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Moroccan 4000ers Expedition Morocco








    Moroccan 4000ers Expedition

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    The Mountains

    Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)

    At 4,167m this is the highest mountain in Morocco and North Africa. It is not exactly clear when Toubkal was first climbed; however, the first documented ascent was on 12 June 1923 by the Marquis de Segonzac, Vincent Berger and Hubert Dolbeau. Despite its altitude, the normal route is non-technical in summer, though snow and ice can persist early and late season.

    Timesguida n’Ouanoukrim (4,089m)

    The second highest peak in Morocco, Timesguida forms part of the Ouanoukrim massif alongside Ras. It is typically accessed from the Tizi n’Ouanoums col and involves steep scree slopes and exposed ridge terrain. It offers one of the finest high-level panoramas in the High Atlas.

    Ras n’Ouanoukrim (4,083m)

    At 4,083m Ras is the third highest mountain in Morocco. Often climbed in combination with Timesguida, the summit provides impressive views across the Toubkal massif and south towards the Anti-Atlas. The terrain is steeper and looser than Toubkal’s standard route.

    Ighil M’Goun (4,071m)

    The highest peak of the M’Goun massif and the fourth highest mountain in Morocco. M’Goun is remote, expansive and less frequented than Toubkal. Its ascent involves long ridge walking and significant elevation gain, offering a very different mountain experience to the Toubkal group.

    Afella (4,043m)

    Located within the Toubkal massif, Afella is a broad and rocky summit typically approached via high passes and remote valleys. It is less visited than the main Toubkal trio and forms a key part of completing the 4000m collection.

    Akioud (4,030m)

    Akioud is often climbed from the Toubkal Refuge area and involves loose scree and steep terrain. Though lower than its neighbours, it remains a serious high-altitude objective requiring strong footing and steady pacing.

    Toubkal West (4,030m)

    A prominent subsidiary summit of Jebel Toubkal, Toubkal West provides a quieter and more rugged objective than the main peak. Its ascent typically involves loose scree and exposed sections of ridge, rewarding climbers with expansive views across the Toubkal massif and towards the Ouanoukrim peaks.

    Imouzzer (c. 4,010m)

    Imouzzer lies within the Toubkal massif and is less frequently climbed than the main summits. Mapping varies slightly regarding its exact height, but it is widely recognised as one of the High Atlas 4000m peaks. Its ascent typically involves rough terrain and careful route finding.

    Afella North (c. 4,005m)

    Often overlooked on shorter itineraries, Afella North forms part of the extended Afella ridge system. Its inclusion distinguishes a true completion of the High Atlas 4000m summits from a partial ascent programme.

    Biguinnoussene (c. 4,002m)

    Biguinnoussene is a prominent high summit within the M’Goun massif. Remote and committing, it requires careful planning and adds to the expedition nature of completing the full 4000m set.

    M’Goun West / South-West Top (c. 4,000m+)

    The western subsidiary summit of M’Goun completes the recognised 11. Exact mapped heights vary slightly depending on source, but it is widely accepted within the High Atlas 4000m peak list used by mountaineers. Its inclusion ensures a complete and uncompromising finish to the expedition.

    The Expedition

    The Moroccan 4000ers Expedition is built around a deliberate summit progression designed to maximise acclimatisation, efficiency and success across all 11 High Atlas 4000m peaks.

    Phase One – The Toubkal Massif

    We begin in the Toubkal massif, working through the 4000m summits in a structured sequence.

    The expedition opens with Biguinnoussene, establishing early altitude exposure before moving onto the twin summits of Ras (4,083m) and Timesguida (4,089m) on the Ouanoukrim ridge. From there, we continue to Afella North, followed by a combined ascent of Afella (4,043m) and Akioud (4,030m).

    With acclimatisation well established, we progress to Toubkal West (4,030m) before ascending Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)itself. The Toubkal phase concludes with Imouzzer (c. 4,010m), completing the full collection of 4000m summits within this massif before descending back to Imlil.

    This opening phase involves sustained elevation gain, loose terrain, ridge travel and consecutive summit days. Steady pacing and disciplined movement are essential.

