Are you looking for an exhilarating adventure in Morocco? Let me take you through my unforgettable 2-day Toubkal climb, an experience that challenged me physically and mentally while rewarding me with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Why Choose a 2-Day Toubkal Climb?
Before diving into my journey, you might wonder why opt for a 2-day Toubkal climb. This compact itinerary is perfect for those short on time but big on adventure. It allows you to summit North Africa's highest peak efficiently while still soaking in the beauty of the Atlas Mountains.
Day 1: Imlil to Refuge du Toubkal CAF
Setting Off from Imlil
My 2-day Toubkal climb began in the charming village of Imlil, the gateway to the High Atlas Mountains. After a hearty breakfast at my guesthouse, I met my guide, Hamid, and we set off towards the trailhead. The first day of our 2-day Toubkal climb would take us from Imlil (1,740m) to the mountain refuge (3,207m).
The Trek to Chamharouch
The initial part of our 2-day Toubkal climb took us through stunning landscapes. We passed walnut and cherry orchards, crossed sparkling streams, and witnessed the daily life of local Berber people. After a few hours, we reached Chamharouch, a small settlement known for its white-painted shrine. This was a perfect spot for a short break and to refill our water bottles
A Picnic Lunch with a View
As we approached our lunch spot, we were greeted by a wonderful surprise. Our cook, Youssef, had arrived ahead of us to prepare a picnic spot and welcome us with Moroccan tea. He had meticulously prepared our lunch, which included a large dish of fresh salads and white rice, as well as a tagine with meatballs seasoned with typical Moroccan spices. The traditional cornbread was also present on the table. For dessert, we enjoyed fresh apples and bananas. This delicious meal provided the perfect energy boost for the rest of our climb.
Ascending to the Refuge
As we continued our ascent on this first day of our 2-day Toubkal climb, the landscape gradually changed from lush vegetation to more arid, rocky terrain. By late afternoon, we finally caught sight of our destination for the night - the Refuge du Toubkal CAF, our base camp for the summit attempt.
Evening at the Refuge
Arriving at the refuge marked the halfway point of our 2-day Toubkal climb. I was greeted with a warm cup of mint tea and settled into the basic but comfortable accommodation. For dinner, we were served a comforting vegetable soup as a starter, followed by a tagine with lamb and vegetables for the main course. True to Moroccan tradition, the meal was accompanied by bread with butter and olives. Dessert was simple, natural, and healthy – a selection of fresh fruits. As the sun set, I prepared mentally for the summit push that would complete our 2-day Toubkal climb.
Day 2: Summit Day
The Early Morning Start
Day two of our 2-day Toubkal climb began early. We woke at 4:30 AM and fueled up with a simple but nutritious breakfast which included mint tea, coffee, milk, orange juice, jam, butter, olives, olive oil, cheese, boiled eggs, yogurt, and of course, traditional Moroccan bread. Ready to tackle the final 3000 feet to the summit. Armed with headlamps, warm layers, and determination, we set off into the dark, cold morning.
The Final Push
As we climbed higher on this crucial day of our 2-day Toubkal climb, the altitude began to take its toll. However, the stunning sunrise over the Atlas Mountains provided a much-needed boost of energy and motivation.
Summit Success!
Finally, after hours of grueling effort, we reached the summit, completing the main goal of our 2-day Toubkal climb! Standing at 4,167 meters, the highest point in North Africa, the feeling was indescribable. The panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and distant Sahara Desert made every step of our 2-day Toubkal climb worth it.
The Descent
After savoring our achievement at the summit, we began our descent back to the refuge. There, Youssef had prepared another delicious meal for us. We enjoyed the same fresh salad as the day before, accompanied by a flavorful Berber omelette and, of course, more of that delicious Moroccan bread. Dessert was once again a selection of fresh fruits, providing a perfect balance of nutrition and energy for the final leg of our journey.
The Final Stretch
As we made our way back to Imlil, completing our incredible 2-day Toubkal climb adventure, we made several stops for refreshing orange juice or mint tea. These brief pauses allowed us to rest and hydrate while taking in the last views of the beautiful Atlas Mountains.
Reflections on the 2-Day Toubkal Climb
This 2-day Toubkal climb was an intense but incredibly rewarding experience. It challenged me physically and mentally, but the sense of achievement, the stunning vistas, and the unexpected culinary journey made every step worth it. The compact nature of the 2-day Toubkal climb meant I could fit this incredible adventure into a short trip to Morocco.
If you're an adventure enthusiast looking for a challenging yet accessible high-altitude trek with a side of culinary delight, I highly recommend the 2-day Toubkal climb. Just remember to acclimatize properly, respect the mountain environment, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
This 2-day Toubkal climb not only allowed me to conquer North Africa's highest peak but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the majestic Atlas Mountains and the rich culture of Morocco. It's an adventure I'll cherish forever, and one I hope many of you will be inspired to undertake!
Have you done a 2-day Toubkal climb or are you planning one? I'd love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions you might have about this incredible journey!