The Toubkal Circuit is one of Africa’s finest multi-day treks. Situated in Morocco’s Atlas mountains, it takes hikers on a 60 km (37.3 mi) loop around Jebel Toubkal, which at 4167 m (13,671 ft) is the highest peak in the Arab world. Along the way it traverses oasis valleys, mountain passes and panoramic ridges. Walking the same trails that the native Berbers have trodden for millennia, hikers will experience a memorable fusion of natural and cultural elements, the latter coming in the form of ancient villages and the legendary local hospitality. I hiked the Toubkal Circuit in October, 2008. All logistical information has been updated as of March, 2018.
Toubkal Circuit Overview (photo credit frostyfootprints.wordpress.com).
Details
Distance : 60 km (37.3 mi) – 72 km (44.7 mi) if you include an ascent of Jebel Toubkal.
Average Time : 4 – 6 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Start / Finish :
- The village of Imlil.
- Grand (shared) taxis regularly ply the route between Marrakech and Imlil. As of February, 2018, it costs 50 dirham (dh) / US$13.6 per person for the 75 to 90 minute journey. Alternatively, you can book out an entire taxi for 300 dh (US$81.7).
Berber Village on the slopes of the High Atlas (Photo credit Gestalten Publications & Alex Frood) | The Toubkal Circuit is one of 32 featured hikes in the book Wanderlust: Hiking on Legendary Trails).
Season :
- Late spring and early autumn are the ideal times to do this trek. Summer, despite the heat and lack of water, is peak season and is often crowded with foreign trekking groups (mostly around Jebel Toubkal itself).
Maps and Information:
- Topographic Map: The 1:50,000 Jebel Toubkal (1994) sheet and a compass is all you need for navigation purposes. It is widely available for purchase in Marrakech, or alternatively you may be able to pick up a copy at the the Bureau des Guides in Imlil. It can be downloaded for free at GISEnglish.com (Geographical Information Systems).
- Guidebooks: As of March, 2018, there appear to be two principal options that cover the Toubkal Circuit: 1. The High Atlas (2012 – Cicerone Press / Available in Kindle), and; 2. Moroccan Atlas: The Trekking Guide (2015 – Trailblazer Publications). Both contain trekking notes, sketch maps, and logistical details for the circuit. Please note that I haven’t personally seen either of these books (I hiked in 2008), but for what it’s worth, the reviews for both seem mostly positive.
The descent into the village of Imlil from Tizi n’Mzik (2489m), the final pass of the hike (if done in a clockwise direction).
- Supplies: These should be brought from Marrakech, as choices in Imlil may be limited. Note that it is possible to obtain meals and basic supplies along the way in some of the villages such as Tacheddirt and Amsouzert. The latter is by far the largest village on the route, and sports a range of restaurants, shops and accommodation options.
- Water: There are a few natural springs along the route from which good water can be obtained. Otherwise, all H2O should be purified.
- Guided Vs Independent: The vast majority of people (more than 90%) hike the Toubkal circuit as part of a guided group. However, for those with the above mentioned map and/or guidebook, good equipment and decent navigation skills, there are no issues with doing the trek independently. If you choose to go sans agency, you can lighten your load by eating at least some of your meals at villages along the way. The food is very tasty and reasonably priced.
Gorgeous riverside campsite on Day 1 of the circuit.
- Cultural Considerations: Although famous for their hospitality, the Berbers are a conservative people whose dress code reflect those values. As a sign of both courtesy and respect, foreigners should dress modestly (pants rather than shorts, no sleeveless shirts) during their stay in the Atlas mountains. It is also recommended to make the effort to learn some basic Berber phrases; this particularly holds true if you are hiking independently. If people see that you are genuinely trying to communicate, nine times out of ten they will make the effort to understand and help in any way they can. If on the other hand you just start rambling on in English without making any effort whatsoever, then chances are that people will be a lot less likely to assist you. For more tips on hiking in developing countries see Cultural Considerations when Hiking Abroad.
