8 Days Skiing in Morocco’s High Atlas

Day by day

1. 01
   Day 1Arrival in Marrakech – Gateway to the High Atlas+

   Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you’ll be met by our driver and transferred to your charming riad in the old medina. The rest of the day is free to stroll through the maze-like souks, admire the colorful spice stalls, and soak in the energy of Jemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, snake charmers, and food vendors come alive at sunset. This first evening is all about relaxation and preparing yourself for the mountain adventure ahead.

   - Overnight in Marrakech

2. 02
   Day 2Marrakech – Imlil – Trek to Toubkal Refuge (3,207m)+

   After breakfast, we leave the bustle of Marrakech behind and drive into the High Atlas Mountains (1h30). At Imlil village (1,740m), we meet our local muleteers who will carry luggage, leaving us free to ascend with skis and light packs.

   The skinning begins gently through Berber villages and terraced fields, before entering the wilder Mizane Valley. A stop at the Chamharouch shrine (2,310m)—a spiritual site visited by pilgrims—offers a cultural glimpse. From here, the path climbs steadily, snow becoming deeper as we approach the alpine world. By afternoon we reach the Toubkal Refuge (3,207m), nestled beneath steep cliffs. Here, hot tea and a warm dinner await.

   - 5–6 hrs trek / +1,467m ascent

   - Overnight at Toubkal Refuge

3. 03
   Day 3Ski Ascent of Mount Toubkal (4,167m)+

   Today we tackle North Africa’s highest peak. An early start allows us to skin up the south cwm, zig-zagging through snowy slopes. The climb is steady but demanding at altitude.

   Reaching the summit cross of Toubkal (4,167m) is a thrilling moment—panoramic views stretch across the entire Atlas chain, with the Sahara Desert shimmering to the south. After a well-earned rest, comes the highlight: a long ski descent back to the refuge, weaving turns down wide open slopes.

   - 6–7 hrs / +960m ascent / –960m descent

   - Overnight at Toubkal Refuge

4. 04
   Day 4Ski Ascent of Ras & Timesguida Ouanoukrim (4,083m & 4,089m)+

   We venture west towards the Ouanoukrim massif, home to the second- and third-highest peaks in North Africa. Using skins and sometimes crampons for steeper sections, we climb towards Ras (4,083m) and Timesguida (4,089m).

   The ridge here offers dramatic alpine scenery, with jagged peaks and plunging valleys. From the summits, the reward is an exhilarating ski descent back to the refuge, carving turns in the fresh snow.

   - 6 hrs / +900m ascent / –900m descent

   - Overnight at Toubkal Refuge

5. 05
   Day 5Ski Ascent of Akioud (4,030m)+

   Today’s target is Akioud Peak, a quieter but equally rewarding summit. The climb takes us through remote slopes, sometimes narrow couloirs, before opening onto wide, ski-friendly terrain.

   The descent is a highlight of the trip, combining technical sections with sweeping runs. Back at the refuge, the group can relax over mint tea and hearty mountain food.

   - 5–6 hrs / +820m ascent / –820m descent

   - Overnight at Toubkal Refuge

6. 06
   Day 6Tizi n’Ouanoums (3,670m) & Secret Valleys+

   This day is reserved for exploration. We skin up to the Tizi n’Ouanoums Pass (3,670m), a natural gateway into hidden valleys of the High Atlas. Depending on snow and weather, we may ski technical couloirs or explore untouched bowls.

   It’s a day of discovery, often with few other skiers in sight—just the silence of the mountains and the crunch of skis on snow.

   - 5 hrs / +500–700m ascent & descent

   - Overnight at Toubkal Refuge

7. 07
   Day 7Final Descent – Refuge to Imlil – Marrakech+

   After days of high peaks, it’s time for one last descent. From the refuge, we enjoy a long ski run down to Imlil, passing once again through alpine valleys and Berber hamlets.

   At Imlil, we say goodbye to our mule team and transfer back to Marrakech (1h30). The afternoon is free for hammam baths, souvenir shopping, or a celebratory dinner overlooking the bustling square.

   - 4–5 hrs descent

   - Overnight in Marrakech

8. 08
   Day 8Departure+

   Depending on flight times, enjoy a relaxed morning in Marrakech before your airport transfer. End of services and farewell to Morocco.

What to bring

Photos