Rising to 4,167 meters over Morocco’s southwestern loam, the Jebel Toubkal is the high road to a breathtaking view. And the hike is fairly easy - the ascent and back can be accomplised in the course of a day, though two days is all the better for making a true cultural experience out of it.

The mountain is approached from Imlil, a small village cluster at the foot of the peak. There, guides and mules can be hired as needed. The path to the summit passes through the tiny town of Aroumd, past a floodplain, through the village Sidi Chamharouch, skirting the Isougouane valley, with a stop at the stone Refuges of Nelter and Toubkal, before reaching the summit ridge, crowned by a weathered pyramidal sculpture of sorts. Those who choose to spend the night set up tents for a small fee near the Refuge.

Climbers should be aware of weather conditions and the possibility of altitude sickness before making the journey. On a clear day birds soar overhead while the African sun retires in a blaze of red-orange glory, and the lookout on it all is something quite unforgettable.