Solitude and snowy passes on the Toubkal Circuit in mid-October, 2008.
Route / Conditions :
- Route: Starting and finishing in the picturesque village of Imlil, the Toubkal circuit traverses a series of interconnected valleys and mountain passes during its 60 km course. Though the trail is generally clear and easy to follow, for those that choose to hike independently, good navigation skills are required. This particularly holds true during the shoulder seasons when snowy conditions are often encountered on the higher sections.
- Terrain: In regards to the terrain, the climbs to the passes are often rocky and long, and the adjoining valleys range in character from lush and cultivated to barren and windswept. One of the standout natural features is the beautiful Lac d’Ifni, an emerald colored jewel situated just west of the village of Amsouzert.
Lac d’Ifni (Photo credit brmc-adventure.org.uk)
- Berber Culture: Aside from the impressive landscapes, one of the highlights of hiking in the Atlas mountains is experiencing the Berber culture. During the course of the circuit, the trail passes through several ancient villages that provide the trekker with a fascinating insight into local way of life. The mud brick dwellings, children splashing around in the river, a local shepherd wandering through the main street with his flock in tow; in many ways it feels like not much has changed over the centuries.
Descending to the village of Amsouzert,
- Side Trips: During the circuit there are multiple side trip options for those with the time and energy. The most notable are excursions to the summits of Agounss N’Tiniline and Jebel Toubkal. The latter peak is the highest mountain in Northern Africa. Standing some 4167 meters above sea level, the trail to the top is non-technical, easy to follow and unlike the rest of the Toubkal Circuit, remains a popular option with hikers all year round. The side trip up to the top of Jebel Toubkal is definitely worthwhile. I imagine the views would be spectacular in fine weather. The summit was covered in cloud whilst I was there.
Ascending Jebel Toubkal in less than ideal conditions.
I’d been hoping for a break in the weather during the ascent of Jebel Toubkal. Suffice to say, my panorama wishes were not granted.
The view from the top in clearer weather (photo credit summitpost.org).
Accommodation :
- Camping, staying at Gite d’Etapes in the villages, or a combination of both. There is also a large mountain hut at the base of Jebel Toubkal which sleeps 80 people. Note that this can often be crowded with groups that have come to the area solely to climb Jebel Toubkal.
- I’d personally recommend spending at least one or two nights in the villages. Be sure to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. My favourite were the Tajines – slow cooked savoury stews prepared in an earthenware pot.
Yours truly about to tuck in to a tasty Tajine.
Overview :
The Toubkal Circuit offers hikers the chance to experience one of the world’s most unique cultures. When combined with the impressive mountain vistas, excellent food, and legendary local hospitality, it makes for an irresistible combination. It may only be a short drive away from the hustle bustle of Marrakech, but walking the ancient pathways of the Berbers, you can’t help but feel like you have been transported back to a simpler time and place. One in which the primary mode of transport is still by foot, and all the people nod and say hello as you pass them by.
Discover more from The Hiking Life
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
Is it possible to do this hike with a mule or donkey?
Organized trekking groups often use them, but I don’t know whether it is possible to arrange for one privately.
Yes you can at the trekking bureau in Imlil
I’m planning on doing the toubkal circuit around the 7th April with a friend. We would like to do it without a guide and have good navigation skills, however I’m worried about the weight of carrying a tent, sleeping bags etc. Is it possible to stay in huts, villages and get food all the way along. Or do we have to camp a couple of nights? Therefore need tent, sleeping bag and supppies. Thanks
Depending on how far you hike every day, you could stay exclusively in villages and/or with locals. That said, I’d still take your own sleeping bag. No worries in regards to picking up supplies as you go.
And do you know if it is reasonably easy to communicate with the Berbers to arrange shelter for a night? and would it be worth bringing a matt as well as a sleeping bag? Thanks for you help
Yes, it should be be relatively easy to arrange accommodation. Generally, there should be something to sleep on, but personally I would also take a sleeping mat as well.
