Atlas Trek 2019 – ‘Reaching new heights, overcoming limits’

Lunge Aktiv invites you to take part in an inspiring project that goes far beyond sport. Atlas Trek 2019 shows what people who have had a lung transplant are capable of, both physically and mentally. It is a symbol of quality of life, perseverance and community.

What was the Atlas Trek 2019?

In September 2019, an international group of lung transplant recipients and medical companions embarked on an expedition to the Moroccan mountains. Their goal was to climb Jbel Toubkal (4,167 m). This scientifically accompanied mountain tour brought people from several countries together to show that a transplant is not the end, but a new beginning.

Itinerary & Route

Preparation and arrival:

The trip began with the departure to Marrakesh, including transfers, accommodation and meals during the trek, luggage transport by mules and medical care.

Trekking stages and highlights

The stages led via Imlil and Tacheddirt, past the spectacular Lac d’Ifni and through Amsouzart to the summit day.

An exemplary excerpt from the timeline:

2 September: Start in Imlil → Tacheddirt, first tent camp at an altitude of about 2,400 metres

4 September: Day’s destination Amsouzart, through mountain ranges and changing terrain

5 September: The path to Lac d’Ifni – water, mountains, emotions.

6–7 September: Summit assault and summit joy – the moment everyone had been working towards.

The times given in local and Vienna time give an impression of the exertion and coordination involved in the expedition.

Participants, support and medical assistance

The group comprised 18 lung transplant recipients from several countries, accompanied by a team of doctors and nurses.

An important aspect was the provision of medication during the tour: Each participant carried a personal ‘backpack pharmacy’ with immunosuppressants (in double doses), co-medication (e.g. antidiabetics, antihypertensives), painkillers, antibiotics, anti-nausea and anti-diarrhoea medication, as well as sunscreen and local therapy products.

Equipment & packing list

The right equipment is essential for a successful high-altitude trek – here is a selection of important items:

Clothing and shoes:

Hiking boots, socks, trekking trousers, rain trousers, underwear, long-sleeved tops, T-shirts, fleece jacket, windproof jacket, headgear, sunglasses, gloves.

Technology & equipment

Sleeping bag (3–4 seasons), trekking poles, daypack, headlamp, first aid kit, water bottle or CamelBak, knife, repair tools

Miscellaneous/small items:

Toiletries, sunscreen, wet wipes, bin bags, snacks, spare parts, etc.

Message & impact

The Atlas Trek 2019 was more than just a mountain climb – it was a powerful message to patients, medical professionals, families and the general public: physical achievements are possible after a lung transplant. Participation had to be carefully planned and supervised, but it impressively demonstrated what passion, courage and medical excellence can achieve.