Anti-Atlas Mining Circuit
Morocco's forgotten mining frontier
This circuit winds through Morocco’s forgotten mining country where French colonial copper operations carved roads into impossible terrain. Starting from Tazenakht, the route climbs through schist and granite peaks to reach the abandoned Bou Azzer cobalt mines at 6,200 feet elevation. Berber villages like Igherm and Bou Azzer cling to cliffsides, their kasbahs built from the same rose-colored stone that defines this harsh landscape. The technical descent through Wadi Noun tests your line choice as the trail drops 3,000 feet in five miles.
Expert difficulty with exposure, loose rock, and navigation challenges through unmarked mining tracks. Purpose-built expedition vehicle recommended with rock sliders, skid plates, and multiple spare tires. Dry season essential (October-April) as flash floods wash out crossings. No permits but inform local authorities in Tazenakht. Fuel and water in Ouarzazate only. This route reveals Morocco’s industrial archaeology and tests your driving skills against terrain that breaks the unprepared.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Technical |
| Length (miles) | 142 mi / 229 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Expedition-built 4WD |
| Nearest town | Ouarzazate, Morocco |
| Land manager | Regional Government |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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