Dearest Friends, Family and Colleagues,

***All funds raised will go directly to Sparks ***

"Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity."

I am challenging myself to trek North Africa’s highest mountain, Jebel Toubkal. Standing at 4167m, this three day trek will take me in and around the foothills of Toubkal through villages with traditional architecture intact.

I am not experienced in climbing/trekking/hiking. I have only ever climbed the Dolomites in Italy. These mountains took less than a day to ascend, but were both really enjoyable. However it does mean that a three day ascent will be a completely new experience and a big challenge for me.

I am doing this challenge in order to help Sparks in funding life-saving medical research into conditions affecting babies, children and mums-to-be. Spark's project is to find ways to diagnose, treat and prevent conditions in four key areas:  Pregnancy and birth, first months of life, infancy and early childhood and rare childhood diseases.  Findings from their research projects can make a lasting difference to the lives of children and families affected by serious illness or disability.

Whatever support you may give us would be immeasurably appreciated.

Thanks and see you at the top,
Nadir

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Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – Mount Toubkal Base Camp (6- 8hrs trekking)

We transfer to Imlil (1650m) our start point of the trek. Here we will meet our muleteers and support crew and begin our trek. The trek climbs quickly to the village of Aremd (1900m), and then follows the course of the Assif and Tafklast River through numerous small hamlets towards the sanctuary of Sidi Chamarouch (2310m). From Sidi Chamarouch, there is a further 1000 metres of steepening ascent before you reach the Toubkal Hut (3200m) where base camp will be established in preparation for the climb to the summit the following day.

Day 2: Mount Toubkal Ascent (9-11hrs trekking)

This morning we have an early start as we head towards the summit of Toubkal (4167m) to enjoy the superb panoramic views before the heat increases. The trekking becomes steeper and more rugged as we climb higher, the views become ever more stunning. We return to base camp by the same route and stay here for a second night.

Day 3: Toubkal Base Camp – Marrakech (4-5 hrs trekking)

We retrace our steps and follow the same route down the mountain to Imlil. From here we will transfer back to Marrakech

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