Sorry, last question! For doing the circuit in early April, would you recommend a 2 or 3 season sleeping bag? I realise this depends on a few factors. But trying to decide, especially to save on weight.
A three season bag (say 25-30°F) should be fine, especially if you are staying indoors.
Hello, my name is Boris and I come from Slovenia. In September 2018, I want to complete the Toubkal Circle with my girlfriend. My question is if it is possible to complete the Toubkal Circle in four days. If it’s feasible, in which places you recommend to spend the night. Thanks for the reply.
Yes, it is possible to do it in four days. You can either camp along the way (pretty much anywhere outside of the populated areas) or stay at Gites in the villages. Pick up either the Cicerone or Trailblazer guide for specific accommodation suggestions. Best of luck on your hike.
Cheers,
Cam
Thanks for the quick reply. I like the site, a lot of useful information.
Does anyone know how much to tip for a 6-day trek in a guided tour? Do we need to tip individually? The guide, cook, muleteer,etc? Thanks!
Hello
I work as tour Guide in atlas mountains and i climb mount Toubkal once a week
its very nice to find people saying very good tings about my area, its attract more tourist
thanks a lot for sharing this with world
Such a useful blog this – thank you! We’re headed to the Jebel Circuit in a couple of weeks time. We’re experienced hill walkers happy with navigation, wild camping etc. We weren’t planning on arranging a muleteer/cook.
Having done some reading, I’m a little anxious about provisions. We’re planning on staying at Gites where they are available, but it is the summer so I know you can’t rely on them. What did you do for lunches and so on? Can you pick up basic fresh fruit, bread and water etc in all the villages or is it restricted to Imlil and Amsouzerte? Will Gites provide you with a lunch or lunch provisions if you request? I don’t fancy being hungry for a week!
Hi Nicky,
I hiked in October, and purchased virtually all of my food along the way. You definitely won’t go hungry for a week on this trek.
You may want to pick up one of the guidebooks I reference in the article for more detailed information on what’s available in the villages.
Cheers,
Cam
Any reccomendations on guides? I plan on going the circuit in Oct.
I know the Bureau des Guides in Imlil has been around since the 80’s, but other than that I have no information in regards to guides for the circuit.
Hey, thanks for the great information! I looked at your gear list page but didn’t see this trip on there (perhaps because it is non-technical and not too long). Would it be possible to ask for a brief list of essentials you found or things you wish/didn’t wish you brought?
Thanks again!
Hi Nick,
Thanks for the kind words. Of the many hikes listed on the website, only a handful have gear lists. As you can imagine, it isn’t really practical for me to go back to all the hikes I’ve done in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s and put together gear lists for each trip. That said, in regards to the Toubkal Circuit, if you are hiking in the recommended shoulder seasons I would recommend the following: 1. Carry a lightweight tent rather than a tarp; 2. 20F to 30F Sleeping bag or quilt; 3. Carry a pack with a capacity of no more than 60 L; 4. Go stoveless and don’t carry too much food from the outset as there are various places to purchase supplies along the way; 5. Pick up one of the guidebooks listed, which will be of help on the logistical front; 6. Learn some words/phrases in Berber.
Best of luck on your hike.
Cheers,
Cam
How about trekking Toubkal Circuit in December? Is there a lot of snow? Can you find the place/hut to sleep, or better to have tent with you?
It is possible, but yes, there is likely to be a lot of snow (varies year to year). In addition to a tent, you should plan on carrying an ice axe and crampons.
Hello and thank you a lot for this wide range of useful information!
Anyway, I have two questions…
1) I want to do the hike (and if possible also the summit) in March. Do you think that is too early in the season? Might there be snow also in the lower areas?
2) I want to go by myself. Do you think traveling as a girl alone in an Arabic country is combined with a lot of hustle in Marakkesh ad so on, even one is quiet experienced in traveling in foreign cultures?
