Road to Lac d’Isli: Driving the 2,313m High Mountain Track in Morocco
Located in the Midelt Province of central Morocco, Lac d’Isli is a high-altitude crater lake situated at 2,313m (7,588ft) above sea level. Located within the Haut Atlas Oriental National Park, the access route is a technical unpaved track that requires specific vehicle preparation due to the high-mountain desert environment of the High Atlas.
| Road facts: Lac d’Isli | |
|---|---|
| Location | Midelt Province, Morocco |
| Elevation | 2,313 m (7,588 ft) |
| Length | 9.6 km (5.96 miles) from R317 |
| Surface | Unpaved / Shale and loose rock |
| Vehicle Requirement | 4x4 with high clearance |
How is the road to Lac d’Isli?
The track to Lac d’Isli starts from the R317 near Lac de Tislit and covers 9.6 km (5.96 miles). It is a completely unpaved route consisting of hard-packed dirt and sharp shale. While it doesn't have extreme mountain passes, the terrain is rough. You need a 4x4 with good ground clearance because the track often has deep ruts caused by water runoff. The surface is abrasive, so tires must be in good condition to handle the sharp stones typical of this part of the High Atlas.
What are the main hazards on the Lac d’Isli track?
The biggest risks on the Lac d’Isli route are erosion and isolation. At 2,313m, a storm can wash out parts of the track in minutes, leaving deep gullies. There are no guardrails, and the loose gravel on the edges can be unstable if you get too close. You’ll also find nomadic livestock on the road, so keep the speed down. There is zero mobile coverage out there; if you have a mechanical failure, you are on your own, so don't go without basic recovery gear.
Is the road to Lac d’Isli open during the winter?
No, the track to Lac d’Isli is often blocked by snow from December to March. Even when the sun is out, ice stays in the ruts for a long time due to the altitude. In summer, the problem is the dust and the heat, which can stress the engine during the climb. There are no fuel stations or mechanics on these 9.6 km, so make sure your tank is full and your cooling system is working perfectly before leaving the main road at Imilchil.
How to drive the 9.6 km track to Lac d’Isli?
When driving to Lac d’Isli, watch your tire pressure; the shale is sharp and can cause punctures easily. Use low gears on the loose sections to keep steady torque without spinning the wheels. On the way back, use engine braking to control the vehicle on the gravel slopes. Stay strictly on the established track; the soil near the lake can be soft and it’s easy to get the vehicle bogged down in the sediment if you wander off the main path.
Pic&video: Hafid Tours