By Corporal Jiban Shahi, 36 Squadron, Queen’s Gurkha Logistic Regiment
Exercise TIGER ATLAS 2026 saw a team from the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment, conduct a level 3 adventure training expedition on Mount Toubkal, Morocco, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167m. The mountain’s rugged terrain and intense summer heat demanded exceptional endurance, resilience, and teamwork throughout.
After travelling from the UK to Marrakech and onward to Imlil, the team began acclimatisation, completing daily treks of up to 18km in challenging temperatures and climbing to heights approaching 2,000m. These routes quickly tested determination, but strong leadership and mutual support fostered confidence and cohesion within the group.
A short rest period prepared the team for the final phase. Reaching Base Camp at 3,207m marked a significant milestone before summit day, which began at 0300hrs to avoid the worst of the heat. After three hours of demanding climbing, the team successfully reached the summit of Mount Toubkal and later descended safely back to Base Camp.
A memorable highlight was celebrating the Regiment’s 68th Anniversary Birthday high in the mountains. The expedition also saw six soldiers achieve their Summer Mountain Foundation qualifications. Throughout, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and Gendarmerie Royale provided outstanding support and safety assistance.
The exercise concluded with a return to Imlil and a cultural visit to the Agafay Desert, rounding off a rewarding and professionally valuable period of Adventure Training.
