Ziz Valley Route: Journey from Merzouga to Meknes

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s stunning landscapes, where the Sahara Desert meets lush valleys and charming towns. From the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi to the imperial city of Meknes, this route promises not just a transition, but a thrilling adventure filled with wildlife encounters and breathtaking views.

Join us as we traverse the remarkable Valley of Ziz, a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. This journey is not just about reaching the destination; it's about experiencing the vibrant life along the way, where every turn offers new surprises and awe-inspiring vistas.

Exploring the route from Merzouga to Meknes

The day begins with what is to be the longest leg of our road trip through Morocco. Leaving behind the enchanting Erg Chebbi Desert in Merzouga, we head north towards Meknes, the historic imperial city. This journey is rich with stunning landscapes and fascinating stops, including the charming towns of Azrou and Ifrane.

What was supposed to be a straightforward travel day turned into a delightful wildlife safari at every corner! We encountered camels basking in the sun, playful monkeys in the cedar forests, and even goats climbing trees. It felt like nature was putting on a show just for us!

The charm of Erfoud and Meski

As we drive from Merzouga towards Erfoud, we pass by Risani, a town renowned for its vibrant market, which attracts locals from up to 300 nearby villages every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Though we didn’t stop, we could only imagine the lively atmosphere bustling with traders and the rich array of goods on display.

• **Risani Market** - A vibrant hub for local trade.
• **Natural Wonders** - Stunning geodes and fossils for sale.
• **Meski Oasis** - A peaceful retreat with a natural hot spring.

We made our first stop at a viewpoint overlooking a lovely palm grove, where we indulged in a unique find: a beautiful geode that caught our eye among the many local vendors. The area is famous for its geological treasures, with enthusiasts scouring the land for fossils and crystals to sell to tourists.

Continuing our journey, we arrived at the quaint village of Meski, where the Source Bleue, a natural spring, creates a serene atmosphere. Although the water was cooler than expected, the tranquil environment made it a perfect spot to relax and recharge. Locals often use the area to wash clothes, and there’s even a small bar where you can grab a drink.

The breathtaking Valley of Ziz

As we traveled along the N13 highway, the real allure was the Valley of Ziz itself. This stunning gorge, carved by the river, offers breathtaking views, especially where the water has shaped dramatic cliffs. Although the water flow was minimal during our visit, the scenery was nothing short of spectacular.

• **Panoramic Views** - Multiple viewpoints along the road.
• **Historical Sites** - Ancient Ksur and kasbahs dotting the landscape.
• **Highway Experience** - A more trafficked road, yet manageable for travelers.

The N13 connects the north and south of Morocco, and we noticed a significant increase in traffic, including tourists and commercial vehicles. The road conditions were decent, allowing us to enjoy the drive without feeling rushed.

Crossing the Atlas Mountains

Next, we faced the majestic Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Taghaumt Pass, rising to 1,907 meters above sea level. Here, we appreciated the cooler temperatures, a refreshing change after the heat of the desert.

We stopped in the modern town of Midelt for lunch, opting for a break from the traditional Moroccan fare of tajines and couscous. A tasty pizza was a delightful reprieve, one we savored after two weeks of Moroccan cuisine.

Azrou: The cedar forest and its free-roaming monkeys

Our next destination was Azrou, nestled in the Middle Atlas, famous for its stunning cedar forests and the playful monkeys that inhabit them. The area is perfect for hiking, and there are various local operators that offer guided tours for those eager to explore.

As we approached Azrou, signs warned us of monkeys potentially crossing the road. True to the signs, we encountered several of these charming creatures, showcasing their playful antics right along the highway. If you're fortunate enough to visit, make sure to see the ancient Cedro Gouraud, believed to be over a thousand years old!

• **Cedar Forest** - Ideal for hiking and nature walks.
• **Monkey Encounters** - A unique experience in the wild.
• **Local Culture** - Explore Azrou’s medina for a taste of everyday life.

While Azrou is not as famous as Fez or Meknes, its medina offers a glimpse into local life, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture.

Ifrane: The Switzerland of Morocco

We planned to stay overnight in Azrou, but our journey continued to Ifrane, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Morocco." Founded by the French in 1928, this picturesque town is known for its winter sports and charming architecture that resembles European styles.

In Ifrane, the clean streets and quaint houses with sloped roofs caught our attention. Our main stop was the Lion of Ifrane statue. Although not overly impressive, the statue has an interesting backstory, believed to be carved by a German prisoner during World War II, symbolizing the region's historical ties to the lion population that once roamed here.

Journey to Meknes and beyond

After exploring Ifrane, we set our sights on Meknes, planning to visit the historic sites of Volubilis and Mulay Idris on our way. These sites provide a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and cultural heritage, making them worthwhile stops on our itinerary.

Map of the journey

Here’s a map highlighting our route from Merzouga to Meknes through the Valley of Ziz, covering 393 km from Merzouga to Azrou, and an additional 162 km from Azrou to Meknes, with visits to Ifrane, Volubilis, and Mulay Idris.

This journey from the Erg Chebbi desert to Meknes through the stunning Valley of Ziz and the beautiful towns of Azrou and Ifrane was nothing short of magical. Have you undertaken a similar adventure? What tips or highlights would you recommend?

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