Internationale groepsreis Mt Toubkal Long Weekend - Winter

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

A little niave perhaps at just what challenge lay ahead for us. The climb itself was worthy of the effort although it was tougher than I thought. Spectacular views across the high Atlas and beyond.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Best moment was celebrating reaching the summit and delighted that everyone made it. We were blessed with clear blue skies and amazing views of the Atlas. Seeing Berber life in the mountains and respecting their culture.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was exactly that. He led the group. It was a little disappointing to see him up front all the time. Not too sure he was convinced we (I) were actually going to make it, I tended to bring up the rear. He did however always make sure we arrived and left together.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It is a worthy challege if a little tougher than is made out in the trek description. There is scree all the way down Mt Toubkal and descent requires lots of concentration and descent boots. A good level of fitness is definitely required as you cover a big distance, climb and descend Mt Toubkal all in one day. There is a lot covered in a weekend.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food and accomodation throughout the weekend was very good. The hotel swimming pool was great when we returned from the climb. Marrakesh is a very diverse city and worth exploring if you can muster the energy. It was interesting to trek back through the berber villages and watch them harvest their crops. Thank you for your patience guy's I realy appreciated all the ecouragement, we did it together. If you want a real challenge over a weekend then this trip is the one for you.

Jebel Toubkal Ascend

The trip was flawlessly organised and perfectly accomplished the only purpose - get to the top of the mountain.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It is always the moment of getting to the top after all the inconvenience of getting up at 3am and going through the cold, dark morning.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader was perfectly suited for this trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Mt Toubkal Winter Adventure

It was a great weekend, an experience that I will not forget.  The trip was challenging - probably more than I expected - and well organised, the people in our group got on well. I recommend it for first time climbers if you want to get a taste of real mountain climbing where you have the opportunity to use crampons and ice axe travel during the winter. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

As they say the journey is that matters the most. Reaching the summit was wonderful but the most inspirational moment for me was the way up there. I found it amazing how people in our group supported each other on the way up to the top. Every step was hard to take and we all wanted to make it together, we all worked as a team. The scenery was spectacular.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yaya was sociable, friendly, looked after us well  and kept a good pace. He knew the mountain very well and we felt safe with him. We had a second leader on the summit day for extra security. They were both great.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you want to enjoy the trip, good level of fitness is important. Don't underistimate climbing Mt Toubkal during winter. Just book it and enjoy the experience!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Mt Toubkal Winter Long Weekend

Great trek to do over an extended weekend. We just about made the summit in quite snowy conditions, thanks to our great leader and support team.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being joined by the base camps dog for the trek up to the high passes in a bit of a blizzard gave the group a bit of extra motivation in the snow.

What did you think of your group leader?

Very organised, knowledgeable and sociable leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Overall a good mix of trekking and time spent to see the sights and sounds of Marrakech. Would recommend this trip to anyone who fancies an active weekend.

Mount Toubkal Long Weekend - Winter

Brilliant long weekend away! Unfortunately we didn't make the summit due to bad weather conditions but trekking through the snow and using crampons and an ice axe for the first time was a great experience!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

In reflection it was probably summitting the high pass that we attempted instead of the summit. We'd been trekking in a blizzard, and it was pretty hard work so it was a great achievement. However at the time I was pretty cold so I think the inspiration came later on!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Really good, sociable and knew a lot about the area. I think that he made the right decision not to attempt the summit - it had been snowing a lot and there were some real risks, but I think the group really appreciated the alternative trek to the high pass that we managed!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The refuge was much warmer than I'd expected! I brought a thick down sleeping bag and didn't actually need it - the dormitories are nice and snug! The food was really nice and there was plenty of choice - we were definitely very well fed.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Really good trip, obviously I was disappointed to not make the summit but the fact this is such an easy trip to make from the UK means that it will be easy to attempt again in the future!!

A great weekend

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Mount Toubkal Long Weekend

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fun and Challenging Weekend away from the Office

This was a very good trip, and ideal for those who find it difficult to get the time off work for adventure, or in particular, those whose inbox floods if you take too much time off! The scenario around the summit of this peak is beautiful and the climb itself is a good test, but very achievable for those with a decent level of fitness.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top and seeing the landscape around me. It really is beautiful. Also, sleeping on the roof of the mountain hut due to it being too busy was great! It's those small things that make a trip an adventure.

