Morocco is a beautiful country with some of the most scenic roads we have travelled
Morocco is an awe-inspiring country with a diverse range of stunning scenic landscapes. The Atlantic coast, Atlas mountains, and Sahara desert are just a few of the incredible destinations waiting to be explored.
The road infrastructure has been greatly improved in recent years, making it easier to appreciate the beauty of the country. One unforgettable journey is the drive from Tafraoute to Icht along the R107, which offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
With so much natural beauty to discover, it’s no wonder that Morocco is a beloved destination for travelers from all over the world.
The Scenic Route:
Start off heading south from Tafraoute on the R107, looping round the gorges of Ait Mansour and back to the R107. Continuing south then detouring off towards Aoukerda, through the Grand Canyon National Park. From there heading back up the same road to the R107 again, continuing south to the ancient underground city of Icht
The R107, possibly the most scenic road in Morocco
The Gorges of Ait Mansour
Imagine heading south from Tafraoute on the breathtaking R107, taking in the awe-inspiring scenic views as you journey towards the Gorges of Ait Mansour. The winding road that leads you through the valley and the gorges is a sight to behold. With palm groves and gardens enveloping you on all sides. As you carefully make your way through, the undergrowth brushes the sides of your motorhome, adding to the excitement of the journey.
The Oasis
Ait Mansour is nestled in the middle of the gorge. A true marvel and one of the most beautiful places we have visited in Morocco. It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination that is seldom visited by tourists, making it a peaceful and serene location. Sounds of nature fill the air. The loud croaking of the tiny frogs in the pools of water is completely disproportionate to their size.
Traditional Villages
As you wind your way through the palmeraie, traditional villages emerge, marked by their distinct architecture. Perched on top of the cliffs, peering over you, and resembling a beehive stuck on the walls of the gorge. Their unique architectural style is borne out of necessity. A result of the local people’s way of life. The experience of being in this magnificent location is truly unforgettable.
The Grand Canyon National Park
Continuing South
You are transported to a world of natural beauty and tranquillity as you venture south from Ait Mansour. Next destination is the Grand Canyon National Park. A little detour off the main road will take you to this hidden gem that is nothing short of breathtaking.
The Canyons
As you explore the area, you’ll be struck by the deep canyons that have been carved through the rock by the river. Hiking trails will take you through raw nature, and you’ll encounter amazing rock formations, such as the “window of life”, an incredible square archway formed high up in the cliffs.
Peace, quiet and amazing scenic panoramas
Surrounded by the peacefulness of the canyon, near silence will envelop you, making it the quietest place you have ever visited in Morocco. No mosques, no people, no lights. You’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a different world. One where the hustle and bustle of modern life is a distant memory.
Aoukerda
When you reach Aoukerda, a small village nestled in the heart of the canyon, you’ll be greeted by the locals. The community still lives in traditional ways, relying on the oasis in the canyon for their everyday needs. This unspoiled village is a world away from the chaos of modern life.
If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience in nature, the Grand Canyon National Park is the perfect destination.
Icht
Don’t rush this scenic road
As you make your way back towards the R107 and continue your journey south, you will eventually reach the quaint and picturesque village of Icht.
However, it is highly recommended to take your time on this part of the trip, as it is one of the most awe-inspiring drives in all of Morocco, offering breathtaking scenery around every bend and turn.
The Ancient Underground Village
Icht is nestled at the base of the massive Jbel Bani escarpment, which towers above the village.
From a distance, the village appears like any other in the region, but it is known as the Ancient Underground Village of Icht for a very specific reason. Parts of the ksar (fortified village) are built below ground level, and can only be accessed through small doors that lead to a labyrinth of underground alleys.
The dwellings in Icht are constructed in the traditional riad style, some spanning over three floors. Each building features a large central courtyard that is open to the sky, allowing natural light to flood the rooms carved into the earth below.
Built of Necessity
While this unique architecture certainly adds to the village’s charm and character, it was originally constructed out of necessity. Icht is situated in a region that experiences scorching temperatures, with summer days often reaching upwards of 50°C.
The thick walls and covered passageways of the underground village provide much-needed relief from the blazing sun, allowing residents to move about freely even during the hottest part of the day.
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An ex street dog from Cyprus, an ex-pub dog from Devon, ex ex-overnight security dog and now enjoying my time travelling with my mum and dad.
My hoomans and I explore the world in their big white box on wheels, although that work fing gets in the way sometimes. So far we have travelled mostly around Europe, but have also been to Morocco in Africa.
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