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The view from the summit of Toubkal - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
The view from the summit of Toubkal
Trek through the rugged beauty of the Atlas Mountains - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Trek through the rugged beauty of the Atlas Mountains
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains on the way to Mt Toubkal, Morocco - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains on the way to Mt Toubkal, Morocco  | John Millen
Group on the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the tallest peak in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Group on the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the tallest peak in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains  | John Millen
Beautiful blue and red - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Beautiful blue and red  | Victoria Earl
Savour mint tea on the way to Morocco’s charming mountain villages - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Savour mint tea on the way to Morocco’s charming mountain villages
The village of Tizzi Oussem in the Moroccan High Atlas - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
The village of Tizzi Oussem in the Moroccan High Atlas  | Sue Badyari
Jemaa el-Fnaa markets at sunset, Marrakesh - High Atlas Trek, Morocco
Jemaa el-Fnaa markets at sunset, Marrakesh  | Richard I'Anson

High Atlas Trek

Summit Mt Toubkal, explore Marrakesh & walk through Berber villages

Morocco
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 26 reviews

10 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: HAT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 10 Days
Activities
  • 7 day trek
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 3 nights riad
  • 4 nights camping
  • 2 nights gite
Meals
  • 7 Dinners
  • 8 Lunches
  • 9 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

37kg of CO2-e PP per day

(335kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal (4,167m / 13,671ft), the highest peak in North Africa
  • Walk through Berber villages, alpine meadows, walnut groves and terraced valleys
  • Cross the dramatic Tizi n’Ougalzim Pass (3,700m / 12,139ft) and take in panoramic mountain views
  • Camp beneath the stars in fully supported wilderness camps
  • Experience warm Berber hospitality with overnights in family-run homestays
  • Explore Marrakesh’s medina, palaces and souqs, with its vibrant atmosphere
  • Be guided by an experienced local crew including mule handlers, camp staff and certified mountain guides

Overview

This journey offers a superb introduction to both the dramatic landscapes and enduring traditions of Morocco. Blending alpine trekking with cultural exploration, the trip takes you from the vibrant heart of Marrakesh to the rugged trails of the High Atlas Mountains. Begin by exploring the narrow alleyways of the old medina, lively souqs and elegant palaces of Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s most captivating imperial cities. Then leave the bustle behind as you head into the mountains, where your trek begins among traditional Berber villages and terraced valleys. Over seven days of walking, you’ll follow ancient mule trails through walnut groves, alpine pastures and flower-filled meadows, with snow-capped peaks rising high above. The final challenge and reward is the ascent of Mount Toubkal (4,167m / 13,671ft), the highest peak in North Africa. While the climb is non-technical, it requires good fitness and steady determination. Reaching the summit is a powerful achievement and a memorable conclusion to this remarkable Moroccan adventure.

Itinerary

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On arrival at Marrakesh Menara Airport, you’ll be met by our local team and transferred to your traditional riad in the heart of the city. Depending on your arrival time, you may like to take a short walk through the nearby medina, or simply relax on the rooftop terrace and soak up views across the ochre rooftops and distant Atlas peaks. If you’re arriving earlier than Day 1, we can arrange a private airport transfer and pre-trip accommodation on request (additional cost applies). This evening offers the chance to meet your fellow trekkers and get a taste of the warm Moroccan hospitality that will characterise your journey. Overnight: Riad Berta or similar

Meals: D

This morning at around 7:30am, you'll meet your guide and fellow travellers for a group briefing to discuss the days ahead and prepare for your trek. Afterwards, your expert local guide will lead you on a walking tour through the vibrant heart of Marrakesh. You’ll visit a selection of the city’s most iconic sites such as the historic palaces, mosques and the bustling souqs of the old medina. The tour culminates in the famed Djemaa el-Fna. A lively open-air square where snake charmers, spice vendors, storytellers, and food stalls create an unforgettable atmosphere. Later in the evening, you'll return to the square once it comes alive under the glow of lanterns and smoky grills. Dinner is at your leisure tonight. We highly recommend sampling one of the many traditional dishes on offer at the night market stalls. You’ll also be provided with your trek kit bag and sleeping bag today, so you can prepare and pack ahead of tomorrow’s departure into the High Atlas. Over the coming days, expect a mix of wild camping and stays in Berber houses. These village homes are often simple, shared and dormitory-style, but they offer a warm welcome and an authentic insight into mountain life. Overnight: Riad Berta or similar

