3-Day Mount Toubkal Ascent via the Azzaden Valley and Lepiney Refuge
- Berber, English-speaking guide
- Mules carry your luggage
- Round-trip transport from Marrakech
Elevation profile
Embark on a journey to scale Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, through the beautiful Azzaden Valley. This trek combines breathtaking mountain scenery with cultural experiences in the Atlas Mountains.
Toubkal trek via Azzaden valley
Experience the thrill of trekking to the summit of Mount Toubkal, traversing the picturesque Azzaden Valley. This challenging yet rewarding journey offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion, as you encounter traditional Berber villages and diverse natural beauty. The trek to Toubkal, via the less-traveled Azzaden Valley, promises both adventure and serenity, making it an unforgettable experience in the Moroccan High Atlas.
Highlights
- Lepiney Mountain Refuge Stay: Overnight in the heart of the Atlas Mountains at 3,000 meters.
- Aguelzim Mountain Pass: Climb this high pass for panoramic views of the Atlas Range.
- Summit of Mount Toubkal: Conquer North Africa’s highest peak with breathtaking views of the Atlas Range and the Sahara Desert.
Itinerary
Day 1
Marrakech - Imlil - Lepiney refuge
Your journey starts with a pickup from Marrakech at 9:00 am, heading to Imlil. The trek begins with an ascent to <a href="/imlil-and-azzaden-valleys-trek/">Tizi n Mzik pass</a>, revealing spectacular views. Descend into the vibrant Azzadene valley, passing through Azib n’Tansoult and the D’Irhouliden waterfalls, before reaching the <a href="/lepiney-refuge/">Lepiney mountain refuge</a> for an overnight stay.
Day 2
Lepiney Refuge to Toubkal Refuge
Today's trek involves climbing out of the Azzadene Valley towards the Toubkal Refuge, passing the D’Irhoulidene waterfalls again and ascending the Aguelzim Mountain pass. After a lunch with panoramic views, descend to the <a href="/toubkal-refuge/">Toubkal Mountain Refuge</a> for the night, with an option to camp during summer.
Day 3
Toubkal Refuge - Toubkal Summit - Imlil - Marrakech
An early start for the Toubkal summit, a challenging but rewarding climb with stunning panoramic views. Descend to the Toubkal Refuge, then trek back to Imlil, passing <a href="/the-marabout-of-sidi-chamharouch/">Sidi Charmmharouch</a>. Your journey concludes with a drive back to Marrakech, arriving in the evening.
Pricing
Per person — the more you bring, the less everyone pays.
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2-3 people | €250 |
| 4-7 people | €220 |
| 8-12 people | €195 |
Further discounts are available for group sizes over 10 people. You can pay in €/$/£ or Moroccan Dirhams.
What's included
Included
- Expert, Berber, English-speaking mountain guides
- Mules and muleteers to carry your luggage.
- Porters for luggage from snowline to the mountain huts ( Winter months)
- Berber Cook
- All meals on the hike
- Accommodation in a Mountain Huts ( winter) or camping if preferred on summer months.
- Round-trip Transportation between the trek and your accommodation in Marrakesh .
- Camping Materiel ( Tents & Mattress) for summer treks.
Not included
- Travel insurance.
- Soft/alcoholic drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
Included
- Expert, Berber, English-speaking mountain guides
- Mules and muleteers to carry your luggage.
- Porters for luggage from snowline to the mountain huts ( Winter months)
- Berber Cook
- All meals on the hike
- Accommodation in a Mountain Huts ( winter) or camping if preferred on summer months.
- Round-trip Transportation between the trek and your accommodation in Marrakesh .
- Camping Materiel ( Tents & Mattress) for summer treks.
Not included
- Travel insurance.
- Soft/alcoholic drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
Frequently asked questions
The climb
Can a beginner climb Mount Toubkal?
