100 years since the first ascent of Mount Toubkal

Mount Toubkal has been a beacon for adventurers and mountaineers for centuries. Its majestic summit, standing at an impressive 4,167 meters, has lon... Read more
100 years since the first ascent of Mount Toubkal

Mount Toubkal has been a beacon for adventurers and mountaineers for centuries. Its majestic summit, standing at an impressive 4,167 meters, has long been considered the ultimate challenge for those daring enough to attempt the climb. But, it wasn't until 12 June 1923, that a group of French climbers, led by Marquis de Segonzac, Vincent Berger and Hubert Dolbeau, successfully made the first ascent of the mountain by western climbers.

In the early days of climbing, Mount Toubkal was considered a daunting and almost impossible challenge. The mountain was shrouded in mystery, and very little was known about its terrain or the best routes to the summit. However, this didn't deter early explorers and mountaineers, who were drawn to the challenge of climbing the highest peak in North Africa.

Led by Marquis de Segonzac, the first successful recorded attempt at Toubkal's summit set out from Imlil, a small town in the Atlas Mountains, and reached the summit on 12 June 1923. The climb was not without its challenges, as the group had to contend with steep inclines, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather. However, they persisted, and their determination paid off when they reached the summit, becoming the first climbers to conquer the peak.

The first ascent of Mount Toubkal was a significant achievement, not only for the climbers themselves but also for the climbing community as a whole. The success of the French climbers opened up the mountain to other mountaineers, and today, Mount Toubkal is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers from around the world.

The mountain has seen many attempts, failures, and successes over the last 100 years, and reaching the summit of Toubkal is not just a physical challenge, but also a cultural and spiritual experience. The Atlas Mountains are home to the Berber people, who have lived in the area for centuries. They have a deep connection to the mountain and have a rich culture and history. Many climbers choose to spend some time in the local villages, learning about the culture and the people who call the Atlas Mountains home.

Top Toubkal historical fact: Aside from the peak, the famous symbol of Toubkals summit, the trigonometrical signal, was built in 1931.

 

 

KE Adventure and Toubkal

80 years after the first ascent, KE Adventure Travel started trekking in the Toubkal region. But things were very different in those days. For starters, an ascent of Toubkal wasn't the main focus of the trip and at 11 days it was one of KE's shortest holidays. Fast forward to 2023 and the breadth of our trips has changed dramatically. As well as the longer 15 and 21 day treks through the Atlas Mountains we offer the opportunity to climb Toubkal in a single long weekend. While the winter Toubkal treks are ideal first mountaineering trips, and the family Toubkal adventure gets the whole family up the mountain. However, the biggest change comes with the number of available dates. In 2002 we only had 2 dates to choose from, but in 2023 we offer a trek to the summit of Toubkal almost every week throughout the year through one of our many adventure tours to Morocco.


 

One Week Summit Trek

Take your time to immerse in the sensory explosion of Morroco with our one week Toubkal trip. The trip isn't just a dash up the mountain, you'll spends a couple of days trekking through the spectacular Atlas Mountains before summiting and returning to Marrakech where you are free to explore this eclectic bazaar.

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Long Weekend Toubkal

If you're short on time then our Ultimate Long Weekend to the summit of Toubkal is a perfect adventure thirst quencher. Arriving on the Friday you'll meet the group before heading into the Atlas Mountains on Saturday where you'll spend the night at the Neltner mountain refuge before summiting on Sunday. However, this is not just a dash up a mountain to bag a peak. As well as climbing Mount Toubkal there is plenty of opportunity to explore Marakkesch and enjoy the famous hospitality and culture of Morocco.

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Winter Toubkal

Looking for your first winter summit with ice axes and crampons? Then this is the perfect week long trek to the snowy Atlas Mountains. All equipment hire is included, as is the expert tuition you'll receive throughout. Much like the week long summer trip, there is plenty of time to explore beyond the Atlas Mountains. You can also combine this adventure with the Edge of the Sahara trek for a very contrasting 2 week trek through Morroco's highest and lowest points.

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Family Teenager Toubkal Ascent

More than just a summiting adventure to the top of North Africa's highest point, immerse your teenagers in the Berber culture and take shopping to the extreme through the sensational souks of Marrakech. Our leaders are a fun bunch and know how to motivate teenagers to get them to the summit of Toubkal.

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Morocco's 4000 metre mountains

Is one 4000 metre mountain not enough? Why not join our epic peak bagging trek through the Atlas Mountains where you summit not just one, but four peaks over 4000 metres?

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