Marrakech → Ouarzazate over the Tizi n'Tichka
About 200 km and 4 hours of driving with breaks. The Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m) is fully paved but winding, with lorries: set off early, drive in daylight and fill up in Marrakech. In winter, snow can close the pass for a few hours: check the weather.
Around Ouarzazate by car
- Aït Ben Haddou (30 km): a UNESCO-listed ksar, best visited early in the morning.
- The Dades Gorges (120 km, 2 h): the famous winding road.
- Zagora and the Draa Valley (165 km): palm groves and kasbahs.
- For the tracks towards M'Hamid or the Saghro, a real 4x4 and suitable insurance are needed.
Which car to rent for the south?
A diesel Dacia Duster is the best compromise: higher, comfortable on long stages and economical. Take unlimited mileage and, for a week, benefit from the long-term discount.
Our tips for driving in Ouarzazate
- Aït Ben Haddou is 30 minutes away: visit it early in the morning, before the groups.
- The Dades Gorges have many tight bends: drive at a moderate speed.
- Take water and check the spare wheel before long stages.
Aït Ben Haddou30 km · 30 min
Dades Gorges120 km · 2 h
Zagora165 km · 2 h 45
Marrakech200 km · 4 h