
Where is Cirque de Jaffar?
Morocco, africa
67.2 km
2,257 m
extreme
Year-round
Ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Morocco? Then buckle up for the Piste de Jaffar, a mind-blowing route into the heart of the Cirque de Jaffar! This natural amphitheater, nestled in the DrΓ’a-Tafilalet region at the foot of the Eastern High Atlas mountains, is a sight to behold.
Forget paved roads, this is a proper off-road experience! The 67.2 km (42 mile) track from Tounfit to Midelt is rocky, rugged, and will have your 4x4 working hard. Steep cliffs and loose debris add an extra dose of adrenaline, but the views? Totally worth it!
Prepare to be awestruck by dramatic High Atlas scenery. The cirque itself has slopes that can reach a wild 45-50 degrees in places! You'll climb to a lofty 2,257m (7,404ft) above sea level, so summer is definitely the best time to go. Give yourself 3-4 hours to tackle this epic piste (without stops!), and get ready for a classic High Atlas adventure! The road and cirque get their name from the tomb and village of Sidi Jaffar.
Road Details
- Country
- Morocco
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 67.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,257 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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