Mount Toubkal Winter Climb - 3 Days
- Berber, English-speaking guide
- Mules carry your luggage
- Round-trip transport from Marrakech
Elevation profile
In terms of fitness, you should be used to or fit enough to cope with 6-8 hour days in the mountains for the duration of your trip.
Trek Overview
Climbing Toubkal in winter generally requires wearing crampons and using a walking ice-axe. However the ascent is not technical and so you do not necessarily need prior experience using an axe or crampons as you will be under the watchful eye of our guides.In terms of fitness, you should be used to or fit enough to cope with 6-8 hour days in the mountains for the duration of your trip bearing in mind that the weather whilst generally favourable can make life much more difficult at 4000m’s if it turns nasty.
Highlights
- Climb Toubkal peak
- Stay at the Toubkal Refuge (base camp)
- Visit local Berber village Imlil
Itinerary
Day 1
Marrakech-Imlil - refuge ( Base camp)
Meet in Marrakech early morning, transfer to Imlil. Mid morning coffee before beginning our trek up to Toubkal refuge, around 3165m. This will take around 6 hours including a lunch stop at the shrine of Sidi Chamarouch where the snow-line generally starts. After arriving at the hut, get settled in and keep warm! Enjoy some great views as the sun sets...
Day 2
Toubkal Refuge - Toubkal peak - Toubkal Refuge
An early start for the summit of Toubkal. Generally we leave the refuge around 07.00 or possibly earlier depending on time of year, weather and conditions. Our route of choice on Toubkal itself, is the north-cwm route (which is by far the less frequented of the main routes starting at the refuges below). However we will only attempt this route if weather, snow conditions and group abilities allow - otherwise we will climb Toubkal by the standard south-cwm route. Whichever route we do climb, you can be assured of a great day out! Expect a 7-8 hour energetic day before we get back to the refuge for late lunch. Then sit in the sun and re-live the day....
Day 3
Toubkal Refuge - Imlil - Marrakech
After breakfast, trek back to Imlil to arrive around lunch-time. Have lunch there before our transfer back to Marrakech. Aim to arrive Marrakech mid afternoon.
Pricing
Per person — the more you bring, the less everyone pays.
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2-3 people | €210 |
| 4-7 people | €195 |
| 8-12 people | €180 |
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
- Berber Cook
- All meals on the hike
- Accommodation in a Mountain Hut
- Round-trip Transportation between the trek and your accommodation in Marrakesh.
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
- Berber Cook
- All meals on the hike
- Accommodation in a Mountain Hut
- Round-trip Transportation between the trek and your accommodation in Marrakesh.
Not included
- Travel insurance.
- Soft/alcoholic drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
Frequently asked questions
The climb
How long does the winter climb take?
Three days. Porters carry bags from the snowline up to the hut, and the extra day over the summer route allows for acclimatisation and for choosing the right weather window for the summit.
Do I need winter mountaineering experience?
No, but you do need to be a fit hill walker and willing to learn. The route has no technical climbing even under snow, and our guides run a two-hour session at the Toubkal Refuge the afternoon before summit day, teaching you to walk in crampons and to use an ice axe.
What you cannot shortcut is fitness: expect six to eight hour days on snow. If you have never worn crampons and want a gentler introduction, tell us and we will talk it through before you book.
Which side of the mountain do we climb in winter?
Your guide decides on the morning, between the north and the south cwm, based on the snow, the weather and how the group is moving. Both are non-technical lines in good conditions; the choice is about avalanche risk and where the snow is safest that day.
That judgement is the main reason a licensed local guide is mandatory on this mountain.
On the mountain
Do I need crampons and an ice axe?
Yes. From roughly November to April, snow and ice sit on the upper gully and the summit plateau, and a slip there is serious. Crampons, an ice axe and a helmet are essential on this itinerary, and your guide will decide on the morning whether the north or south cwm is the safer line.
Tell us your dates when you enquire and we will confirm what you should bring.
What is the Toubkal Refuge like?
There are two refuges side by side at 3,207m: shared dormitory bunks with blankets, cold running water, flush toilets and a communal dining room. It is basic, warm and sociable rather than comfortable. Bring a sleeping bag liner, earplugs and a head torch. Our cook prepares your meals there.
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.
Before you go
What kit do I need, and what is provided?
Crampons, an ice axe and a helmet are essential, and we can supply them — tell us your boot size when you book. You bring proper winter hill clothing: insulated boots stiff enough to take crampons, layers, a windproof shell, gloves, hat and goggles or sunglasses.
Our winter packing list has the full detail, and there is a longer note on whether you need crampons for borderline months.
When does the winter season run?
Roughly November to April, though the snowline moves year to year. Deep winter, January and February, gives the most reliable snow cover and the emptiest mountain. March and April often hold snow high up while the valleys are already in spring.
Outside those months the normal route is usually clear and the two-day summer climb is the one you want. Tell us your dates and we will say which applies.
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.