Jbel (Mountain) Toubkal, Marrakech

Jbel (Mountain) Toubkal, Marrakech, Morocco

The High Atlas in southern Morocco near Jbel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa

Jemel Toubkal is located in the mountain region "High Atlas" in southern Morocco. The highest mountain in North Africa, it offers fantastic trekking experiences and a view of the Sahara.

The Jbel Toubkal, located in the High Atlas in southern Morocco, rises to 4,167 meters, the highest mountain in Morocco and North Africa. It takes its name from the Toubkal National Park, in which it is located, and is about 70 km from Marrakech. The whole mountainous region of the Atlas impresses with its steep peaks and steep slopes that quickly descend to the Atlantic Ocean and the plain of Sous.

Among the many hiking and trekking trails in the Toubkal National Park, climbing the Jbel Toubkal is the ultimate challenge. Thousands of tourists climb each year. While in the lower parts of the Atlas, hiking and hiking are offered throughout the year, Jemel Toubkal can be climbed in summer. In winter, there is snow at the top of Jbel Toubkal, which - apparently also in Africa - can still last until the end of April.

The best time to travel to Jbel Toubkal

The best time to climb the Jbel Toubkal is spring, when the mountainous High Atlas are wrapped in a beautiful floral dress. From March or April, mules can also go up the mountain trails to the summit. In summer, it can often be too hot for pleasant hikes. In winter, avoid storms caused by ice and snow.

Ascent of Jbel Toubkal

The summit of Jbel Toubkal can only be done with a guide, requires equipment in good condition and mountaineering equipment, but no climbing skills. Because of Jemel Toubkal's function as a weather divide between the Sahara in the south and the Moroccan plains in the north, rapid climate change is to be expected.

The ideal starting point for a two-day hike is the Berber village of Imlil, accessible by road from Marrakech. Mules act like beasts of burden and carry luggage and food. The Neltner Hut is located about 900 meters below the summit, a picturesque mountain hut for a two-day mountain hike.

Tip: If you want to spend the night outdoors, you must be equipped with an excellent sleeping bag, the temperature at Jemel Toubkal can drop to 5 ° C.

From the Neltner Hut, the 2 to 3 hour climb continues on the scree slopes and rocky debris to the summit. Once at the top, mountaineers will find at their feet the breathtaking landscape of Morocco and the imposing High Atlas. To the south, one can see the dust clouds of the mighty Sahara in a distant fog, to the north, the plains extend to Marrakech.