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Drive from Marrakech over the High Atlas to UNESCO kasbahs, cinematic gorges, and the Saharan dunes of Erg Chebbi on this 10-day self-drive loop through southern Morocco.
RoutebookA 10-day self-drive loop that shows why southern Morocco is one of the world's most rewarding driving destinations. Leave Marrakech heading south over the Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass, the highest paved road in Morocco at 2,260 metres, and descend into the pre-Saharan plains where earthen kasbahs rise from the red earth. The UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the film-set city of Ouarzazate mark the transition from mountain to desert country. East of Ouarzazate, the Dades and Todra Gorges slice through limestone massifs with walls reaching 300 metres. The road then crosses a broad hammada to reach Merzouga and Erg Chebbi, where dunes rise to 150 metres and nights in a desert camp are memorably still. The return leg cuts north through the Middle Atlas to Midelt before dropping back into Marrakech.
Best time: March to May, October to November
7 overnight bases · 1 stop on the way
On the way
Viewpoint
Tizi n'Tichka Mountain Pass
Morocco's highest paved road at 2,260 metres, crossing the High Atlas with vertiginous views of Berber villages and terraced valleys on both sides of the watershed.
Activity
Sunset Camel Trek on Erg Chebbi
Ride into the 150-metre dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun sets, watching the sand shift through amber, red, and violet before arriving at a tented desert camp.
Where to stay
Overnight in a Desert Camp
Sleep in a traditional Berber tent at the heart of Erg Chebbi, far from light pollution. Berber music around the fire, absolute silence at night, and a camel ride back at dawn.
Culture
Djemaa el-Fna Square, Marrakech
A UNESCO Intangible Heritage site that transforms at dusk into a sprawling open-air theatre of food stalls, storytellers, acrobats, and musicians.
Culture
Atlas Film Studios, Ouarzazate
Africa's largest film studio complex, used for Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and dozens more productions. A fascinating stop even for non-film buffs.
Scenic Drive
Todra and Dades Gorges
Two dramatic canyon systems within 43 km of each other: the red rock hairpins of Dades and the towering 300-metre limestone walls of Todra, each a geological spectacle.
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