What did you think of your group leader?

Due to the time delay in writing this, I have forgotten his name, but he was an older gentlemen who was very knowledgable. I have been used to trips with quite a number of guides, so it was different operating with just one on this occasion. He could be a little impatient with some of the group, but ultimately he just wanted to get everyone to the top and down again within the weekend.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do brace yourself for the mountain hut. It gets rammed! But it's full of all nationalities and as long as you don't mind joining in the fun, you will love the chaos. If you are very into your vanity in private quarters, I suggest seeking an alternative accommodation.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If it's snowing, when coming back down, go down the lower hills on your backside. You will see 'slides' etched out from people sliding down them, and they are a huge amount of fun.

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

A stretching four days ideal for those wanting to clear their mind.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Booked only 8 days before departure my requirement of this holiday was to "reset my compass" in four days flat. It met the brief exactly. Thoughtfully structured, given so much to fit in, the pace was well judged at all stages leaving room for some free exploration of the fabulous Marrakech (I'll be back!).  Having read some dubious web reports about Hotel Hansa I was expecting much less than the clean, cool and very acceptable accommodation it provided.  The swimming pool and deck, whilst not huge, was ideal (and essential quite frankly in the dry heat of July) But let's get to the meat of the thing - the climb.  Challenging is a fair description. Pensioners, couch potatoes or those with an injury need not apply but up to, and including, the gently greying if you have donned sporting garments more than three times in the last month, done a 10k or two in your time and gone up Snowdon without a train ticket you'll be comfortable.  We made the top in morning sunshine and a light breeze, a hugely rewarding experience. Central to the experience was our guide Hassan. From arrivals lounge to mountain top and back, his depth of experience and knowledge inspired respect and hence relaxation.  Could I have assembled a similar trip?  Yes - I might have thought so given a few days on the internet.  Would I even remotely bother after this?  No. The seamlessness and lack of hassle was central to the experience. Dodgy tummy? - No.  Hassle in the markets? - No (but then i'm in sales so i like a bit of a goodnatured josh!).   I liked every single bit of this trip, and was left with a huge respect (and a bit of love) for an amazing and beautiful country and a people clearly at ease with themselves.

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

Well organised and very well looked after. A local and interesting guide.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the top is the most exhilerating experience after the long climb up. Rapid group integration. Experiencing the local culture.

What did you think of your group leader?

Very interesting and knowledgeable who looked after us throughout.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't have any preconceived ideas, keep an open mind and enjoy the experience.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Exodus once again came up trumps in their organisation and helpfulness in the build up and planning stage.

Toubkal Winter - Long Weekend

Overall the trip was good, the experience in Marrakech was great, the food was excellent as well as plentiful. However we didn't make it to the summit of Toubkal or even the Base Camp due to continuous bad weather, rain, snow and high winds. Please be aware that if you book on the long weekend winter trip there is no room in the schedule in the event of bad weather, as any delay in the walk to base camp will put the summit attempt at risk.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The best moments were meeting the other members of the trip, the experience of the food and culture of Morocco and the welcoming nature of the local Berber population.

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The trip notes should be expanded in a similar way to the ones for Mont Blanc etc. to include information about the possibility of poor weather and alternative walking options in the area.

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

I enjoyed every moment of my adventure and I would highly recommend it to anyone with a keen sense of spirit and up for a challenging experience.If your not physicallty fit you will find the experience more daunting but not impossible.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I really enjoyed the groupn that I was in , they made the 5 days more enjoyable and fun.  The best part of the trip was was getting to the top of the mountain and seeing some of the most spectacular sites of my life and enjoying every minute of it.  It was well worth the climb.

What did you think of your group leader?

He was brilliant, warm friendly and easy going. I would definitely like to do the winter trek and would hope Hassan is the group leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have a good level of fitness because the trail and terrain is demanding and all of us struggled in key areas. the fitter you are the easier it is.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

