I had wanted to do a proper ice axe and crampon trek for a while and a winter climb of Mt Toubkal was a perfect starter. Whilst I had previous experience with crampons and axe it wasn't a necessity. Mohammed and Hassan were fantastic guides, getting the balance between being laid back and fun yet showing leadership and experience when required. The valley was stunning, walking above the clouds and then on to Toubkal itself and the snow and ice on summit day. Some pretty intense hail and snow storms at times but this was the experience I came for! I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the food and the accommodation. Our chef did a great job cooking up some local Moroccan dishes in large tagines. The refuge at base camp was way more than I was expecting with bed frames & mattresses, big roaring fire, large kitchen and showers! (albeit scummy but what do you expect up a mountain!). Unexpectedly Hassan was the ultimate host and took the whole group to his family home on the last day for tea and pancakes which was incredible. I can thoroughly recommend Mt Toubkal for a great winter climb that only needs 1 week. Hassan & Mohammad are great local guides with their company Active Treks or you can also book through Exodus in the UK.

I trekked with Mohamed and his team several years ago to the summit of Toubkal. We had a phenomenal experience, stopping to visit a private home and villages along the way. Morocco was a fantastic experience overall and Mohamed made the trek portion memorable in all the best ways. Our gear and transport and meals and lodging were all well-taken care of and being guided by a native who so clearly loves the area he shares with we visitors transforms the journey into a lifetime smile.

This is the second time I've been to Toubkal with mohamed, this time we stayed in his very special lodge. What an amazing view and accommodation. He spoilt our team of 5 with fresh honeycomb from his hives, pomegranates and walnuts from his trees. Food was plentiful and delicious (ESP the roast chicken) and he took us to local cafes for food (all included in our trip price) This made for a very authentic local experience. The only comment I'd make is bring your own coffee if like us you get tired of mint tea and need a morning coffee fix.

The trip to the hut and the climb was 100 percent success rate despite some very cold wintry weather. We were in safe hands as Mohamed ensures he has other guides on the trip to support him plus a great team of porters and cooks.

Really well worth it and supremely good value. You basically get a fully qualified, perfect English speaking guide for a fraction of the price if you booked him through the major commercial operations.

An excellent week, the guide, Mohammed was very good and knew how to make the trip most interesting.