Your complete guide to Mount Toubkal costs in summer or winter – plus those exciting extras you should consider…
How much does it cost to climb Mount Toubkal – it’s always going to be one of the first question any budding mountaineer asks when they’re wondering which mountain to tick off the Bucket List next. And if that’s what’s on your mind right now, there’s good news – you’re in the right place.
You’re obviously feeling the call of adventure, the allure of the Atlas Mountains, and the charm of Moroccan culture… And we don’t blame you!
If you’re dreaming of conquering Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, nestled in the heart of Morocco, you’re in for a journey that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating. But before we set off on the adventure together, let’s chat about the nitty-gritty: the cost. From the moment you leave home, until you’re sipping mint tea overlooking the Moroccan valleys, we’ve got you covered.
(Landed here because you’re looking for the perfect Mount Toubkal climb itinerary? Our 8-day adventures cost from just £775 – click here to find out more.)
How much do flights cost from London to Morocco?
Mount Toubkal costs: getting there
First off, booking your flight. Your gateway to this adventure is flying to Marrakech, the closest major airport to Mount Toubkal. All our Bucket List Company adventures in Morocco start at London airports, and the costs for flights from Heathrow tend to compare with other airports in the UK.
Prices can vary wildly depending on the time of year, how early you book, and the whims of airline pricing algorithms. Roughly speaking, for a round trip, you’re looking at anywhere between £100 in off-peak season, to £450-£500 during the school holidays. Quite a range!
Booking in advance and keeping an eye out for deals can help you lean towards the lower end of that range. As can booking through a reputable group travel company like The Bucket List Company. Our adventure group numbers are limited to 16 people, which means you get a great feeling of camaraderie without getting lost in the crowd; plus you enjoy far lower costs than you would booking everything yourself!
How much do transfers from Marrakech to Mount Toubkal cost?
Reaching the foot of the mountain…
Next up, getting from Marrakech to the foothills of Mount Toubkal. The most common base for trekkers is the village of Imlil, which serves as the launching pad for your ascent. A taxi or private transfer from Marrakech to Imlil can cost anywhere from £30 to £50, depending on your bargaining skills and whether you opt for a private ride or are willing to share. This journey offers a fantastic opportunity to see the Moroccan landscape unfold, from bustling city to serene mountain valley.
All transfers are included in all of our Moroccan adventures so there’s no need to bargain! Click here to find out more about our trips
Trekking Guide Cost on Mount Toubkal
Do you need a guide for Mount Toubkal and how much does it cost?
While you might be tempted to conquer Toubkal solo, hiring a guide isn’t just recommended for safety reasons but also really enriches your experience. And most importantly, it’s required by the Moroccan government! Click here to watch our founder Keith talking you through the rules on trekking guides in Morocco.
Your guide will provide insights into the local flora, fauna, and culture that you might otherwise miss. Plus, you’re supporting the local economy! For a guided trek, you’re looking at about £40 to £60 per day, which often includes local accommodation and meals. It’s worth every penny for the peace of mind and the chance to connect more deeply with the place you’re exploring.
How much does food in Morocco cost?
Morocco food costs: tagines please!
Moroccan cuisine is a delight, an experience not to be missed, and surprisingly affordable! Whether you’re indulging in a tagine in Marrakech or grabbing snacks on the go, you can eat wonderfully well on £10 to £20 a day. Street food is a tasty, budget-friendly option, while café and restaurant meals offer a more leisurely way to enjoy the local flavours.
Accommodation costs in Morocco
How much can you expect to pay to stay?
From luxurious riads to cosy mountain gîtes, Morocco offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. In Marrakech, you can find a comfortable hotel or riad for £50 to £100 per night. In Imlil and along the trek, prices are even more affordable, with options ranging from £20 to £50 per night, often including breakfast. These stays are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local hospitality and culture.
You’ll always lower the costs of your accommodation on a trekking trip by travelling with a reputable adventure company like The Bucket List Company. Our groups are capped at 16, adding SO much fun into your adventure, and keeping your costs lower at the same time.
How much spending money do you need for Morocco?
How much do those lovely trinkets cost?!
How much spending money should you take to Morocco? Aside from your basic costs, it’s wise to budget for souvenirs, extra excursions, or the occasional splurge on a luxurious hammam experience. An additional £200 to £300 would give you plenty of flexibility to explore (and indulge in the souks in Marrakech!), to bring back a piece of Morocco with you.
