Last updated: 31 January 2019, 14:09 GMT
Discover Ltd and Kasbah du Toubkal's reaction to the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal, 16/17 December 2018
Final update No. 10 31 January 2019
After the tragic incident in Morocco December 2018, where 2 women tourists were murdered, I thought it would be useful to put some information in a summary document.
I hope this is useful but if you would like any further information or would like to discuss any aspects, I am always happy to arrange a telephone conversation or can be contacted by email.
- Imlil and our tours around Morocco and that of other operators are running normally and as before the event.
- Trekking in the region is operating normally.
- The FCO nor the State Department nor any other country (as far as I am aware) has changed their travel advice for Morocco generally nor for the Imlil region specifically. There are no travel restrictions for Morocco.
- Morocco remains a relatively safe country vis a vis terrorism and is considered safer than UK or France by many experts eg US State Department which has Morocco on its lowest level of risk – Level 1 “Exercise normal precautions” whereas the UK and France are on level 2 – "Exercise increased caution".
Sadly, as terrorist events since September 11th 2001 around the world highlight there is probably nowhere that is immune from them.
A British school that travels with us regularly and is doing so in 2019 recently wrote the following in a letter to parents about their trips to Morocco.
"Sadly we are in a time when terror events have impacted on several of the locations we routinely visit for trips – USA, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Manchester and London being recent examples. The current FCO advice for the terrorist threat in Morocco is similar to that for the UK and to the other locations mentioned above."
The chances of being involved in a terrorist event is extremely rare. These words (below) written by Andrew Dimberline, Bristol Grammar School highlight the importance of keeping terrorist acts in perspective.
"Each terrorist event is shocking and tragic but it is important to keep these in perspective when every year in the UK there are 20,000 serious injuries and 1,700 fatalities on the roads and around 250 fatalities in house fires. That ‘common things occur commonly’ is always worth keeping in mind – travel in daytime in the best quality vehicles, check how to get out of your room in a fire and think about some medical ‘what ifs’ – these are all likely to be more significant to your safety than changing your plans on the basis of a perceived terrorist threat.” Andrew Dimberline, Bristol Grammar School
I hope this information has been useful.
Mike McHugo
Founder Discover Ltd. email:
Regular visitor to Morocco (about once a month since 1978)
PS you can see some feedback from recent visitors to our Kasbah du Toubkal at www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/imlil
For earlier updates (1 to 9), see below
Comments from guests who stayed at Kasbah du Toubkal and Azzaden Trekking Lodge during the Christmas and New Year season 2018/2019
Comments I stayed at the Kasbah and hiked Imlil with my two daughters over winter break (both of my girls are college students in the USA, where we live). Got to tell you- we came very close to cancelling the trip after hearing the news what happened to the two hikers. I can't tell you how happy we all are that we didn't as it was an absolute trip highlight. While the area is breathtaking, what really made the trip for us were the people. Incredibly warm, friendly and seemed even more mortified by what happened in their area than we were. In any event, before I went on the trip, I did my homework in researching the situation, and would be happy to fill you in if you would like to contact me by email."
Scott, 10 January 2019
My husband and I, along with my two little girls and my Dad had a wonderful stay up in Imlil, overnighting in Dar Imlil, the sister hotel to the Kasbah. We also had a fabulous lunch at the Kasbah during our visit. This was my fourth visit to the wonderful village of Imlil and it did not disappoint one little bit. The people were just delightful – so welcoming and hospitable, and so rightly proud of the beautiful and culturally rich part of the world in which they live. Dar Imlil is charming – warm, welcoming, with lovely staff and beautiful views. The Kasbah is simply amazing – breath-taking views of the mountains, delicious food (make sure you go hungry!) and once again, lovely staff. I could have just sat there in the sun eating delicious food all day were it not for the fact that you have to go walking around here – perfect and stunning countryside in which to walk, with fabulous guides available. Without any shadow of a doubt, my favourite spot in Morocco."
Harriet, 8 January 2019
I travelled to Morocco in December with my husband. We heard about the horrific tragedy while in the desert. By that time we had already experienced the warm Berber hospitality and so were determined to carry on with our plans, which took us to the extraordinary Kasbah du Toubkal. Our experience there was unforgettable and at no time did we feel in the least bit threatened - in fact quite the opposite as the people of Imlil and the surrounding villages embraced us and welcomed us with gratitude for having come. Having grown up in Ireland during the time of The Troubles in Northern Ireland and working in the tourism industry myself , I fully appreciate the need to show solidarity with these wonderful people so proud of their culture and identity shared and explained by our charming young guide Adbi."
