Join #TeamBrainResearchUK and take on the highest peak in North Africa to help fund life-changing neurological research.
This exciting challenge takes you through the remote and stunning High Atlas Mountains, climbing their highest peak – and the highest in North Africa: Mount Toubkal, at 4,167 m. With a steep and rocky ascent, the effects of altitude adding to the demands – yet the magnificent summit views stretching across to the Sahara Desert make every effort worthwhile.
On arrival you’ll take a transfer for the short distance to your hotel, then have a trip briefing before a good night’s rest).
(Dinner dependent on flight arrival time)
After an early breakfast, you’ll load up and drive into the mountains to the small village of Imlil (1740m), where you’ll meet your guides and mules, and set off! Your route takes you uphill through walnut groves, emerging into a flood plain which gives you a brief respite from the climbing. Your path then rises again through a winding valley into remote mountains; the views are beautiful. You’ll pass through the tiny hamlet of Sidi Chamharouch (2200m), which has grown up around a Muslim shrine, then zig-zag more steeply into the valley. It’s then not long before you arrive at camp, below the refuge at the base of Toubkal (3200m). — Drive approx 2 hours; trek approx 10km / 6-8 hours; height gain 1460m
You’ll rise early, to allow plenty of time for your ascent, and after a good energy-boosting breakfast you’ll set off. It’s cold on the mountain this early in the morning but the exercise will warms you up! Armed with head-torches, you’ll trek along well-trodden rocky boulder-strewn tracks that twist their way up the mountain. You’ll gain altitude steadily as you climb up slowly through a hanging valley with dramatic landscapes all around you; there are some steep shale sections here and you may start to find some snow underfoot. You’ll come to a col with fabulous views, and will be able to see the Sahara Desert from here. You can also see the last section of the climb ahead of you, with tantalising views of the summit. This last hour is tough, but then you are standing at the summit – a real achievement. You have enough time to savour the sensation of being on top of North Africa’s highest summit, before you descend the same way, zig-zagging quite steeply and then crossing the large rocks and boulders of the lower section. You’ll see the refuge and your tent from quite high up, and can feel euphoric as you return to it. You’ll then have time to relax with a mint tea, enjoying the views from camp. — Trek approx. 8km / 6-8 hours; height gain / loss 967m
After breakfast you’ll trek downhill, back to Imlil, admiring the landscapes of this beautiful hanging valley. Your legs are tired and you’ll take it easy, but the tracks should feel much easier than they did on the way up! On arrival in the village you’ll have lunch, then meet our transport and head back to the buzzing city of Marrakech. You then have time to explore the fascinating Jma El Fnaa, the main square, with its food stalls, snake charmers and musicians, and haggle for souvenirs in the fascinating souks – a real contrast to remote mountains paths and a memorable way to end your adventure! You’ll meet the group again in the evening for a group dinner to celebrate our achievements. — Trek approx. 10km / 5-7 hours; height loss 1460m; drive approx. 2 hours
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to London. Lunch not included.
1st – 5th July
2nd – 6th September
30th June – 4th July
1st – 5th September
Registration Fee: £199
Fundraising Target: £1,800
Raise at least 80% of your fundraising target 10 weeks before departure, with the final 20% within 2 weeks of your adventure finishing.
Registration Fee: £199
Payment Amount: £250
Fundraising Target: £1,300
Pay a contribution to your trip costs to lower your fundraising target. Raise at least 80% of your fundraising target 10 weeks before your challenge begins, with the final 20% within 2 weeks of your adventure finishing.
Registration Fee: £199
Payment Amount: £900
Pay the full amount of your trip costs, so all of the funds that you raise go to Brain Research UK, to help those affected by neurological conditions live better, longer.
Payment will be due 8 weeks before your challenge begins
For any questions or queries, please email events@brainresearchuk.org.uk or call us on 020 7404 9982.
