R706: Driving from Bou Azmou to Outerbat via Tizi n’ Tgourt

The R706 is a high mountain road located in the Midelt Province of central Morocco. This 16 km stretch connects the towns of Bou Azmou and Outerbat, crossing the Atlas Mountains through two distinct high-altitude passes: Tizi n’ Tgourt n’Aït Haddou Ou Amer and Tizi n’Ilahiane. It is a technical asphalt route that demands constant attention due to its elevation and steep gradients.

Road facts: R706 (Bou Azmou to Outerbat)
Location	Midelt Province, Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Max Elevation	2,415 m (7,923 ft)
Length	16 km (9.9 miles)
Passes	Tizi n’ Tgourt & Tizi n’Ilahiane

Where are Tizi n’ Tgourt and Tizi n’Ilahiane located?

The R706 runs west-east through a high-altitude plateau in the central Atlas range. The highest point of the journey is Tizi n’ Tgourt n’Aït Haddou Ou Amer at 2,415m above sea level. Further along the same 16 km section, the road crosses Tizi n’Ilahiane at 2,300m. The landscape is sparse, dominated by high-altitude vegetation and acacia trees, with no services available between the two towns.

Is the R706 road to Tizi n’ Tgourt paved?

Yes, the R706 is fully asphalted, but the surface quality can be deceptive. While the road follows a mostly straight line across the plateau, it includes very steep sections that put heavy stress on the engine. The asphalt is often narrow, and the edges are unprotected, leading directly to dangerous drops. High-altitude winds and winter frost frequently damage the pavement, creating unexpected potholes that are difficult to see in low visibility.

How dangerous is driving the R706 at night?

Driving the R706 between Bou Azmou and Outerbat at night or in poor weather is not recommended. The combination of steep ramps and the total lack of road lighting makes it impossible to judge the depth of the drops or the presence of debris on the asphalt. Furthermore, the thin air at 2,415m can cause sudden mechanical fatigue or overheating if the vehicle is pushed too hard on the climbs.
Pic: Ahmed OUSSOU