High Altitude Track from Tazeguezaoute: Climbing the three passes of Al Haouz
Located in the Al Haouz Province of the Marrakesh-Safi region, this extreme mountain track is one of the highest sustained driving experiences in Morocco. The road remains entirely above 2,000 meters, climbing through three massive passes before ending abruptly near the village of Ikiss. It's one of the highest roads in the country.
| Road facts: Tazeguezaoute to Ikiss Track | |
|---|---|
| Location | Al Haouz, Morocco |
| Length | 18.2 km (11.3 miles) |
| Max Elevation | 2,750 m (9,022 ft) at Tizi n’Teddi |
| Hairpin Turns | 31 |
| Status | Dead-end (Does not reach Ikiss) |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel |
Where does this High Atlas track lead?
The journey begins in Tazeguezaoute and covers 18.2 km of high-altitude terrain. The road is a challenging ascent that climbs steadily, but drivers should be aware that it is a dead-end route. Although it gets very close to the village of Ikiss, the drivable track stops before reaching the settlement, requiring travelers to turn back and retrace their steps.
Crossing the three High Atlas passes
Despite being a dead-end, the road is spectacular as it summits three major high points: Tizi-n-Fiddi (2,225m), the towering Tizi n’Teddi (2,750m), and finally Tizi Arhbar (2,658m). The entire 18.2 km stretch is maintained above 2,000 meters, offering thin air and permanent mountain vistas.
Driving difficulty and technical data
The road features 31 sharp hairpin turns that are necessary to overcome the steep gradients of the High Atlas. The surface is completely unpaved, with rocky sections and loose gravel. Between Tizi-n-Fiddi and Tizi n’Teddi, the average gradient is 6.07%, but certain ramps are much steeper. Due to the altitude and technical switchbacks, a high-clearance 4x4 is essential.
What are the main hazards?
Isolation is the biggest risk. There is no mobile coverage and the road is far from any major medical facilities. The high elevation means snow can block the route for several months a year. Additionally, summer thunderstorms can quickly wash out sections of the gravel track, making the 31 hairpins extremely dangerous and potentially leaving drivers stranded at the end of the road.
Why visit this remote area of Al Haouz?
For those looking for a pure off-road adventure without the traffic of the Tizi n'Tichka, this unnamed track is a hidden treasure. It offers a rare opportunity to drive above 2,000 meters for nearly 20 kilometers, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Berber highlands and the dramatic peaks of the Marrakesh-Safi region.Ç
Pic: Ashil AMELLOUK