Hi, I am planning to take my family for a vacation in Morocco during the winter (last week of December to the 2nd week of January). I was planning to start in Casablanca then loop south through Ouarzazate, east to Merzouga and then back to Casablanca via Midelt and Errachidia. I've read in Lonely Planet that roads in the High Atlas are often blocked by snow in the winter. Does anyone know how likely it is that the Tizi n'Tichka pass between Marrakesh and Ouarzazate and the road between Errachidia and Midelt will be closed during this time because of snow? If it is closed, how long does it usually take to get reopened? Thanks in advance for your help!
jbernt727
1
nusnus
Hi Jon,
Guides like the LP always have to have something curious or dramatic to say - and that almost always gives the wrong impression. Generally, the roads don't get closed. After all both the routes you mention are main roads to the south. If you get a heavy fall of snow, there may be a hold up but they get the snow ploughs out. And it's Morocco not Antarctica; it isn't snowing constantly in the mountains.
Snow is unlikely to hang around at 2200 m (Tizi n Tichka) and you are more likely to encounter mud at Midelt. You can get snow at Azrou nearer to Fes but they just shift it off the roads, they don't wait for spring to come.
I've crossed the High or Middle Atlas five times in December/January and have only ever seen a decent amount of snow once - north of Azrou.
2
kiwibabe
Yes I agree with Charles above, the snow is unpredictable and as its a major access road/highway it needs to be/does get cleared if blocked with snow - it may not be immediate as my connections last winter, who live around there (travel Telouet via TiznTichka to Marrakech often) got caught for quite a while last year with a delay in clearing it but in all the times ive been there ive yet to be in the excitement of deep snow that blocks it off!
i definitely would not decide not to go because of it! its a lovely time to be there, unless unfortunately you strike wet weather for a prolonged period - otherwise the sky is the bluest especially in the desert and up in the high altitudes of TiznTichka/Telouet. Great time for photos etc. and i just love snow around mountains! it can even snow in the desert if youre lucky!
all the best. youve got some great scenery along that route so enjoy!
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
trusted partner
trusted partner