Morocco 5-day Tours

Another faultlessly organized trip by this tour company that did exactly what it said on the tin. We actually stayed on in Marrakech for 2 extra nights as, our group of 5, had not been before. I can imagine it being quite a rush otherwise, which is obviously what the trip is all about - doing the mountain in a weekend. Marrakech was a lot nicer than I imagined before I went, wide boulevards, gardens and very friendly people. It's only the centre with the souks and markets that are busy are touristy. The hotel is about 40 minutes walk from the centre, but cabs are plentiful and cheap and at least the walk is straight forward. We were there in Ramadan, which was actually fine as all the restaurants (& bars) were still open, but empty and it didn't inconvenience us at all. Marrakech feels quite cosmopolitan and open, although I did find people really didn't like having their photo taken, even from a distance. There seems so much for sale in town, far more than would be possible for tourists to purchase, so sales techniques are tough - you should be prepared for that. The mountain itself is fine - on the first day you walk for 2.5 hours, have lunch, and then for a further 3, until you reach the refuge, which is surprisingly solid and well built. Mules take your main luggage and the muleteers will prepare your food for you at the refuge. The beds are in dormitory rooms, which if full, would be very cozy, but our group of 6 had a room to ourselves and plenty of room. The climb to Toubkal summit starts early on day 2 and is a stiff climb of around 3-4 hours, depending on breaks. You only really begin to appreciate the views once you're approaching the summit as up to that point, you're walking through a valley staring at the Toubkal mountain in front of you. The views from the top, however, are amazing and worth the climb. The temperature in June was, on day 1, HOT .. I got very sunburned so take hats and cream. The climb to the summit required only a thin fleece (June). On the way down, you will slip on the scree slopes, and likely end up on your backsides a few times, but it's great fun. Once back at the refuge for lunch, you then head back down the valley to the hotel in Imlil, which is basic, but actually very pleasant (but they don't have beer) and then back to Marrakech. June departures do not need warm clothes (although apparently waterproofs if it rains - it didn't for us). I managed with a light fleece on the summit day. The heat means you will drink a lot of water, so a bladder for your rucksack is very useful. You can buy water at regular intervals on day one, but not between the lodge and summit. The lodge does sell soft drinks, but these can run out late in the day (as everything is brought up by mule) so buy some drinks on the route through the valley on day one.

My daughter asked me to join her on this trip in preparation for her trek to Everest Base Camp. It was hard but amazing in equal measure and I’m so glad I did it! Keeping positive and being part of a great team are key to completing the trek.

So good I did it a seconds time. I loved this trip (Mid May 2012), it's not too far to travel and I'm not away from home and work for too long. You can nip there fore a long weekend, and experience some great challenges, Moroccan culture and have a laugh with new friends.

One of the best treks I have ever done. Organisation was without fault. Thanks tot he cooks and the boys helping with luggage and an excellent group, it was the most enjoyable experience I have ever had. Accommodation in Marrakech and Aron was comfortable. I liked the night stay in Aron when we walked down after the summit day. It was peaceful, good showers and dinner under the stars. I would recommend this trek to those who want a challenge or those who want to use this as a training to tougher treks such as Killimanjaro.

The tour was absolutely delightful. There was a nice balance between culture and adventure within the six days. We bartered our goods in the vibrant souks, saw historical sights, and even the blue-street charm of Chefchaouen. Hakim, our driver, was outstanding: friendly, knowledgeable, and made for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Highly recommended!

If you're seeking a challenge and awe inspiring scenery, this climb is hard to beat. Easily reached from the centre of Marrakesh you get a real sense of the region, it's beauty and it's Berber heritage. This is my fifth time in Marrakesh and this climb has been the most memorable of all my visits and one that I'll remember in future years.