Imlil
Imlil
Imlil is the ideal base for trekking, hiking or camping in the Atlas mountains. If you are coming from Marrakesh your first stop will be Asni. Asni is the end of the line for bus and taxis coming from Marrakesh. From here, you can take a pick-up or taxi. The 17 km trip from Asni to Imlil is startling in its natural beauty. As the road begins to climb, the beauty of the valley, river and small villages look more like paintings than reality. The air in Imlil is crisp and clear as the town stands at an altitude of 1740 meters. Although the town has no particular sights it has a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere. Paths and streams are plentiful in the area, if you need to stretch your legs after the trip.
For mountain guides, check out the “Shopping Center”, the Ribat Tours, and the CAF refuge where there is a noticeboard. The most experienced of the qualified guides listed are, Lahcen Esquary, Aziam and Ibelaid Brahim and Ait Idir Mohammed. They can arrange treks, mules, camping and food.
The big hike is from here to the top of Toubkal. After the snow has melted, it is a walk rather than a climb, but it is a serious effort. The first stop is Aroumd (4,5 km), the largest village of the valley and a spectacular village with one of the most fertile stretches of the Atlas.
From there you can walk to Sidi Chamarouch (8 km) which is stands near a small waterfall. Moroccan pilgrims come here to visit a marabout shrine (strictly forbidden for non-Muslims). The shrine probably originated from an ancient nature cult. There are a couple grocery shops and rooms here, if you need a refresher.
The Toubkal refuge, marking the spring snow line at 3200 meters, is your next stop. You can sleep at the refuge for 30 DH. They also prepare dinner for 25 DH. The hut can be quite full in summer. This is where the trail begins so you may want to talk to trekkers coming down about the conditions of the trail. The climb up the mountain should take about 3 hours from here doing the Southern circuit. The Northern circuit is a more ambitious ascent (4 h30 m) and a bad way to descend. The Southwest circuit is recommended only for experienced rock climbers.
