Driving the Ait Qalla Track to Tizi n’Merekse: A hidden detour in the Anti-Atlas
Deep in the rugged landscapes of the Souss-Massa region, the Tizi n’Merekse is a high-altitude mountain pass that reaches 2,352m (7,716ft) above sea level. While it may be a short detour, it offers some of the most dramatic views of the Anti-Atlas range, far from the typical tourist routes of Morocco.
The pass is accessed via the Ait Qalla Track, a raw and unpaved mountain trail that demands a 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance. The terrain here is typical of the Moroccan high desert: a mix of loose gravel, red dust, and sharp stones that can easily damage standard tires. Despite its short length, the environment is harsh and isolated, requiring drivers to be self-sufficient and prepared for the elements.
| Road facts: Tizi n’Merekse | |
|---|---|
| Location | Souss-Massa, Morocco |
| Elevation | 2,352 m (7,716 ft) |
| Starting Point | Tizi n'Tmourhas (R112 Road) |
| Distance | 1.9 km (1.18 miles) |
| Max Gradient | 7% |
How to reach the summit of Tizi n’Merekse?
The climb to Tizi n’Merekse starts at another high point, the Tizi n'Tmourhas, located on the notoriously difficult R112 Road. The R112 is already a challenge for most drivers, but the Ait Qalla Track takes the adventure a step further. From the main road, the ascent is a short 1.9 km (1.18 miles) trek to the summit.
Although the road is mostly straight without complex switchbacks, do not underestimate the climb. The track features several steep ramps where the gradient hits 7%. At an altitude of over 2,300 meters, engines can struggle with the thin air, and the lack of traction on the loose unpaved surface means you will need to engage 4WD to ensure a steady ascent without spinning tires.
Driving conditions and safety in the Anti-Atlas
The Tizi n’Merekse is located in a very dry and exposed part of the mountains. In the summer, the heat is intense and there is absolutely no shade along the track. Because this is a secondary trail branching off an already remote road, traffic is almost non-existent. If you run into mechanical trouble, you could be waiting a long time for help to arrive.
Before attempting the Ait Qalla Track, ensure your vehicle is in top condition and you have plenty of water. The rewards for the short climb are the panoramic views of the scorched valleys below, offering a perspective of the Anti-Atlas that few travelers ever get to see. It is a perfect addition for overlanders already navigating the challenging R112 who want to tag another high-altitude pass on their journey through Morocco.