Is the road to Gara Medouar paved?
Morocco, africa
3.2 km
858 m
hard
Year-round
Ready for a real adventure? Head out into the Moroccan desert near Erfoud and find the turnoff to Gara Medouar, or "the round mountain." But be warned, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The 3.2 km road is completely unpaved, so you'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle.
Gara Medouar is an impressive erosion cirque, standing at 858m. In fact, this geological wonder is so unique that it's been used in several movies, most famously as the headquarters of Spectre in the James Bond film Spectre. Other films shot here include The Mummy, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and The Forgiven. Historically, it even served as a holding place for slaves.
The landscape is gorgeous, with smaller mountains, trees, and rugged cliffs inside the main circle. And if you're a fossil fan, keep your eyes peeled for trilobites and ammonites! The journey to this horseshoe-shaped site is as rewarding as the destination itself.
Road Details
- Country
- Morocco
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 3.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 858 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in africa
hardTizi n’Tamazrt
🇲🇦 Morocco
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're in central Morocco's Drâa-Tafilalet region and craving a seriously epic drive, Tizi n’Tamazrt is calling your name. This high mountain pass tops out at a whopping 9,498 feet, making it one of the highest roads in the whole country! Now, fair warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road is gravel, winding through the remote high plains between the Middle and High Atlas ranges. We're talking menacing desert terrain, steep rocky climbs, and a complex network of poorly-defined roads that'll test your navigation skills. A 4x4 isn't just recommended – it's essential. You'll want high clearance, skid plates, and differential lockers to handle those large, sharp rocks that are just begging to shred your tires. But, oh, the scenery! Jaw-dropping vistas abound. Just be prepared for the isolation. Cell service is spotty, and you won't see many other travelers. Pack plenty of water (it gets HOT in the summer!), and whatever you do, don't tackle this trail solo. Trust me, the unforgettable views from the summit (reaching almost 9,600 feet shortly before the pass) are worth the extra effort and planning!
moderateDriving to Ras Dashen: One of the Highest Roads in Africa
🇪🇹 Ethiopia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to Ethiopia's Amhara Region, specifically the North Gondar Zone, you NEED to experience Ras Dashen (also known as Ras Dejen or Ras Dashan). This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking about one of the highest roads in all of Africa, topping out at a whopping 4,277 meters (that's 14,032 feet for my American friends!). Snuggled within the stunning Simien Mountains National Park in the northern part of the country, this unpaved beauty stretches for about 33.4 km (20.75 miles) from Chiro Leba to Dilibza (Dil Yibza). You'll definitely want to bring your 4x4 for this one. Fair warning: winter can be brutal up here. The road is often impassable and those Simien Mountains can get some serious snowfall at night. But hey, the views? Totally worth it for those who dare!
hardDriving the Historic Route B30 through the Simien Mountains
🇪🇹 Ethiopia
Hey adventure seekers! Get ready to rumble on Route B30, a wild ride snaking through the epic Simien Mountains of northern Ethiopia. This isn't just a road; it's a historical journey forged largely by the Italians back in the day, connecting Gondar (Amhara Region) and Adwa (Tigray Region). Clocking in at around 361 km (224 miles), this route serves up a mixed bag of smooth paved sections and raw, unpaved stretches that'll keep you on your toes. Keep an eye out for those steep inclines and hairpin turns – this road demands respect. Weather can be a real wildcard, especially when the rains come, so plan accordingly! You'll be climbing high, folks, hitting elevations between 1,800 to 3,000 meters, with the Wolkefit Pass topping out at 2,905 m (9,530 ft). Don't be surprised if your engine feels a little sluggish up here in the thin air. As you roll along, you'll pass through cool towns like Debark and Adi Arkay, and have the chance to explore hidden villages, historical spots, and cultural treasures. Aim for the dry season (October to March) for the best driving conditions. Word to the wise: a 4x4 is your best bet for tackling the rugged terrain with confidence and ease!
hardTizi n'Taghatine
🇲🇦 Morocco
Okay, wanderlusters, buckle up for Tizi-n-Taghatine, a crazy-beautiful mountain pass nestled way up in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains! We're talking Taroudant Province, Souss-Massa region. Get ready to climb to 1,886 meters (that's 6,187 feet!) above sea level. The road, also called Tizi n'Taratine, is mostly paved (thank goodness!), but hold on tight — it's seriously steep in places. You'll be cruising along the N-10, so keep an eye out for that. Trust me, though, the views are totally worth any white-knuckle moments. Just imagine: epic mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see!