Is the road to Tizi Bou Taouelt unpaved?

Is the road to Tizi Bou Taouelt unpaved?

Morocco, africa

Length

17.6 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Cruising through Morocco's Midelt Province? You've GOT to check out Tizi Bou Taouelt!

This high-altitude pass, nestled in the Drâa-Tafilalet region, is a seriously cool rural shortcut through the eastern High Atlas mountains.

Okay, so the P7318 isn't exactly paved – think 17.6 km (or about 11 miles) of pure, unadulterated gravel. But hey, that's part of the adventure, right? Generally, most cars can handle it in dry weather, and the hills aren't too crazy steep – topping out at around 6%. Just keep in mind this baby is sensitive to the seasons.

You'll be cruising between the tiny villages of Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef and Tounfit, making your way from the river valleys to those classic Midelt plateaus. Pro tip: give yourself extra time, because that gravel and those winding bends mean you won't be speeding.

Word of warning: rain can turn this track into a mud pit real quick, so maybe think twice if the weather's looking iffy and you aren't in a 4x4. And winter? Snow's a definite possibility up here around 2,100 meters. It's a remote spot, so fill up the tank and bring plenty of water!

But the VIEWS! Absolutely unreal. You'll be gawking at the snow-capped peaks to the south (seriously, they sometimes stick around 'til spring!). It's all rocky hills, sparse plants, and the occasional nomad camp. This isn't your typical tourist trap – it's a peaceful escape into the real, raw beauty of the High Atlas. The summit? Just you, the wide-open horizon, and the sound of silence. Trust me; it's epic.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Morocco
Continent
africa
Length
17.6 km
Difficulty
hard

Related Roads in africa

Adventure along the Old Mill Drift 4x4 in the Free Statehard

Adventure along the Old Mill Drift 4x4 in the Free State

🇿🇦 South Africa

Okay, fellow adventurers, listen up! If you're cruising through South Africa's Free State and have a hankering for some off-road thrills, Old Mill Drift 4x4 is calling your name. Nestled between Fouriesburg and Clarens, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking serious 4x4 territory here. You'll need a trusty four-wheel-drive beast with low range and plenty of ground clearance. Forget smooth pavement – this trail is all rugged, unpaved glory, featuring rocky stretches that will test your mettle. Clocking in at just under 30 km (18 miles) with a hefty 531m climb to reach a peak of 2,183m (7,162 ft) above sea level, it's a slow and steady adventure, especially with those seriously steep sections (think 1:4 gradients!). Keep an eye out for washouts and incredibly narrow single-lane sections. Passing another vehicle? Get ready for some strategic reversing in tight spots. Also, it's always smart to check if the trail is open before you head out, as closures can happen. But trust me, the views and the challenge make it all worthwhile.

Is Otavi-Tsumeb Pass Paved?moderate

Is Otavi-Tsumeb Pass Paved?

🇳🇦 Namibia

Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're hitting the Otavi-Tsumeb Pass in Namibia's Oshikoto region, and trust me, the views are worth the climb! This is one of the highest roads in the country, so get ready for some serious elevation. The good news? It's paved the whole way! We're talking about the D3043, and yeah, it gets pretty steep in places. Hope your car's in good shape! This beauty stretches for about 22.5 km. You'll cruise from Tsumeb (the Oshikoto region's biggest town) down south to Otavi in the Otjozondjupa Region. The landscape is epic, so keep your camera ready!

Mount Abuna Yosef is one of the highest drivable roads in Africahard

Mount Abuna Yosef is one of the highest drivable roads in Africa

🇪🇹 Ethiopia

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Mount Abuna Yosef in Ethiopia is calling your name! This beast of a peak tops out at a whopping 4,199m (that's 13,776ft!) making it one of the highest drives you can find in Africa. You’ll find this gem nestled in the Amhara region, right in the northern part of Ethiopia. At the very top, there's even a mountain hut called Agaw Beret Community Guesthouse where you can rest your weary bones. Let me tell you, the road to get there is not for the faint of heart. We're talking a completely unpaved 28 km (17 miles) stretch starting from Lalibela, packed with seriously steep, rocky climbs. A 4x4 isn't just recommended – it's essential. Think large, sharp rocks and super tight turns that demand all your driving skills (and a prayer for your tires!). You'll climb a staggering 1,835m with an average gradient of 6.55%, so prepare for a workout! The views? Absolutely breathtaking. You’ll wind your way through countless villages as you ascend into the Lasta massif of the Ethiopian Highlands. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Jebel Ouamenzrihard

Jebel Ouamenzri

🇲🇦 Morocco

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! You HAVE to check out Jebel Ouamenzri in central Morocco. We're talking Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region—basically, the heart of incredible landscapes. So, you'll be cruising on the R704, which tops out at a whopping 2,583 meters (8,474 feet). Hold on tight, because this road is a BEAST. Think thrilling, think challenging, think... whoa, those are some serious drop-offs! The first part from Boumalne Dades is paved, but soon enough, you'll be kicking up dust on a dirt road that throws sweeping curves and slippery gravel your way. Total focus is a MUST. And pro tip: while usually open, snow can shut this beauty down at any time, so check conditions before you go! The scenery? Absolutely epic. Get ready for views that'll blow your mind!