Compare Mount Toubkal Trek by Intrepid Travel vs Morocco(Twin Share Room,Start Fez, End Marrakech) by Array

Day 1 Marrakech

Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you'll meet your fellow trekkers and trip leader. After, you might like to join your leader on a jaunt to Djemaa el-Fna Square in the centre of the medina. Huge crowds converge at night to see the singers, drummers, fortune tellers, dancers and bustling street food bazaars all vying for attention here. This square is one of the largest public meeting places in the world, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye tonight.

Day 2 Aroumd

Rise and shine early today for breakfast and a group meeting at 8 am. Your leader will go through everything you need to know about today’s trek before you set off into the mountains. Leave Marrakech behind and drive across the plains towards the ancient marketplace of Tahanaoute, with awesome views of valleys and the Atlas Mountains along the way. Arrive at Imlil, a mountainous village 1740 metres above sea level, then take a 50-minute hike to your mountain base in the village of Aroumd, 2000 metres above sea level. In the afternoon, stretch your legs with a gentle orientation walk around Aroumd. Your accommodation tonight is a mountain gite – a traditional village house. Rooms are furnished in the Amazigh style, with low couches (which can be used as beds), tables, carpets and cushions. On warm nights it’s often possible to sleep out on the terrace under the stars!

Day 3 Aroumd

Today, explore Aroumd on some of the local trails with your group. Get to know the terrain and acclimatise your body for the challenge of the summit ahead. Today’s main hike will depend on the weather and the group’s ability and willingness. Acclimatisation hikes are quite slow, with a relaxed pace. Wherever your trip leader chooses, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful Moroccan countryside, where children run freely through the valleys and farmers tend to their plots of land. Donkeys provide a mode of transport for both young and old, with stony pathways winding through the mountains to villages hidden from the main roads. When you arrive back in your gite, tuck into a hearty dinner and rest up for tomorrow’s challenge.

Day 4 Mt Toubkal Base Camp

This morning you’ll begin your ascent of Mount Toubkal – North Africa’s highest peak. From Aroumd, the trail crosses the floodplain of the Ait Mizane Valley, before climbing steeply in a zigzag up the mountainside. Along the way, pass the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamarouch, home to the tomb of the local marabout (Muslim holy man). Only Muslims are permitted to cross the bridge and approach the large white stone that serves as a shrine. From here, climb steeply through a series of switchbacks and traverse the flank of the valley above the river. Arrive at Toubkal Base Camp (3207 metres above sea level) and enjoy a hearty dinner and make sure you get plenty of sleep before the big ascent tomorrow.

Day 5 Summit day

Embrace an early start this morning as you’ll tackle the rocky terrain that leads to the summit of Mount Toubkal. At 4167 metres above sea level, this is truly the roof of North Africa. Take in the beautiful silence of the morning while you make the final climb, which can involve some scrambling. Your effort is rewarded by superb views from the summit, which on a clear day can include the entire Atlas Mountain range, the Atlantic coast to the west and the Sahara Desert to the east. After a rest at the summit and time spent marvelling at the view, descend to Base Camp. You’ll fuel up with a hearty lunch before heading back to Aroumd, where your local host will be waiting to welcome you back with a homecooked dinner to celebrate your achievements in the High Atlas Mountains.

Day 6 Marrakech

After breakfast, take one last glimpse at the valley and marvel at those high summits you conquered in last couple of days. Then head back to Imlil and make your way back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour of the medina, including souqs devoted to different trades such as pottery, woodwork, carpets or spices. Then, continue to the 19th-century Bahia Palace and spend some time admiring the architecture. The rest of your time in the city is free for you to make your own discoveries. If you're keen to experience a traditional Moroccan bath, your leader can advise you where to find the nearest hammam. If you’ve enjoyed your taste of Moroccan cuisine so far, maybe indulge your inner foodie with a Taste of Marrakesh Urban Adventure tour.

Day 7 Marrakech

Your adventure ends after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend more time in Marrakech, just speak to your booking agent.

Day 1: Arrive Fez

After you arrive in Fez, meet up with your Contiki Trip Manager at the hotel tonight and then join your travel squad for an included dinner and get yourselves excited over the medieval capital of Morocco & a time capsule of the ancient Arab world, it will tantalise you to your very core, and tomorrow is a full day to go deep.

Day 2: Fez

Today might see you stepping back - just casually - to remnants of North Africa from the 9th Century. In amongst historical sights, as we explore you'll see the Royal Palace or Wooden Galerie (Foundouk Nijarrine). Today is going to be busy, because that's the best way to see it all.What else? You'll marvel your way through the Medina, which we'll explore with our guide, and begin to uncover the layers of Moroccan mysteries hidden within the city, no doubt finding some time for a spot of carpet shopping for a droll-worthy trip memento along the way. Tonight, go local and take on an optional Moroccan feast and show.

Day 3: Fez to Marrakech

We say farewell to Fez and her many traditions and head to perhaps the most famous city in the country – Marrakech. This evening, see exactly why they call Marrakech the Red City.We've made it to Marrakech, a place of pretty architecture, a bustling medina and shopping opportunities galore. This place is fast, fun and exciting, in every possible way. On arrival you could head to Jamaa el Fna Square to rub shoulders with the locals and grab some eats on the run. One place to get 'the shot' is from a restaurant overlooking the Medina, the smoky atmosphere, local music and people bustling under the twinkling lights, is something you'll never forget. And you won’t forget tonight’s accommodation in a hurry, either. Our Special Stay in Marrakech is Riad Africa, a retreat formed from 3 historical merchant houses. Here we’ll enjoy two swimming pools, a traditional spa, a rooftop restaurant and Morroccan cooking school, not to mention the gorgeous architecture and decor. Tomorrow, exploring galore awaits.

Day 4: Marrakech

We'll guide you around the city's hotspots with our local Morroccan guide leading the charge. First up will be a tour of the blissful Bahia Palace with it's orange trees dotting the tile lined courtyards, now this is what they call an oasis. On our hit list this morning is the Koutoubia Mosque, a berber pharmacy to pick up some argan oil and other exotic potions and lotions, then free time is yours. Taking on the markets of the Medina like a boss is a must while you're here, and an unforgettable experience. It's here you'll pick up treats and treasures, stopping for tagines to re-fuel but of course. Looking for a little bit of culture? The Marjorelle Gardens, owned by Yves St Laurent are a slice of paradise in amongst the madness, with the electric blues and yellow colours and lush green plants making for A+ Instagram opportunities. Tonight, getting your eat on is a must, and our optional feast and show is the best way to do just that as you indulge in tagines, cous cous and lip smacking desserts that guarantee you'll be rolling out of there but travellers, the night is young!

Day 5: Depart Marrakech

The intoxicating beauty and mayhem of Marrakech should have us well and truly hooked on all things Morocco. This morning it is time to say goodbye to your new travel squad and plan then next great adventure!