    Following completion of the Toubkal group, we descend to Imlil and transfer to Marrakech for two nights of rest and recovery. This pause is intentional, allowing physical reset and preparation before entering the more remote M’Goun range.

    Phase Two – The M’Goun Massif

    From Marrakech we travel to Agouti, gateway to the M’Goun massif.

    This second phase is shorter but no less committing. We ascend to the refuge before climbing M’Goun West, Point 4008 (M’Goun South-West) and finally Ighil M’Goun (4,071m), the fourth highest mountain in Morocco.

    After completing the final summits, we retrace our steps to the refuge before walking out to Agouti the following day, concluding the high-mountain phase of the expedition.

    By structuring the expedition in two focused phases, we maintain strength and clarity of objective throughout. The aim is not simply to reach one summit, but to complete every recognised High Atlas 4000m peak in a single, carefully managed programme.

    Best Time to Trek

    The High Atlas Mountains experience significant seasonal variation, and timing is critical for a successful 4000m expedition.

    Snow Season (Mid October – Late May)

    From mid October through to late May, the High Atlas is typically affected by snow at higher elevations. During this period, the 4000m summits often require winter mountaineering skills, snow travel equipment and more complex risk management.

    For a non-technical summer expedition targeting all 11 summits, this is not an ideal window.

    Ideal Season (June, Late August & September)

    June is generally one of the best months to climb the Moroccan 4000ers. Snow has largely receded from the standard routes, temperatures are manageable and the mountains remain relatively quiet.

    Late August and September also offer strong conditions. While daytime temperatures in the valleys can be warm, the high ridges and summits are typically cooler, stable and dry.

    These months provide the best balance of:

    • Accessible terrain
    • Stable weather patterns
    • Reduced snow cover
    • Safer high-level movement

    Hot Season (July & Early August)

    July and early August can be very hot, particularly at lower elevations and during valley approaches. While the mountains are dry and generally stable, heat management becomes a significant factor.

    Early starts and disciplined hydration are essential during this period.

    For a structured 15-day 4000m expedition, late summer provides the most reliable conditions for completing all summits efficiently and safely.

    Depart the UK and arrive into Marrakech. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to Imlil (approximately 1.5 hours), a traditional mountain village at 1,740m and the gateway to the High Atlas.

    After settling into our accommodation, we conduct a full expedition briefing covering summit sequencing, acclimatisation strategy, equipment checks and mountain safety protocols. This is an opportunity to finalise kit, distribute any shared equipment and prepare properly for the days ahead.

    Overnight in Imlil.

    Meals: Lunch and/or dinner depending on arrival time.

    After breakfast in Imlil, we begin the expedition in earnest with a steady climb towards Tizi n’Mzik (2,450m). The ascent is consistent and purposeful, quickly gaining height above the Imlil valley and offering expansive views across the High Atlas.

    Lunch is taken just beyond the col before we descend into the Azzadene Valley. The trail continues past the refuge at Azib n’Tamsoult, after which we pass the impressive Ighouliden waterfalls — a striking feature marking the transition from cultivated valley to high mountain terrain.

    From here, the route steepens again for the sustained climb to Refuge Tazaghart (c. 3,000m). This final section is deliberate and controlled, allowing steady acclimatisation as we establish our first high-altitude base.

    Distance: approx. 13–14km (8.5 miles)
    Time: 6–7 hours
    Ascent: ~1,300m
    Descent: ~450m

    This is a significant opening mountain day, designed to introduce altitude while building the rhythm required for the summit phase ahead.

    Overnight at Refuge Tazaghart.
    All meals included.

    Today marks the beginning of the summit sequence proper.

    We depart Refuge Tazaghart and climb steadily towards Biguinnoussene (c. 4,002m), gaining our first 4000m summit of the expedition. The terrain involves sustained ascent over rocky ground and loose sections, requiring steady pacing and efficient movement.

    After reaching the summit and taking in expansive views across the Toubkal massif, we descend towards the Toubkal basin and continue on to the main Toubkal Refuge (c. 3,200m).

