today is a long descent down the valley, taking a slightly different path at times from the ascent to see the other side of the valley. After reaching Imlil and walking through the orchards and fields near the berber villages meet the minibus and leave the mountains for Marrakech. Night in Marrakech hotel. Breakfast and lunch (approx. 9km trek , descent)
DAY 6: transfer to airport (or Option to stay on in Marrakech )
Accommodation
In the mountains the refuges are fairly straightforward. Food is prepared for us (dinner, breakfast and lunches) and bunk beds are clean. You need to bring your own sleeping bag for this part of the trip—although a simple lightweight bag will suffice (2-3 season). There are no showers at the mountain refuge. Our hotel in Marakesh will be simple but clean—and will give us a chance to get cleaned up. We shall enjoy excellent eating in Marakesh—hopefully with a chance to sample the local specialities!
What is a Level 3.5 Trekking Challenge Like?
These challenges are either longer, higher, or span several days. In the case of single day events, you can expect up to 12 hours trekking. In the case of a multi day trek, you can expect lower daily durations - but of course - the effort is sustained over a longer period. You need to be keen on physical exercise for these events, and to enjoy taking exercise, and to do it regularly. Longer duration long haul treks are likely to be easier in terms of the physical walking, however, you will need to be more resilient - due to simple living conditions - ie using same clothes for several days, lack of washing facilities, simple food, and maybe camping - this forms an integral part of the challenge.
How Fit Do I need to be to join a Level 3.5 ‘Trek’?
You need to have good endurance for these events. You must be used to doing very long walks in the countryside - 7 hours + . You should be doing regular exercise - possibly with some running. Your running speed will be around 10-11 minute miling, and you should be able to run a minimum of 4 to five miles. If you do not run, you should be concentrating on other types of exercise - but for longer periods of time (i.e. sessions in excess of 1.5 hrs.) - these other forms of exercise should be at a moderate to high level.
Medical Issues
Please note, it is extremely important for this physical challenge that you are in good health. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please consider carefully whether you should be joining the challenge. Please ensure you fill in the booking form accurately and honestly, this is important. In the case of serious conditions (epilepsy, diabetes, heart conditions, recent illness or operations), please discuss the challenge with your GP. Please also ensure you notify us of any allergies or similar.
You should be used to walking reasonable distances each day to contemplate this trek. It requires stamina and good aerobic fitness - but good willpower will also come in handy! Failure to disclose medical conditions is a serious omission - that could have serious repercussions on any of our challenges.
Special Notes
Flights can be included on special request
Visas / Redtape
When travelling abroad you may require a Visa. Please check the Travcour website (www.travcour.com) for up to date Visa information. Here they can advise you on the best action to take. If you require further information please don't hesitate to contact the Café.
Included In Trip
Transfers in Morocco both to the City and to transfer to Mountains, All meals on trek plus Guiding for 4 days.
Excluded From Trip
Transfers to/from UK airport. Mineral water on trek (clean boiled water supplied by refuges). Tips for in country guides, Arrival/departure day lunches
Equipment Required
Medikit
Suncream, Blister Repair Kit, Plasters, Vaseline
Rehydration Salts, Painkillers, Sunbloc, Immodium
Anti-Malarial Medication, Hand Disinfectant Lotion (optional)
Insect Repellant
Washkit
Pack Towel (lifesystems recommended), Soap (small bar)
Shampoo (not a full size bottle!)
Toothbrush, Toothpaste (small size)
Hill Walking Items
Sleeping Bag - 4 season rated to -15°C comfort rating
Sleeping Mat (thick Karrimat/Thermarest style)
Day Sack (25-35 litre)
Big Rucksack (to carry all your overnight gear)
Rucksack Liner(s) / Plastic Liner(s) for Rucksack
Bladder System (highly recommended - or other water bottles e.g. exercise bottle/Nalgene bottle)
Walking Poles (highly recommended)
Sun Hat (wide brimmed), Neck Scarf
Snack Foods for time in trek - esp. items that you may crave on the trail
Warm Clothing
Lightweight Fleece, Medium Weight Fleece, Heavyweight Fleece
Duvet Jacket, Lightweight Gloves, Heavy Gloves (mitten type recommended)
Fleece Hat, Balaclava
Trek Clothing
Long Cotton Trekking Trousers, 1 Pair Tracksuit Bottoms
Comfortable Trekking Shirts (long/short sleeved)
Walking Boots (broken in with ankle protection)
Walking Socks, Liner Socks
Underwear, Thermal Underwear
1 Change of Casual Evening Wear
Waterproofs
Outer Fully Waterproof Jacket (Gore-tex, E-vent)
Outer Waterproof Bottoms
Other
Toilet Roll / Pack of Travel Tissues
Diary, Spare Lace
Camera, Film / Memory Card / Spare Battery
Travel Documents, Visa's (if applicable - in most of our long haul countries you may pay for your visa on arrival)
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Passport
Wallet, Money Belt, Credit Cards, Cash (local currency - please note on long haul treks it may not be possible to get currency before you travel)
Sunglasses, Spare Comfortable Shoes
Penknife, Mobile Phone (packed in a plastic bag deep inside your day pack!)
Emergency Rations (energy foods - for the tough days on trek)
Head Torch with spare batteries and bulb
Specialist Items for Long Haul Trips
Mosquito Nets, Water Purification Kit, Sewing Kit
Non-Caffeinated Drinks - i.e fruit powdered drink / green tea / herbal tea
US Dollars are the most convenient and convertible form of currency in many distant corners of the world - recommended!
Kit Hire
It is possible to hire equipment via our specialist kit hire providers Outdoor Hire Ltd. We have negotiated a 10% discount for all our mountain challengers.
Safety Information
By nature all activities contain an element of risk.Your leader will be first aid qualified and will carry the appropriate safety kit for the activity, such as mountain safety shelters, walking rope and from time to time mobile radios. Safety equipment carried will be appropriate to trip. The leader's primary role is to ensure your safety, but it is your responsibility to listen to their guidance and instructions.
Weather
Average Daily Max 32 degrees (Marrakech). In mountains, expected max = 25 degrees.
Notes on Trekking Events
Trek the Mountains of the World with Adventure Cafe, and our fantastic team of qualified leaders. From the UK, to the Alps, Pyrenees, Atlas Mountains, Himalayas and even Kilimanjaro. Put our International Mountain Leaders to the test! Check.
Adventure Cafe Booking Terms and Conditions
By booking an event with Adventure Cafe, you agree to these standard terms of booking. Please ensure that you read the appropriate document for your type of event carefully.
Adventure Cafe Terms & Conditions - For all types of event
To Reserve Your Space on this Challenge
You should fill in the Google Form - linked here below, and then please call us on 01823 444 246 to advise of your payment method. We can accept card payments over the phone, or Bank Transfer.
Please note that your space is not confirmed until you have received your booking receipt.
CLICK HERE:
Adventure Cafe Challenge Booking Form - For Challenge Events