ToursThe Atlas Mountains of Morocco
A guide to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco: the High Atlas, the Tizi n'Tichka pass, Berber villages, and crossing them on the way to the Sahara desert.
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The Atlas Mountains run for some 2,500 km across Morocco, dividing the Atlantic plains from the Sahara. Every desert tour from Marrakech crosses the High Atlas — the highest range — over the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka pass at 2,260 metres.
Crossing the High Atlas
The Tizi n'Tichka road climbs in dramatic switchbacks past Berber villages clinging to the hillsides, walnut and almond groves, and viewpoints over deep valleys. It's one of the great drives in Morocco and the gateway from Marrakech to the south.
Berber villages & culture
The Atlas is the heartland of Morocco's Berber (Amazigh) people. Our guides are themselves Berber, and on the way you'll see traditional villages, terraced fields and kasbahs that have changed little in centuries.
When you'll cross them
Every Marrakech to Merzouga tour crosses the High Atlas on day one; the Fes route crosses the Middle Atlas instead.
Frequently asked questions
How high is the Tizi n'Tichka pass?
About 2,260 metres — the main road pass through the High Atlas.
Do desert tours cross the Atlas Mountains?
Yes — every Marrakech desert tour crosses the High Atlas; Fes tours cross the Middle Atlas.
Can you see snow in the Atlas?
Yes, the high peaks are snow-capped in winter and spring.
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