The short answer
Imlil is about 60 km south of Marrakech, a drive of about 1 hour 30 minutes, longer with stops. You climb from around 450 metres on the Marrakech plain to 1,740 metres at the village, through Asni. Most people go by private car; shared transport works but the timings get loose.
In more detail
In a private car it is about 1 hour 30 minutes. A stop at Asni or a viewpoint on the way adds time, so plan the day around it. The road climbs steadily through the foothills, and the air cools as you gain height.
Public transport is possible. Minibuses run from Bab er Rob to Asni in around 40 minutes, then shared transport goes on up to Imlil. It is cheap, but the waits add up and the day stretches.
Imlil is the start of the walks, not the end. The walk up to Aroumd takes about 45 minutes, and the trail to Toubkal starts here too, so give yourself time on foot once you arrive.
Good to know
- The Tuesday souk at Asni is worth a stop on the way.
- In winter, snow can ice the Imlil road or close it briefly.
- Bring walking shoes; Imlil is a place you explore on foot.