A short trip providing the combined opportunities to stand on North Africa's highest peak and experience Marrakech and its souks.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Obviously the high point of this trip was reaching the summit of Toubkal and looking out over the Atlas mountains. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Hassan was clearly very experienced however none of the group felt he was terribly communicative.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Pack for every type of weather condition in the mountains. Although our group did the trip in themiddle of August, we had rain, hail, thunderstorms, wind and sunshine all in one day! Take waterproofs, gloves, hats, thermals, layers... The terrain on the mountain is generally fine on the first day, but on the summit day there is a lot of climbing over rocks/boulders followed by a lot of scree. Walking poles were certainly useful on the scree. The quality of the gite and the mountain refuge was good - better than expected in fact - though ear plugs are advisable as you sleep around 4 to a room in the gite and as many as 16 to a room in the refuge. Take some form of entertainment too as there is nothing to do otherwise! One of our group had a pack of cards which kept us amused for hours! As a Muslim country, alcohol is not readily available and indeed the hotel we stayed in in Marrakech did not serve any and frankly, after the exertions on the mountain, a beer would have been most welcome! Do explore the souks of Marrakech, though preferably not alone, as it is very easy to get lost!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is ideal for a long weekend away combining a physical challenge with an opportunity for relaxation and exploration. Be prepared for the mountain - the summit day is a long one, but worth the effort!

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

Amazing value, a great few days away from it all and a great challenge for the fit hillwalker!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The challenge of summitting Toubkal. Eating and shopping in the souks of Marrakech. Meeting like minded people from a variety of backgrounds and making new friends.

What did you think of your group leader?

Assiz was very friendly, polite, calm and very well organised. He knew the routes on Toubkal very well and had great local knowledge generally. He was a little quiet at times for a leader and struggled a bit to always bring the large group together. He could have done with some more help i think as he had to guide a group of 15 people of varying ages/ability/fitness/experience up a 4,200m mountain (some of it in the dark) pretty much on his own which was not ideal. We were assisted by a further guide (who didn't speak) on the way down from the summit. A further English speaking guide would have worked well.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is a serious mountain and a challenge. It's 4,200m at the top which is four times higher than a Scaffell Pike or a Snowdon in the UK. Do some training beforehand - you need to have a decent degree of fitness as the summit day is very long. The descent in particular is long and arduous being mostly on loose scree , snow and ice (we did it in early May). The temperature differences between the top and sea level are quite extreme so make sure you take enough layers (we needed thick gloves, 2 pairs socks on, 4 layers on top etc.) You don't need to worry too much about availability of food and water - Exodus feed you very well and there are endless opportunities to buy water, soft drinks, choclate etc. at reasonable prices on the mountain itself. Some of our group suffered from altitide sickness and 4 out of 15 didn't make the top. Take a selection of cash and cards - there are plenty of ATMs in Marrakech but the airport ATMs were not working. Make sure you visit the souks in Marrakech - there is a great vibe, food and gifts. Stay away from the aggressive snake charmers though!  Take headache tablets and immodium - many of our group suffered from the runs!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This trip is a fantastic break from it all and amazing value for money compared to other trips i have done - thoroughly recommend it!

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

So good I did it a seconds time. I loved this trip (Mid May 2012), it's not too far to travel and I'm not away from home and work for too long. You can nip there fore a long weekend, and experience some great challenges, Moroccan culture and have a laugh with new friends.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The night before the summit we slept in Refuge du Toubkal pretty basic but as I expected at 3207 meters up a mountain. Actually it was a great place. 30 people in a room, it was pretty cramped but added to the experience. The beds had mattersses and pillows and were comfy, food good fresh, toilets and showers were very basic but did the job. Expect to queue. It was all communal.   http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g488109-d1057313-Reviews-Refug...   The 4 hours walk to the summit at 6am was very hard work. Steep, snow patches, lots of scree, I'd recommend taking a walking pole. In Mid May the wind was very high and very cold, sub zreo, the forecast was minus 12. It was freezing! All added to the challenge, and the great feeling when you bag the summit!!

What did you think of your group leader?

