Everything you need to know
This page provides you with a variety of information about the challenge that you might find useful.
Level of Difficulty
The Mount Toubkal Trek is graded as tough. This is a challenge for someone who who has some experience with regular trekking and who wants to take that to the next level. During your Mount Toubkal Trek you will be:
- Trekking at high altitude and sleeping at 3200 metres above sea level.
- Reaching a maximum altitude of 4176 metres above sea level.
- Staying in a refuge the night before summiting where facilities are very basic.
- Weather conditions are tough and it might mean that you won’t be able to summit.
Level of Difficulty
The Mount Toubkal Trek is graded as tough. This is a challenge for someone who who has some experience with regular trekking and who wants to take that to the next level. During your Mount Toubkal Trek you will be:
- Trekking at high altitude and sleeping at 3200 metres above sea level.
- Reaching a maximum altitude of 4176 metres above sea level.
- Staying in a refuge the night before summiting where facilities are very basic.
- Weather conditions are tough and it might mean that you won’t be able to summit.
Typical day
You will wake early, in time for a hearty breakfast, and will be trekking for around 4-5 hours. On summit day you will arise early (around sunrise) and take it slowly to reach the top of Mount Toubkal. This will be a long day of approximately 6-7 hours of trekking.
Typical day
You will wake early, in time for a hearty breakfast, and will be trekking for around 4-5 hours. On summit day you will arise early (around sunrise) and take it slowly to reach the top of Mount Toubkal. This will be a long day of approximately 6-7 hours of trekking.
Safety
Charity Challenge considers the safety of all of its participants and staff to be a top priority, and as such we have set up one of the most advanced and thorough safety management systems in the industry. In a nutshell, Our Challenge Safe brand formalises our ethos when it comes to safety, and brings together the procedures and risk management strategies that we use to audit all aspects of our challenges, from vehicles to accommodation to the activity itself. Your welfare is paramount!
In terms of your Mount Toubkal Trek, there are a couple of important points that you should be aware of:
- You will be trekking at high altitude throughout, to the summit of Toubkal at 4167m.
- Expect a wide and unpredictable range of temperatures. Nights will certainly be down to minus temperatures, but seasons can be unpredictable, and you need to dress for both warm and freezing temperatures.
- Trekking at altitude can cause dehydration, so you need to keep hydrated, cover up with suncream and ensure that you are replenishing salts and sugars.
Safety
Charity Challenge considers the safety of all of its participants and staff to be a top priority, and as such we have set up one of the most advanced and thorough safety management systems in the industry. In a nutshell, Our Challenge Safe brand formalises our ethos when it comes to safety, and brings together the procedures and risk management strategies that we use to audit all aspects of our challenges, from vehicles to accommodation to the activity itself. Your welfare is paramount!
In terms of your Mount Toubkal Trek, there are a couple of important points that you should be aware of:
- You will be trekking at high altitude throughout, to the summit of Toubkal at 4167m.
- Expect a wide and unpredictable range of temperatures. Nights will certainly be down to minus temperatures, but seasons can be unpredictable, and you need to dress for both warm and freezing temperatures.
- Trekking at altitude can cause dehydration, so you need to keep hydrated, cover up with suncream and ensure that you are replenishing salts and sugars.
Responsible Tourism
At Charity Challenge we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, and work closely with bodies such as the International Porter Protection Group and Climate Care to ensure that our challenges benefit the local environments and communities in which they take place. We ensure that all rubbish is disposed of responsibly, and following local guidelines on cultural and environmental protection and respect, we aim to limit our impact on the natural environment. In addition to taking these practical steps to ensure that our challenges are sustainable, we also make a contribution each year to a number of local community projects, so as to give something back directly to the communities that we visit. Since 2000 we have donated almost £200,000 to such projects, supporting a range of initiatives, including schooling for children in Africa, shelter for street children in Brazil, and Orang-utan conservation in Indonesia. We recommend that any gifts brought over for children are given to the UK challenge leader and distributed where needed by them and our local Ground Agent. If you wish to do more, you should consider buying drinks, postcards and souvenirs from the local vendors. For many, it is their sole source of income. For more information, please visit our Responsible Tourism pages, where you will be able to view a list of the projects that we currently support.