    This is a classic expedition day — gaining a major summit while repositioning for the next phase.

    Time: approx. 6–7 hours
    Ascent: ~1,000m
    Descent: ~800m
    Meals: Breakfast & packed lunch included

    By the end of the day, we are established at the heart of the Toubkal massif, ready to begin the structured sequence of remaining 4000m summits.

    Overnight at Toubkal Refuge.

    Today we climb Morocco’s second and third highest mountains: Ras (4,083m) and Timesguida (4,089m), the twin summits of the Ouanoukrim massif.

    We begin with a steady walk up-valley from the refuge before reaching the high mountain pass of Tizi n’Ouanoums, where the route turns towards the Ouanoukrim ridge. The climb to Ras involves sustained ascent over rocky terrain, requiring careful foot placement and controlled pacing.

    From the summit of Ras, we descend slightly along the connecting ridge before making the final climb to Timesguida, the higher of the two peaks. The position is exceptional, with commanding views across to Toubkal, Afella and Akioud, and on clear days the Anti-Atlas visible far to the south.

    After completing both summits, we retrace our route back to the refuge.

    Time: approx. 6–7 hours
    Ascent: ~900m
    Descent: ~900m
    Meals: All meals included

    Two major 4000m summits completed in a single day mark a significant step forward in the expedition.

    Overnight at Toubkal Refuge.

    Today is one of the most demanding days of the Toubkal phase as we aim to complete three 4000m summits in a single, well-managed push.

    Departing early from the refuge, we climb towards Afella North, gaining height steadily over rocky and often loose terrain. From here, we continue along the ridge system to reach the main summit of Afella (4,043m) — a broad, high viewpoint offering excellent perspectives across the massif.

    After descending from Afella, we traverse towards Akioud (4,030m). The terrain here can be steeper and more broken, requiring concentration and efficient movement.

    Following completion of the third summit, we retrace our route back to the Toubkal Refuge.

    Time: approx. 7–9 hours
    Ascent: ~1,000–1,100m
    Descent: ~1,000–1,100m
    Meals: All meals included

    This is a sustained high-altitude day requiring resilience and consistent pacing — a key milestone in progressing towards completion of the Toubkal massif 4000m peaks.

    Overnight at Toubkal Refuge.

    Today is held as a strategic contingency day within the Toubkal phase of the expedition.

    This spare day provides flexibility for weather, mountain conditions or pacing adjustments following the previous summit block. It may also be used as a recovery day to consolidate acclimatisation before continuing with the remaining 4000m objectives.

    On long, multi-summit programmes, building in flexibility is essential. Rather than compressing objectives into fixed windows, this structure allows us to adapt responsibly to conditions and maintain strength across the full expedition.

    If not required for weather or recovery, the day may be used to climb an additional objective within the massif or to rest and prepare for the final Toubkal sequence.

    Overnight at Toubkal Refuge.
    All meals included.

    Today is the culmination of the Toubkal massif phase.

    Departing early from the refuge, we climb towards Toubkal West (4,030m), gaining steady height over rocky and often loose terrain. From this prominent subsidiary summit, we descend slightly before joining the standard upper slopes of Jebel Toubkal (4,167m) — the highest mountain in Morocco and North Africa.

    After reaching the summit of Toubkal and taking time to absorb the scale of the High Atlas from its highest point, we continue the objective by traversing towards Imouzzer (c. 4,010m), completing the final 4000m summit within the Toubkal massif.

    The day involves sustained elevation gain, extended time above 4,000 metres and careful pacing across varied terrain. Efficiency and focus are essential.

    Following completion of all three summits, we descend to the Toubkal Refuge.

    Time: approx. 8–10 hours
    Ascent: ~1,200–1,300m
    Descent: ~1,200–1,300m
    Meals: All meals included

    With this day complete, all 4000m peaks of the Toubkal massif have been climbed.

    Overnight at Toubkal Refuge.

    After breakfast at the refuge, we descend from the high mountains back to Imlil. The return journey offers time to reflect on the completion of the Toubkal massif 4000m summits and the sustained effort of the previous days.