Peter & Breda, 6 January 2019
My wife, myself and three daughters spent 5 days at the Kasbah. I can not recommend the place highly enough. We spent 4 nights at the Kasbah and one night at the remote trekking lodge. The Kasbah is in a special location and we went on the most amazing walks A highlight was the great picnic lunches we had on our walk each day. Undoubtedly the best picnics we have ever had. The food at the Kasbah was also really really good. We loved our stay at the remote trekking lodge and the walk there was just stunning. The staff during our stay were amazingly kind and really went out of their way to make our holiday enjoyable. I have to say we were a little anxious to travel given the tragic incident that occurred in Imlil the week before. We were, however, very pleased we did and at no time did we feel unsafe. The staff at the Kasbah, our guides and all the local people we met on our walks were very friendly, kind and welcoming. I highly recommend a stay at the Kasbah if you love walking or even if you just want to relax on the terrace looking out on the mountains. The stay was made even more enjoyable due to the Kasbah's close involvement with the local community. Well done to you all!!!!!!"
Brad, 2 January 2019
You probably won't remember, but we met 5 or 6 years ago when I visited the Kasbah and the trekking lodge.
"On this visit, I was travelling with my Danish girlfriend - her son is at university in Norway with the two girls that were murdered, and was friends with one of them.
"So you can imagine that our trip has been quite emotional, but we have been met with nothing but kindness, sympathy and good wishes wherever we have travelled in Morocco.
"Yesterday we went for a short walk with a young guide - Muhammed - who lives with his family almost next door to the Kasbah. He is almost the same age as my girlfriend's son, and the two Scandinavian girls, and was obviously very upset by the awful attack and the way in which the terrorists have tried to spoil the purity of the mountains and the Berber people.
"He told us about the current policy of only allowing people to climb Toubkal with a guide, and we gave him and his fellow guides a small donation.
"Our stay at the Kasbah was wonderful - and we thanked Haj Maurice and all the staff as we left - particularly for the great New Year's eve celebrations with singing and dancing."
Jay, 2 January 2019
My family and I had a wonderful trip to Imlil. We came from Canada and despite the terrible tragedy we went hiking and stayed at the fabulous lodge. Our guide Abdul was fantastic. The accommodation and food incredible. We felt very safe. Please continue to visit. You will love it!"
Clare, 2 January 2019
We had such an incredible time at the Kasbah and felt very connected to the people and the place after just three days. The lodge itself and surrounding area are both so beautiful, but the warmth that we were shown by everyone we met was truly incredible. It was clear to us that the men who committed this horrible act were not from Imlil, and that what transpired hurt the local community greatly. We did not feel at all unsafe while we were there, but rather felt that we were sharing in some collective grief with the broader community in the valley, and even when we returned to Marrakech."
Megan, 2 January 2019
Our family group of eight, from the US and England, had a brief taste of the Kasbah, spending one night in the Garden House. The experience, although all too brief, was a highlight of our week in Morocco. We particularly appreciated the warmth of the Kasbah staff and indeed of the whole valley community. As we arrived we saw a moving demonstration in Imlil against violence and terrorism. The spirit of the community is inspiring and we are so glad we came."
John, 4 January 2019
My wife, myself and our daughter stayed for 1 night at the Kasbah and took the 2 day trek to and back back from the Azzaden trekking lodge. The location and layout of the Kasbah is amazing with great views of the Atlas Mountains. The staff at the Kasbah, our guide, cook, and the muleteer were all very nice people doing their best to keep you comfortable. Can’t suggest a better place if you want to trek in the valleys or ascend the Toubkal."
55vijayk, TripAdvisor, 4 January 2019
Update No. 9 3rd January 2019
Imlil and the whole region is operating normally and was within a day immediately after this sad and tragic event.
The reviews from people who stayed over the Christmas and New year period can be seen at www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/imlil and can attest to how Imlil is very much back to normal and how our guests felt safe in the region.
The main change, is that it is currently compulsory to take a guide when trekking up Jbel Toubkal, something we have always recommended.
I hope this will be my last update on this sad and tragic event as we have already returned to normality and life goes on. Anyone who is interested in the previous updates these are all available below by cursoring down, and I am always happy to speak to anyone who would like more information.
I believe these are the main relevant facts:
- Imlil and trekking in the region is operating normally.
- Imlil and the Moroccan people, as evidenced by their behaviour since the events, are as horrified as you or I (or even more so), as it is their mountain that was desecrated by these acts. The vigils held in many places in honour of Louisa and Maren and other posts are evidence of this.
- Kasbah du Toubkal had no client cancellations for stays for the period 16 December 2018 to 2nd January 2019 after the tragedy which is a busy period and our guests unanimously showed solidarity to us and the Imlil people and against terrorism by carrying on with life. See their feedback: www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/imlil
- Neither the UK FCO nor the US State Department (nor any other country as far as I am aware) have changed their travel advice for Morocco generally, nor for the Imlil region specifically. There are no travel restrictions for Morocco.