How much does it cost to climb Mount Toubkal AND go white water rafting?
Adding white water rafting to your adventure…
Just when you thought your Moroccan adventure couldn’t get any more thrilling, imagine adding two days of white water rafting on the Ahansal River to the mix. This experience promises to be the cherry on top of an already unforgettable journey, blending the tranquillity of nature with the exhilaration of navigating the river’s rapids.
To add this pulse-pounding activity to their itinerary, you should budget around an additional £800. This price typically includes all the essentials you’ll need to safely enjoy your rafting adventure: professional guides who know the river like the back of their hand, all the necessary rafting equipment, meals to keep your energy up, and accommodation to rest after a day of adrenaline.
Accommodation during your rafting adventure often includes camping under the stars beside the river, offering a unique way to connect with the Moroccan wilderness. It’s an opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s thrills, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. We love it!
Should I add white water rafting to my Mount Toubkal trip?
Why adding white water rafting to your Mount Toubkal adventure is worth it
The added cost not only buys you an adventure of a lifetime but also ensures you’re looked after from start to finish. Transportation to and from the rafting site should be included, meaning you can focus on the rapids ahead without worrying about the logistics of getting there and back. The professional guides aren’t just there to ensure your safety but also to enhance your experience by sharing insights into the local environment and helping you navigate the river’s challenges.
While £800 might seem like a significant addition to your adventure budget, the experience of white water rafting on the Ahansal River offers unparalleled excitement and memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, bond with fellow adventurers, and see a side of Morocco that few get to experience.
Adding white water rafting to your Mount Toubkal climb is an excellent way to diversify your Moroccan adventure, combining the serene beauty of the mountains with the wild spirit of the river. It’s an investment in not just adventure, but in stories, laughter, and experiences that you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home.
Click here to find out more about our Toubkal + white water rafting itinerary
Why does it cost more to climb Mount Toubkal in winter?
Climbing Mount Toubkal in winter: the extra costs
Conquering Mount Toubkal is an adventure that can be undertaken year-round, but opting for a winter ascent adds a layer of majesty – and complexity – to the experience.
The snow-capped peaks and the crisp mountain air offer a different kind of beauty, one that’s serene yet stark. The enchanting winter wonderland also comes with additional challenges and costs. So if you’re drawn to the allure of the Moroccan mountains under a blanket of snow, here’s what you need to know about the extra costs involved in a winter climb.
Embarking on a Mount Toubkal ascent during the winter months generally means you can expect to pay around £300 extra compared to a trek in the milder seasons. Here’s why:
Specialised Equipment: Winter ascents require gear that can handle the cold and snow, such as crampons and ice axes for traversing icy paths, as well as warmer clothing and sleeping bags. This specialised equipment is necessary for your safety and comfort but comes with additional rental or purchase costs if you don’t already own them.
Guides with Specific Expertise: Not all guides are equipped to lead treks in winter conditions. Those who do often have specific training in navigating snow and ice, as well as managing the heightened risks of winter trekking. Their expertise is invaluable, but it also means their services tend to come at a premium during the winter months.
Smaller Group Sizes: For safety reasons, winter treks often involve smaller group sizes. This allows guides to provide more personalised attention and ensures that everyone can be closely monitored throughout the climb. However, smaller groups mean the fixed costs of the expedition (like guide fees) are divided among fewer participants, potentially increasing the per-person cost.
Accommodation and Logistics: Winter conditions can impact where and how trekkers can stay overnight. Some of the more basic accommodations available during the warmer months may not be suitable in winter, necessitating alternatives that could be more costly. Then you’ve got the more unpredictable weather, which can sometimes lead to changes in plans, requiring a more flexible approach (and possibly more costly) to logistics.
Why should you climb Mount Toubkal in winter?
Why we reckon it’s worth it
Despite the additional costs, a winter ascent of Mount Toubkal offers a truly unique and memorable experience. With fewer fellow climbers on the trail, the winter landscape provides this very different sense of tranquillity and isolation that’s hard to find at other times of the year, and the challenge of winter trekking can be incredibly rewarding too. The added expense goes towards ensuring your adventure is not only breathtaking but also safe and comfortable.
Planning your climb with these extra costs in mind will help you prepare for a winter trek that’s both awe-inspiring and enjoyable. While £300 might seem like a significant addition to your budget, the opportunity to witness the Atlas Mountains in their winter glory is an experience that many find priceless.
Click here to find out more about our Mount Toubkal winter trek