    The descent follows well-established mountain paths, steadily losing altitude as we return to the valley floor.

    On arrival in Imlil, we enjoy a well-earned lunch at Imlil Lodge before transferring to Marrakech (approximately 1.5 hours).

    This evening is spent at our riad accommodation in the heart of the ancient Medina — a complete contrast to the high mountain environment of the previous week.

    Time: approx. 4–5 hours walking
    Descent: ~1,450m
    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included

    Overnight at Riad Africa, Marrakech.

    Today is a deliberate recovery day in Marrakech.

    After a sustained period at altitude, time at lower elevation allows the body to reset before entering the second mountain phase of the expedition. This day can be used to rest, rehydrate, reorganise equipment and prepare mentally for the M’Goun massif.

    Marrakech also offers the opportunity to explore the historic Medina, visit the souks, or simply relax in a traditional riad courtyard. Some may choose to experience a hammam or massage to aid recovery after the physical demands of the Toubkal phase.

    This pause is not an interruption to the expedition — it is part of the structure that makes completing all 11 summits realistic and sustainable.

    Overnight at Riad Africa, Marrakech.
    Breakfast included.

    After breakfast in Marrakech, we transfer eastwards towards the village of Agouti, gateway to the M’Goun massif.

    The journey takes approximately 3.5–4.5 hours, passing from the bustle of Marrakech into increasingly remote mountain landscapes. The terrain gradually changes in character — broader valleys, fewer visitors and a stronger sense of isolation than the Toubkal region.

    Agouti marks the beginning of the second phase of the expedition. The M’Goun massif is less frequented, more expansive and logistically simpler but physically demanding.

    The remainder of the day is used to rest, prepare equipment and brief for the upcoming mountain phase.

    Overnight in a local lodge in Agouti.
    Meals included.

    After breakfast in Agouti, we begin our ascent into the M’Goun massif.

    The route follows the Aït Bouguemez valley before steadily gaining height towards the high plateau of Tarkeddit (c. 2,900m). The terrain here feels broader and more open than the Toubkal massif — wide valleys, long horizons and a greater sense of isolation.

    The climb is sustained but steady, allowing gradual re-acclimatisation as we return to altitude. As we gain height, the massif of Ighil M’Goun dominates the skyline ahead.

    Time: approx. 5–6 hours
    Ascent: ~1,100–1,200m
    Descent: minimal
    Meals: All meals included

    By evening we are established at Tarkeddit Refuge, positioned beneath the M’Goun ridge system and ready to begin the final summit phase of the expedition.

    Overnight at Tarkeddit Refuge.

    Today is the culmination of the Moroccan 4000ers Expedition.

    Departing early from Tarkeddit Refuge, we begin the sustained ascent towards the M’Goun ridge system. The climb to M’Goun West gains height steadily over broad slopes before reaching the high ridge at around 4,000m.

    From here, we traverse to Point 4008 (M’Goun South-West) before continuing along the ridge to the highest summit of the massif, Ighil M’Goun (4,071m) — the fourth highest mountain in Morocco.

    The ridge is expansive and exposed in places, requiring steady pacing and concentration. The position is exceptional, with vast views across the central High Atlas and towards the Saharan edge.

    After reaching the summit of Ighil M’Goun, we retrace our route along the ridge and descend back to Tarkeddit Refuge.

    Time: approx. 8–10 hours
    Ascent: ~1,200–1,300m
    Descent: ~1,200–1,300m
    Meals: All meals included

    With this day complete, all 11 recognised High Atlas 4000m summits have been climbed.

    Overnight at Tarkeddit Refuge.

    After breakfast at Tarkeddit Refuge, we descend from the M’Goun massif, retracing our route down through the broad valley towards Agouti.

    With the summit phase complete, the pace is steady and reflective as we lose altitude and return to lower ground. The shift from high ridge terrain back to cultivated valley marks the conclusion of the mountain objective.

    On arrival in Agouti, we transfer by road back to Marrakech (approximately 3.5–4.5 hours).

