Life is Dangerous
Car travel is often taken for granted due to our familiarity with it from an early age, but it is actually incredibly perilous. The thought of manoeuvring a ton of metal within close proximity of another equally massive object moving in the opposite direction, with the potential for distractions like phone calls, noisy children, or disagreements with fellow passengers, should fill us with dread. Unfortunately, it does not.
Over the past 15 years, our company has conducted numerous Kilimanjaro climbs, and although we have been fortunate to work with thousands of crew members, we have sadly lost two of them to tragic accidents. It is worth noting that these incidents did not occur on Kilimanjaro, but rather on the road while en route to work.
While climbing Toubkal does pose certain risks, it is important to consider them in context.
The Dangers of Climbing Toubkal
Mountaineering per se is inherently dangerous. The most common dangers are usually the following:
- Acute Mountain Sickness - which may develop into pulmonary or cerebral oedema and lead to death
- Being hit by rockfall
- Hypothermia
- Exhaustion
Hypothermia and Exhaustion
I have observed that a small number of companies employ a marketing tactic of amplifying the dangers associated with climbing Toubkal to deter potential climbers from choosing any other guide service. However, based on my personal experience, it is highly improbable for a client to succumb to hypothermia or exhaustion from climbing Toubkal. Even guides who lack proper training and exhibit poor judgement, but have acquired the necessary qualifications to guide, are unlikely to push their clients to the point of exhaustion or fail to recognise signs of severe cold exposure.
Acute Mountain Sickness
From a technical perspective, it is likely that about 75% of trekkers who climb Toubkal will experience some degree of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), given that it is unusual for climbers not to exhibit at least mild symptoms such as headaches or nausea as the initial signs of AMS. Nevertheless, a thoughtfully planned itinerary, a vigilant guide, and proper attention to nutrition, hydration, and rest throughout the journey will ensure that in the vast majority of cases, any symptoms experienced will be very mild or nonexistent.
HAPE and HACE
In the event that a trekker experiences AMS and manages to conceal it from their guide, there is a possibility that this condition could worsen during ascent and escalate into pulmonary or cerebral edema. These ailments are the body's reaction to an insufficient supply of oxygen to organs that normally require substantial amounts of it, such as the brain and lungs. To shield against permanent harm, these organs release protective fluids when they detect impending damage due to oxygen deprivation. However, the presence of these fluids can be agonising and incapacitating, and the reduced functioning of these organs at high altitude can lead to the progressive starvation of other body organs, as well as severely impaired mental function in the case of cerebral edema.
If the edema is detected early, a descent of only 300 metres is typically adequate for the client to regain the ability to continue descending independently. However, since a side effect of the ailment is decreased function, including muscle atrophy in the case of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and diminished coordination, which may take some time to improve, it is typically suggested that the evacuation continues to be aided for at least an additional 1,000 metres of descent.
You will be collected from your Riad in Marrakesh at 0800 and transferred through the foothills of the High Atlas β passing traditional Berber market towns and the spectacular Moulay Brahim gorge β to the village of Imlil (1,740m). Here you will meet your mountain guide, who will brief you on the days ahead and check your equipment. Rental gear is available in Imlil village centre if required.
Starting your day early in Marrakech, you'll wind your way up through the Moulay Brahim Gorge and the upper valleys, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. As you arrive at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, you'll meet up with your Berber muleteer crew who will accompany you on your trek.
Welcome to the world of Team Toubkal itineraries, where personalised adventure takes centre stage! Our custom itineraries are carefully crafted to elevate your Toubkal journey into an unforgettable experience. Recognising that each adventurer's aspirations are unique, we excel in tailoring your expedition to align with your dreams and preferences.