Will I have to carry my own bag on the trek?
We ask that you separate your equipment into two categories: essentials for your trek that should be kept with you at all times, including items like a waterproof jacket, trousers, spare fleece, camera, batteries, personal medications, sun cream, and the capacity to carry 3 litres of water. The second category consists of items required only during mornings and evenings.
Your personal gear should be carried by you to ensure constant accessibility throughout the day. On the other hand, the remaining belongings will be carried by a porter.
For those who prefer not to carry anything, an alternative is available: you can hire a personal daypack porter. This porter will accompany you during the day, granting you continuous access to your necessities without the need to carry them yourself.
Typically, the personal bag's weight averages around 4kg without water, and a maximum of 7kg with a full water load. The other bag typically weighs around 12 kg, but it's acceptable to slightly exceed this weight. If there are possessions you want to bring to Marrakech but won't require on the mountain, you can leave them safely at your hotel.
What meals are for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the mountain?
Our prices do indeed cover meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and a cup of coffee or tea with each meal. These meals will be traditional berber meals cooked by a Berber chef.
Berber cuisine, originating from the indigenous people of North Africa known as the Berbers, is diverse and rich in flavours. Traditional Berber meals often feature local ingredients, including grains, vegetables, fruits, and meats. Here are some examples of traditional Berber dishes:
- Couscous: A staple in Berber cuisine, couscous is often served as a base for various dishes. It is typically accompanied by vegetables, legumes, and meat, such as lamb or chicken.
- Tagine: A tagine refers to both the cooking vessel and the dishes prepared in it. Tagine dishes are slow-cooked stews, often combining meat (such as lamb or chicken) with vegetables, fruits, and a blend of spices. The slow cooking in a conical clay pot helps infuse the flavours.
- Mechoui: Mechoui is a roasted lamb dish, traditionally prepared during festive occasions. The lamb is typically seasoned with spices and slow-roasted until it becomes tender and flavourful.
- Bissara: Bissara is a hearty soup made from dried broad beans (fava beans), garlic, olive oil, and various spices. It is often served with crusty bread and can be a nutritious and filling meal.
- Zaalouk: Zaalouk is a cooked salad made from eggplants (aubergines) and tomatoes. The vegetables are typically cooked down and seasoned with garlic, cumin, coriander, and olive oil.
- Harira: Although associated with Moroccan cuisine, Harira is a popular soup that may also be part of Berber meals. It usually contains tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and various spices, making it a hearty and warming dish.
- Amlou: Amlou is a sweet and nutty spread made from almonds, argan oil, and honey. It is often enjoyed with bread or drizzled over pancakes.
- Rfissa: Rfissa is a savoury dish made with lentils, fenugreek, and sometimes chicken. It is commonly served during special occasions and celebrations.
- Msemen: Msemen is a type of square-shaped flatbread, often enjoyed with honey or amlou. It can be served as a snack or part of a larger meal.
- Taktouka: Taktouka is a salad made from roasted and peeled green peppers and tomatoes. It is seasoned with garlic, cumin, paprika, and olive oil, making it a flavorful side dish.
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.