- The culprits of this act were not from the region and have been caught and it is generally agreed that the Moroccan authorities acted with speed and professionalism.
- Morocco remains a relatively safe country vis a vis terrorism by many experts and certainly considered safer than UK or France.
I, and the whole of the people of Imlil, would like to thank all those who have carried on with their travel plans during this difficult period and showed solidarity with the region and against terrorism.
I came across these words recently attributed to Confucius:
Education breeds Confidence, Confidence breeds Hope, Hope breeds Peace
We hope we play our part: www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/education.
Morocco, Imlil and the Kasbah du Toubkal looks forward to welcoming all our guests in 2019.
Mike McHugo, Kasbah du Toubkal and the peace-loving people of Imlil
Update No. 8 23rd December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Since the 16/17 December 2018 our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region. Guests continue to come from Marrakech to enjoy a trek and lunch at the Kasbah.
On the 18th December The Governor of the D’Al Haouz Province, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
The authorities have increased the police presence in Imlil to 24/7 and check points have been added en route to Toubkal. For me, the greatest increase in security is the local population who have been horrified by this tragic event, perhaps even more than us, as it is their Berber homeland that has been desecrated by this violent act. Nothing like this has ever happened before and they will be determined it never happens again.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-46632182
Thomas Reilly British Ambassador to Morocco tweeted yesterday:
Thomas Reilly @TSAReilly
#Morocco murder video authenticated. Terrorism is irreligious no religion or other excuse justifies it. We will never give into terrorism. We must also not over-react. This appalling act doesn’t change the beauty of #Morocco & the warmth kindness & generosity of its people.
On the 22nd December, a tribute in Imlil took place where the people of Imlil, the Moroccan authorities and tourist from Marrakech came to pay tribute and share food together in an act of solidarity. I was asked to write some words:
Mike McHugo "After the tragic events on Toubkal earlier this week we need to honour the 2 women who were so tragically murdered in the beautiful Toubkal massif.
"We also need to not let the culprits succeed in their desire to bring discord between peace loving people no matter what their religion or belief system. We need to treat this for what it is a brutal isolated criminal act perhaps in the name of religion but do not let these fanatics bring the discord they seek.
"We believe all peace loving people should come together to honour the lives of these two nature loving women. Show solidarity against terrorism and show solidarity for the peace loving Berber people of the Atlas Mountains by continuing to trek and visit the area which is what has been happening by visitors all this week. Thank you for your support.
"Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the women so tragically murdered. Honour them and show your solidarity against terrorism."
The whole Kasbah du Toubkal team and people of Imlil.
Have come to #Imlil to express my solidarity with the local community. Their sadness and anger speaks volumes for them. They are disgusted at this horrific crime. And saddened beyond words for the family and friends of the victims. #UK #Morocco #Maroc @UKinMorocco
— Thomas Reilly (@TSAReilly) December 23, 2018
Morocco and the people of Imlil deserve our support, we look forward to welcoming you.
I hope this information has been useful.
Kind regards
Mike
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 7 23rd December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Since the 16/17 December 2018 our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region. Guests continue to come from Marrakech to enjoy a trek and lunch at the Kasbah.
On the 18th December The Governor of the D’Al Haouz Province, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
The authorities have increased the police presence in Imlil to 24/7 and check points have been added en route to Toubkal. For me, the greatest increase in security is the local population who have been horrified by this tragic event, perhaps even more than us, as it is their Berber homeland that has been desecrated by this violent act. Nothing like this has ever happened before and they will be determined it never happens again.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-46632182
Thomas Reilly British Ambassador to Morocco tweeted yesterday:
Thomas Reilly @TSAReilly
#Morocco murder video authenticated. Terrorism is irreligious no religion or other excuse justifies it. We will never give into terrorism. We must also not over-react. This appalling act doesn’t change the beauty of #Morocco & the warmth kindness & generosity of its people.
On the 22nd December, a tribute in Imlil took place where the people of Imlil, the Moroccan authorities and tourist from Marrakech came to pay tribute and share food together in an act of solidarity. I was asked to write some words:
Mike McHugo "After the tragic events on Toubkal earlier this week we need to honour the 2 women who were so tragically murdered in the beautiful Toubkal massif.
"We also need to not let the culprits succeed in their desire to bring discord between peace loving people no matter what their religion or belief system. We need to treat this for what it is a brutal isolated criminal act perhaps in the name of religion but do not let these fanatics bring the discord they seek.
"We believe all peace loving people should come together to honour the lives of these two nature loving women. Show solidarity against terrorism and show solidarity for the peace loving Berber people of the Atlas Mountains by continuing to trek and visit the area which is what has been happening by visitors all this week. Thank you for your support.
"Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the women so tragically murdered. Honour them and show your solidarity against terrorism."
The whole Kasbah du Toubkal team and people of Imlil.
I hope this information has been useful.
Kind regards
Mike
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 6 21st December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Since the 16/17 December 2018 our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region. Guests continue to come from Marrakech to enjoy a trek and lunch at the Kasbah.
On the 18th December The Governor of the D’Al Haouz Province, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
The authorities have increased the police presence in Imlil to 24/7 and check points have been added en route to Toubkal. For me, the greatest increase in security is the local population who have been horrified by this tragic event, perhaps even more than us, as it is their Berber homeland that has been desecrated by this violent act. Nothing like this has ever happened before and they will be determined it never happens again.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-46632182
Thomas Reilly British Ambassador to Morocco tweeted yesterday:
Thomas Reilly @TSAReilly
#Morocco murder video authenticated. Terrorism is irreligious no religion or other excuse justifies it. We will never give into terrorism. We must also not over-react. This appalling act doesn’t change the beauty of #Morocco & the warmth kindness & generosity of its people.
22 Dec a tribute in Imlil took place where the people of Imlil, the Moroccan authorities and tourist from Marrakech came to pay tribute and share food together in an act of solidarity. I was asked to write some words.
Mike McHugo "After the tragic events on Toubkal earlier this week we need to honour the 2 women who were so tragically murdered in the beautiful Toubkal massif.
"We also need to not let the culprits succeed in their desire to bring discord between peace loving people no matter what their religion or belief system. We need to treat this for what it is a brutal isolated criminal act perhaps in the name of religion but do not let these fanatics bring the discord they seek.
"We believe all peace loving people should come together to honour the lives of these two nature loving women. Show solidarity against terrorism and show solidarity for the peace loving Berber people of the Atlas Mountains by continuing to trek and visit the area which is what has been happening by visitors all this week. Thank you for your support.
"Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the women so tragically murdered. Honour them and show your solidarity against terrorism."
The whole Kasbah du Toubkal team and people of Imlil.
Morocco and the people of Imlil deserve our support, we look forward to welcoming you.
I hope this information has been useful.
Kind regards
Mike
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 5 20th December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Since the 16/17 December 2018 our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region. Guests continue to come from Marrakech to enjoy a trek and lunch at the Kasbah.
On the 18th December The Governor of the D’Al Haouz Province, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
The authorities have increased the police presence in Imlil to 24/7 and check points have been added en route to Toubkal. For me, the greatest increase in security is the local population who have been horrified by this tragic event, perhaps even more than us, as it is their Berber homeland that has been desecrated by this violent act. Nothing like this has ever happened before and they will be determined it never happens again.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-46632182
I hope this information has been useful and the Kasbah du Toubkal and all the people of Imlil thank you for your support.
Kind regards
Mike
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 4 20th December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Since the 16/17 December 2018 our activities have continued as usual both at the Kasbah du Toubkal and trekking in the region. Guests continue to come from Marrakech to enjoy a trek and lunch at the Kasbah.
On the 18th December The Governor of the D’Al Haouz Province, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
News on the BBC indicate that three suspects has been arrested in Marrakech. See:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-46597369
You can also see reports on Moroccan World News at:
Mike McHugo
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 3 19th December 2018
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Currently, 19th December 2018, our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region. Guests also came on our lunch excursion from Marrakech yesterday the 18th December.
Today the Governor of Tahanaout, along with authorities from Marrakech, held a meeting in Imlil with the local community saying this was an isolated tragic event and life in Imlil should continue as before.
The latest news on the BBC indicate that three suspects has been arrested in Marrakech. See:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-46597369
You can also see further reports on Moroccan World news at:
Mike McHugo
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 2
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Currently, 18th December 2018, our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region.
The latest news on the BBC indicate that a suspect has been arrested in Marrakech. See:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-46597369
Mike McHugo
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,
Update No. 1
We, as with all the people of Imlil, were horrified to learn about the tragic events that took place on Mount Toubkal and our thoughts go our to all those directly concerned.
We are in contact with both the Moroccan authorities and the British Ambassador to Morocco.
Our reaction to these tragic events is very much along the lines that we believe were well written in the Financial Times after September 11th 2001. We believe these words are still relevant.
"Meanwhile, the best that the ordinary citizen can do, especially if we are in for the long haul, is to doggedly pursue our normal activities."
Financial Times, 27 Sept 2001
To this we would add, "…until advised differently by the appropriate authorities."
Currently, 18th December 2018, our activities continue at Kasbah du Toubkal and with trekking in the region.
Mike McHugo
Managing Director, Discover Ltd,