Toubkal with a Twist

Day 1. Outbound

Fly to Marrakech and enjoy the evening activities in the main square from a rooftop cafe.

Days 2 and 3. Trekking in the Ourika Valley

Travel through the breathtaking Ourika Valley to the road- head at Setti Fadma. Here you will meet your Berber team and mules and set off walking gently up the valley. For the next two days you will follow a series of stunning paths where at every turn the view changes. The pace will allow time for plenty of rest stops and you will ascend high passes on well graded tracks allowing you to concentrate on the impressive scenery. You will pass through several small villages and ancient stunted woodland and make the challenging climb to the Tizi n'Tachedirt (3172 metres). From here there are magnificent views down the upper Imenane valley, the towering summits of Anremer (3892 metres) and Aksoual (3903 metres) and the switch-backs down to your overnight destination, Tachedirt.

Days 4 and 5. To Toubkal

From Tachedirt you climb Tizi n'Tamatert (2279 metres) and descend into the beautifully located village of Aremd, the hub of all trekking in this area. A well-made mule track leads up the Mizane River, past the holy shrine of Sidi Chamharouch on a gentle gradient all the way to the refuge at the foot of the final slopes of Mount Toubkal. There will be time for relaxation in the afternoon ready for your early morning ascent.

Day 6. Toubkal Ascent

The ascent of Toubkal (4167 metres) is a 3 to 4 hour climb up a well-trodden track, which can be a little loose at times. There is no rush and you can linger a while on the top of this, North Africa's highest mountain. If the air is clear you will have fine views towards the Sahara. You retrace your upward route back to the refuge, after which it is a nice gentle return back to the village of Aremd.

Days 7 and 8. Homeward

Return for a final free afternoon in Marrakech before flying home to the UK.