How to reach the summit of Tizi n’Merekse?

Off the beaten path in Morocco's Anti-Atlas mountains, you'll find the Tizi n’Merekse, a seriously high mountain pass topping out at well over 2,300 meters. It's not a long trip, but it packs a visual punch with some of the most incredible, untouched views of the Anti-Atlas you can find, far away from the usual tourist hotspots.

To get there, you'll be tackling the Ait Qalla Track, a rugged, unpaved mountain trail that's going to demand a 4x4 with some serious ground clearance. Think classic Moroccan high desert: loose gravel, that iconic red dust, and sharp stones just waiting to get cozy with your tires. This is a short but harsh and isolated environment, so you need to be self-sufficient and ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

The adventure starts at the Tizi n'Tmourhas, which is already a pretty wild ride on the R112 road. The R112 will test your skills, but the Ait Qalla Track is where the real fun begins. From that main road, it's a quick climb, but don't let the short distance fool you.

Expect some seriously steep sections where your engine is going to be working hard. The air is thin up here, and the loose surface means you'll need to engage 4WD to keep from spinning your wheels.

This area is super dry and exposed, and in the summer, the heat is intense with zero shade along the track. You won't see many other vehicles out here, so if something goes wrong, you could be waiting a while for help.

Before you hit the Ait Qalla Track, make sure your vehicle is in top shape and you've got plenty of water. The reward for this climb? Unreal panoramic views of the scorched valleys below, giving you a perspective of the Anti-Atlas that most travelers never get to experience. It's the perfect little side trip if you're already exploring the R112 and want to add another high-altitude pass to your Moroccan adventure.