Tizi n'Tichka Pass Marrakesh
A dramatic mountain pass in the Grand Atlas, connecting Marrakech to Ouarzazate with stunning vistas and winding roads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Tizi n'Tichka Pass Marrakesh
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic mountain pass in the Grand Atlas, connecting Marrakech to Ouarzazate with stunning vistas and winding roads.
"Breathtaking views and an exhilarating drive through the heart of the Atlas Mountains."
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is winding and can be challenging. Drive carefully, especially in adverse weather.
💰 Carry Cash
Essential for small purchases, vendors, and restrooms.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Throughout the pass
Experience breathtaking vistas of the Grand Atlas Mountains, dramatic cliffside roads, and rugged landscapes.
+1
Summit Photo Opportunity
Top of the pass
Stop at the highest point for a photo with the iconic sign and enjoy the expansive views.
Local Artisan Stalls
Along the pass and at the summit
Browse unique souvenirs and interact with local vendors offering handmade crafts and goods.
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & Timing
Cash is King
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is winding and can be challenging. Drive carefully, especially in adverse weather. +1
💰 Carry Cash
Essential for small purchases, vendors, and restrooms. +1
☕ Stop for Tea
Embrace the local culture with impromptu tea breaks along the journey.
📸 Explore Beyond the Summit
The old road P1506 offers beautiful villages and photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is winding and can be challenging. Drive carefully, especially in adverse weather. +1
💰 Carry Cash
Essential for small purchases, vendors, and restrooms. +1
☕ Stop for Tea
Embrace the local culture with impromptu tea breaks along the journey.
📸 Explore Beyond the Summit
The old road P1506 offers beautiful villages and photo opportunities.
📱 Check Road Status
Especially in winter, verify if the pass is open before you travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers praise the Tizi n'Tichka Pass for its spectacular mountain scenery and the exhilarating driving experience. The upgraded roads have made it much safer, though occasional weather disruptions can occur. Many enjoy the cultural interactions at local stalls and the opportunity to stop for tea. +1
"There was a snowstorm on the mountain road. I think it was the first snowstorm in 20 years. The view is beautiful but the roads are very dangerous. We were stranded on the road for about 3 hours. 30 January 2025"
Berkan Özkırım
"This is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. The road was constructed along the old caravan trail by the French military in 1936. There are some little shops and W/C at the top which you can buy some nice souvenirs.
It has been believed for a long time that it reaches an elevation of 2,260 metres (7,415 ft) above the sea level (this is also indicated on a sign at the top of the pass), but a gps-measurement by Hans Mülder on 30 November 2022 indicated it is only 2,205 metres (7,234 ft) high, which was confirmed by Google Earth, on which the highest altitude of the pass is 2,207 metres (7,241 ft)."
M E Lesteri
"Scenic route through the Atlas. Been there on end of December with a perfect weather (sunny, dry, blue sky). Very good roads and little traffic, as the off season and (as told by locals) less tourists than normally @ that time of the year."
Radek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic route is via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, offering dramatic mountain views. However, it's longer and can be challenging. An alternative is the faster route via Chichaoua. Consider your priorities: breathtaking scenery or a quicker journey. +1
The road has been significantly upgraded, making it much safer than in the past. However, it remains a mountain pass with winding roads, so caution is advised, especially in winter or during bad weather.
The drive over the pass itself can take around 2-3 hours, depending on stops and road conditions. The total journey from Marrakech to Ouarzazate via the pass is approximately 6 hours.
Yes, bus trips between Marrakech and Ouarzazate often go through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, offering a way to experience the landscapes without driving.
The road is generally well-maintained and paved, especially after recent upgrades. However, sections might be under renovation, and winter conditions can lead to snow and ice. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entry fees required to drive through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. It's a public road.
There are no tolls on the Tizi n'Tichka Pass itself. Tolls may apply on other sections of the highway system in Morocco.
The pass is generally open 24/7, but it can be temporarily closed due to severe weather conditions like snowstorms. It's advisable to check local conditions.
There is no entrance fee for the summit area. You can stop freely to take photos and enjoy the views.
Yes, a regular car is suitable for driving the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, as the road is paved. However, a 4x4 might offer more comfort and capability if you plan to explore off the main route.
📸 📸 Photography
Pull-off points along the pass offer stunning panoramic views. The summit itself is a popular spot, and the old road P1506 after the pass reveals charming villages.
Designated parking areas and wider shoulders are available at various points for safe stops. Be mindful of traffic when pulling over.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography.
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in more remote villages. Respect their privacy.
The sign at the summit indicating the altitude is a classic photo opportunity. The winding road itself, with the mountains as a backdrop, is also very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility. While the main road is well-maintained, exploring the old P1506 road after the pass can lead to charming villages and unique photo opportunities. Remember to pack snacks and be open to spontaneous stops for tea with locals – it's all part of the Moroccan road trip adventure!
📸 Photographers
+1Key spots include the summit for iconic photos with the altitude sign, and numerous pull-off points that reveal sweeping vistas. Don't overlook the old road P1506, which leads through traditional villages that offer a more intimate glimpse into local life and architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Atlas Mountains
Travelers often describe the drive as dramatic, with steep inclines, sharp curves, and sheer drops. While modern road improvements have made it far safer than its historical reputation suggests, unexpected conditions like snowstorms can still occur, leading to temporary closures or delays.
Beyond the immediate pass, the surrounding areas offer further exploration. The old road, P1506, is particularly recommended for those seeking to discover traditional Arab villages and capture unique photographic moments.
+1Traveler Experiences and Safety
However, some accounts also point to potential challenges. While the road is generally good, past renovations have caused disruptions, and unexpected weather events like snowstorms can create hazardous conditions, leading to significant delays.
Regarding safety, while the pass itself is now considered safe with proper driving, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Some travelers have noted that the initial arrival in Marrakech can be overwhelming with persistent touts, but this is generally not an issue once you are on the open road of the pass.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit