Embark on a winter trek in the Atlas Mountains and Mount Toubkal

A free morning in Marrakech offers a final opportunity to soak up its vibrant atmosphere. In the early afternoon, we'll travel by minibus to the Asni Valley, then on to the Imlil Valley, nestled at the foot of the Adrar n'Dern mountain range . This imposing massif boasts stunning terraced fields and Berber villages with traditional architecture, shaped over centuries. A short walk along mule tracks, winding up the mountainside, leads us to the Aremd guesthouse , where we'll spend the night.

We follow the Ait Mizane valley, along its wadi , to the marabout of Sidi Chamharouch , an important pilgrimage site. This region, inhabited by the Ait Mizane , a branch of the Ghighaya tribe, lives mainly from agriculture and livestock farming , while preserving its ancestral Berber traditions.

After a break for mint tea , we resumed our ascent towards the Neltner cirque and its refuge . The afternoon was dedicated to a briefing on the use of mountaineering equipment ( crampons, ice axes, ropes, etc. ) in preparation for the next stages.

An early morning departure takes us through the Toubkal cirque to reach the Ouagan pass at 3800m . The ascent is gradual, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Once at the pass, the trail follows a high ridge leading to the summit of Ouanoukrim , the third highest peak in the High Atlas Mountains. The view from the summit is stunning, with a unique panorama of the surrounding mountains. In the early afternoon, we return to the refuge to enjoy a hot snack and a well-deserved rest after this beautiful day of hiking.

Early in the morning, we leave the refuge to begin the ascent of Toubkal , the highest peak in North Africa. The trail leads us through scree and snow-covered areas, demanding effort and concentration. Once we reach the ridge, we continue to the summit, where a breathtaking view unfolds before us. This moment marks the accomplishment of a true challenge, and we feel the full power of the Berber name "Toug Akal," meaning "to dominate the land." After a pause to savor this unique moment, we begin our descent back to the refuge via the same route.

The day begins with a gradual climb towards the Ouanoums Pass . The path, initially wide, narrows as it approaches the pass, where the rock forms a veritable breach. From the summit, the view plunges down to the magnificent emerald-hued Lake Ifni , located south of Mount Toubkal . After enjoying this view, return to the refuge for a well-deserved break before beginning the descent towards Aremd in the early afternoon.

We begin a short walk between Aremd and Imlil, where we rejoin our vehicles. The return journey brings us back to Marrakech in the late morning . The afternoon is free , offering the opportunity to stroll through the Red City , explore its lively souks , and soak up its daily atmosphere .

To conclude your stay, we suggest spending your last nights in a comfortable hotel or an authentic riad in the heart of Marrakech. If you wish to extend this experience or add another leg to your trip, your travel advisor is available to organize every detail according to your wishes. Take this opportunity to further explore the Red City or discover other treasures of Morocco.