Atlas mountains tours
Most journeys south from Marrakech cross the High Atlas over the Tizi n’Tichka pass, then follow the kasbah valleys towards the Sahara. These routes take two days or more.
Every route below is run privately: one vehicle, one driver-guide, no shared departures. Durations are a starting point — we lengthen or shorten a route to fit your dates.
The classic route across the High Atlas
From Marrakech the road climbs over the Tizi n’Tichka pass, drops to Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, then runs east through the Dades and Todra gorges to the dunes of Erg Chebbi at Merzouga — around 560 km in all. Read the route stop by stop in Marrakech to Merzouga by road.
Highlights on the way
- Aït Ben Haddou, the UNESCO-listed earthen ksar.
- Ouarzazate, its kasbahs and film studios.
- The Dades valley and the Todra gorge.
- A night in the Sahara at the end of the road.
Tours across the Atlas
Our 3 Days Marrakech to Merzouga: Sahara Desert and High Atlas Mountains is the shortest version of this route; longer itineraries are listed under Sahara desert tours. Every route is private and can be adapted to your dates on our tailor-made tours page.
Shorter visits and walking
If you only have a day, see Atlas Mountains day trips (the Ourika Valley and Imlil). For hiking, see trekking & hiking.
Atlas Mountains tours: quick answers
Is the Tizi n’Tichka road difficult?
It is a good road but slow and winding: allow more time than the distance suggests and avoid driving it after dark.
How many days do I need to cross the Atlas to the Sahara?
At least three days from Marrakech for Merzouga; more if you want to stop longer on the way.
Related topics
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