Morocco
Biking deluxe - 11 Days
Trip Details
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Exotic and alluring, Morocco offers a captivating culture. Follow the ‘trail of the kasbahs’ into the Sahara, hike the High Atlas, bike along the coast to the resort town of Essaouira, and explore vibrant Marrakech. Discover an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
- Small groups and passionate local guides
- Enjoy a night in the Sahara, entertained by Berber musicians.
- Experience an unforgettable ride from Tin Mal mosque to Ouirgane, with views of Mount Toubkal, Morocco’s highest peak.
- Discover unique local restaurants, offering cuisine not found in guidebooks.
- Carefully selected hotels
Package Included
- Expert guides throughout the journey
- Support vehicle during the route
- 10 nights lodging
- All breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 9 dinners
- Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums
- All tips in hotels, restaurants etc. (excludes discretionary tips for guides)
- Detailed GPS routes
- Luggage transport
- All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)
Not included
- Bicycle hire
Day 1 · Ouarzazate
We recommend connecting via Casablanca; we’ll be at Ouarzazate airport to greet you and whisk you off to our hotel, where mint tea and sublime surroundings await. It’s also possible to fly into Marrakech, but please note it is a 4–5 hour drive to Ouarzazate — we offer a complimentary midday transfer from Marrakech for those arriving there. There are no scheduled activities today, as most guests will be arriving on a late flight. If you do arrive early, you’re welcome to dine at the hotel or at a nearby restaurant.
Day 2 · Zagora
Following the magical Draa River, we’ll cycle through a fertile valley where lush palm groves hide date palms, olive trees, and citrus orchards. We’ll stop near Agdz for lunch before continuing to lively Zagora, a town with roots in the French colonial era.
Distance: 33 km, elevation gain 156 m or 67 km, gain 155 m.*
Road transfer: Ouarzazate to Agdz – 80 km
Day 3 · M’Hamid
Today’s ride takes us to Tamegroute, where we’ll visit an extraordinary ancient library housing rare Koranic texts, dictionaries and astrological works — some written on gazelle hide. We’ll also meet artisans at a pottery co-operative before continuing deeper into the Sahara. At our drop-off point, we’ll swap bikes for camels and be guided by Berber escorts to our private tented camp in the dunes, where festivities await.
Distance: 49 to 100+ km, elevation gain up to 272 m.*
Road transfer: Zagora to desert edge – approx. 45 km
Day 4 ·Ait Ben Haddou
We’ll rise with the sun and enjoy breakfast among the dunes before departing the desert. A visit to a local market reveals a colourful array of produce, herbs, handicrafts, and livestock. In the late afternoon, we’ll cycle a quiet road to the UNESCO-listed ksour of Ait Ben Haddou — Morocco’s most iconic collection of towered kasbahs. Tonight, we stay at the charming and luxurious Ksar Ighnda.
Distance: 35 km, elevation gain 235 m.*
Road transfer: M’Hamid to Ait Ben Haddou – 280 km
Day 5 · Ait Ben Haddou
After yesterday’s long transfer, today is yours to relax. You may opt to explore Ait Ben Haddou on foot, or join a spectacular ride to the kasbah at Telouet, famously described in Gavin Maxwell’s Lords of the Atlas. After lunch in Telouet, we’ll return for a restful afternoon by the pool.
Distance: 32 km, elevation gain 580 m.*
Day 6 - 7 · Ouirgane
Our first ride today is a quiet 32 km route through a tranquil valley, often a guest favourite. We’ll then transfer over the majestic High Atlas mountains to begin another ride along a magnificent stretch of road, with views of snow-capped peaks and fertile farmland. In the lush Ouirgane valley, we’ll stay at the exclusive Domaine de la Roseraie, set within beautiful gardens.
The following day, we’ll hike into local villages, where we’ll be welcomed with mint tea and shown how bread is baked in traditional community ovens. In the afternoon, cycle to the remarkable Tin Mal Mosque, built in 1156 and recently restored.
Distance Day 6: 32 km, elevation gain 580 m or 71 km, gain 745 m.*
Distance Day 7: 40 km, elevation gain 415 m or 40 km, gain 775 m.*
Road transfer: Ait Ben Haddou to Ouirgane – 220 km
Day 8 - 9 · Essaouira
Today we cycle from the mountains to the Atlantic, following a quiet and scenic route — another strong contender for your favourite ride. Essaouira awaits with its sandy beaches, artisan boutiques and relaxed, European charm.
On Day 9, we’ll explore the medina with a local historian, uncovering its spice stalls, woodcarving workshops and traditional hammams. For the active, optional coastal rides and hikes to hidden beaches are available. We’ll stay at the stylish Villa de l’O, nestled in the heart of the medina.
Distance Day 8: 22 to 50+ km, elevation gain 450+ m.
Distance Day 9: 49 km, elevation gain 270 m or 25 km, gain 127 m.*
Road transfer: Ouirgane to Essaouira – 210 km
Day 10 · Marrakech
There may be time for an early morning ride to Sidi Kaouiki before we transfer to Marrakech, arriving in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll visit key sites including the Majorelle Gardens, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, and El Bahia Palace. As dusk falls, the iconic Jemaa El Fna square comes alive with musicians, acrobats, and storytellers. We’ll stay in a charming riad near the historic centre, and dine at one of Morocco’s most atmospheric restaurants.
Distance: 40 km, elevation gain 415 m.*
Day 11 · Departure
You can depart at your leisure anytime on this day.
*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.
Dar Chamaa, Ouarzazate
Opened in 2009, this 20-room hotel offers air-conditioned comfort, a relaxed atmosphere, and excellent facilities including a restaurant and bar. Before we set off, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a refreshing morning swim in the large outdoor pool.
Azalaï Lodge, Zagora
The finest hotel in Zagora, this 4-star retreat blends palace-style elegance with warm hospitality. Expect beautifully appointed rooms and lush grounds that surround a stunning swimming pool — an ideal place to unwind after a day on the bike.
Berber Tented Camp
Set amidst the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara, this private desert camp offers an unforgettable experience. Your canvas tent is equipped with real beds, cotton sheets and warm blankets. Moroccan rugs cover the sand, and the soft glow of kerosene lamps creates a magical, timeless setting — this is sure to be one of the most memorable nights of your journey.
Riad Ksar Ighnda, Ait Ben Haddou
Located at the foot of the Atlas, this Riad offers a timeless, authentic Berber atmosphere. Relax and enjoy the desert lights.
Domaine Malika, Ouirgane
A charming hotel in a picturesque valley with olive trees. It features a large swimming pool, exquisite restaurant, and Atlas Mountain views. Ideal for rest after cycling.
Le Medina Hotel, Essaouira
Our latest discovery in Essaouira, this impeccably manicured boutique hotel strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and luxury. Ideally located between the historic ramparts and the sandy beach, it’s our top choice in town — and we think it might become yours too.
La Maison Arabe, Marrakech
With just 26 rooms and exceptional amenities, La Maison Arabe perfectly bridges the gap between a traditional riad and a boutique hotel. It exudes charm, old-world elegance and a rich sense of history — something you won’t find in the city’s flashy new palace hotels. Past guests include Winston Churchill, Charles de Gaulle and Jackie Kennedy.
Post-trip Extension
US $695
Single supplement US $295
Includes 2D/2N and 1/2 day walking tour both days