The Toubkal region of the High Atlas contains all the highest peaks of Morocco and, Mount Toubkal, at 4,167m (14,000ft) is the highest of them all. Located in the western part of the High Atlas, the Toubkal ancient rock massive overlooks the Haouz Plain to the north and the mountains Siroua and the Anti-Atlas to the south. For climbers, Toubkal is the most frequently visited peak in the High Atlas. The views from the summit of Toubkal provide a wonderful opportunity to see many high peaks of the High Atlas mountains. Remarkably, the starting point for the trek and climb is only 1½ hours by good road from Marrakech. The Toubkal summit can be tackled (up and back) in just 2 days for good, high mountain hikers who are used to this sort of terrain and are fit. ATS offers, however, a wide range of treks in Toubkal Massif area, of any number of days’ duration. as well as ascending the summit, such longer hikes include hiking passed Berber villages, their farmscapes and activities, in the many very beautiful valleys of this area. This allows time to “explore and encounter”, very much an aim of all ATS programmes. walking through such a stunning mountain landscape, barely touched by the fast paced, modern world, provides the opportunity to reflect and re-evaluate our own lives. The Berber culture and heritage has a rich tradition of hospitality, generosity and friendliness towards others. meeting such people and enjoying conversation and interaction (as well as enjoying their superb, freshly cooked food in tagine style) is a real bonus to the hikes.