Marrakech to Ouarzazate by Car: Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Marrakech to Ouarzazate by car is about 195 km on the N9 and takes 4 hours, because the road climbs over the Tizi n’Tichka pass at 2,260 m in the High Atlas. It is one of the most beautiful drives in Morocco and it is entirely on tarmac, so a normal car does it; a higher car like the Dacia Duster is simply more comfortable. Here is how to plan the crossing, where to stop, and what to know about the pass in winter.

The route at a glance

Step by step

1. Marrakech to Aït Ourir (35 km, 45 min): leave by the Ouarzazate road (route de Ouarzazate, N9). Dense traffic for the first 15 km, then farmland. Last big fuel stations before the mountains.
2. Aït Ourir to Taddert (50 km, 1h): the road enters the valley and starts to climb. Taddert is the traditional stop, with cafés and tagines on the roadside.
3. Taddert to the Tizi n’Tichka pass (25 km, 45 min): the hairpins begin. Use second and third gear, do not overtake in bends, let the trucks and buses pass on the straight sections. Viewpoints at the top; it can be cold and windy even in summer.
4. The pass to Ouarzazate (85 km, 1h30): long descent in low gear to spare the brakes, then the pre-Saharan plateau opens. The turn-off for Aït Benhaddou (P1506) is about 20 km before Ouarzazate.

Stops worth the time

• Aït Benhaddou, the fortified village used in Gladiator and Game of Thrones, 30 km before Ouarzazate. Allow 1h30 and park in the guarded car park by the river.
• Telouet kasbah, 20 km off the N9 just after the pass, on a narrower road; the painted ceilings are worth the detour if you have a full day.
• Atlas Studios at the entrance of Ouarzazate, for the film sets.

Winter and the pass

From December to February the Tizi n’Tichka can see snow. The road is cleared quickly but may close for a few hours during a storm; the gendarmerie posts at Taddert and on the southern side turn cars back when it is closed. Check the weather the evening before, leave early, keep a warm layer in the car, and never attempt the pass at night in winter. In summer the only issue is heat on the Ouarzazate side: carry water.

Beyond Ouarzazate

From Ouarzazate, the Draa valley road (N9) reaches Zagora in 160 km and the Dades valley road (N10) reaches Boumalne Dades in 120 km, then Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes in another 350 km. All of it is tarmac. A three-day loop Marrakech, Aït Benhaddou, Dades, Merzouga and back is the classic reason to rent a car in Marrakech rather than join a tour; 200 km per day are included in our rentals, so plan the total distance and tell us if you need more.

Practical

• Speed limits: 60 km/h in villages, 100 km/h elsewhere; radars on the flat sections near Marrakech.
• Police and gendarmerie checkpoints at Aït Ourir, near the pass and at the entrance of Ouarzazate. Licence and contract at hand.
• Parking in Ouarzazate is easy and cheap around the kasbah of Taourirt and the main avenue.
• Return in Marrakech or at Menara Airport is free; one-way to Agadir, Casablanca or Essaouira costs €90. Conditions on the rental conditions page.

Other road trips from Marrakech: Marrakech to Essaouira, Marrakech to Agadir, Marrakech to Casablanca.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Ouarzazate?

About 4 hours for 195 km, because of the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Count 5 to 6 hours with a stop at Aït Benhaddou.

Is the Tizi n’Tichka road dangerous?

No, if you drive it in daylight, in low gear downhill and without overtaking in bends. The road has been widened and is in good condition. Snow can close it for a few hours in winter.

Do I need a 4×4 to go to Ouarzazate?

No. The N9 is tarmac from end to end. A Duster is more comfortable but a Clio or Logan crosses the pass without problem.

Can I do Marrakech to Ouarzazate and back in one day?

It is possible (8 hours of driving) but tiring. One night in Ouarzazate or Aït Benhaddou makes a far better trip.