Gold Duke of Edinburgh, Morocco

The route had been designed to incorporate a suitable acclimatization period prior to the ascent of Mount Toubkal. We made for the Nelter Refuge and camped south of this point at 3,000 metres. An early morning start ensured a successful ascent and, three hours later, we were admiring the views from the summit.  The trek down passed through several rural villages, thereby combining physical endeavour with a close-up glimpse of Berber life.  Temperatures reached 36 degrees centigrade and took members of the party close to their physical and mental limits.

The expedition was preceded by a short stay in Marrakech where we sampled the atmosphere in the Djemaa El Fna (the main square), experienced the bustle of the souks and took in the past grandeur of a palace. Following the expedition, we rested tired limbs and found time to relax in the coastal resort of Essaouira.