Internationale groepsreis Mt Toubkal Climb

Alan - Toukbal 31st May 2016

Well organised from day one. Met some great people on the 'team', including the guide and his helpers. I would recommend this holiday to anyone. But please make sure you are prepared for the altitude. This is not just a physical walk, but also mentally tasking as you have to be aware of where you put your feet all the time.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The scenery was outstanding. And just seeing the relief and joy on the rest of the group when they reached the summit of Toukbal.

What did you think of your group leader?

Hassan. What can I say. If you weren't paying attention to his briefings he let you know and quite rightly. An excellent leader who made sure everyone was safe during the various ascents, resting when necessary for the slower walkers. Always willing to chat about his life and culture, a pleasure to listen to.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As above. You may see some walkers wearing trainers, this is not advisable, especially as a lot of the paths are over lose shale. Walking boots must be worn. A reasonably good level of fitness is required, so don't think a walk around the park with your dog will be sufficient exercise. Go for some long, fast walks with a back pack on.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Take a camera, enjoy the scenery, have fun.

Great fun, good people, gran trip!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting a group to 'gel' together; a varied bunch from different background who had to overcome initial polite conversation and reserved interaction, to become a fun, interactive, good humoured and considerate group.

What did you think of your group leader?

Hussain (and I've probably spelt his name wrong) was fantastic - just the right mix of humour, informal chat and leadership.  Conficent and charismatic, but never dominating the group, he was a superb leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go into the trip with a completely open mind, forget past experiences (whether with EXODUS or other) and just get stuck-in!  Remember that this is a group holiday, not an individual trip - you have to go with the flow, help others, build and be part of the team.  And have fun!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

No - this trip did 'exactly what was said on the tin'!!

The whole trip was excellent

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

All of it really, the group leader, the people on the trip and the task in hand to reach the summit of Mt Toubkal.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was excellent, very informative and knowledgable, knew just when to stop and let us have a break, lovely man.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The walk is how its graded, so make sure your fit enough otherwise you won't enjoy it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Did not think it would be such a laugh (oh the view from the top was cool by the way)

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the peak. oh and the hammam (but i can't talk about that ! my group will kill me so try it for yourself)

What did you think of your group leader?

He was cool and done a great job.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you bring a light weight jacket waterproof.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks exodus

It has got to be one of the hardest things I have ever done but how rewarding

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

the sunrise coming over the 4000m ridge

What did you think of your group leader?

fine if a little too interested in the female members of the party

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

not expect hot showers

Is there anything else you would like to add?

more contact with local people would be nice

Walking up Mt. Toubkal.

Great to be able to walk to the highest mountain in North Africa and in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. No special skills or climbing gear was required for the trip. For this trip you needed to be reasonable fit and able to cope with moderate high altitude walking. The weather was kind to us, but there were numerous clouds around the top of the mountain meaning that our distant views were not clear. Close mountain ranges looked impressive. Lush green valleys contrasted with stark bare mountain tops. A walk well worth doing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of Mt. Toubkal.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group leader was very good. He had excellent local knowledge, knew the trip tracks and venue well.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This walk is not a stroll in the park. I would only recommend it for seasoned walkers who enjoy a reasonably hard walk in mountainous terrain.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Not recommended for families with young children or for those who usually go for 'strolls' in suburban areas.twp

MT Toubkal

This was a fantastic experiences, well organised with friendly supportive staff waiting for us at the airport. Nothing was too much trouble.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Aguelzium pass (3550) taking in the panoramic views of the Toubkal Massif. The climb had been heard but the results were worth it.

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic knowledgeable and approachable. Did a bries at the end of the day on what we had done and what was for the next day in terms of timings, food etc.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be mindful of altitude, it can affect you sleep. Also I have been eaten by mosquitoes so repellent might be useful. The pool at the hotel had strong chlorine but a great to relax after the expedition.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Enjoy take nothing but photos and memories, leave nothing but footprints.

Mt Toubkal climb

I really enjoyed this Exodus trip and found the staff very helpful with regards to answering my questions beforehand. I'd recommend anyone going on this trip to pack walking sticks - as it can be a difficult terrain, particularly when going downhill - and warm clothes for the evening. Plus toilet paper!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Climbing to the top of Mount Toubkal!

What did you think of your group leader?

He was very nice and thoughtful.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Atlas Mountains

A really good trip. It was great that we had options each day as it made it a challenging climb

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The last day of the walk was fantastic. Myself and 6 others did the second highest peak which was so much fun and a real challenge

What did you think of your group leader?

