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Toubkal Challenge 2011
Following on from our successfull expedition to the Atlas mountains in March 2010, MountainZone is organising a return trip from 12th to 19th March 2011
The Expedition wilt be led by Michael Whelan, director MountainZone..
The 8 day tour will take in North Africa’s highest mountain Mt Toubkal
The Expedition is restricted to 12 places
Itinerary
Day 1 Depart Dublin for Agadir (Aer Lingus) and transfer to 4*www.goldentulipfarahmarrakech.com
Day 2 On to Berber village, Imlil, (1700m) and hike through the beautiful Around valley to the Mouflon Refuge(3200m) using mule support and porters , depending on snow conditions.
Day 3 Rest day, enjoy the real base camp atmosphere. Opportunity to check gear , acclimatise by hiking to a nearby mountain pass. You will have a choice between a mountain tent or a dorm at the refuge.. If you decide to camp you can still use the facilities in the refuge, they are excellent.
Day 4 Summit Day , After a 5am breakfast we will start on our 8 hour hike to the summit of North Africas highest mountain 4165m, with spectacular views North over the planes of Marrakech and South over the Sahara.
Day 5 Chill out day around campsite or try some ice climbing (Many options)
Day 6 Hike back to trail head Imlil and back to our hotel in Marrakech for two days of being a tourist in this cultural and historic jewel.
Day 7 Optional day trip to Cascade d' Ouzoud, Very impressive waterfall .March is best month lots of snow melt.
Day 8 Return to the old sod..
Training and Fitness .
Because of the altitude and the snow conditions , this climb requires some pre-expedition coaching for participants without winter mountaineering skills. The group will meet for two training sessions in the Comeragh mountains Jan /Feb. dates to be decided. The training is included in the overall cost
A good level of cardio vascular fitness is required ,You should be able to Jog 10k in 1 hour .You should also have stamina and a determination to reach the summit.
About Mt Toubkal
March is an ideal month for the climb . There is plenty snow above 3000m and the scorching heat of the Summer is still a couple of months away. The valley from Imlil to the Mouflon refuge is very scenic , It also gives you the opportunity to witness Berber village life as it has remained for centuries.
Mt Toubkal is a big mountain More than four times higher than Carrauntoohil. The route we will thke will be mostly non technical with just a few exposed areas. The pace will be very slow giving everybody the opportunity to summit.
Gear
MountainZone will supply all tents, camping and cooking gear. we also supply backpacks sleeping bags ( feel free to take your own it must be 4 season rated) You will be expected to supply your own personal clothing
People usually need Boots ,ice -axe and crampons .Talk to me before you purchase anything . it may be possible to hire or borrow.
Cost
The total cost of the 8 day expedition including insurance all taxes , transfers, all meals while on the trail porterage , mule hire, refuge fees, and 3 nights 4* hotel with breakfast is €650 + flights €250 approx
Important
If your passport expires before 21st Sep 2011. You will have to renew it before you. go
Visa
No visa required for Irish citizens
Travel insurance for this trip is not included in the price www.ihi.com approx €70 per person
Hiking times,
Day 2. From Imlil 1700m to Mouflon Refuge (base camp) 3200m 6 hours first 4 easy, last 2 tough
Day 4. Summit day, Mouflon refuge (base camp) 3200m to summit 4165m, 6 hours up, 2 hours down. Going up , moderate to tough . Coming back easy
Day 6 Mouflon refuge (base camp) 3200m to trailhead Imlil 1700m 4 hours easy
For hike in and out add on 1 or 2 hours each way for refreshment stops in Berber villages
Places availible 03-08-2010 8 The Expedition is restricted to 12 places ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Contact
Michael Whelan MountainZone Corballymore Dunmore East Co Waterford Ireland 0035351383435 00353879262117
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