Things to do · High Atlas
At around 1,740 metres in the Mizane valley, the Berber village of Imlil is the trailhead for Mount Toubkal and the hub of High Atlas trekking, about 90 minutes by road from Marrakech. Even without a big climb it makes a wonderful mountain base. Here is what to know about Imlil and the walks around it.
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Imlil is roughly 90 minutes (about 64 km) south of Marrakech by car, the last stretch climbing through the Ourika and Mizane valleys past walnut groves and terraced fields. It is the end of the road and the start of the trails.
A working Berber village of stone houses, guides and muleteers, Imlil has a range of guesthouses and gîtes, gear-hire shops and cafes — everything needed to organise a trek or simply enjoy mountain air for a night or two.
Short, scenic walks lead to neighbouring villages like Aroumd (Around) and Tamatert, to waterfalls, and up to passes with valley views — perfect half-day outings for those not summiting Toubkal.
Above the village, the restored Kasbah du Toubkal commands a famous valley view, and the hamlet of Aroumd sits on a broad moraine beneath the peaks — both easy, rewarding walks.
Imlil is where Toubkal climbs begin: arrange a licensed guide, hire any kit, and load mules for the walk up to the refuges. Most operators are based right in the village.
Spring and autumn are ideal for walking; summer is warm and busy; winter brings snow to the high ground and a different, quieter beauty to the valley, with serious trekking reserved for the equipped.
Imlil is about 64 km and roughly 90 minutes by road south of Marrakech, making it an easy gateway to the High Atlas for both day trips and multi-day treks.
Imlil offers short day walks to villages like Aroumd and Tamatert, waterfalls and viewpoints, the famous Kasbah du Toubkal, and simply staying in a Berber guesthouse to enjoy the mountain setting — no summit required.
Yes. As the trailhead for Toubkal and the heart of High Atlas trekking, Imlil is a beautiful, easygoing mountain base just 90 minutes from Marrakech, with walks for all levels and authentic Berber hospitality.
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