He was very knowledgeable and really helpful. He answered our questions and helped members f the group who were struggling

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take small notes and change to buy water and lots of snacks!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ascent of Mt Toubkal

The holiday was well balanced to allow a slow build up to acclimatise for altitude and help build up fitness before the final walk up to the Mt.Toubkal summit. Optional climbs were included for the more energetic, but there was no pressure to do these if you felt your energy reserves would be better expended on the summit climb. (Particularly if due to advancing years you have to be careful what you use up your energy on!)

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit of Mt.Toubbal was the highlight of my trip. The view from the top was spectacular and the weather gave us excellent visibility.

What did you think of your group leader?

Hassan, our leader was always cheerful and willing to impart his extensive knowledge. He always set a steady pace which suited the whole party.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Try to do a few hill walks before you go. The paths are quite rough and it helps if you are used to sliding downhill on scree.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A well balanced holiday for anyone with the determination to get to the top of a mountain which does not require any technical climbing experience.

A 3Stars Trip which could do better if......

A good and enjoyable personal experience on climbing Mt Toubkal. However on the trip I was let down by the logistics which were not appropriate and fit for the purpose. We experienced just a couple of bad and worst weather on day 3 and 5 with strong winds and heavy rain which was enough to tested the tents. On these occasions I discovered the fragility of the tents(mine in particular) and the fact that they couldn't resist to more than a couple of bad days.Furthermore the tents weren't anchor properly and because of that the strong wind just blew one of the tent during the night3 and on few occasions the mess tent which was used to have our meals. Anyone with a bit of a knowledge about mountains knows how important is to have a good and safe tent to spend the nights on without worries that will blow away in any moment or that the water will come in. The climb itself wasn't as difficult as I was thinking and before the day of the climbing Toubkal Summit I could test myself on an optional walk up to 3700m. Nobody from the group experienced any signs of AMS(acute mountain sickness) but few vomited and had diarrhoea when we were at the base camp. The hotel room from 1st and last day was comfortable, with AC and en-suite. The night spent on the gite was basic but after few days spent on tents looks heavenly. The food was good all the way and if you are not very fussy about food you will enjoy it. However some snacks or energy bars are required to have them especially because the time between meals it is quite long and on the walks you will need some extra.... Water can be purchase every day of the trip, even up the mountain. For each 1.5l of water you will spend 0.30-0.45p and you will need around 3-4bottle daily, more if you intend to use it for wash too.Plenty rivers but nobody could tell how safe their are for tourists( as I was told by a local ) Money matter.Best way is to change at the airport, however plenty banks are in Marrakesh.On the trip everything has a price and mostly can be negotiate.Medina it is a big labyrinth so don't go by yourself and most important do not listen nor pay the local for directions when you are in Medina, otherwise you will spend many hours inside with no possibility to go out and some money too.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit and deciding to go down on a different route which allowed me to see some beautiful scenery. The waterfall and the sunset from the day 3.

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Diarrhoea tablets are a must .Sun cream protection, DEET 50%, painkillers, foot cream( your feet will thank you),Plus ANTIBACTERIAL WIPES!!!. Be prepared for bad weather which can make your trip a nightmare.If you pay for a single tent be sure that you'll have a quality one before starting the trip.Will make a big difference.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish that Exodus to pay more attention on selecting the local teams and the team leaders which are the ones responsible for us, the tourists, the customers. A minimum of a First Aid Kit for each team will be a bonus too.

Fantastic trek!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing on the summit was by far the best part of the trip. One member of the group brought along a Union Jack flag that a few of us took turns to hold up during a photo session! Our leader managed to climb to the top of the metal pyramid on the summit and held aloft the flag that made for a fantastic photo! The views from the summit were brilliant and there was a lot more snow than I had expected. The push to the summit was also more rocky and rugged than I thought it would be but this, together with the snow and ice made it much more interesting and exciting. Wasn't as cold as I imagined it would be either. Setting off for the summit by torchlight in darkness adds to the occasion and you really feel like you're about to do something special. All in all a lovely little trek, great views and scenery, a little strenuous in places and with the snow it was even quite tricky here and there. Would definitely recommend this trek to any enthusiastic walker.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader was fine. Got on well with everyone. Briefed us each day and kept us all fully informed about what we were doing and what we needed to take/carry etc.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for some rocky and rugged paths! If you go early or late in the season there could be quite a bit of snow and ice. Ascending is not difficult but descending (especially in snow) can be quite tricky in places and requires a bit of thought before you take that step!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

Much tougher than I'd anticipated and didn't enjoy it hugely. However, I'm sure others on the same trek would be of very different opinion to me. I'm 68, reasonably fit but found this tougher & less enjoyable than the treks I did to Annapurna Base Camp & Kala Pattar a few years ago (in spite of the fact that the latter was 1,000m higher than Toubkal).

