Most Inspirational Moment
I'd love to say it was reaching the summit of Mt Toubkal, but unfortunately I was too knackered to appreciate it properly.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Perhaps I've been very lucky in previous trips, but unfortunately I didn't gel with our leader Hassan (apparently there is - or has been - more than one leader on this trip called Hassan, I believe the one we had was "young Hassan"). I was disappointed because I had read such good reviews of all the leader on this trip. I found him efficient but distinctly unsocial and uncommunicative. His briefings were an absolute bare minimum of essential information (what time we would leave and how long the day's walking would be), he showed no interest in us as people or in talking to us about his country or culture, even when asked directly, and I never once heard him give a word of encouragement to anyone, even when we were clearly struggling on tough climbs. Moreover, he appeared to be totally unaware of the fact that I had various medical conditions, despite having received written information from both Exodus and myself about them, which I found a little alarming. He was, however, totally professional and ensured our safety throughout, and by the end of the week he had thawed out enough to show occasional glimpses of humour. Other members of the group did, however, seem to have more favourable views of him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
There were no snacks provided on this trip, unlike most Exodus trips I've been on, so take plenty of cereal bars, nuts, etc as you'll definitely need them on some of the long days. And take clothes for all eventualities - the weather can be very changeable in the mountains. Having read conflicting reports about the need for water purification tablets, we were able to buy bottled water on most days but not all, so do take some with you. If you don't like carrots (or vegetables) then you may be in trouble. Earplugs recommended not just for those sharing with snorers but to enable sleep when there's a howling wind rattling your tent!
Suggestions
This was the toughest trip I've been on so far, with some very hot temperatures at the start, strong winds at higher altitude, lots of slippery scree and a very challenging summit day. The tents were also in a terrible state of repair - one tent pole broke and they had no spares so two of us had to share, plus many tents had broken zips and/or rips in the fabric. Finally, I strongly believe that two guides are necessary on this trip, at least on summit day, unless you happen to get a group of very similar ability - otherwise the faster people may get frustrated at having to go at the pace of the slowest. Hopefully these issues will get sorted. Overall, a wonderful trip despite a few niggles. But beware the rock thieves at Toubkal Base Camp.
![Review Centre]()
Reply from Exodus
We were surprised to hear that the new tents recently purchased did not arrive in Morocco last month, unfortunately we have now been informed that they have been delayed until the end of this season. Still, after checking all tents following this departure, we are confident that the majority of tents are fit to use on these departures. Those that needed extra work have either been repaired or replaced.
Please be assured that all tents used in 2013 will be brand new. And thanks to Diane for her comments so we could act on the unfortunate situation with tents on her chosen departure.