Responsible Tourism
At Charity Challenge we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, and work closely with bodies such as the International Porter Protection Group and Climate Care to ensure that our challenges benefit the local environments and communities in which they take place. We ensure that all rubbish is disposed of responsibly, and following local guidelines on cultural and environmental protection and respect, we aim to limit our impact on the natural environment. In addition to taking these practical steps to ensure that our challenges are sustainable, we also make a contribution each year to a number of local community projects, so as to give something back directly to the communities that we visit. Since 2000 we have donated almost £200,000 to such projects, supporting a range of initiatives, including schooling for children in Africa, shelter for street children in Brazil, and Orang-utan conservation in Indonesia. We recommend that any gifts brought over for children are given to the UK challenge leader and distributed where needed by them and our local Ground Agent. If you wish to do more, you should consider buying drinks, postcards and souvenirs from the local vendors. For many, it is their sole source of income. For more information, please visit our Responsible Tourism pages, where you will be able to view a list of the projects that we currently support.
Flights
You will be flying from London to Marrakech and returning from Marrakech to London. The flight will take approx. 4 hrs. Your flight tickets will be e-mailed to you before departure.
If you choose to book your own flights you must confirm with the Charity Challenge office before paying otherwise you may be liable for your included group flights (please contact flights@charitychallenge.com for further assistance).
Flights
You will be flying from London to Marrakech and returning from Marrakech to London. The flight will take approx. 4 hrs. Your flight tickets will be e-mailed to you before departure.
If you choose to book your own flights you must confirm with the Charity Challenge office before paying otherwise you may be liable for your included group flights (please contact flights@charitychallenge.com for further assistance).
Visa
For UK passport holders a full passport is required but no Visa. You must have at least six months to run on your passport from the end of the challenge. Ensure your passport is stamped on arrival. Non UK passport holders should consult their nearest Moroccan embassy regarding visa requirements.
Visa
For UK passport holders a full passport is required but no Visa. You must have at least six months to run on your passport from the end of the challenge. Ensure your passport is stamped on arrival. Non UK passport holders should consult their nearest Moroccan embassy regarding visa requirements.
Insurance
Your safety when travelling with Charity Challenges is our main concern which is why it is a booking condition that you have a suitable travel insurance policy that will cover you for the adventurous nature of your challenge. We have chosen to partner with specialist travel insurance providers Campbell Irvine, who offer cover for an extensive number of adventurous activities. Cover is available directly from Campbell Irvine for most European residents and includes cover for emergency medical and repatriation and for your cancellation or curtailment of the challenge. Full details including costs may be found by clicking here.
For more general travel insurance questions, please refer to our main FAQs page.
Insurance
Your safety when travelling with Charity Challenges is our main concern which is why it is a booking condition that you have a suitable travel insurance policy that will cover you for the adventurous nature of your challenge. We have chosen to partner with specialist travel insurance providers Campbell Irvine, who offer cover for an extensive number of adventurous activities. Cover is available directly from Campbell Irvine for most European residents and includes cover for emergency medical and repatriation and for your cancellation or curtailment of the challenge. Full details including costs may be found by clicking here.
For more general travel insurance questions, please refer to our main FAQs page.
Vaccinations & Medicines
For up to date vaccination information please check the Travel Health Pro page: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/154/morocco#Vaccine_recommendations
Charity Challenge team are not medical experts and we would encourage you to visit your GP or travel nurse to discuss vaccination requirements. Your GP may ask questions about the specific locations that you are visiting, and as such it may be useful to take a copy of your itinerary with you.
Medication
- Carry medicines (including those bought over the counter) in their correctly labelled original packaging, as issued by the pharmacist. These should be carried in your hand luggage.
