Climb on the top of North Africa. Mount Toubkal at 4176metres is a great intro to higher altitude trekking. Taking just a very long weekend to complete. The benefit of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco would be that the weather enables accessibility to this particular alpine range all year round. Though the important issue is, when’s the perfect time to climb Mt Toubkal – Winter or Summer? So I thought I would share several of the favorite points of mine about trekking this legendary mountain in 2 seasons that are various. Maybe this blog is going to give you the possibility to produce an informed decision that is best for you.
Fifteen Years Climbing Mount Toubkal
For starters, a little bit of experience to provide you with plenty of substance behind these recommendations. The very first half of 2021 may be temporarily on hold with respect to world traveling however, it represents the 15th year of mine since I 1st climbed Mt Toubkal. In manifestation, currently much more than previously, I look back on what a present those fifteen years were to trek in such an amazing setting so near the UK and match the area customers to understand about their traditions, cultures, and lives. This’s the real essence of adventure and travel.
Finding Morocco
Over these years I have been privileged to have explored many Moroccan lands from epic mountain ranges, ancient cities, sweeping deserts to dramatic coastlines (a great backdrop for just about any fellow kite surfing fanatic). I additionally lived in Morocco with the winter season for a lot of seasons. Cycled out of the High Atlas Mountains to Essaouira on the coastline and also hosted scores of trekking & cycling trips from Saharan dunes on the peaks of the High Atlas.
This patch of the earth is created for adventure travel. The friendliness and warmth shown out of the locals is the extra spice on the tagine. The friends I have been very fortunate making in this near yet foreign land, are as family members. For me personally, it is like going back home each chance I get to return.
So to the question – Winter or perhaps Summer?
In all honesty, there is no white or black answer to this particular question. Each and every trek holds a unique experience. But something is for certain, whenever you go to the High Atlas Mountains you will receive a really warm welcome, enjoy food that is tasty, drink lots of mint tea and make memories that last a lifetime.
So, to help you make your choice of when would be the most suitable time for you to climb Jebel Toubkal, here’s my top 10 reasons for trekking in Summer and Winter…
Summer time Toubkal Top ten
Witness the remarkable colours of the landscape from lush green valleys, colourful cherry blossoms on the rusty rock layers of the mountains.
Wake soon with the opportunity to watch the sun rise with the mountain range. Trekking early on to stay away from the high temperature of the morning and also have the time to unwind in the evenings and soak in the remote mountain wilderness.
Like camping in the heat under a glowing sky of stars.
The mountain villages of Aroumd and Imlil tend to be more alive providing you with the possibility to meet a lot more witness and locals everyday life. Along with experience the buzz of conventional Amazigh communities that line the route.
Take the time of yours to enjoy tasty Moroccan picnic lunches in the shade of Juniper trees and immerse yourself in the huge views.
Observe and listen to spectacular crystal clear waterfalls.
Experience some trekking trails that are just accessible in the summer months.
Have a thirst quenching freshly squeezed orange juice during the ascent of yours.
Trek a circular course that also allows a lot of time for acclimatisation.
Experience vast 360 degree views from the summit of Mt Toubkal over neighbouring mountain ranges and across to the Sahara Desert.
Winter Toubkal Top ten
Wonderful opportunity to understand winter mountain skills in a high altitude environment.
Historically, return flights are less costly with becoming the lower season and Marrakech is much more relaxed.
You will encounter much less folks en route whilst the crunching through the ice to the summit of Mt Toubkal.
Experience the atmosphere and companionship associated with many nationalities in the mountain hut (refuge).
Witness the stunning High Atlas Mountains wearing a perfect white dressing. It is snow stunning.
Observe nature’s innovative tapestries of frozen waterfalls, snow drifts and also have the opportunity to leave the boot prints of yours in completely newly fallen snow.
Appreciate the fusion of sunset colors across the skyline and surrounding landscape. The mountains steadily change to a multitude of orange and pink as the sun sinks behind the ridge.
Experience an enormous feeling of accomplishment when summit probably the highest peak in North Africa in winter conditions.
Be in awe of the 360 panoramic view across the snow covered High Atlas stretching away on the yellowish glow of the Sahara Desert.
After fifty + winter ascents, standing up on the summit with crampons as well as an ice in hand looking down to the Sahara still amazes me and also leaves me feeling as a badass explorer.