Exploring the Enchanting Imlil Region of Morocco

Reaching New Heights

Today was a day of both physical challenge and immense reward. The crisp mountain air, the stunning vistas, and the warm Berber hospitality all combined to create an experience that I know Hans and I will cherish forever. It was a day where every step, every shared smile, and every moment of quiet contemplation made me feel incredibly grateful for this journey we're on.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Happy Family House. The name couldn't have been more fitting. The atmosphere was so welcoming, and the food was simple but delicious – the perfect fuel for our adventure ahead. I had a traditional Berber omelette, which was packed with fresh herbs and spices. Hans opted for the msemmen, a flaky, layered pancake served with honey. We both enjoyed strong, sweet mint tea, a staple here in Morocco, while chatting with other travelers and locals. It felt like the perfect start to what promised to be an incredible day.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Happy Family House in Imlil – where delicious food meets stunning mountain views.
Fueled up and ready to go, we met our guide for the Mount Toubkal small group tour. I was a little nervous, I must admit. While I enjoy hiking, I wouldn't exactly call myself an experienced mountaineer. But our guide, whose name was Omar, immediately put me at ease. He was patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the mountains. He explained the route, gave us some safety tips, and before I knew it, we were off.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Morocco.
The initial part of the trek was relatively gentle, winding through the lush valleys surrounding Imlil. The landscape was dotted with small Berber villages, their mud-brick houses blending seamlessly into the hillside. We passed farmers tending to their fields, children playing, and women carrying bundles of firewood on their backs. It was a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries, and it was incredibly humbling to witness.

As we ascended, the terrain became more challenging. The path grew steeper and rockier, and the air thinned noticeably. I found myself relying on my hiking boots and taking frequent breaks to catch my breath. Hans, ever the supportive husband, kept encouraging me, reminding me to focus on the stunning views and to take it one step at a time.

The view from the top is worth every step.

We stopped for lunch at Git Le Toubkal, a charming restaurant nestled in the village of Aroumd. The setting was idyllic, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. We sat on a terrace, soaking in the sunshine and enjoying a delicious tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew cooked in a clay pot. It was the perfect opportunity to refuel and recharge before the final push to the summit.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Git Le Toubkal in Aroumd, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains.
The afternoon brought the most challenging part of the hike. The path became increasingly steep, and the altitude started to take its toll. My legs were burning, my lungs were aching, and I felt a wave of doubt creeping in. Could I really do this? Was I strong enough to reach the top?

It was during this difficult stretch that I truly understood the importance of having a supportive partner. Hans stayed right by my side, offering words of encouragement and helping me navigate the trickier sections of the trail. He reminded me of all the reasons why I wanted to do this, of the sense of accomplishment I would feel when I finally reached the summit. And somehow, his belief in me gave me the strength to keep going.

We pressed on, slowly but surely, until finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the top. The view was simply breathtaking. As Pliny, the Roman scholar once said, the Atlas are 'the most fabulous mountains in all of Africa'. I gazed out at the vast expanse of mountains stretching out before me, their peaks dusted with snow, and I felt an overwhelming sense of awe and gratitude. We had made it. We had conquered Mount Toubkal.

The descent was tough on the knees, but the sense of accomplishment kept us going. Back in Imlil, we celebrated our achievement with a well-deserved dinner at Auberge Atlas Tichka. The food was hearty and delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and convivial. We shared stories with other hikers, swapping tales of our adventures and celebrating our shared love of the mountains.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Auberge Atlas Tichka in Asni, where traditional flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Before heading back to our guesthouse, we decided to stop by Targa Imoula imlil, a local bar that Omar recommended. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a lively atmosphere and a friendly crowd. We sipped on some local juice, listened to traditional Berber music, and soaked in the vibrant energy of the village.


Experience the charm of Targa Imoula, a mountain cabin offering authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst the stunning Atlas Mountains.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, my body is tired, but my spirit is soaring. Today was a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it, and that the greatest rewards often come after the greatest challenges. I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with Hans, and I'm excited to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Biguinoussene. After today's strenuous hike, I think we'll take it a bit easier, perhaps enjoying a leisurely walk through the valleys and soaking in the scenery. We'll have breakfast at Restaurant Terrase d'Imlil, lunch at Auberge Atlas Tamatertt, and dinner at Restaurant Atlas Eco. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Simply Moroccan. It sounds like a lovely day of cultural immersion and relaxation, which is exactly what my tired muscles need. I am also aware that I forgot my portable phone charger and an extra memory card for the camera, I need to get those as soon as possible!

Today, I feel so grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Morocco. The kindness of the Berber people, the stunning landscapes, and the sense of adventure have all combined to create an unforgettable journey. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm so glad that I have Hans by my side to share it all with.