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Inspirational? Well getting to the summit was an achievement but, IMHO, not hugely enjoyable in view of the terrain one has to trek through to get there. But I did enjoy getting back to Marrakesh and having a wonderful fresh orange juice with ice cream in a cafe overlooking Jamaa el Fna! 

What did you think of your group leader?

He was OK and I think he was looking after our safety which is the main concern. Eg, when we descended from Mnt Toubkal, we were in 3 groups & he stayed with our slowest group & ensured we avoided the snow fields we'd been through on the ascent. But at other times he was very much at the front, practically out of sight and there was no back-marker as I've experienced on other treks. It was up to the group itself to ensure that slower members were accompanied. To be fair, at the start, there was one of the muleteers at the rear but latterly he had to go ahead carrying one of our number who'd suffered a sprained ankle.Our guide was also very kind in taking us to see his home & meet his children, and drink wonderful mint tea!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't underestimate how difficult it is, the Trip Notes (IMHO) are too brief & just don't give the necessary detail, principally that probably most of trek is over lose stones or scree & quite difficult to walk on, requiring a lot of concentration. And the ascent of Mnt Toubkal includes quite a bit of clambering over boulders.Also I was somewhat concerned that we depended on bottled water - I'd taken purification tablets but there's no opportunity to get boiled water & add the tablets. At Toubkal base camp, the only source of bottled water is from the refuge which necessitates scrambling down to a stream & up the other side. I wouldn't have thought that there are any recycling facilities for the bottles.I took an additional mattress but not necessary. Tents were OK although one of them had to be abandoned on the first evening as one of the zips had burst. Be prepared for VERY basic toilet arrangements.  Our group didn't really suffer from altitude sickness but it is a tough acclimatisation in just 3 days before you tackle Mnt Toubkal.Also, compared to the treks I'd done in the Himalaya, I didn't find the scenery all that great - it's very arid, dry, stony; but then that was what I expected.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The itinerary includes three optional climbs - in the event only two of our party did the first of these, no one did the other two.Food was excellent and plentiful! But then I am a non-meat eater. The cook performed wonders as far as I'm concerned. But it could have been spicier - apparently they don't wish to offend non-Moroccan palates.Driver to/from Marrakesh was excellent, very careful. Hotel in Marrakesh was good but could have benefited from a bar!In terms of the price we paid, it was good value.  

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

This trip is only challenging for those new to trekking; for more experienced walkers, without the optional treks this can only be described as moderate.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The best moment was seeing those in the group for whom this was their first trip reaching the summit of Toubkal.

What did you think of your group leader?

Very good

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are an experienced walker hoping to do the optional treks as well as Toubkal, inquire as to the abilities of the rest of the group. Sometimes new walkers are much slower and with only 1 guide to 16 trekkers preventing a splitting of the group, the walking pace can be painfully slow. As a result insufficient time is available for the optional walks.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Either novice and experienced walkers should be offered different departure dates or there should be more guides available to split the group when the pace of the group members if manifestly different.

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

We had a most amazing week, the walk was tough but thoroughly enjoyable and worth the effort.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The summit climb is the obvious one, we were fortunate to have brilliant weather and were able to spend over an hour taking in the views and enjoying the photo opportunities, and a splendid snack provided by our guides. The camp on day 2 was also quite spectacular, the scenery from my sleeping bag was quite awesome. The gite was also great, simple but effective.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader was not the most attentive Exodus leader we have come across, but got us all to the top in one piece and down again. As it was Ramadan the energy levels of the guide and other staff were less than they might have otherwise been, full of admiration for what they achieved while fasting.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a nail brush! The dust gets every where and a nail brush was the only way of really getting hands clean. In Marrakech the guide wasn't really good value, might be better to do this yourself.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Do it!

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

This trip was one of the best I have ever taken. From the moment of arriving in Morocco to the day I departed I felt like I was looked after and having a great time taking in all the stunning views and meeting new, interesting people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit of Mount Toubkal! The whole group reached the top and it had been a fairly difficult hike due to the altitude, but we all made it and had a lovely picnic at the top, whilst enjoying the extensive views across to the Sahara.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Mohamed was excellent. A very knowledgeable and friendly guy, who took a real interest in the group and who we were. He is highly competent in the mountains and knows his stuff!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Book this trip if you want a challenging, but extremely rewarding holiday. Also, ladies, make sure you take clothes that will cover you up for walking around Marrakesh.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I returned back from this trip feeling very buoyed up about life in general! It was a truly great experience, one where I felt I pushed myself physically and was rewarded for that with stunning views and experiences. I have made some lasting friends, some of which I have already met up with. I learnt a lot about a new culture and it has reminded me of all the places and people there are still to see and meet in the world. Thank you Exodus for a perfect holiday!

