Signature trip
Six days from Marrakech: the Berber villages of the High Atlas and the summit of Toubkal, 4,167 metres, with the local team.
Trip overview
Toubkal and Berber Villages
Six days from Marrakech combining culture and mountains: two days walking through the Imenane valley and its villages of stone, with a night in a village gîte, then the Toubkal cirque, the refuge (3,207 m) and the summit at 4,167 metres by the normal route. All with the team of Berber guides of the High Atlas, with flexible departures and a summit that always depends on the weather and the local guide's judgement.
The character of the trip
How much adventure, culture and nature you'll experience.
Who will be with you on this trip
The trip is led from start to finish by the team of Berber guides of the High Atlas, with no additional Spanish coordinator. They live in these valleys and open the doors of the villages: they know the families, the language and the customs.
On the mountain, that same knowledge of the terrain sets the pace of the climb to Toubkal. The decision to go for the summit is always made on the ground, depending on the weather and how the group is feeling.
Flexible dates
This experience runs with our partner team on the ground, who organise and sell the trip's services directly. At Ecotour we design the itinerary, explain how it works, answer your questions and put you in touch with the organising team when you're ready to go ahead.
Local team on the ground
You travel through Morocco with the local team, who organise and guide the trip on the ground. Ecotour helps you decide.
Start day
Pick your start day: the 6 days of the trip are marked automatically.
We explain how the trip works, answer your questions and put you in touch with the organising team when you want to go ahead.
We design the itinerary and support you throughout your decision. Sending the form is not a booking or a payment.
Flexible dates: get in touch and we'll tell you about the next departure windows and how the trip is organised.
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll contact you personally. It isn't a booking or a payment, just a request for information.
Complete freedom
A route just for you and your group, with the freedom to adapt the dates, pace and priorities of the trip.
We tailor the itinerary and pace, and shape the proposal with you. No commitment until every detail is settled.
2026
Choose a month and we'll tell you the availability and price for those dates. The price varies with dates, group size and available accommodation.
Arrival in Marrakech and meeting with the local team, who drive the group to Imlil (1,740 m), an hour and a half along a mountain road. Afternoon to walk to the village of Aroumd and settle into the new rhythm.
Imlil
You cross the Tizi n'Tamatert pass (2,279 m) and descend into the Imenane valley, walking between Berber villages (Ouaneskra, Tinerhourhine) to Tacheddirt. Five to six hours of walking, with stops to see how village life works.
Gîte in Tacheddirt (2,300 m)
You climb back towards the Toubkal massif and walk up to the Toubkal refuge (3,207 m) via the Assif Ait Mizane valley and Sidi Chamharouch. Afternoon of rest and acclimatisation at the refuge.
Toubkal refuge
Departure before dawn. You climb the cirque to the Toubkal col (about 3,940 m) and, along the final ridge of boulders, reach the summit at 4,167 metres. Descent back to the refuge.
Toubkal refuge
Descent from the refuge to Imlil, three to four hours. Free afternoon in the valley to stroll, shop for crafts or rest.
Imlil
Transfer from Imlil to Marrakech. End of the trip or connection with your return flight.
Detailed itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival in Marrakech and meeting with the local team, who drive the group to Imlil (1,740 m), an hour and a half along a mountain road. Afternoon to walk to the village of Aroumd and settle into the new rhythm.
DAY 2
You cross the Tizi n'Tamatert pass (2,279 m) and descend into the Imenane valley, walking between Berber villages (Ouaneskra, Tinerhourhine) to Tacheddirt. Five to six hours of walking, with stops to see how village life works.
DAY 3
You climb back towards the Toubkal massif and walk up to the Toubkal refuge (3,207 m) via the Assif Ait Mizane valley and Sidi Chamharouch. Afternoon of rest and acclimatisation at the refuge.
DAY 4
Departure before dawn. You climb the cirque to the Toubkal col (about 3,940 m) and, along the final ridge of boulders, reach the summit at 4,167 metres. Descent back to the refuge.
DAY 5
Descent from the refuge to Imlil, three to four hours. Free afternoon in the valley to stroll, shop for crafts or rest.
DAY 6
Transfer from Imlil to Marrakech. End of the trip or connection with your return flight.
