Mount Toubkal Weekend Trek - 4 Days

Frequently asked questions

• How physically challenging is the Mount Toubkal Weekend Trek?

  This is a challenging active adventure with a physical rating of 5. It involves trekking the tallest peak in Northern Africa, Mount Toubkal, which reaches an altitude of 4167m (over 8,000ft). Participants should be prepared for strenuous hiking at high altitude.

• What are the age restrictions for joining this tour?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied on this tour is 18. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the typical group size for this trek?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 12 travelers, with an average group size of 10 people.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?

  You will stay in a hotel for 2 nights (possibly multi-share) and in mountain refuges or tented camps for 1 night (multi-share). For camping, modern two-person tents and foam mattresses are provided. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and may wish to bring an inflatable pillow for extra comfort. Please note that in Morocco, plumbing can be quirky and cold showers may occur in hotels.

• What meals are included and what kind of food can I expect?

  Three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners are included. You can expect simple, healthy seasonal food. Breakfast typically includes bread, jam, cheese, and sometimes eggs with tea/coffee. Lunches are usually salads with eggs or tinned fish, and bread. Dinners often start with soup, followed by tagine, rice, or pasta dishes, also with plenty of bread. Vegetarian options are available if you advise us at the time of booking. A cook will prepare your meals during the trek, and you're welcome to lend a hand and learn local techniques. Water and other drinks are at your own expense.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, there is no single supplement for solo travelers on this group trip. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• How is luggage handled during the trekking days?

  Trekking mules will carry your larger bags, as well as tents and equipment. Luggage for the trek is limited to 12kg per person and must be in soft duffle bags or frameless backpacks. Any additional luggage can be left in storage at the hotel in Marrakech at your own risk. You will carry only your daypack when trekking for items like water, camera, and a jacket.

• What currency is used in Morocco, and how should I manage my money?

  The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are common, and Visa cards are widely accepted for larger purchases, though a fee usually applies. Euros are the most commonly accepted foreign currency for exchange. It is advisable to travel with a combination of cash (Euros, GBP, or USD) and cards, as there's no guarantee your cards will always work. An additional emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended.

• Is tipping customary in Morocco, and how is it handled on this tour?

  Tipping is a customary part of life in Morocco. A tipping kitty system is used where your CEO will collect a contribution from everyone at the start of the tour to tip service providers for the group. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, tipping for them is also appreciated, with a general guideline of $8-11 USD per person per day.

• What kind of weather can I expect in the Atlas Mountains?

  The climate in Morocco varies greatly. Summer months (April to September) can be very hot during the day, reaching up to 50°C. Winter months (November to March) can be cool to cold, especially in the Atlas Mountains, with a high probability of snowfall and night temperatures dropping to -6°C. Most Moroccan buildings are not equipped with heating, so appropriate layering is crucial for comfort at night.

• Are there any specific dress codes or cultural sensitivities I should be aware of?

  When visiting mosques and religious monuments, modest dress is required, covering your shoulders and avoiding short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and more touristy areas, local dress is generally more conservative. Both men and women are recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered out of respect. During Ramadan, increased cultural sensitivity is important, and you should try to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public.

• Are there any health considerations for this high-altitude trek?

  This adventure involves high altitude (over 2,440m/8,000ft). While most people can travel to this altitude with minimal effects, everyone reacts differently, and altitude sickness can occur regardless of fitness or age. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and advice on how to best prepare. Recommended inoculations include protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio. Your leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  No, there are no optional activities on this tour, as the primary focus is on the challenging mountain hikes to summit Mount Toubkal.

• Who will be leading our group on this trek?

  Your group will be led by a qualified International Mountain Leader (IML) who acts as your Chief Experience Officer (CEO). This individual is an experienced mountain guide with broad general knowledge of Morocco, including its historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice before departure. You should use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Your group leader has the authority to amend the itinerary if necessary due to safety concerns. During free time, use good judgment when selecting activities, and it's recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis at night in cities. Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and engaging with paid sex workers is contrary to our travel philosophy.

• What are the main highlights of this trek?

  The main highlights include conquering Mt Toubkal, soaking in the incredible views over the Atlas Mountains, and trekking to and from the village of Imlil with mules and herdsmen.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This trek has a Physical Rating of 5, indicating it is challenging.

• What is the travel style of this tour?

  This tour is classified as an 'Active' travel style.

• What specific activities and transport are included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes challenging mountain hikes to summit Mount Toubkal over two days, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor. Protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis and polio is recommended. The trip involves high altitude (over 8,000ft/2,440m); everyone reacts differently to altitude, so consult your physician for preparation advice. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• How large will the group be for this trek?

  The maximum group size is 12 travellers, with an average of 10.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements will vary for every traveller depending on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Please consider your own spending habits when planning your trip.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  While visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, covering your shoulders, and avoiding short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and more touristic centres, local dress is often more conservative, and as a matter of respect, both men and women are advised to wear loose-fitting clothes with covered shoulders. Your CEO can provide more specific advice.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, solo travellers do not pay a single supplement on group trips as accommodation is designed for shared occupancy (paired with someone of the same sex).