    Time: approx. 5–6 hours walking
    Descent: ~1,100–1,200m
    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included

    Overnight at Riad Africa, Marrakech.

    Today is held as a final contingency day within the expedition schedule.

    On a multi-summit programme across two separate massifs, building flexibility into the itinerary is essential. This day allows for weather delays, pacing adjustments or any necessary rescheduling of summit objectives during the M’Goun phase.

    In most seasons, this day will be spent in Marrakech, providing additional time to rest, explore the Medina, enjoy local cuisine or simply decompress after the sustained physical effort of the previous days.

    By structuring the expedition with built-in margin, we prioritise completion of all 11 summits without compressing objectives into unrealistic weather windows.

    Overnight at Riad Africa, Marrakech.
    Breakfast included.

    After breakfast at the riad, we transfer to Marrakech Airport for our return flight to the UK.

    The journey home marks the conclusion of a structured 15-day expedition across the High Atlas — from the valleys above Imlil to the remote ridges of M’Goun. Over the course of the programme, every recognised 4000m summit in Morocco has been climbed through steady progression, disciplined pacing and deliberate mountain decision-making.

    The Moroccan 4000ers Expedition is not defined by a single summit moment, but by the completion of the entire High Atlas 4000m collection.

    Return to the UK.

    From To Price Availability  
    22/08/2026 05/09/2026 £2750 4 Spaces Available Enquire Now

    Included in the price of this trip

    • Arrival and departure transfers to and from Marrakech International Airport.
    • Pre trek accommodation in Imlil with evening meal & breakfast.
    • Accommodation in Marrakech during the middle of the expedition and at the end (4 nights in total) with breakfast.
    • All transport/transfers during the expedition.
    • A fully supported trek which including Refuge accommodation.
    • Professional guiding and support team including mules/porters, chef, and kitchen staff.
    • All meals whilst trekking.
    • Purified safe drinking water provided as required.
    • Portage of 15 kg per client.

    Not included

    • International Flights from/to the UK.
    • Personal clothing and equipment (see our clothing and equipment section for guidance about what to bring).
    • Additional accommodation in Morocco/Marrakech before, during or after the trek other than what is covered in the included section.
    • Tips for your guide & mountain crew.
    • Personal travel insurance (to cover you for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects etc. You must ensure you have cover for trekking up to 4500m for this trip).
    • Additional expenses incurred should there be a need to curtail your trek early and transfer you from the mountain back to a medical facility or hotel (it is essential that you have personal travel insurance that includes cover for trekking up to 4500m).

    Essential Clothing & Equipment

    • Boots

      A good pair of light-weight GoreTex lined walking boots which provide ankle support and are well broken-in. Boots are essential - Please do not bring trail shoes.

    • Buff

      Essential for helping to keep the sun off your neck at lower altitudes, protecting from dust and wind and as neck/face protection higher up.

    • Climbing Helmet

      You only have one head - best to look after it. Make sure you can wear a beanie/woolly hat under your climbing helmet

    • Dry Bags

      A selection of rucksack liners and dry bags as required to keep your clothing, sleeping bag and equipment dry and organised.

    • Duffle Bag

      This should be big enough to carry all the clothing and equipment you have with you. It will be carried by a porter, so a soft duffle type bag is best – suitcases are not suitable.

    • Fleece or Soft Shell Layer

      This can be a fleece jumper or fleece jacket or a soft shell jacket.

    • Gloves

      A lightweight windproof pair of gloves for wearing on a daily basis as required.

    • Head Torch

      With spare batteries or the means to recharge.

    • Hiking Socks

      We recommend a good pair of proper hiking/trekking socks. A minimum of three pairs but ideally you should have a pair for each day.

    • Insulated Jacket

      Can be down or synthetic.

    • Lightweight Walking Trousers

      To wear on a daily basis if not wearing shorts and for evening wear. Jeans or tracksuit bottoms are not suitable.

    • Long-Sleeved Thermal Top

      Essential base layer for colder days and nights. Pack at least 2 of these.