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

A well organised and enjoyable trip. A great time was had by all.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the summit.

What did you think of your group leader?

Mohammed was a calm, collected and easy going leader who ensured our safety and enjoyment throughout the trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

A great introduction to the High Atlas Mountains and Marrakech, including climbing Mount Toubkal and the option to bag another peak over 4000m.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Not one particular moment, but the comradery of 16 trekkers who largely didn't know each other at the start of the week. Over the week the conversation and banter, particularly around meal times, was fantastic. For a group varying in walking experience and aging from 20s to late 60s everyone got on so well. The encouragement from everyone during the trek was great and despite different walking speeds we ensured we summitted as one group. What better way to meet new friends.

What did you think of your group leader?

Hassan had his hands full as the group varried in walking speeds and ability. However he always led from the front and each morning set off at a cracking pace - though we soon settled into a manageable pace with a donkey and his helper bringing up the rear. Ideally at least one other qualified guide would have been useful, especially on the Mt Toubkal day when one of our party twisted his ankle. An accompanying porter had already helped down one of our party and so with just Hassan to lead, we all had to descend very slowly. The optional walks were good and run to time - but there did seem to be an expectation by Hassan that these were for the faster and fitter walkers. Hassan's English was very good and he was always helpful but it would have been nice if he volunteered more information on Morroco, the culture and the mountains rather than having to be asked.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Good footwear is essential as the paths, especially up and down Mt Toubkal, can be quite rough. Poles would also be useful for those not particular steady on their feet.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food was plentiful and excellent. I'm not really a fan of cous cous, lentils and beans but these all appeared in at least one meal and seemd to taste different. Perhaps because it just seemed to fit with the environment or I was was starving!

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

This trip was everything I was hoping for and more. The descriptions of "strenuous" and "challenging" were spot on. The guide Yahya was simply superb. The support staff were magnificent and in particular the cook produced heavenly food. We were a bit lucky with the weather but all 16 in the party sumitted Toubkal and we all got on extremely well. Wow, what a holiday! Thank you Exodus it was simply a perfect week in an amazing landscape.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing on the sumitt and realising I was on the rooftop of the whole of North Africa. The views in every direction left me with a lump in my throat. I vowed I would not leave it too long before doing something like this again.

What did you think of your group leader?

Hard to put into words. He was simply the perfect guide, he quietly controlled everything kept everyone calm and ensured the pace ideal for acclimatisation. He made every decision and got each one right. He was very knowledgeable to talk to about a vast range of topics. He had a great sense of humour. His patience and generosity of spirit was amazing when a member of the party struggled. And he even organised and participated in the end of trip celebrations. So impressive Yahya was simply outstanding!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are reasonably fit and enjoy non-technical climbing in magnicent scenery this trip is superb. I took and early morning Easy Jet flight that gave me an extra day in Marakesh and that was a huge bonus partly for doing the tourist bits but also for socialising with other members before the others arrived.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you Exodus, I have been doing trips like this for over 25 years and this was one of the best!

MT TOUBKAL CLIMB

This was my first pre-organised trip and was well organised, a good guide (Hassan senior), excellent food, great weather, brilliant views and a magnificent group of people, who all made it to the summit!!!Thta combined with a good value-for-money price, made this memorable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking as a group and all summitting Mt Toubkal together, to take in the tremendous views (and sun). Aside from the success and the views, it was the group of people from all over the world, of all different ages, fitness and backgrounds, that really made this trip so good.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Hassan (senior) who was very good and led us well.  However, I think because of the cultural/language differences, he didn't necessarily instill total confidence in everyone, as whilst he provided the basic briefing information (and would gladly answer any questions), he wasn't necessarily forthcoming with extra information and didn't really ask how anyone was finding the pace etc

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for it!! BUT don't underestimate the steepness of the climbs and ethe xertion in the heat required!!  Drinking 3-4 litres of water a day is a must!!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don't go to the Beirut restaurant and bar just down the road from the hotel Exodus use (Les Trois Palmiers) as whilst they - Barrack in particular - are friendly and encouraging to get you drinking, they then try and rip you off with the bill and won't let you leave (big bouncers) until all paid!