Marrakech to Imlil: How to Get to the Start of the Toubkal Trek
How to get from Marrakech to Imlil, the starting point of every Toubkal trek: private transfer, grand taxi, travel time, the route and tips.
Every ascent of Jbel Toubkal starts in Imlil, a mountain village at 1,740 metres where the road ends and the mule paths begin. It is close to Marrakesh, but there is no train and no direct public bus, so it helps to know your options before you go.
How far is Imlil from Marrakech?
Imlil is about 65 km south of Marrakesh. The drive takes around an hour and a half, depending on traffic leaving the city and the weather in the mountains.
The route
The road leaves Marrakesh to the south and crosses the flat Haouz plain, with the snowy High Atlas growing ahead of you. It passes through Tahanaout and climbs to Asni, a market town where a large Berber market is held every Saturday. Beyond Asni the road follows the Rheraya river up a narrowing valley and climbs in bends to Imlil, with walnut trees, terraced fields and the peaks of the Toubkal massif ahead.
Option 1: private transfer
The simplest option is a private transfer from your riad or hotel. A driver collects you at an agreed time and takes you straight to Imlil, where your guide is waiting. On our treks marked "from Marrakech", on the Imlil day trip and on all our tours, transfers from and to Marrakesh are included.
Option 2: shared grand taxi
Shared grand taxis run from Marrakesh to Asni, and from Asni to Imlil, leaving when they are full. It is the cheapest way, but it takes longer, involves a change and is less practical with luggage or an early start. Agree the price before you get in.
Practical tips
- Arrive in Marrakesh the day before your trek: most pickups are between 7:00 and 9:00.
- If your riad is deep inside the medina, cars cannot reach the door. We meet you at the nearest square, and a porter can help with your bags.
- Withdraw cash in Marrakesh before you leave: do not count on finding a cash machine in the mountains.
- Leave your main luggage at your riad and bring only what you need for the trek.
- In winter, snow can occasionally slow the last part of the road; your driver will know the conditions.
What is there to do in Imlil?
Imlil is a small village of guesthouses, a few shops and cafés, surrounded by walnut and apple orchards. It is the base for every Toubkal trek, and a lovely place to spend a night before or after the climb. If you only have a day, our Imlil day trip includes a walk to the village of Aroumd and lunch with a Berber family.
