5-day trek in Morocco: Toubkal and Sahara
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationAtlas Mountains / Marrakech
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AgeFrom 13 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions344.68 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
Arabic
In a few words
Dare to escape on an exceptional journey to Morocco , a true link between adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This unique trip invites you to travel from majestic peaks to golden plains, offering unforgettable contrasts.
The sporting challenge begins with the ascent of Jbel Toubkal , the highest peak in North Africa . You will traverse steep mountain trails , passing through traditional villages nestled in the heart of the mountains. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with welcoming Berber communities and discover a millennia-old heritage.
After the exertion at altitude, the adventure continues towards the serene horizons of the Sahara Desert . Explore the endless sand dunes and let yourself be amazed by these tranquil landscapes. This journey is a true cultural immersion into the heart of Morocco's rich heritage.
From snow-capped peaks to hidden oases, this trip offers an extraordinary combination of thrilling adventure , unforgettable scenery, and authentic discoveries.
The highlights
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Toubkal: an epic mountain hike with breathtaking views
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Contrast and culture: discover the mountains, the desert and the Berber heritage of Morocco
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Sahara: breathtaking desert dunes, camel rides and starry nights
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average distance/day: 15 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1450 m
- Average daily descent: 1300 m
Mountaineering
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 20 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 2430 m
- Average daily descent: 2430 m
- Maximum altitude: 4167 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
Arabic
Program
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Marrakech - Imlil - Toubkal Refuge
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 65km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 1450 m
- Negative elevation 1300 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech to Imlil (1,745 m), where the trek starts. Crossing lush valleys, you'll pass through charming Berber villages and discover the local culture. A lunch break at the Sidi Chamharouch sanctuary (2,350 m) will allow you to rest and recharge before continuing the ascent to the Toubkal refuge (3,207 m). Allow approximately six hours for the hike to fully appreciate the magnificent surrounding scenery.
Day 1 -
Toubkal Refuge - Toubkal Summit - Imlil
- Activity Mountaineering
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 2430 m
- Negative elevation 2430 m
- Maximum altitude 4167 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After an early start, you'll set off to conquer Mount Toubkal (4,167 m). The ascent will reward you with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and even glimpses of the Sahara in the distance. Once at the summit, savor the beauty of the sunrise and the panoramic views before descending to Imlil to spend the night in a local village, giving you time to reflect on the day's achievement.
Day 2 -
Imlil - Dades Gorge
- Transportation Car - 07h - 250km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The journey continues as you leave Imlil and head towards Aït Benhaddou. The route will take you through numerous Berber villages, culminating in a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou. After exploring this historic kasbah, you will travel to the Dadès Valley, where you will spend the night in the heart of the gorges. Allow a full day for travel and exploration, approximately seven hours in total.
Day 3 -
Dades Gorge - Merzouga Dunes
- Transportation Car - 05h - 230km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll visit the spectacular Dadès Gorges before heading to the Todra Gorges. There, you can enjoy a refreshing mint tea while admiring the magnificent scenery. The day includes a scenic drive through beautiful towns before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. As night falls, you'll set off on camelback into the vast dunes to witness the sunset. A night spent under the stars in a traditional Berber tent, accompanied by local music, will conclude this unforgettable day.
Day 4 -
Merzouga - Marrakech
- Transportation Car - 11h - 650km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The final day begins with a sunrise over the Sahara before breakfast at your accommodation. After a shower and freshening up, you'll return to Marrakech, passing through charming towns and picturesque landscapes, including the Draa Valley. The journey back to Marrakech takes approximately eight hours, allowing you to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past few days.
Day 5
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Transportation
- Guide
- Breakfast and dinner
- Lunch at Mount Toubkal
- Mule
- Accommodation
- Camel ride in the desert
- Water bottle
The price does not include
- Transportation to the place of stay
- Tips
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Clothing to bring
Equipment for the Sahara (desert)
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Protection
Equipment for Toubkal (high mountain)
- Clothing (3-layer system)
- Shoes
