The Road That Touches the Sky
The Tizi n’Tichka Pass road trip is one of Morocco’s most spectacular drives. Winding through the High Atlas Mountains, this route connects Marrakech to Ouarzazate and offers stunning views, hairpin turns, and charming roadside stops.
It’s not just a road—it’s an experience.
👉 Click Here to explore hotels and guesthouses along the Tizi n’Tichka route.
A Journey from City to Mountains
Your journey typically starts in Marrakech, a buzzing city full of colours and chaos. As you head southeast, the landscape quickly changes—palms turn into pine trees, flat plains rise into towering mountains, and the temperature cools with each curve.
As you climb above 2,260 metres, the road twists dramatically. Take your time. It’s a drive to enjoy, not rush.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
The Tizi n’Tichka Pass road trip is about more than just the destination. It’s about stopping to take in the landscape, meet locals, and discover small gems hidden along the way.
Look out for:
- Berber villages with traditional clay homes
- Argan oil cooperatives – great for gifts and supporting local women
- Roadside cafés – perfect for tea with a view
- Panoramic viewpoints – don’t forget your camera!
👉 Click Here for scenic stays close to Berber villages and mountain cafés.
Nature, History, and Culture in One Route
Driving the Tizi n’Tichka route is a lesson in geography. You’ll move from the lush north to the arid south, all within a few hours. Each bend shows off Morocco’s natural diversity—from pine forests and rocky cliffs to river valleys and dusty plains.
This road also carries history. It was built by the French in the 1930s and remains a key route linking Morocco’s north and south. Many traders and nomads once used this same path to cross the mountains.
Ouarzazate – The Gateway to the Desert
Once you descend from the pass, you’ll reach Ouarzazate, a quiet city famous for film studios and ancient kasbahs. It’s the ideal stop before continuing to the desert or exploring more of the southern oases.
Things to do in Ouarzazate:
- Visit the Aït Benhaddou kasbah
- Explore local film sets used in famous movies
- Shop in relaxed souks with mountain-made crafts
👉 Click Here to stay near the ancient kasbahs or film studios.
Practical Tips for Driving Tizi n’Tichka
- Best time to drive: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
- Road condition: Paved but narrow and winding—go slow, especially on bends
- Vehicle: A standard car is fine, but a 4×4 offers better comfort on longer trips
- Driving time: Around 4 hours from Marrakech to Ouarzazate without stops
- Weather: Snow is possible in winter—check conditions beforehand
The Tizi n’Tichka Pass road trip is a favourite for adventure seekers, photographers, and those who want to see a different side of Morocco.