Meals: B,L

This morning we leave Marrakesh and drive into the foothills of the High Atlas to Imi Oughlad (1,500m elevation). Here we meet our trekking crew and mule team who will support us throughout the journey. After loading the gear, you’ll begin with a steady ascent along a well-used mule path towards the Tizi n’Tacht Pass (2,000m), where sweeping views open across the Ouirgane region. From the pass, we descend into the lush Azzadene Valley, passing terraced fields of maize, apple and walnut orchards, and small Berber hamlets. In late summer, yellow pumpkin flowers spill across the edges of the fields, adding bright colour to the green valley floor. Tonight’s stay is in the village of Tiziane (1,600m) in a traditional Berber house. Accommodation here is simple and communal – typically a shared room with mattresses laid out on the floor. While simple and basic, the welcome is warm and offers a genuine glimpse into mountain life in Morocco. Overnight: Gite / Berber house (shared), Tiziane Drive time: approx. 1.5–2 hours Trekking: approx. 5–6 hours | 11–12 km / 7 mi High point: Tizi n’Tacht Pass (2,000m) Please note: All trekking timings and distances are approximate

Meals: B,L,D

Departing Tiziane, the day begins with a gradual three-hour ascent toward the Tizi n’Touati Pass (2,100m), climbing through a landscape dotted with holm oak and juniper trees. As you gain height, expansive views open across the surrounding valleys and ridgelines. Crossing the Tassaka Plateau, the trail flattens briefly before descending toward the summer pastures near Tizgui, where shepherds graze their flocks during the warmer months. We set up camp near Azib Assoul, a traditional seasonal grazing settlement. Expect a mix of open ridgelines and terraced paths underfoot, with changing vegetation and views throughout the day. Overnight: Wilderness camp near Tizgui (Azib Assoul) Trekking: approx. 6 hours | 12 km / 7.5 mi High point: Tizi n’Touati Pass (2,100m)

Meals: B,L,D

Today begins with a steep three-hour ascent from Azib Assoul toward the high pass of Tizi n’Tagoudalte (2,700m) – the highest point so far on the trek. The climb is demanding but the reward is sweeping views across the surrounding peaks and valleys of the High Atlas. From the pass, the trail descends gradually for around two hours through alpine terrain rich with seasonal wildflowers. Depending on the time of year, you may spot red poppies, irises, campanulas, violets, aromatic herbs and succulents lining the trail – a striking contrast against the rocky outcrops and mountain slopes. By late afternoon we arrive in the village of Tizi Oussem (1,850m). Here we stay in a welcoming Berber house. Accommodation is simple and communal – typically a shared room with mattresses on the floor – but the experience is authentic and offers a warm connection with local life. There is also the option to enjoy a private hammam (traditional bath), a chance to relax and wash away three days of trekking in true local style. Overnight: Gite / Berber house (shared), Tizi Oussem Trekking: approx. 5 hours | 10 km / 6 mi High point: Tizi n’Tagoudalte (2,700m)

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving Tizi Oussem, the last inhabited village in this valley, we continue climbing deeper into the heart of the Azzadene Valley. The trail gradually rises through juniper and pine forests, with sweeping views of the snow-capped High Atlas peaks beginning to reveal themselves ahead. Midway through the day we reach the Cascade d’Irhoulidene, a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by alpine vegetation, where we pause to enjoy the scenery and refuel. From here, the path steepens as we ascend toward the Tazaghart Plateau. By late afternoon we reach the mountain refuge area, where we set up camp for the night surrounded by jagged peaks and the stillness of the high mountains. Overnight: Wilderness camp near Tazaghart Refuge Trekking: approx. 5–6 hours | 11 km / 7 mi High point: approx. 3,000m