I´m not sure if you are able to answer (as a not-female person and not knowing the area during the hole year), anyway, if you can give me hints, that´ll be great.
Ciao
T.
Hi Tanja,
In answer to your questions: 1. Snow levels vary from year to year, so it really depends on recent falls and your experience in negotiating such conditions. To the best of my knowledge in an average year, in March it’s likely that there will still be a lot a of snow on the passes and the sections leading up to them; 2. That’s a toughie. I know quite a few girls that have travelled solo in Arabic countries without issues, but I’ve also heard stories of others that have had a difficult time. If you decide to go by yourself, my only advice would be to dress conservatively, learn as much of the language as possible, and do as much research as you can before your trip. People that give the impression of being lost or not sure (whether it be a guy or a girl) always make for easier targets than those that look like they know what they are doing and where they are going.
All the best on your trip!
Cheers,
Cam
Hi Tanja,
Can I ask if you went in march? If so, how did you find it? I’m going 20th of march and have the same questions as you did!
Thanks,
David
To note that since the tragic murder of a pair of female hikers in December 2018 just up from the village of Aroumd it is no long possible to hike here without a local guide. There are a number of police check points and people walking without a guide are likely to be stopped by locals. Understandable given the reliance of the local economy on tourism and desire to ensure that people have a safe visit to Morocco
Hi there,
I’m wanting to run this circuit in March. I’m just trying to work out where to use as a base each night and I’m assuming it would be completed by running in 2/3 days? Could you possibly advise on checkpoints for the night so I could look at booking etc. Also is there a hire shop for crampons etc at the foot village of toubkal?
Thankyou! James
Hey James,
A strong/experienced hiker carrying a light pack can comfortably do the circuit in two or three days. In regards to your questions, I suggest you purchase one of the guidebooks mentioned in the post. That will provide you with the logistical details you are looking for. All the best on your trip.
Cheers,
Cam
Hi My trail name is the Spaniard I am an avid hiker, 3 crown, the TA plus Camino del Norte and frances, would like to hike from Imlil to the Tobkal mountain need some clarification if you can: is a permit mandatory, and can this be done in one day. Thank you
Hi can you hire a guide in imlil from the street.or must you go to an agency.
And cost of a guide
If possible I would try to organise a guide before you arrive in Imlil. However if you don’t you will be able to get a guide from the street, your gite or from the bureau. The price per person will depend on the number in the group but for your money you will get a guide, mule, meals and accommodation on route.
Hey Cam,
In your experience do you feel like this is a safe hike to do solo as a female?
Thanks,
Sophia
Hey Sophia,
In times past, Toubkal was always considered fairly safe. However, as you may know, in 2018, a couple of Scandinavian girls were killed while camping in the area. In the aftermath, I believe a guide was obligatory, however, I’m not sure if the situation has changed again over the last few years. Your best bet might be to ask around in Imlil upon arrival. Sorry I can’t be of more help.
Best of luck,
Cam
Any updates if you need a guide to do the circuit? We are a couple, but would like to do this unguided. We’re hoping the first week of April. Any insight is appreciated.
This blog was posted a few months ago (https://www.pinyourfootsteps.com/jebel-toubkal-climbing-the-highest-mountain-in-morocco/) – “There is a police checkpoint after Aroumd village where your passport as well as the ID of the guide will be checked. The requirement of having a guide was imposed in 2018 after the murder of two Scandinavian tourists. So it’s not that much related to trail difficulty but rather overall safety. I have seen some hikers walking without a guide but they were all coming from the direction of Ifni Lake, possibly doing longer traverses of this section of Atlas Mountains. I believe there is no police checkpoint in Imhilene village but getting there from Marrakech is much more difficult (over 4 hours by car).” and this looks recent – https://thebucketlistcompany.co.uk/do-you-need-a-guide-to-climb-mount-toubkal/