The Four Peaks

Jebel Toubkal stands at 4,167 metres — the highest peak in North Africa. The standard route from Imlil village takes two days: a 5-6 hour trek to the Toubkal Refuge at 3,207 metres, then a 4-5 hour summit push the following morning. The trail is non-technical in summer — steep scree and rock, no ropes required — but the altitude demands respect. In winter, the route requires crampons, ice axes, and mountaineering experience.

Jebel M'Goun at 4,068 metres is the second highest and arguably the more rewarding trek. Located in the central High Atlas between the Dadès and Aït Bougmez valleys, the approach traverses some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Morocco. The M'Goun traverse — crossing the summit ridge between the two valleys — is a 5-7 day expedition through remote Amazigh villages with no road access.

Jebel Ayachi at 3,737 metres dominates the eastern end of the High Atlas above Midelt. Less visited than Toubkal or M'Goun, it offers solitude and a different character — rolling alpine plateaux rather than dramatic ridges. The summit is accessible as a long day hike or a two-day trip.

Jebel Sirwa at 3,304 metres is a volcanic massif between the High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas. The landscape is lunar — dark basalt, eroded pinnacles, and saffron fields in the valleys below. The trek around and over Sirwa passes through Amazigh villages where tourism is still rare and the hospitality is extraordinary.

The trekking infrastructure is simple. Mule support is standard — mules carry camping equipment, food, and personal bags while trekkers walk with day packs. Mountain guides are required in the Toubkal National Park and strongly recommended elsewhere. Gîtes (basic mountain lodges) exist along major routes. The refuges are functional, not luxurious.

The best seasons are April to June and September to November. Summer is hot at lower elevations but pleasant above 2,500 metres. Winter trekking is possible but limited to experienced mountaineers with cold-weather equipment.

Explore the full interactive module — with summit profiles, route maps, and the trekking logistics for each peak — at Dancing with Lions: https://www.dancingwiththelions.com/data/four-peaks