Trip highlights
Marrakech, gateway to the Atlas
The trip starts in Marrakech: meeting the local team, checking your kit and a first contrast of city, souk and mountain before heading up to the valley.
The Imenane valley and its villages
Two days walking through the Imenane valley: villages of stone and earth, mule tracks, terraces of walnut and apple trees, looms and the daily life of the High Atlas away from the busiest route.
A night in a village gîte
One night in family-run accommodation in Tacheddirt (2,300 m), one of the highest inhabited villages in the Atlas: a Berber dinner, a sitting room with rugs and the silence of the mountains as evening falls.
The Toubkal refuge
You enter the Toubkal cirque via Sidi Chamharouch, a small shrine beside the river, and climb to the Toubkal refuge (3,207 m), the base for the ascent, where you spend two nights.
The summit of Toubkal
4,167 metres: the highest point in Morocco and in all of North Africa. The final ridge opens a huge view over the Atlas and, on clear days, over the plain stretching towards the Sahara.
High Atlas mountain leaders who accompany the group throughout the six days, summit day included. A Spanish-speaking guide is available.
Local Berber guide teamMarrakech to Imlil and back by road, as per the programme.
Transfers at the destinationTwo nights in Imlil, one in a family-run gîte in Tacheddirt and two in the Toubkal refuge, with breakfasts, packed lunches and dinners from day 1 to day 6.
Accommodation and full board on the trekOrganisation of the route, mules to carry heavy luggage and support from the local team throughout the activity.
Mountain logisticsInternational flights to and from Marrakech, travel insurance and mountain rescue cover (compulsory), drinks and personal expenses, hotel nights in Marrakech before or after the programme, tips and personal mountain gear.
What is not includedYou must travel with insurance covering medical assistance, mountain activity and rescue, as well as cancellation cover. It is not included in the price.
The valley days are mild, but at the Toubkal refuge (3,207 m) and on the summit (4,167 m) temperatures drop sharply, especially in the early morning: bring warm clothing even for a summer departure.
The night in Tacheddirt is in a simple family-run gîte d'étape with a shared bathroom. A sleeping bag liner is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
This trip adds two days of walking through the Berber villages and valleys of the High Atlas before you climb the mountain, with a night in a village gîte. The summit goal is the same (Toubkal by the normal route), but the pace is more relaxed and there is more contact with local culture.
This trip is organised and sold by a partner team at the destination. Here at Ecotour we explain how it works, answer your questions and put you in touch with them when you want to go ahead. No booking or payment is made through Ecotour.
No climbing technique or technical equipment is needed. You do need to be comfortable walking for five to nine hours in the mountains several days in a row and at altitude. We talk it through with you before confirming your place.
One night in a gîte d'étape: simple family-run Berber accommodation, with rooms or a shared sitting room, blankets and a shared bathroom. It is part of the experience of getting to know village life in the Atlas.
No. Reaching the summit of Toubkal always depends on the weather, the condition of the mountain, the group's pace and the judgement of the local guide.
Travel insurance covering medical assistance, mountain activity and rescue. It is not included in the price and is compulsory to take part.
Gallery
Reviews
Sara Rojas3 months ago
Morocco
Just back from spending a few days in Morocco with Ecotour, all I can say is that the experience was wonderful, the kind that leaves unforgettable memories and makes life even more beautiful!!! Thank you
Hector Rus2 years ago
Morocco
I went on a trip to Morocco with Ecotour and Javi: 4 people and two specialists in snake spotting and rescue. Honestly, the number of different species we saw was surprising, from cobras to vipers and grass snakes, very big desert lizards, geckos and so on. It was non-stop, including getting into Western Sahara, with a group that from minute one felt like we'd known each other all our lives, great vibes and lots and lots of passion for animals and sharing. I learned a ton of things and was able to handle these animals in complete safety. I'd also say that I never felt we were going through tourist spots, quite the opposite. The places we passed through hadn't seen outsiders for days. That means that, besides everything being cheaper, you feel you've really got into the heart of a trip. One hundred percent adventure; more than a tour, it was a trip among friends passionate about animals. Thanks for everything, Javi, and for being there looking out for everyone. A big hug, and I'll do it again as soon as I can, no doubt. 🫂🙌
Sergio Gonzalez Yagüe2 years ago
Morocco
The trip to Morocco was one of the best moments of my life, 10/10, nothing more to add.
