Where is Ras Dashen?

Where is Ras Dashen?

Ethiopia, africa

Length

33.4 km

Elevation

4,277 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, buckle up for an unforgettable ride! We're heading to the roof of Africa, deep in the Amhara Region! This isn't just any road; this one snakes its way up to a staggering 14,032 feet (4,277 meters) above sea level.

We're talking about the road through Ras Dashen, right in the heart of the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park in northern Ethiopia. The whole stretch clocks in at about 20.75 miles (33.4 km) of pure, jaw-dropping scenery.

Word to the wise: plan your trip carefully. This high-altitude pass can get seriously icy, especially at night. Always prioritize your safety.

Prepare to be blown away. Mount Abuna Yosef area boasts one of the highest drivable roads in all of Africa, rivaled by the B90 from Dodola to Dinsho. This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure!

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Ethiopia
Continent
africa
Length
33.4 km
Max Elevation
4,277 m
Difficulty
moderate

Related Roads in africa

Tizi Tigdaneextreme

Tizi Tigdane

🇲🇦 Morocco

Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Tizi Tigdane! This Moroccan mountain pass punches way up into the High Atlas range, clocking in at a breathtaking 3,006 meters (that's 9,862 feet!). Seriously, you're practically on top of the world. Forget smooth asphalt, this is a gravel road adventure, pure and simple. Expect narrow stretches, seriously steep climbs, and dramatic drop-offs that'll make your palms sweat (no guardrails here, folks!). The road snakes through a jaw-dropping gorge, switchbacking endlessly up, up, up. A 4x4 is definitely your best friend on this trip. This road ain't for the faint of heart. If you get dizzy easily or freak out about landslides, maybe skip this one. The views are incredible, but the drive demands respect (and serious skills!). Oh, and be warned: the summit is home to a radio transmitter. Finally, pro tip: check the weather before you go. Avalanches, snow, landslides, and crazy winds can turn this beauty into a beast in a heartbeat.

Tizi n’Bou Ikhoudenemoderate

Tizi n’Bou Ikhoudene

🇲🇦 Morocco

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Tizi n’Bou Ikhoudene in Morocco's Azilal Province! This high-altitude pass clocks in at a whopping 2,546 meters (8,353 feet), so prepare for some serious views. The road's paved, which is a bonus, but don't let that fool you. It's a real rollercoaster with endless twists, turns, and narrow sections that'll test your driving skills. Seriously, this isn't the place to learn how to drive! If you're not comfortable with hairpin turns and steep drop-offs, maybe skip this one. Night driving is a definite no-no, and if your passengers get carsick easily, well, good luck to you (and them!). But if you’re up for the challenge, the scenery is absolutely worth it. Just remember to take it slow, keep your eyes on the road, and maybe pack some ginger ale!

A paved road to Col du Zad in the Middle Atlasmoderate

A paved road to Col du Zad in the Middle Atlas

🇲🇦 Morocco

Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Col du Zad is calling, a seriously awesome mountain pass perched way up in Morocco's Middle Atlas range. We're talking 2,184 meters (that's 7,165 feet!) above sea level, right on the border of Fès-Meknès and Drâa-Tafilalet regions. You'll be cruising on Route N13, a fully paved road that snakes its way to the top. Be prepared for some steep sections that will get your engine revving! This area can get pretty wild, climate-wise, but the good news is the road usually stays open year-round. Just keep an eye on the forecast in winter, as things can get snowy and temporarily shut down the party. The whole shebang stretches for about 58.8 kilometers (or 36.5 miles for you imperial system fans), running north to south from Timahdite to Zaida. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for the remnants of a massive cedar forest near the summit. Trust me, the views are totally worth the drive!

Is the road from Maydh to Erigavo unpaved?hard

Is the road from Maydh to Erigavo unpaved?

🌍 Somalia

Okay, picture this: You're heading from the ancient port of Maydh up into the mountains towards Erigavo. This 77.5 km (48.15 miles) stretch is definitely off the beaten path! You'll be needing a serious 4x4 to tackle this unpaved adventure, and be prepared for some serious climbing because you'll be hitting some major elevation! Expect a wild ride with tunnels and hairpin turns galore. BUT (and it's a big but), traveling this route is seriously NOT recommended. Security risks are through the roof. Think high threats of banditry and, sadly, minimal police presence. Violent events like bombings and military action aren't uncommon. And if you're a foreigner? Kidnappings are a very real threat. Anti-Western sentiment is high, so this isn't the place for a casual road trip. Stay safe out there!