- Consider packing a spare supply of medication in the hold luggage in case of loss of hand luggage
- A letter from the prescriber detailing the medicines with the generic names for the medications can be helpful for border control checks, and in case medicines have to be replaced or medical help is required
- Carry a note from the prescribing physician on letterhead stationery for controlled substances and injection medications
- Take out an appropriate level of travel health insurance including repatriation and specific cover for any pre-existing illnesses
N.B. Some medications are banned abroad so please check. You can find further information at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-abroad
Altitude
This trip goes to high altitude (maximum 4167m, average 2600mm) where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/154/morocco#Other_risks
Vaccinations & Medicines
For up to date vaccination information please check the Travel Health Pro page: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/154/morocco#Vaccine_recommendations
Charity Challenge team are not medical experts and we would encourage you to visit your GP or travel nurse to discuss vaccination requirements. Your GP may ask questions about the specific locations that you are visiting, and as such it may be useful to take a copy of your itinerary with you.
Medication
- Carry medicines (including those bought over the counter) in their correctly labelled original packaging, as issued by the pharmacist. These should be carried in your hand luggage.
- Consider packing a spare supply of medication in the hold luggage in case of loss of hand luggage
- A letter from the prescriber detailing the medicines with the generic names for the medications can be helpful for border control checks, and in case medicines have to be replaced or medical help is required
- Carry a note from the prescribing physician on letterhead stationery for controlled substances and injection medications
- Take out an appropriate level of travel health insurance including repatriation and specific cover for any pre-existing illnesses
N.B. Some medications are banned abroad so please check. You can find further information at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-abroad
Altitude
This trip goes to high altitude (maximum 4167m, average 2600mm) where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/154/morocco#Other_risks
Climate & Terrain
Climate
Early mornings will immediately warm as soon as the sun rises, and the days will be hot and bright. As soon as the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly and is often well below zero degrees. Towards the top of the mountain, you will be trekking above the clouds and will need strong UV protection. Departures in late summer are much colder as you summit, but good quality warm equipment is essential all year round.
Terrain
You will navigate your way, climbing and scrambling over the huge, obstructive boulders and loose rock of Jebel Toubkal.
Climate & Terrain
Climate
Early mornings will immediately warm as soon as the sun rises, and the days will be hot and bright. As soon as the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly and is often well below zero degrees. Towards the top of the mountain, you will be trekking above the clouds and will need strong UV protection. Departures in late summer are much colder as you summit, but good quality warm equipment is essential all year round.
Terrain
You will navigate your way, climbing and scrambling over the huge, obstructive boulders and loose rock of Jebel Toubkal.
Training
Training and fitness is definitely required. Anyone who leads a fairly active and moderately healthy lifestyle should be okay as long as they train regularly over a period of at least three months leading up to the expedition. Don't forget that the temperature and altitudes are different from the UK. While strength is important, endurance training should be your primary focus. Walking up hills and climbing stairs are both ways to condition your lower body. Begin slowly, without the weight of a pack, eventually adding weight as you increase your training pace. Take a long hike (6-8hours) several times with a weighted pack, up and down hills or on small mountains.
Training
Training and fitness is definitely required. Anyone who leads a fairly active and moderately healthy lifestyle should be okay as long as they train regularly over a period of at least three months leading up to the expedition. Don't forget that the temperature and altitudes are different from the UK. While strength is important, endurance training should be your primary focus. Walking up hills and climbing stairs are both ways to condition your lower body. Begin slowly, without the weight of a pack, eventually adding weight as you increase your training pace. Take a long hike (6-8hours) several times with a weighted pack, up and down hills or on small mountains.
Challenge Training
If you would like to get a feel for our challenges ahead of your departure, why not consider booking on a 1 or 2 day UK Challenge?
We have a variety of challenges, covering all levels of difficulty, taking place in stunning National Parks across the UK that are led by highly qualified and experienced expedition and mountain leaders. These challenges will give you the perfect opportunity to monitor fitness levels, test out your kit, meet people in the great outdoors, share fundraising stories and gain valuable advice and support for the challenge ahead. We encourage participants to make use of our highly knowledgeable leaders and ask them any questions you may have about clothing and equipment, expedition health and wellbeing, trekking skills, walking techniques and teamwork!