Lara Redondo González2 years ago
Morocco
How lovely it is when things are done with passion! A truly authentic trip with Javi in Morocco. If I were you, I'd rush to grab the next place :)
Juan Pablo Bernalte Toledo2 years ago
Morocco
This trip to Morocco was magical, the organisation and the guides super professional, every day an adventure. 100% recommended.
Carlos Buil3 years ago
High mountain
As always, it's an unforgettable experience to do high mountain climbing safely with Javier. Climbing two 3,000-metre peaks and enjoying the scenery in an educational and passionate way. Looking forward to doing it again 💪💪💪
ines piazuelo3 years ago
Vallibierna
Very professional and fun guiding on the Vallibierna. With guides like this, it seems possible to climb any peak. Thanks for the encouragement during the ascent, Javi, we'll surely see each other again 🏔️🥾👏🏻…
Adrian Romero Fernandez2 years ago
Patagonia
I set off on a trip to the southernmost point in the world with Eco Tour and the experience couldn't have been better. Without a doubt, I'd do it again a thousand times!
Veronica Bimba2 years ago
Patagonia
I went on a trip to Chilean Patagonia with Javi last Christmas and it was impressive!! Besides the scenery, which is truly incredible, Javi's management and organisation were great. Before the trip he advises you on everything you need, and during the trip he was one more companion and friend. A good person and a good professional, I'd definitely travel with him again.
rajae azelmad3 months ago
Honest and good experience
Rut V2 weeks ago
Red deer rut
A wonderful experience in a luxury setting. We got in touch with Javi after finding him online and it was a great decision. He's a young guy, passionate about his work and about nature, and it shows. He explained so many things about the rut and the surroundings, and brought samples to show us how animals are tracked, always with respect and without disturbing their habitat. He also took loads of souvenir photos, both of us and of the animals, which we really appreciated. I loved the equipment he uses: he has a screen that attaches to the camera, so we could all enjoy the views without needing telescopes. Thank you so much, Javi, for the experience. You're a truly lovely person.
M. Villar (Proska)2 weeks ago
Red deer rut
Without a doubt an unforgettable experience. Several companies offer the rut, but not like this one: his knowledge of the subject, together with the technology he uses, guarantees a complete outing and lets you enjoy the activity to the fullest. 100% recommended
Our trips
Morocco · High Atlas
4x4000 challenge: five days and four nights with a local team. Toubkal, West Toubkal, Ras and Timesguida.
Find out moreNepal · Himalaya
Eighteen days of expedition through the quieter side of the Himalaya, in a small group: the Budhi Gandaki valley, the remote Serang Gompa monastery, the Tibetan villages of Nubri and the Larkya La pass, at 5,106 metres.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
5x4000 challenge: five days and four nights with a local team. Toubkal, West Toubkal, Ras and Timesguida. Imouzzer subject to conditions.
Find out moreNepal · Himalaya
Fifteen days trekking in the Langtang Valley, in a small group: Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan culture, Kyanjin Gompa and the Tserko Ri viewpoint at 4,984 metres.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
A six-day winter ascent of Mount Toubkal (4,167 m) from Marrakech via Imlil, with acclimatisation, refuge nights and a summit attempt subject to qualified guidance and safety.
Find out moreLapland · Arctic
Nine days of photographic ski touring with a pulka on the Kungsleden, between Abisko and Alesjaure, with the Ecotour team: mountain huts and northern lights nights.
