Mountaineering in Jbel Toubkal

In summer, Toubkal is a walk-up — a long slog to the highest summit in North Africa and little more. In winter it becomes a genuine snow climb, and that transformation is the whole reason to come. From roughly January to March the upper mountain holds snow and ice, and reaching the 4,167-metre top means crampons, an axe, and an alpine start from the refuge in the cold and dark.

What makes it special is the accessibility of all that seriousness. This is the cheapest, closest introduction to winter mountaineering anywhere near Europe: about three hours' flight to Marrakech, a drive up to the Berber village of Imlil, and a walk in to a refuge below the peak. You get real high-altitude winter conditions without the Alps' expense or crowds.

Morocco has required accredited mountain guides for Toubkal ascents since 2018, and the winter conditions genuinely demand axe-and-crampon competence. Come with the skills, or come to learn them on exactly the right mountain.

Morocco has required accredited guides for Toubkal ascents since 2018. Winter conditions need axe and crampon competence.