We are offering all participants 50% off the registration fee when you book on one of the UK challenges listed via the link below. Just use the code TRAINING when booking. T&C’s – you must have an active booking on a challenge to avail of this offer. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Find out more here
Challenge Training
If you would like to get a feel for our challenges ahead of your departure, why not consider booking on a 1 or 2 day UK Challenge?
We have a variety of challenges, covering all levels of difficulty, taking place in stunning National Parks across the UK that are led by highly qualified and experienced expedition and mountain leaders. These challenges will give you the perfect opportunity to monitor fitness levels, test out your kit, meet people in the great outdoors, share fundraising stories and gain valuable advice and support for the challenge ahead. We encourage participants to make use of our highly knowledgeable leaders and ask them any questions you may have about clothing and equipment, expedition health and wellbeing, trekking skills, walking techniques and teamwork!
We are offering all participants 50% off the registration fee when you book on one of the UK challenges listed via the link below. Just use the code TRAINING when booking. T&C’s – you must have an active booking on a challenge to avail of this offer. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Find out more here
Luggage allowance and valuables
As no formal clothes are needed whilst trekking, luggage should be kept to the absolute minimum - details of what to pack are provided in your Kit List. Your rucksack/holdall (suitcases are not appropriate) must not exceed the maximum weight limit of the airline you are flying with. This is generally one piece at approximately 20kg, however, do check this with your airline before you fly. On your outward journey, please wear your hiking boots, and carry a spare change of clothing in your hand luggage.
While we will do everything to provide adequate safety for the group and security for your possessions, the general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. This includes jewellery, necklaces, rings and even watches. Your passport and money should be kept on you at all times.
Luggage allowance and valuables
As no formal clothes are needed whilst trekking, luggage should be kept to the absolute minimum - details of what to pack are provided in your Kit List. Your rucksack/holdall (suitcases are not appropriate) must not exceed the maximum weight limit of the airline you are flying with. This is generally one piece at approximately 20kg, however, do check this with your airline before you fly. On your outward journey, please wear your hiking boots, and carry a spare change of clothing in your hand luggage.
While we will do everything to provide adequate safety for the group and security for your possessions, the general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. This includes jewellery, necklaces, rings and even watches. Your passport and money should be kept on you at all times.
Leadership
There will be an English-speaking challenge leader who will be responsible for the logistics and co-ordination of your challenge. There will also be numerous local support guides and staff to assist them. The challenge leader will be ultimately responsible for the running of the itinerary and the safety of your group.
Leadership
There will be an English-speaking challenge leader who will be responsible for the logistics and co-ordination of your challenge. There will also be numerous local support guides and staff to assist them. The challenge leader will be ultimately responsible for the running of the itinerary and the safety of your group.
Group Size
Each group is intended to be a minimum of 16 people in order to run and a maximum of approximately 30 people due to the wilderness environment in which the challenge takes place. We will be able to run this challenge for 10 to 15 people by charging a small group supplement of £50, which will be added to your final balance invoice.
Group Size
Each group is intended to be a minimum of 16 people in order to run and a maximum of approximately 30 people due to the wilderness environment in which the challenge takes place. We will be able to run this challenge for 10 to 15 people by charging a small group supplement of £50, which will be added to your final balance invoice.
Clothing and equipment
Good quality, durable kit could mean the difference between a fantastic challenge experience and an uncomfortable one. For this challenge, waterproof, well-worn in boots will be indispensable, particularly coupled with some really good quality walking socks. You don't need a clean pair every day, but enough to make sure you have dry socks each morning. The benefits of a comfortable day sack cannot be underestimated, so make sure that you train with this. Other essentials are high quality gore-tex waterproof and windproof jackets and trousers, and technical/wicking t-shirts rather than cotton shirts. A full kit list for this challenge can be found here and once you book you will have access to kit discounts with our partners The Outdoor Shop, Outdoorhire and Cotswold Outdoor.
