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Rather than retracing the N10 back to Marrakesh via Tinerhir and Ouarzazate, adventurous desert travellers opt for the N12, which traces the southern foothills of Jebel Saghro via Alnif, Tazzarine and Nkob. The road sees little traffic and few tourists and provides an interesting link through prime fossil-hunting territory to the Draa Valley, where it emerges at Tansikht 63km north of Zagora and 98km south of Ouarzazate. Kasbah-studded Nkob is the most atmospheric place to stay and provides a good base for Jebel Saghro treks and exploration.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Rissani to Zagora.
Archaeological Site
Getting to this site, scattered with 6000-year-old rock carvings, can be a challenge – it’s close to Tazzarine but around 20km off road so the going is slow – but when you get there, the local guardian will happily show you around and help you decipher some of the creatures depicted in stone. Perhaps an ostrich, buffalo or antelope that roamed the once-grassy plains. If you don’t have transport, ask at your lodging for a guide.