Yes, in summer, if you are reasonably fit. No climbing skill or altitude experience is required on the normal route between May and October — it is a long uphill walk on rough ground. If you can manage a full day of hill walking at home, you can manage Toubkal with a guide setting the pace.
How long does it take, and why three days?
Three days. Rather than going straight up the busy Imlil valley, this route goes in by the quieter Azzaden valley to the Lepiney refuge at 3,000m, crosses to the Toubkal Refuge at 3,207m on day two, and takes the summit on day three.
Spreading the same ascent over more time means better acclimatisation, and a quieter approach. The two-day climb is the direct alternative.
Why go up this way rather than the direct route?
Two reasons: acclimatisation and quiet. The two-day climb goes straight up the busy Imlil valley and sleeps one night at 3,207m. This route crosses Tizi n’Mzik into the Azzaden valley on day one, sleeps at the Lepiney refuge at 3,000m, and only reaches the Toubkal Refuge on day two, so your body gets two nights high before the summit.
The Azzaden is also the far quieter side of the mountain. You will see a fraction of the traffic that the Imlil valley carries in season.
What is the Aguelzim pass like?
It is the crux of day two: a long climb out of the Azzaden valley on to the ridge, with the whole Toubkal massif opening up in front of you at the top, then a descent to the Toubkal Refuge. You cross it after passing the D’Irhoulidene waterfalls for a second time. Lunch is taken up there with the panorama.
On the mountain
What are the refuges like?
You sleep at the Lepiney refuge at 3,000m on night one and the Toubkal Refuge at 3,207m on night two. Both are shared dormitory bunks with blankets, cold running water and a communal dining room — basic, warm and sociable rather than comfortable. Bring a sleeping bag liner, earplugs and a head torch. Our cook prepares your meals there.
In summer you can camp instead if you prefer; tents and mattresses are included.
Is Mount Toubkal safe to climb?
Yes, with a licensed guide and the right kit for the season. The normal route has no technical difficulty in summer, the descent to help is quick, and mountain rescue operates in the park. The genuine risks are altitude, winter conditions on the upper mountain, and weather moving in fast — all of which are what your guide is there to manage.
Do I need crampons and an ice axe?
From roughly November to April, yes — snow and ice sit on the upper gully and the summit plateau, and a slip there is serious. From late May to October the normal route is usually clear and none of it is needed.
Tell us your dates when you enquire and we will confirm what the conditions call for, and what you should bring. For a climb in full winter conditions, see our winter Toubkal climb.
Booking
When should I book?
For July, August and the Easter and Christmas holidays, book six to eight weeks ahead — refuge beds are limited and sell out. For the rest of the year two to three weeks is usually enough, and we can often arrange a trek at a few days notice outside peak season.
What our guests say
The entire climb was meticulously planned and executed. From the initial communication to the final descent, every detail was taken care of with professionalism and attentiveness. The equipment provided was top-notch, the itinerary was well thought out, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the mountains without any worries.
James F · Toubkal Climb guest
I had an extraordinary experience climbing Toubkal with Imlil Morocco Explorers. Our guide, Ibrahim, was knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climb. The food provided was a highlight – delicious, nutritious, and a great introduction to Moroccan cuisine. Every aspect of the trip was well-organized, from the equipment to the itinerary. Highly recommend for anyone looking to explore the Atlas Mountains!
Anna K · Toubkal Climb guest
Mohammed guided my friend and me to the summit of Mount Toubkal, showcasing outstanding guiding skills. His friendly demeanor, immense patience, and calming presence greatly enhanced our journey. He consistently ensured our well-being and hydration throughout the trek.Additionally, the muleteer, who was responsible for preparing our meals, was equally amiable and proved to be an excellent chef, serving delightful breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
John Carter · Toubkal Climb guest
We had an amazing experience climbing Mount Toubkal with Hussein as our guide. He made the whole trip unforgettable always positive, encouraging, and full of energy…
Craig Phelps · Google review · Toubkal Climb guest
Google reviews were left for High Atlas Hiking, our sister company run by the same Imlil team.