7 Day Gravel Ride to the SARAH DESERT.
15 – 22 March 2025
Overview:
This unforgettable 7-day gravel biking expedition takes you on a thrilling ride from the vibrant city of Marrakech, through the towering Atlas Mountains, and into the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert. Tailored for intermediate to advanced cyclists, this adventure offers a rare blend of challenging rides, breathtaking scenery, and authentic cultural experiences that will take you deep into the heart of Morocco.
Whether you’re winding through rugged mountain roads, crossing ancient valleys, or coasting across desert dunes, this expedition promises an exhilarating experience for those seeking more than just a typical bike tour. You’ll discover ancient trading routes, stay in traditional Berber villages, and cap off your journey by sleeping under the stars in a magical desert camp. This is more than a bike ride—it’s an expedition through Morocco’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, steeped in history and culture.
Tour Highlights:
- Challenging Gravel Rides: Ride through a variety of terrains, from mountain passes to desert tracks.
- Cultural Immersion: Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, stay in traditional Berber villages, and experience authentic Moroccan hospitality.
- Desert Experience: Spend a night in a desert camp beneath the stars, surrounded by the towering dunes of the Sahara.
- Expert Guidance: Ride with professional guides who know the region intimately and provide support every step of the way.
- Flexible Itinerary: Includes both challenging rides and moments of relaxation with a fully supported tour.
DETAILS
· ACCOMPANIMENT: Gravel bike guide
· ACCOMMODATION: guest-house, homestay and hotel
· BAGGAGE TRANSPORT: Only your business for the day; a vehicle transports your luggage from one accommodation to another.
· NEXT DEPARTURES: See dates
The diversity of the landscapes encountered in just one week of travel:
- Mountains of the High Atlas.
- Gorges and rocky peaks of Ounila Valley.
- Greenery of the gardens and palm groves.
- Ksers of Ait Benhaddou.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Welcome to the Red City
- Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in a traditional riad located in the heart of the Medina.
- You’ll have the afternoon free to explore Marrakech at your leisure. Visit the lively souks, stroll through the historical sites, or relax at a rooftop café and soak in the city’s vibrant energy.
- Accommodation: Authentic Moroccan riad or boutique hotel.
- Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time).
Welcom
Day 2: Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou – Ride to Agdez
Atlas Mountains & Ancient Kasbahs
- Start the day with an early morning transfer across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains.
- Arrive at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore this historic village, which has appeared in many famous films.
- The first gravel ride begins from Ait Benhaddou, where you’ll cycle 62 km through desert roads and stunning mountain landscapes towards the peaceful oasis town of Agdez, nestled in the Draa Valley.
- Accommodation: Guesthouse in Agdez.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Ride distance: 62 km.
Day 3: Agdez to Zagora
Cycling the Draa Valley to Desert Camp
- After breakfast, embark on a ride through the Draa Valley, passing through lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- The terrain offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and challenging gravel roads. The destination today is Zagora, a town known as the gateway to the Sahara.
- After a brief rest in Zagora, transfer to a desert camp, where you’ll spend the night under the stars in a traditional Berber tent, surrounded by the serene dunes.
- Accommodation: Desert camp near Zagora.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Ride distance: 65 km.
Day 4: M’Hamid to Nkoub via Zagora
Desert Trails & Berber Villages
- After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to M’Hamid, the last village before the desert opens up.
- Begin your ride along desert trails and ancient caravan routes, crossing the flat plains and rocky landscapes of the Sahara.
- Ride 75 km back through Zagora towards Nkoub, a small village known for its historic kasbahs.
- This day combines challenging rides with awe-inspiring desert scenery, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s nomadic past.
- Accommodation: Traditional guesthouse in Nkoub.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Ride distance: 75 km.
Day 5: Nkoub to Ikniouine – Transfer to Boumalne Dades
Desert to Mountain Ride
- Today’s journey takes you deep into the Atlas foothills as you ride from Nkoub to the remote village of Ikniouine.
- The trail follows rugged desert paths with sweeping views of the mountain range and isolated Berber communities.
- After lunch in Ikniouine, transfer to Boumalne Dades, a small town famous for its dramatic canyon landscapes and fascinating rock formations.
- Accommodation: Kasbah-style hotel in Boumalne Dades.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Ride distance: 60-70 km (plus transfer).
Day 6: Boumalne Dades – Nomadic Plateau – Return to Marrakech
Final Ride Across the Nomadic Plains
- After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful 45 km ride across the vast Nomadic Plateau, where you may encounter Berber shepherds tending their flocks.
- This is a day to savor the quiet beauty of Morocco’s open landscapes, ending with lunch in a local village.
- After lunch, a transfer will bring you back to Marrakech, where you’ll have time to reflect on the week’s adventures and explore the city one last time.
- Accommodation: Riad or hotel in Marrakech.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Ride distance: 45 km (plus transfer).
Day 7: Departure from Marrakech
Farewell to Morocco
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of a truly epic adventure
What’s Included:
- A: 6 nights of accommodation in traditional riads, guesthouses, and a desert camp.
- M: All meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day (unless noted).
- T: Transfers between all locations, including airport pickup and drop-off.
- G: Professional, English-speaking cycling guide for the duration of the tour.
- S: Support vehicle during all rides, providing snacks, water, and mechanical assistance.
- L: Luggage transfers between accommodations.
- P: Scenic highlights and cultural experiences, including visits to Ait Benhaddou, the Draa Valley, and desert camping.
What’s Not Included:
- International flights to and from Marrakech.
- Bike rental (available for an additional fee).
- Personal travel insurance (required).
- Gratuities and personal expenses.
What You’ll Need to Bring:
- Cycling Gear: Helmets (required), cycling shoes, padded cycling shorts, gloves, and sunglasses.
- Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, a windproof jacket, warm clothes for the evenings in the desert and mountains.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking around camp and villages.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: The desert sun can be harsh, so bring high-SPF protection.
- Hydration Pack: Recommended for staying hydrated during long rides.
- Headlamp: For use in desert camps and night rides.
- Personal Items: A small daypack, toiletries, and any medications.
- Bike Equipment: Personal pedals, saddle, or handlebar grips (optional but recommended for comfort).
Why Choose This Tour?
This 7-day gravel biking tour is the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Not only will you be challenged by the diverse terrain—from mountain passes to desert tracks—but you will also have the chance to immerse yourself in Morocco’s rich history and culture. Each night offers a unique experience, from staying in a traditional guesthouse in the Atlas Mountains to camping under the stars in the Sahara Desert. Our expert guides, top-notch support, and carefully curated itinerary ensure that this tour is as rewarding as it is challenging.
Whether you are looking for a physical challenge, a chance to explore Morocco’s hidden gems, or an opportunity to connect with local culture, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience that you’ll treasure long after the journey ends.
- Authentic Moroccan Experience: From the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, this expedition offers an immersive journey through Morocco’s most iconic landscapes.
- Expert Local Guides: Our professional team ensures that you not only see the sights but experience the deep history and culture of each place.
- Full Support: With a support vehicle, luggage transfer, and expert mechanics, you can focus entirely on enjoying the ride.
- Small Groups: We limit the group size to ensure personalized attention and a close-knit, friendly atmosphere.
- A Unique Adventure: This is more than a cycling trip—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through some of the world’s most breathtaking and remote environments.
