Marrakech - Agadir
 

Best way from Marrakech to Agadir in term of distance, view, safety, fun, driving experience? Via AIt Benhaddou (N9) or Chichaoua (N8)?

If you had time I would go via Essaouira - takes about 2 hours to get to there but then the coast is great. If you have a whole day you could have lunch in Essaouira before heading down the coast.

Neither of those. The N8 is the direct route taken by coaches, but not particularly dramatic. The N9 over the Tizi n-Tichka is a dramatic route, but best taken heading north.

The best route by far is the R203 over the Tizi n-Test. The climb starts after Ijoukak and then steepens when you reach the famous Tin Mel mosque. There's a fabulous view point that looks back over about 30 minutes of driving roads.
http://www.infar.co.uk/tim/gs/test-north.jpg

The descent is down an almost sheer wall with dramatic views of the arid south
http://www.infar.co.uk/tim/gs/test-south.jpg

Personally I would make a day of the trip by visiting Azni and Imlil on the way, then stopping overnight at the Pasha's Palace at Ouled Berhill, then visit Taroundant for a few hours the next morning on the way to Agadir.

Tim

Tim

Last April we took the route Tim suggests but going north, it's definitely the best! We also did the other pass on the N9, but it is beat hands down by the Tizi n-Test pass.

OK guys! thanks for the info! I think I wiil take Tim route!

How long is the R203 route?

Interesting Tim. If I'm not too short on time I'll take the N10 then the R203 on my way from Ouarzazate to Marrakech :thumbup1:

Marrakech, chichaoua, Agadir, almost 250km, 2h30 to 3h driving.

Marrakech, Tizintest, Tarroudant, Agadir, 250 or 300km, 6 hours or more. It is the most beutiful road for Agadir: So many things to see.
BUT: ask at Marrakech before, or at Asni; at the police station to be sure the road is open: I was there 4 or 5 weeks ago and there was already snow on the road. It might be closed now (road at 2200m high).