After breakfast, we begin our trek, following the Mizane valley, first towards the village of Aremd, and then to the Sidi Chamarouch sanctuary. Built on a morainic spur overlooking the valley floor, Armd is the largest village in the valley and offers an interesting mix of traditional terraced agriculture, guesthouses, and streets that seem to be permanently blocked by goats and livestock. Continuing east and crossing the floodplain, our itinerary takes us along mule trails and up to the high rocky cliffs above the valley. Crossing the river, we finally arrive at the pastoral sanctuary of Sidi Chamarouch. The village is located next to a small waterfall, a cluster of intertwined houses that seem to blend into a chaotic mass. From there, the trail continues to climb steadily, winding and zigzagging up to the snow line and the Toubkal refuge (3206m), our overnight stop.

Early this morning, we attempt to reach the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Our itinerary takes us into the southern cirque, crossing the stream above the refuge, and then heading towards one of the many scree slopes of the mountain. The walking is relatively easy, but the scree and altitude will make the hike quite challenging in places. At the top of the ridge, we find ourselves on the plateau, from where there is a short walk to the summit, and the views of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking. From there, there is a stunning view in all directions, from the Marrakech plain to the High Atlas in the north and as far south as the Anti-Atlas and the Sahara. Retracing our steps, we then descend from the mountain and return to Imlil, and then back to Marrakech.