Until recently anyone wanting detailed information on climbing in Morocco would turn to the 1942 edition of Le Massif du Toubkal by Jean Dresch and Jacques de Lépiney. Now that has all changed. The View from Fez just received a copy of a new book that is destined to become the definitive guide. The book is Mountaineering in the Moroccan High Atlas by Des Clark. Here is our review.
Mountaineer and mountain guide Des Clarke is a man of many talents. Not only does he climb, take great photographs, but now he has shown that he can write. Mountaineering in the Moroccan High Atlas is subtitled "walks, climbs and scrambles over 3000m" and, that is what makes it a superb guide for many more people than simply experienced mountaineers.
A couple of practical points. The book is small enough to put in your pocket and the plastic-coated cover means it will stand up well to life in the mountains. The contents are just as well thought out. The first section of the book deals with all the basic information you need from grading and routes to practicalities such as visas, planning and maps, to respecting the environment. It is all well laid out and clearly explained.
Toubkal South Ridge
The main sections of the book are divided between the various climbing areas and describe some 50 routes and 30 main peaks. Each route is extremely well described with suggested equipment, time needed, rating of climb and starting point.
Illustrated with coloured sketch maps and photo-diagrams, the book is as pleasure to browse and a definite inspiration to grab your ice-axe, crampons and get going.
Jebel Tinergwet 3551m (just north of Taroudant)
This is the first book of its kind in English and is sure to remain an essential guide for a long time to come.
The book is available on-line with Amazon. CLICK HERE
The publishers also have it on their store and one of the benefits of buying it from them is that you can either the hard copy OR the eBook OR both together for a discounted price.
The link for this is: CLICK HERE
1 comment:
Another new book is 'Moroccan Atlas - the Trekking Guide' by Alan Palmer, http://www.amazon.co.uk/Moroccan-Atlas-Trekking-Alan-Palmer/dp/1873756771
This covers the Toubkal, M'goun, Sirwa and Sahro regions, but unfortunately nothing for the Anti Atlas, Middle Atlas or the Rif.
Tim Cullis
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