Why Trek the High Atlas Mountains?

From Machu Picchu to the Everest Base Camp, if you enjoy trekking, you have a whole world of glorious destinations to choose from.  So, why should you consider the High Atlas Mountains for your next adventure?

It’s not a world wonder location. They don’t boast the highest peaks. And there are plenty more challenging treks to conquer. But there’s something special about the High Atlas Mountains that makes this challenge one of the best in the world.

Four Reasons to Trek the High Atlas Mountains

The scenery

Morocco is a country that has it all. Bustling cities. Tiny villages. Beautiful coastlines. Sprawling deserts. And, of course, spectacular mountain ranges, complete with stunning lakes. On this trek, you will encounter most of these landscapes. Some up close, some from afar. With the potential to explore the Sahara with an extension package once you have completed your trek, should you crave yet more adventure. Either way, it will be one of the most visually magnificent experiences of your life. Delivering a combination of landscapes you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.

The achievement

Although the Atlas Mounts pale when compared to the likes of Everest, Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa. Which makes conquering it a feat to be boasted about. During the Choose a Challenge High Atlas Mountain trek, you’ll ascend to a height of 4,167m above sea level. It will take you six days to reach your destination. And that’s an achievement for anyone to be proud of.

The joy of the trek

With multiple ascents and descents, the physical demands of the Atlas Mountain trek are not to be sneezed at. But, given the heights that you will scale during your trip, the trek is actually a relatively easy one. Which makes the experience all the more pleasurable – and accessible to a wide range of travellers. Most of the inclines are steady, meaning that there’s no need for specialist equipment, training, or experience. The steady rate of the climb also means that you’ll have more time to acclimatise as you walk, reducing the potential impacts of altitude sickness. Together, this means you’ll have more of a chance to enjoy the experience. Which is important. After all, who wants to pay to have to grit their teeth and summon up dogged determination for six solid days?

The learning experience

While some treks are all about the physical triumph, we like to bring a bit of culture to our challenges. That’s why we work with highly experienced local guides, who can help bring a bit of interest, culture, and education to our treks. Whether it’s the local flora and fauna, or the traditions of the villages and the people who live in them. We can guarantee that you’ll finish this trek with a greater understanding of Morocco, it’s mountains, and its inhabitants than when you started.

If you’re looking for a trekking experience that will stretch you physically, without breaking you. That will provide a variety of incomparable scenery. And is as much about enjoyment as achievement, then the High Atlas Mountains trek is hard to beat.

You can check out our full High Atlas Mountain trek itineraries online, or get in touch with the Choose a Challenge team to find out more.