How hard is it to climb Atlas Mountains
How Hard is It to Climb Atlas Mountains?
The thing about humans is that every time they encounter difficulties, they don’t just throw their hands up in complete surrender. They persevere and continue to give it a go. That is why it is not even surprising that so many climbers dare trek and explore Atlas Mountains. How hard is it to climb Atlas Mountains?
Trekkers of every skill level can look forward to a challenging and diverse adventure the moment they climb these North African peaks. Covering a wide stretch from Morocco to Algeria, and Tunisia, the mountain range boasts of diverse climatic conditions and terrains, making every single climb different from the last one.
But really, how tough is it to climb Toubkal & other peaks?
Not surprisingly, there is no such thing as a definite answer to this question. It depends on various factors, which include the following:
Moderate and Demanding Climbs
There are numerous trekking paths in the Atlas Mountains. You got the moderate hikes that will take you through picturesque valleys. On the other hand, there are also more demanding hikes in inclines that are both rocky and steep.
If you’re a beginner, you can get yourself introduced gently to the natural beauty of the region if you take the Ourika Valley trek, for instance. Here, paths pass through verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic traditional Berber villages. You can also take the treks for a day or two. While most of them require you to be fit in the basic sense, don’t worry because you don’t have to be a technically skilled climber to ascend to the top.
But expect that things will be more demanding if your goal is to climb the 4,167-meter Jebel Toubkal. Many climbers choose the usual trek from the village of Imlil that takes two days. The village of Imlil acts as the entryway to the Toubkal National Park.
Despite the trek not requiring mountaineers to have technical skills, it still comes with an unrelenting and steep ascent, specifically during day two when climbers face the last push to the peak. A rocky terrain awaits you here. The area may be enveloped in ice or snow depending on the current season. During cases this like, you can ensure your safety by arming yourself with ice axes and crampons.
Brace for the Altitude
If there is something that can make it difficult for you to ascend Atlas Mountains, that would be none other than the altitude. There is this thinning to the air as you slowly reach the top. There is also the increased risk of you suffering from altitude sickness. Your may start experiencing symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headache once you reach 2,500 meters.
Due to the significant margin of Jebel Toubkal exceeding this altitude, climbers must watch out for their pace and make sure that they are properly acclimatized. Your body may be able to adjust better to the altitude to ensure that your climb will be a success if you spend the night in Neltner Refuge sitting at 3,207 meters before your final ascent.
Yes, it’s not an easy feat to climb Atlas Mountains but you can be sure that this experience is something that will be engraved on your mind for many decades to come!