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Yes, tipping is customary and expected in Morocco. The tour operator uses a tipping kitty system where your CEO collects a contribution from everybody at the start of the tour to tip service providers as a group. Your CEO will advise on the amount needed on Day 1 (payable in USD or local currency MAD). Tipping your CEO is also appreciated at the end of your trip, with $8-11 USD per person per day as a general guideline.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  There are no optional activities listed for this trip.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Transportation on this trip includes private vehicles and walking/trekking.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewellery at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your group leader can amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should be accompanied by a guide, and swimming is always at your own risk.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, refer to the emergency contact details provided and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, we recommend taking a taxi to the starting point hotel and applying for a refund of the transfer cost.

• What is Planeterra, and how does it relate to the tour operator?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by connecting underserved local communities to tourism. They develop community-owned businesses that support Indigenous people, empower women, create youth employment, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations go to projects.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in a hotel for 2 nights (possibly multi-share) and in mountain refuges/tented camps for 1 night (multi-share). For camping, modern two-person tents with foam mattresses are provided (you'll need to bring a sleeping bag and may wish for a light self-inflating mattress and inflatable pillow). The Marrakech hotel is in the new town, about a 25-minute walk from the central medina. Please note that Morocco is a developing country, so expect quirky plumbing and potentially cold showers.

• What meals are included during the trip, and what can I expect?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners. Meals are typically simple, healthy, seasonal food. Breakfast usually consists of bread, jam, cheese, and sometimes eggs with tea/coffee. Lunches are often salads with eggs or tinned fish, always with bread. Dinners generally start with soup, followed by tagine, rice, or pasta dishes, with plenty of bread. Berber cooks will prepare hearty meals during the trek, and you are welcome to help and learn local techniques. Water and other drinks are at your own expense. Dietary requirements for vegetarians can be accommodated; please advise at booking.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips, as they contravene local laws and put the rest of the group at risk. Engaging in the exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to our philosophy. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) has the right to expel any group member for these reasons.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are very common and accept Cirrus and Plus system cards, but check with your bank before departure as card functionality is not guaranteed. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, generally for larger purchases, and a fee usually applies. Euros are the most commonly accepted foreign currency, and you can exchange Euros, GBP, and USD at money exchange offices in major cities. Do not rely solely on credit or debit cards; a combination of cash (Euro/GBP/USD) and cards is best. Refer to www.xe.com for daily exchange rates.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and information to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements vary by nationality; citizens of certain countries may be subject to additional documentation requests. We strongly recommend applying for your visa well in advance.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the trip?

  For dire needs, first call either the local representative or local office. The Regional Office Emergency Contact Number is +212 662 312 072, and the Arrival or Departure Transfer Emergency Phone Number is +212 661 861 950. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message. If you are unable to contact the local office, you can call the Sales team at numbers such as 1 888 800 4100 (North America) or +1 416 260 0999 (outside specific regions).

• Who will be leading the group during the trek?

  A qualified IML (International Mountain Leader) will serve as your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip. As the group coordinator and manager, the CEO aims to take the hassle out of your travels and help you have the best trip possible, offering broad general knowledge of Morocco.

• What are the luggage restrictions and provisions for camping equipment on the trek?

  Luggage for the trek is limited to 12kg per person and must be soft duffle bags or frameless backpacks; trekking mules will carry these larger bags, tents, and equipment. Any additional luggage can be left in storage at the Marrakech hotel (at your own risk). You will carry only a daypack for essential items. Foam mattresses are provided for camping, but you may want to bring a lightweight self-inflating mattress or inflatable pillow for more comfort. A 3–4 season sleeping bag and a lightweight sleeping sheet are required. Hiking poles can be rented locally.

• What are the bathroom and washing facilities like during the trek?

  As you will be trekking through remote areas, washing and toilet facilities are basic and may be limited or non-existent. Toilets are usually squat toilets, and in two locations, facilities are 'au naturelle'. All toilet paper should be burnt. Most often only cold water is available, and heating facilities may incur a small additional charge. You can also make use of toilets and showers at the Toubkal refuge, but you will be asked to pay, and the camp might be some distance from the refuge.

• What are the typical weather conditions during the trek?

  The climate in Morocco can be very hot during the day in summer months (up to 50°C) and cold at night in the mountains during autumn, early spring, and winter (down to -6°C), with a high probability of snowfall. Most Moroccan buildings are not equipped with heating, so suitable layered clothing is essential for nights. It is important to check temperatures before you leave.

• How might religious observances like Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha affect my trip?

  During Ramadan (dates vary by lunar cycle), there may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules, with shops and restaurants potentially closed, and fewer staff at hotels. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan, including wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and trying to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public. Aid Al-Adha (dates vary) may also impact your travel experience as most shops, restaurants, and some historical places might be closed, and there may be fewer staff at hotels.

• Is it safe to drink tap water in Morocco?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Morocco.