Jebel Toubkal is the highest mountain in Morocco and in North Africa, rising to 4,167 metres above sea level. The standard ascent route is non-technical in summer: fit walkers without mountaineering experience can reach the summit via Imlil and the Refuge du Toubkal hut at 3,207m, usually done as a two-day trip. The first day from Imlil takes around four to five hours to reach the refuge; the summit push on day two takes another three to four hours return.
In winter, the upper slopes hold significant snow and ice and require crampons and an ice axe. Some walkers attempt a winter ascent without this equipment and get into serious trouble — don't be one of them. The mountain is officially within Toubkal National Park, and mule hire at Imlil for carrying gear is straightforward and affordable.
The summit panorama is one of the great mountain views of Africa. On clear winter days after snowfall, the Atlas appears from the summit as a sea of white peaks stretching to the Algerian border, with the saharan plains visible to the south. The round trip from Imlil takes most walkers two days; a third day to explore the surrounding cirque adds considerably to the experience.