This was my second trip up Toubkal, I also did this same trip in June 2011 with a different leader. In camparison, this leader was not very good, he was ok. He didn't meet us from the airport, I had to contact the UK office. Eventaully a non English speaking driver picked us (8 people) up. We checked in the hotel with no word of what the plan was. Eventaully the UK office advised me the leader would meet us all that evening. I expected this as soon as we arrived. Generally as we were walking he didn't keep the group (of 15) together, so we were all sprawled out. Tighter groups are more social and easier to chat to. Also he didn't point out any of the local history or points of interest as we went up the mountain. As I knew this already, I was giving more informatin out that the group leader! We had a back marker guide who didn't speak English, but he smiled a lot, even when it was frezing! On the whole I wouldn't let this put you off. I was dissapointing though.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Before the trip Exodus didn't say that you can check in one 20kg bag into the hold (on Easyjet from Gatwick). This bag also stays with you on the mountain and travels up on the back of a Mule. You can get access to the bag morning and night on the trek. Take your day sack for water, grub, fleece. Check the wather forecast before you go http://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Toubkal/forecasts/4167 There's plenty of chance to buy water, pop and nibbles on the mountain there were ~10 dirham (£1). We had a laugh buying some local woolly hats from a guy. Highly overpriced compaired to the souks in Marrackesh, but worth the entertainment! The hotel in Marrakesh is called 'Hotel Trois Palmiers' there are two by the same name, this is the smaller one - 3 star.  It was very nice, good location, with free Wi-Fi in the hotel reception !!!! This was great for contacting home as mobile costs are expensive. Skype worked well. I think it was £5 in a taxi to el fna square/ 20 - 30 mins walk, and there were lots of cafe's, shops, bars nearby/walking distance. http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g293734-d1931422-Reviews-Les_T... Altitude sickness affected a few people, particularly feeling nauseous can make or break a summit attempt - get tables from your GP just in case.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Morocco is dry so you'll struggle to buy a beer.  Only 4-5 star hotels and posh resturants sell it, but there is a hotel a few doors down from Hotel Trois Palmiers. They prefer you to dress nice, so blokes - take a polo shirt.

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

Great Weekend, 2400 meters ascended in under 24 hours!  Definitely not an easy weekend, but worth the climb to the top.  Highly recommended, and first time climbers that are generally fit will do fine

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

When we realized how much we did in just 24 hours.

What did you think of your group leader?

Aziz was great.  Kept a good pace and made sure everyone was enjoying the trip. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Definitely plan a pool day when you get back to the hotel.  It was the perfect way to relax (We climbed in July, so it was easily 35c mid-afternoon)

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Morocco is a great place, friendly people, and diverse scenery.  The food on the trip was excellent, and the Refuge was basic but clean and functional

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

An experience of a lifetime. Absolutely incredible. Physically and mentally sensational.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The last hike up towards the summit. Did not make it due to the weather. A snow blizzard which was somewhat amazing to be in. Never been in anything so strong, yet so breath taking. White all around the top of mountains. Truely a moment you have to see to believe. High as can be, covered in white.

What did you think of your group leader?

He was a great leader. Spoke with us all. Helped us and guided us. Made the right decision in turning round when we did. Ensured we were well looked after and had everything we needed with us. Spoke on many things and told us many facts and the beauty of the sights we were seeing.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You'll enjoy every second. From start to finish. Plenty of bottled water to keep you going. Something you'll remember with great smiles and laughs and the known fact that you did it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MT TOUBKAL LONG WEEKEND

 It was a trip of a lifetime, enjoyed it so much.Great combination of the busy Marrakesh and the tranquility of the mountains; but the mountains won for me! 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The views from the top of Mt Toubkal were humbling, and so beautiful.  Equally inspring was walking back down through the mountain villages, that appeared even more beautiful than they had on the trip up.  The beauty and calm was spellbinding. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Our guide Hassan was absolutely faultless; his attention to everyone's needs was quietly perfect and completely admirable. Absolutely lovely person and couldn't ask for better. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you enjoy being in mountains, don't hesitate --- do it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I was expecting it to be a good trip, but it exceeded my expectations and was just magical.

A challenging climb and descent

A good compact trip which was part of my preparation for Kilimanjaro. Good to experience altitude and a variety of walking surfaces from loose scree to climbing over boulders. Also very useful for realising what you might add or omit from your packing list for a bigger trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Definitely making the summit after having trouble with my breathing on the way up.

What did you think of your group leader?

Not the most sympathetic of leaders. Seemed in a race to get each leg of the trip completed.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Definitely get some hill climbs in before doing the trip. Having said that most people had very sore legs afterwards.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hired muleteer Omar was a star and went above and beyond his role, helping people on the ascent and descent.

Toubkal Long Weekend

An excellent short trek that we very much enjoyed. Nothing technical on route but a relatively large distance must be covered in a short period. The food was excellent as was the overall organisation of the trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit on a beautifully clear morning and being rewarded with those views.

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Should be fine if you've done a few mountains before.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go for it!