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s trek is both challenging and rewarding as we cross the Tizi n’Aguelzim Pass (3,700m) – one of the highest and most remote passes in the region. The path climbs steeply in zigzags over rocky and exposed terrain, with an elevation gain that will test our endurance. Reaching the pass is a true achievement, and from the top we are rewarded with panoramic views across the High Atlas and our first clear glimpse of Mount Toubkal, looming in the distance. From here, the trail descends steadily toward Toubkal Base Camp, where we set up camp for the night surrounded by towering peaks and alpine scree slopes. Summit day awaits tomorrow. Overnight: Wilderness camp at Toubkal Base Camp Trekking: approx. 6–7 hours | 12 km / 7.5 mi High point: Tizi n’Aguelzim (3,700m) Please note: the base camp area is designated by the National Park as the only permitted place to stay before summit day. As it is shared by many trekking groups, conditions can be more basic and less quiet than other wilderness camps. While we always aim to minimise our impact and leave no trace, some evidence of litter or overuse may be present

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the highlight of the trek – the ascent of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167m (13,671ft). We set off early, often before sunrise, to avoid the midday sun and make the most of the stable morning weather. The trail climbs steadily across rocky ground and loose scree, gaining height with switchbacks that lead up to the broad summit ridge. The ascent is non-technical but challenging due to the altitude and terrain. With steady pacing and the support of your guide, you’ll reach the summit in around 3–4 hours. From the top, we are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views across the High Atlas, the Anti-Atlas, and on a clear day, even the distant Sahara Desert. After time to rest and savour the achievement, we descend carefully back to the Neltner Refuge area, where our wilderness camp awaits. For those who prefer, today can be taken as a rest day at base camp, surrounded by dramatic peaks and high-altitude silence – an opportunity to relax, read, or simply enjoy the remote mountain setting. Overnight: Wilderness camp at Toubkal Base Camp Trekking: approx. 6–7 hours | 10 km / 6 mi round trip Summit altitude: 4,167m / 13,671ft

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we begin our descent from the high alpine landscape, following a well-worn trail down the valley toward Imlil. Along the way, we pass through the village of Sidi Chamarouch (approx. 2,300m / 7,546ft), a sacred pilgrimage site known for its white-washed shrine and spiritual significance to many Moroccans. The trail winds through pockets of wildflowers – including the striking Peony Rose in spring – and it’s common to see goat herds navigating the rocky slopes alongside the path. We enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch near the village, where we farewell our mule handlers and trekking crew, marking the end of our journey in the High Atlas. From here, a 1.5-hour drive returns us to Marrakesh, where the comfort of a hot shower and a welcoming riad bed awaits. Overnight: Riad Berta or similar Trekking: approx. 4–5 hours | 9 km / 5.5 mi Drive time: approx. 1.5 hours

Meals: B,L

Your journey through the High Atlas concludes today. After breakfast at the riad, you’ll be transferred to Marrakesh Menara Airport if you are departing today on the scheduled group transfer. For departure on any other day, transfers can be arranged at an additional cost. We hope the mountains, culture and people of Morocco have inspired you. If you are staying in Morocco, we can assist with arranging private transfers and additional accommodation. You may also wish to extend your adventure with our Essaouira Sojourn – a relaxing trip to the Atlantic coast where you can unwind in the charming seaside medina, stroll along the beach, and enjoy fresh seafood and café culture by the sea

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 18 May 2027 and 7 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 18 May 2027 – ends 27 May 2027 (10 days)
  • Departs 8 Jun 2027 – ends 17 Jun 2027 (10 days)
  • Departs 10 Aug 2027 – ends 19 Aug 2027 (10 days)
  • Departs 7 Sep 2027 – ends 16 Sep 2027 (10 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners
  • Airport transfers (day 1 and 10 only)
  • 3 nights in traditional riads on a twinshare basis
  • 2 nights in local homestay on a twinshare basis
  • 4 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
  • Group camping equipment including tent, sleeping bag and mat
  • English speaking tour leader, cook and camp crew
  • City guide in Marrakesh
  • Mules and mule handlers to carry personal and group equipment on trek
  • Mineral water during trek
  • Park entrance and trek fees as listed in itinerary
  • Emergency medical kit
  • Private transport

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa
  • Arrival and departure transfers (if not arriving Day 1 or departing Day 10)
  • Drinks or meals not noted in the itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips

Reviews (26)

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Much harder than anticipated, weather very warm and guide reluctant to let you walk at a slower pace even if you were in sight of each other.

Basic level of travel as indicated by the price.

