Introduction:
For those seeking an exotic weekend destination, relatively close to home, and a short but classic challenge, look no further... From the ancient walled city of Marrakesh we travel to the High Atlas to sample the hospitality of the hardy berber people and make a short but tough attempt on the summit of Jebel Toubkal (4165m), North Africa's highest peak, rewarded by stunning views across the entire Atlas chain.
The Magic of Marrakesh: We begin and end our journey in the fabled city of Marrakesh. Steeped in history and bustling with activity, the heart of Marrakesh lies in the Djemma el Fna - the focal point where mountain berbers and desert people from the south come to exchange news, haggle and trade in jelabahs, carpets and spices.
There will be time to explore the souks and maze of alleyways and enjoy street entertainment at it's very best. A scene straight out of 'Arabian Nights', the melee of jugglers, story-tellers, musicians, spice vendors and kebab stalls that gather each night at dusk provide a feast for the senses and memories that will last long after your return.
3-day Jebel Toubkal Trek: Leaving Marrakesh behind we drive high into the Atlas mountain range. Running east to west for some fifteen hundred miles and falling abruptly away to the Sahara desert in the south, the Atlas reaches a spectacular 4165m at the summit of Jebel Toubkal.
From the village of Imlil, our mule-supported trek takes us first to the typical berber village of Aremd (1950m). Admiring the dramatic views to the surrounding peaks, we continue to Toubkal camp (3125m). The toughest part of the trek is the non-technical but strenuous ascent of Jebel Toubkal itself and we aim to arrive just after sunrise.
After spending time enjoying the stunning views and posing for the classic photo moment, we return to the camp and onto Aremd where we rest for the night. Returning to Imlil we drive back to Marrakesh for our final afternoon in this glorious city. |