Find out morePakistan · Karakoram
23 days in the Pakistani Karakoram: the Baltoro Glacier, K2 Base Camp (5,150 m), the Gondogoro La pass (5,585 m) and the Nangma Valley, well off the usual trekking routes. Small group, with Javier Gil.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
4x4000 winter challenge: five days and four nights with a local team. Toubkal, West Toubkal, Ras and Timesguida.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
5x4000 winter challenge: five days and four nights with a local team. Toubkal, West Toubkal, Ras and Timesguida. Imouzzer subject to conditions.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
Four days from Marrakech to climb Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest point in North Africa, with a night in the Toubkal refuge and the whole trip in the hands of the local Berber team. Flexible departures, on the dates you choose.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
Eight peaks above 4,000 metres in the Toubkal massif: a demanding yet flexible high-mountain challenge, based at the Toubkal refuge, with an Ecotour guide plus a local team.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
Seven days through High Atlas villages and four 4,000 m peaks: Toubkal, West Toubkal, Ras and Timesguida. Imouzzer is an optional fifth summit, with local guides and Ecotour support.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
Nine peaks above 4,000 metres in the High Atlas, based mainly at the Toubkal refuge: the most flexible option of the 9x4000 Challenge, with an Ecotour guide and a local team.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas and Sahara
Eight days from Marrakech combining the summit of Toubkal (4,167 m) and the Sahara desert: the kasbahs and gorges of the south and a night among the dunes of Erg Chebbi, with the local Berber team.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas and Sahara
Fourteen days across Morocco: the M'Goun traverse (4,071 m), the Erg Chebbi desert and the summit of Toubkal (4,167 m). Two peaks over 4,000 m and the Sahara, with the local Berber team.
Find out moreMorocco · High Atlas
Nine summits above 4,000 metres in a traverse between the Tazaghart and Toubkal refuges: the Full Traverse option of the 9x4000 Challenge, the most demanding and the closest to a small expedition.
Find out moreMorocco · Central Atlas
Nine days from Marrakech for the M'Goun traverse (4,071 m), the second highest mountain in Morocco, entering by the Berber valley of Aït Bougmez and the Ouzoud waterfalls. With the local team.
Find out moreMorocco · Sahara and the southern valleys
Three days from Marrakech to the Sahara: the High Atlas over the Tizi n'Tichka pass, Aït Ben Haddou, the Todra and Dadès gorges and a night in a camp among the Erg Chebbi dunes, with the local team.
Find out moreMorocco · Central Atlas and Sahara
Fourteen days that combine the M'Goun trek (4,071 m), Morocco's second-highest mountain, with the gorges of the south and a night among the dunes of Erg Chebbi. With the local Berber team.
Find out moreMorocco · Central Atlas
Five days from Marrakech to climb M'Goun (4,068 m), the second highest mountain in Morocco, entering by the Berber valley of Aït Bougmez. The short, direct version of the traverse, with the local team.
Find out moreMorocco · Central Atlas and High Atlas
Fifteen days to link three massifs and eleven peaks above 4,000 metres: M'Goun, the isolated Adrar n'Dern and the full Toubkal cirque. The longest and most demanding traverse in our Morocco catalogue.
Find out moreOur activities
Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park
An interpretive day out to learn how to read the glacial landscape, plants and wildlife of Aigüestortes, alongside a naturalist guide.
Find out moreArinsal and the Comapedrosa Natural Park, Andorra
A guided ascent of the Pic de Medacorba (2,913 m), the tripoint of Andorra, Catalonia and Ariège, with a poorly marked, technical and exposed final section.
Find out moreVal d'Aran
Listen to and watch the red deer rut at dawn or dusk in the golden autumn forests of the Val d'Aran, with a specialist wildlife guide.
Find out moreAigüestortes and Val d'Aran, depending on what you want to photograph
Guided hikes in Aigüestortes and the Val d'Aran designed for photographing flora, wildlife, landscapes and the night sky.
Find out morePort de la Bonaigua, Val d'Aran (next to Aigüestortes, a certified Starlight Destination)
A night-sky observation session at the Port de la Bonaigua pass in the Val d'Aran, on the edge of Aigüestortes National Park, a certified Starlight Tourist Destination.
Find out moreAigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park
Thirteen catalogued routes in the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, from accessible strolls to high mountain ascents, with a qualified mountain leader who helps you choose the one that suits you.
Find out moreVal d'Aran and the French Pyrenees
Five canyons between the Val d'Aran and the French Pyrenees, from family-friendly beginner descents to advanced technical level.
Find out moreLes, Naut Aran, Arties, Pont de Suert and Vall de Boí (Val d'Aran and Alta Ribagorça)
Seven via ferratas in the Val d'Aran and the Alta Ribagorça, from beginner (K2) to advanced (K4).
Find out more