The High Atlas Mountains offer some of North Africa's most spectacular driving routes. Our guide covers the Tizi n'Test and Tizi n'Tichka passes with practical tips.
Morocco Atlas Mountains Road Trip: Passes, Kasbahs and Valleys
The Atlas Mountains divide Morocco into two worlds: the verdant, Atlantic-facing north and the arid, Sahara-facing south. Driving across them is one of the most rewarding experiences the country offers — a constantly shifting panorama of terraced fields, Berber villages, and vertiginous switchbacks that tests both driver and vehicle. Here is how to plan the perfect Atlas road trip.
The Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260 m)
The N9 from Marrakech to Ouarzazate is the most travelled mountain road in Morocco, and for good reason. It climbs from the Haouz plains, passes through small Berber villages selling amethyst crystals and fossils, and crests the Tizi n'Tichka at 2,260 metres — the highest paved road in North Africa. The views from the top stretch for hundreds of kilometres on a clear day. In winter, the pass can close with snow; in spring and summer it is straightforward to drive.
After the pass, look for the signed turn-off to Telouet Kasbah, the former palace of the powerful Glaoui tribe. It is partially ruined but hauntingly beautiful, and rarely crowded. Allow 45 minutes for a visit.
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah
Fifteen kilometres off the main N9 road, Aït Benhaddou is Morocco most famous kasbah and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village of pisé (rammed earth) towers rising above the Ounila River has appeared in dozens of films and TV series. Cross the shallow river on foot or by stepping stones, explore the citadel, and climb to the granary at the top for panoramic views. A handful of families still live inside the walls.
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The Dades Valley and Gorge
Continuing east from Ouarzazate on the N10, the road enters the Dades Valley — the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. The landscape turns into a film set: red-earthed kasbahs line the valley floor, backed by jagged mountains. At Boumalne Dades, turn north into the Dades Gorge, where the road winds between soaring cliffs and past the famous Monkey Fingers rock formations before reaching remote Berber villages. This detour adds about 1.5 hours but is entirely worthwhile.
Todgha Gorge
Further east near Tinghir, the Todgha Gorge is one of Morocco great natural wonders. The road enters a narrow slot canyon with walls rising to 300 metres on either side, with a shallow river running between them. Rock climbers come from around the world to scale these walls. Even a short walk into the gorge is dramatic.
Practical Information
- Road quality: Excellent on the N9 and N10 national routes; rougher on mountain detours. A standard saloon car is fine for the main itinerary.
- Fuel: Fill up in Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and Boumalne Dades — stations become infrequent further east.
- Accommodation: Ouarzazate and Boumalne Dades have good mid-range hotels; book ahead in spring.
This route connects seamlessly with the full Marrakech to Sahara road trip. For advice on driving safely in Morocco, read our Morocco driving tips guide. To book your vehicle, search available cars at OunizZ Cars.
