Atlas & Ounila Valley

The road from Marrakech into the High Atlas delivers one of Morocco’s most dramatic motorcycle journeys. From the busy streets of Marrakech, the route climbs rapidly into the mountains before crossing the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass and descending into the remote landscapes of the Ounila Valley. The combination of altitude, changing terrain and remote mountain roads gives the route a character that changes constantly throughout the ride.

What makes this route special is the incredible change in scenery. The journey begins in the dry plains around Marrakech before climbing through increasingly rugged mountain terrain. At Tizi n’Tichka, the road reaches its highest point before the landscape changes again as the route enters the Ounila Valley. The contrast between the high Atlas and the arid landscapes beyond is one of the defining features of the ride.

Here, the riding becomes more intimate. The road winds between dramatic red rock formations, traditional villages and ancient kasbahs, with the landscape constantly changing around every bend. Traffic is considerably lighter than on the main N9, giving the route a much stronger sense of remoteness and making the smaller roads through the valley particularly rewarding on a motorcycle.

The journey eventually reaches Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most recognisable kasbahs and the perfect visual highlight of the ride. From here, the landscape gradually opens towards Ouarzazate and the edge of the Sahara. This isn’t simply a ride between two Moroccan cities; it is a journey through several completely different landscapes, connected by some of the most memorable roads in the High Atlas.

Conditions can change considerably between Marrakech and the High Atlas, particularly around Tizi n’Tichka, where temperatures are significantly lower than on the plains and weather can change quickly. The main N9 is generally well travelled, while the Ounila Valley section is narrower and can include rough surfaces, potholes and occasional unpaved sections depending on current conditions. Traffic is lighter through the valley, but riders should allow extra time for slower sections. Fuel and services become less frequent away from Marrakech and the main towns, so starting with a full tank is recommended.

The Ride Beyond route begins in Marrakech, leaving the city behind as the road heads south towards the High Atlas. The dry plains gradually give way to increasingly rugged mountain terrain, with the road climbing steadily towards Tizi n’Tichka. The pass marks the highest point of the journey and provides a clear transition between the northern and southern sides of the Atlas.

After crossing Tizi n’Tichka, the route descends into a dramatically different landscape. The mountains become drier and more rugged as the road heads towards the Ounila Valley, where the character of the ride changes from a major mountain crossing to a more intimate journey through remote terrain. The road winds between red rock formations, traditional villages and ancient kasbahs, with the narrower roads demanding a more measured pace.

The defining landmark of this section is Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages. After passing this spectacular kasbah, the route continues towards Ouarzazate, with the landscape gradually opening into the broad, arid terrain of southern Morocco. The contrast between the Atlas mountains and the dry landscapes around Ouarzazate creates a natural finale to the journey.

Take your time through the Ounila Valley. The most memorable parts of this route are not necessarily the fastest or highest sections, but the moments when the road disappears between the mountains and the landscape takes over.