    • Personal First Aid Kit

      This should include suncream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellant etc.

    • Rucksack 30lt

      A small rucksack, around 30lt will be ideal.

    • Shorts

      These are optional but the weather is often good enough for shorts.

    • Sleeping Bag - 3 Seasons

      This should be a minimum of three seasons and able to keep you warm down to at least minus 5 (we recommend taking as warm a sleeping bag as possible).

    • Sports Bra

      Ladies only, take 2. Should be a technical fabric, avoid cotton.

    • Sports Sandals/Flip Flops/Crocks

      Or something similar for river crossings/around campwhen not wearing your boots/in the tea houses etc.

    • Sun Hat

      To keep the sun off your head!

    • Sunglasses

      For general eye protection, wearing whilst trekking or on glaciers if applicable to your trip – for wearing on glaciers sunglasses need to be Category 4 and be close fitting or have side protection.

    • Tee-shirt

      For wearing on a daily basis whilst trekking. Should be a technical fabric – avoid cotton as it is slow to dry. You will need 2 or 3 of these.

    • Toiletries and Travel Towel

      Include wet wipes, hand sanitizer and toilet tissues as well as nappy sacks or dog poo bags (to bag your toilet paper and keep rubbish under control).

    • Underwear

      Ideally these will be quick drying and moisture wicking. Take 3 pairs as a minimum.

    • Water Bladder

      It is essential that you have the means to carry at least 2 litres of drinking water. The best solution is a bladder type water carrier such as a camelbak as this then allows you to drink whilst walking with no need to stop to get out a water bottle.

    • Water Bottle

      At higher altitudes your Camelbak may freeze and so it is a good idea to have a 1 litre Nalgene type bottle. Also great for events like the Cuillin ridge Traverse.

    • Waterproof Jacket

      Hard shell jacket ideally this will be waterproof and breathable (GoreTex or equivalent) and it will have a hood.

    • Waterproof Trousers

      Ideally they should be windproof and breathable (Gore Tex or equivalent) and with full or ¾ length side zips.

    • Woolly hat

      To keep your head warm - Ideally a hat that will cover your ears too and fit under a climbing helmet.

    Optional Clothing & Equipment

    • Camera

      Make sure you have spare batteries or the means to re-charge.

    • Ear Plugs

      To help with sleeping.

    • Long Sleeved Shirt

      For covering up during the day or wearing in the evening.

    • Mobile Phone

      You may want to use you phone as a camera. On our overseas trips signal is often limited or non-existent so making calls or sending texts may not be possible - see FAQs for trip specific info.

    • Small Stainless Steel Flask

      Useful for hot drinks during the day/night

    • Travel clothing

      Clothing that you will not wear whilst on the trek. This can be packed in a small bag and left at your accommodation for collection on your return.

    • Walking poles

      Not essential but extremely useful when carrying a load, descending and for any river crossings.

    Paperwork

    • Booking Confirmation

      This will be sent to you aproximately 10 days before departure

    • Immunization Papers

      Check requirement - see specific country information at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/

    • Insurance Documents

      It is crucial that you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical treatment and rescue apropriate for your trip. You must ensure you take your insurance documents with you and that the 24 hour emergency contact number for your insurance is clearly identifiable.

    • Passport and Visa

      Your passport should have at least 6 months validity beyond your last day of travel. It is worth making a photocopy of your passport and bringing this with you too just in case. See https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for information about Visa requirements. See also our FAQs for Visa information.

    Carbon Footprint

    We are yet to determine the average CO2 emissions per person for our Moroccan 4000ers expedition but we reckon it will be somewhere around 500kg.

    What are we doing about it

    As a responsible adventure company, we’re committed to understanding and reducing the environmental impact of our treks. We favour local supply chains, low-impact accommodation, and foot-powered travel wherever possible. In addition, we encourage all our trekkers to offset their emissions through certified schemes and consider more sustainable travel options where available.

    By trekking mindfully, supporting local communities, and respecting the fragile mountain environment, we can ensure that these incredible landscapes remain unspoiled for generations to come.

    FAQs

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