Judith|New South Wales, Australia
20 Sep 2026
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excellent company , the guides were great as were the young guys who cooked and cleaned up after us always with a smile

James Coburn|Dromore, County Down, United Kingdom
4 Jul 2024
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I was very satisfied to reach the summit of Mt Toubkal. Our tour leader, Moha, was very patient and took great care of us on summit day. Our cook, really chef, prepared marvellous meals every day. The ability to shower each day was also a welcome surprise. I would recommend this approach to summiting this peak.

Michael Sinclair|Bondi Beach, NSW Australia
24 May 2023
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It was a great trip once we started, but our guide did not turn up for the pre trip meeting. Apparently he left a message at the hotel which was not passed on. Having said that, Moha was a great guide.

Anthony Greenwood|Oyster Cove, TAS Australia
16 May 2023
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Had a great time in Morocco, a fascinating country with lovely people, buildings and mountains. Found the trek improved with each day, culminating in the summit of Mt Toubkal, which was fantastic. The setup for meals and food were excellent, and I managed to have more showers than I expected! Would recommend

Lisa Booth|Applecross, WA
9 Jun 2022
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Fantastic experience. Well organised with lovely local guides

Laura Fialko|London
9 Jun 2022
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I have been on many World Expedition trips and this one, like the rest, was exemplary from the start to finish. The main guide, Ridouane, was very professional and accommodating if anyone had a particular request, unless detrimental to the group. He and Abdul were reliable and approachable which made my holiday relaxing.The meals were amazing. The accommodation was basic but clean, as described. The hiking was breathtaking and the company was predominantly enjoyable.

Karen Bloomer|Rochedale South, QLD
1 Jun 2022
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Riduoane was excellent, knowledgeable, authoritative, always concerned for our well being, and easy to get along with. Omar's cooking was also excellent, the food was plentiful, very good quality and gave me a wonderful insight into Moroccan cuisine. The support crew were also very good and certainly attended to our needs regularly and promptly.

F. Kean|Stawell, VIC
26 Sep 2019
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This is a wonderfully interesting if somewhat physically difficult trek . The first few nights in Marrakech provided a good insight into Moroccan culture. The trek went through beautiful mountainous scenery. The walk culminates with a climb up a very steep pass, then an ascent of Mt Toubkal the next day. We bonded very closely to our wonderful guide Mohamed who never grew tired of of our questions regarding Morocco, Berber culture and Islam. This walk is highly recommended both for the scenery and cultural insights.

P. Lockie|Barwon Heads, VIC
5 Jul 2019

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?Wildlife Safari Safety
Berber village in Morocco's High Atlas mountains | James Griesedieck

What is a Gîte / Berber Homestay in the High Atlas?

A gîte is a traditional Berber house, most often found in remote mountain villages. These family-run homestays are simple, locally owned and reflect the long tradition of community hospitality in the High Atlas. Rooms are usually communal, sometimes dormitory-style, with mattresses laid out on the floor, and facilities such as toilets and showers are shared. What they may lack in modern comforts, gîtes more than make up for with atmosphere – warm hospitality, home-cooked meals like tagine prepared by the host family, and the rare opportunity to experience daily Berber life first-hand. Staying in a gîte is a cultural highlight of the trek and offers a genuine connection with the people of the mountains.

Ornate hanging lanterns and carved wooden balconies inside a restored riad in Essaouira

What is a Riad?

A riad is a traditional Moroccan townhouse, often converted into a boutique guesthouse, and typically located in the medinas of cities like Marrakesh and Fes. Built around a central courtyard or garden, riads provide a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the streets outside. Rooms are individually decorated, often with intricate tilework and carved wood details, and many feature rooftop terraces with views over the medina or surrounding skyline. While riads vary in size and style, they are known for their character, charm and personalised service – offering travellers a comfortable base that still feels distinctly Moroccan.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

Early morning game viewing walk in Hlane National Park in Swaziland

Your safety is our main priority

Africa's wildlife is wild and unfenced. On many wildlife safaris you may meet them on foot, or from a vehicle. Walking in big-game country carries some risk, and the safeguards are not the same in every country.

Rules on firearms, guide qualifications, group size and how close you may approach an animal are set country by country, park by park. Many incorrectly assume that every wildlife safari in Africa travels with an armed ranger. Several countries prohibit firearms outright. Where an armed escort is required, it is supplied by the park authority.

What is consistent is how these trips operate. You walk in a small group with a professional local guide who knows the country and the animals in it. We do not include captive or hands-on wildlife encounters in any itinerary.

Read more

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