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Tizi n Tichka: Guide to the Tizi n Tichka Drive

Besides Tizi n Test, Tizi n Tichka is a direct route that links Marrakech to the pre-Sahara oases. Built by the French in 1936, it is more modern, well constructed and the safer option of the two. The views, however, are still stunning: the road winds its way up the Atlas Mountains, through verdant foothills and villages perched precariously on the edge of deep chasms, to the highest point in the road at the Tizi n Tichka pass (2260 metres). You then make your descent towards Ouarzazate, through the barren peaks of the Atlas and the arid regions of the pre-Sahara.

The Road to Ouarzazate

For the Tizi n Tichka route, take the Fez road out of Marrakech and take a right turn to the N9 Marrakech to Ouarzazate road. You should pace yourself as the main views between Marrakech and the pass are on the switchback of turns along the road.

At 36 kilometres of Marrakech, the road crosses the Oued Zat (Zat River) at Ait Ourir. The village has a hotel of long standing, le Coq Hardi, set in gardens besides the river. There is a bar, restaurant and swimming pool but the hotel is used by tour groups so book in advance for a room. There is also a lovely gite d’etape deep in the Valley of Oued Zat – a five hour walk from the pass.

Soon after Ait Ourir, the road climbs towards Taddert, the last significant village before the pass. Around here, you can enjoy wonderful views and a beautiful mountain stream, walnut groves and oak trees. If you stop here, there are cafes and eateries in upper-Taddert and the nearby village of Tamguememt, just above the stream, makes for a pleasant walk.

A few kilometres after the Tizi n Tichka pass is a sharp left turn into a paved road which takes you to Kasbah Telouet. This is one of the most extraordinary sights of the Atlas – left in ruins; yet open to visit and giving a unique glimpse into the melodrama and style of twentieth-century Moroccan politics.

The road from the Tizi n Tchika pass will bring you to Ouarzazate or Ait Benhaddou in a couple of hours, but there is little to detain you in route. The most interesting stop is Ighrem, 10 kilometres south of the pass, with a fine and well constructed granary to visit. The village has a small hotel, Chez Mimi.