Clothing and equipment
Good quality, durable kit could mean the difference between a fantastic challenge experience and an uncomfortable one. For this challenge, waterproof, well-worn in boots will be indispensable, particularly coupled with some really good quality walking socks. You don't need a clean pair every day, but enough to make sure you have dry socks each morning. The benefits of a comfortable day sack cannot be underestimated, so make sure that you train with this. Other essentials are high quality gore-tex waterproof and windproof jackets and trousers, and technical/wicking t-shirts rather than cotton shirts. A full kit list for this challenge can be found here and once you book you will have access to kit discounts with our partners The Outdoor Shop, Outdoorhire and Cotswold Outdoor.
Accommodation & Toilets
Accommodation
During the challenge you will be staying mainly in a mountain lodge with shared toilet facilities and no showers. You will be in a centrally located hotel in Marrakech. If you are travelling with a friend or partner who you wish to share with please ensure that you note this where appropriate when booking or email challenges@charitychallenge.com.
You will need to bring a warm sleeping bag (three to four season). The refuge provides mattresses.
Toilets
During the challenge you will be staying in a mountain refuge, with shared toilets/shower facilities. It is advisable to bring your own toilet tissue. The hotel in Marrakech has western style toilets.
Accommodation & Toilets
Accommodation
During the challenge you will be staying mainly in a mountain lodge with shared toilet facilities and no showers. You will be in a centrally located hotel in Marrakech. If you are travelling with a friend or partner who you wish to share with please ensure that you note this where appropriate when booking or email challenges@charitychallenge.com.
You will need to bring a warm sleeping bag (three to four season). The refuge provides mattresses.
Toilets
During the challenge you will be staying in a mountain refuge, with shared toilets/shower facilities. It is advisable to bring your own toilet tissue. The hotel in Marrakech has western style toilets.
Food & Drink
You will be served a variety of Moroccan food. All meals are healthy and nourishing. Lunches will be in the form of a picnic lunch, ideal for carrying on the trek.
Whilst our team in Morocco will do their best to meet any special requests, gluten free food is quite limited. We recommend you take a supply of gluten free bread, oats, and pasta that can be used for daily meals as well as gluten free snack bars during the day.
Please let Charity Challenge know prior to departure if you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies.
Food & Drink
You will be served a variety of Moroccan food. All meals are healthy and nourishing. Lunches will be in the form of a picnic lunch, ideal for carrying on the trek.
Whilst our team in Morocco will do their best to meet any special requests, gluten free food is quite limited. We recommend you take a supply of gluten free bread, oats, and pasta that can be used for daily meals as well as gluten free snack bars during the day.
Please let Charity Challenge know prior to departure if you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies.
Money
Currency: The national currency is the Dirham, which is divided into 100 centimes. For up to date currency exchange, go to www.xe.com.
The Dirham is officially designated as a closed currency meaning it can only be traded within Morocco; however, Dirhams are being sold and bought in travel agencies and at major airports in several countries (notably the UK).
Cash: There are ATMs available at the airport and at the hotel in Marrakech. This is the best source of obtaining currency whilst you are in Morocco.
Credit cards: Widely accepted in the larger urban centres, although a 5% charge is often charged. You should bring one in case of emergencies.
Spending money: You will not need a large amount of money during this trip as most expenses are covered. However, approximately £200 is recommended for gifts, souvenirs, alcohol & tipping. Euros and US$ can all be exchanged on arrival (GBP are much harder to change), although travellers cheques are only exchanged at larger banks.
Tipping: Tipping is of course discretionary. However, tourism is a tipping industry and the guides in Morocco will generally receive a tip at the end of a job well done. We recommend GBP£40 per person (in Moroccan Dirhams) at the end of the event, which you should give to the tour leader who will then divide it among all of the support team.
Money
Currency: The national currency is the Dirham, which is divided into 100 centimes. For up to date currency exchange, go to www.xe.com.
The Dirham is officially designated as a closed currency meaning it can only be traded within Morocco; however, Dirhams are being sold and bought in travel agencies and at major airports in several countries (notably the UK).
