The most beautiful roads from Marrakech
Tizi n’Tichka pass, the Ouirgane road, the Ourika valley, the road to Essaouira: our favourite routes for a great road trip.
Morocco is a country of spectacular roads, and Marrakech is the perfect starting point. Here are four routes we recommend to our guests.
The Tizi n’Tichka pass
The great crossing of the High Atlas towards Ouarzazate, with a pass at over 2,200 metres. Hairpin bends, earthen villages and vast views. Allow about 4 hours to Aït Ben Haddou: ideally, stay the night.
The Asni and Ouirgane road
Shorter and quieter, it climbs into the foothills of Toubkal through orchards and river valleys. Perfect for a nature day with lunch in a mountain inn.
The Ourika valley
A road that follows the river up to Setti Fatma, lined with cafés and small suspension bridges. Avoid Sundays if you can, it gets busy.
The road to Essaouira
A long drive across the plains and argan trees, all the way to the ocean. Stop at an argan oil cooperative along the way.
Before you go
- In the mountains, drive at your own pace and give a light toot of the horn before blind bends.
- Avoid driving mountain roads at night.
- In winter, check the weather: the Tichka pass can close when it snows.
For the rules of the road, see our guide driving in Morocco as a visitor.