Cash: There are ATMs available at the airport and at the hotel in Marrakech. This is the best source of obtaining currency whilst you are in Morocco.
Credit cards: Widely accepted in the larger urban centres, although a 5% charge is often charged. You should bring one in case of emergencies.
Spending money: You will not need a large amount of money during this trip as most expenses are covered. However, approximately £200 is recommended for gifts, souvenirs, alcohol & tipping. Euros and US$ can all be exchanged on arrival (GBP are much harder to change), although travellers cheques are only exchanged at larger banks.
Tipping: Tipping is of course discretionary. However, tourism is a tipping industry and the guides in Morocco will generally receive a tip at the end of a job well done. We recommend GBP£40 per person (in Moroccan Dirhams) at the end of the event, which you should give to the tour leader who will then divide it among all of the support team.
Phone and WiFi
WiFi and mobile phone reception will be available at the hotel in Marrakech. After leaving Marrakech, the mobile phone and WiFi signal will be limited.
Phone and WiFi
WiFi and mobile phone reception will be available at the hotel in Marrakech. After leaving Marrakech, the mobile phone and WiFi signal will be limited.
Emergencies
This challenge is not run as a race and there is always a large discrepancy in people’s trekking abilities. There will be a staff member at the back of the group at all times to ensure that no one is left behind and can take things at your own pace. In the case of an emergency, all leaders are carrying radios and will coordinate a swift evacuation off the mountain. Their decision is final in all cases.
Emergencies
This challenge is not run as a race and there is always a large discrepancy in people’s trekking abilities. There will be a staff member at the back of the group at all times to ensure that no one is left behind and can take things at your own pace. In the case of an emergency, all leaders are carrying radios and will coordinate a swift evacuation off the mountain. Their decision is final in all cases.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
We do not professionally vet your medical details. Please assess for yourself whether you are fit and able to take on the challenge. Please review the detailed Trip Notes and itinerary to get a better idea of what is involved. Please speak to your doctor or specialist if you have any concerns about taking part. If you suffer from a severe allergy, you are required to contact us to discuss any requirements. If you think that there are things we can do to make the challenge more accessible/comfortable for you, it is your responsibility to let us know, and we will then let you know if we can accommodate your request. Whilst we will do our best to put in place appropriate measures we cannot guarantee that this will be possible.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
We do not professionally vet your medical details. Please assess for yourself whether you are fit and able to take on the challenge. Please review the detailed Trip Notes and itinerary to get a better idea of what is involved. Please speak to your doctor or specialist if you have any concerns about taking part. If you suffer from a severe allergy, you are required to contact us to discuss any requirements. If you think that there are things we can do to make the challenge more accessible/comfortable for you, it is your responsibility to let us know, and we will then let you know if we can accommodate your request. Whilst we will do our best to put in place appropriate measures we cannot guarantee that this will be possible.
Medical Support
First Aid qualified staff will be provided with the medical details that you give on your booking form but please note that they are on the challenge to support with medical matters related to the challenge environment and terrain itself, i.e. heat/cold, high altitude and so on. They will deal with any incidents and accidents (cuts, sprains, breaks and so on). They are not intended to continue any ongoing specialist medical care that you receive in the UK for pre-exiting medical conditions, and should not be assumed to have any professional experience of your specific medical condition.
If you have any specific needs around pre-existing medical conditions, you should discuss with your family doctor or specialist in advance and can discuss any advice given by them with the challenge leader or doctor.
Medical Support
First Aid qualified staff will be provided with the medical details that you give on your booking form but please note that they are on the challenge to support with medical matters related to the challenge environment and terrain itself, i.e. heat/cold, high altitude and so on. They will deal with any incidents and accidents (cuts, sprains, breaks and so on). They are not intended to continue any ongoing specialist medical care that you receive in the UK for pre-exiting medical conditions, and should not be assumed to have any professional experience of your specific medical condition.
If you have any specific needs around pre-existing medical conditions, you should discuss with your family doctor or specialist in advance and can discuss any advice given by them with the challenge leader or doctor.