Cycle Morocco
Experience Overview
Desert sands, snow-capped mountains, green valleys, red cliff gorges and seaside paths – you'll explore them all on this 14-day cycling tour through Morocco. Discover a land overflowing with mystery, history and culture, a place where the people welcome you with endless stories and the landscape offers endless diversity. Ride to beaches, deserts, forests, mountains and orchards, from Marrakesh through to Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes and the High Atlas Mountains. Ride a camel at sunset (the best seat in the house) as the heat of the Sahara cools and discover the ancient city of Ait Benhaddou (the filming location of many movies and TV shows). What’s the best way to see a land of ever-changing landscapes? On two wheels, of course!
Highlights
- Cycling allows you to get closer to authentic Morocco, whether you're riding around the backstreets of Marrakech or stopping for tea with nomads in the Mgoun Valley.
- Ride a camel through the dramatic red dunes of the Sahara Desert at sunset, then settle into your camp and enjoy a Moroccan feast under the stars.
- Pedal through Morocco’s diverse terrain, from the lively medinas and the Mediterranean Coast to the iconic hairpins of the Dades Gorge.
- Step back in time to the Middle Ages on a guided walk through the secret shortcuts and twisting alleyways of Fes’ Medina with a local leader who knows all the best spots.
- End rewarding days in the saddle with hearty local meals, like the traditional goat dinner in Mgoun Valley and street food delicacies in Djemaa el-Fna.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Education for All. Donations help them support girls in the High Atlas Mountains through secondary school, bringing a generation of women out of the cycle of illiteracy, poverty and early marriage.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3081
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle,Train,Camel
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: XMXC
Starts: Marrakech, Morocco
Finishes: Marrakech, Morocco
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Demanding
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (13), Lunch (2), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights),overnight train (1 night),desert camp (1 night),gite (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,380 ($170 /day)
Itinerary
Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins in Marrakech with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not visit the Dar Si Said Museum or nearby Saadian Tombs. Maybe chill out in the Marjorelle Gardens, luxuriate in a hammam or see Marrakech from above on a hot air balloon ride. After the meeting, head out to explore the city’s lively Djemaa el-Fna – one of the largest public spaces in the world, unique to Marrakech. When night falls it transforms into a hive of activity. Henna painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls. You’ll have an included welcome dinner here while the performers vie for your attention.
Optional Activities:
- Dar Si Said Museum - Marrakech (30 MAD)
- Marrakech - Saadian Tombs (70 MAD)
- Marrakech - Marjorelle Gardens (165 MAD)
- Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage (750 MAD)
- Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride (2090 MAD)
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Fuel up with breakfast this morning, then get fitted for your bike – your transport and best friend for the next 13 days. Take a short test ride to make sure everything’s working properly, then begin a cycling tour in and around the city. Start near the royal olive groves of Menara Gardens and ride to well-known sites like Koutoubia Mosque and the Marrakech Medina. Finish your cycle in the Palmeraie – a palm tree oasis. Return to Djemaa el-Fna for an afternoon snack (a street stall pastry) with a glass of fresh orange juice. There will be ample time in the afternoon to freshen up before you board your sleeper train this evening for the journey to Tangier.
Included Activities:
- Cycling Tour of Marrakech
Accommodation:
- Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive in Tangier this morning and check into your hotel, then meet up with your support crew and vehicle. Saddle up for today’s ride, which starts with an easy ride to the Grottes d'Hercules (Caves of Hercules). Legend says Hercules stayed in this cave before doing his 11th labour – collecting the golden apples from the Hesperides Garden. Its modern uses have been quite varied, from a brothel to a concert venue. From here, the road undulates and climbs as you jump back on the bike to explore Cap Spartel, known to the Romans and Greeks as the 'Cape of the Vines'. Stop by the 19th-century lighthouse and maybe climb up to the top for an amazing view across the Atlantic Ocean. Have lunch here, then a ride downhill back towards Tangiers' Mediterranean port. After, maybe relax with a mint tea at the rooftop cafe Salon Bleu, which overlooks the medina and the ocean.
Optional Activities:
- Tangier - Cap Spartel Lighthouse - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Tangier behind and travel through the arid inland towards the beachside village of Azla. When you arrive you’ll hop on your bike and begin today's ride – follow the winding coastal road south to the small fishing town of Oued Laou. The shimmering waters of the Mediterranean will be on your left, steep mountains on your right and small coves dotted with beaches in-between. The climb will all be worth it when you stop for lunch at one of the beaches and take the opportunity to go for a swim. Later today, maybe leave the saddle behind and let the support vehicle do the hard work of climbing the steep hills to the ‘Blue City’ of Chefchaouen (you can cycle if you prefer). Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe shop for handicrafts in the ancient medina or find a spot at a local cafe and people-watch.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to explore Chefchaouen. Maybe take it easy at a cafe in the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, chill out in a Hamman or stroll around town admiring the architecture of the 15th-century Grand Mosque (the interior closed to non-Muslims). If you’re still feeling energetic, you might prefer to take an optional guided tour of the Blue City or head out of town for a hike in the Rif mountains (which lasts approximately 4 hours).
Optional Activities:
- Chefchaouen - Hammam (public baths) (150 MAD)
- Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide (350 MAD)
- Rif Mountains Guided hike (Half Day) (400 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, drive from Chefchaouen to the outskirts of Bab Taza village. When you arrive, you’ll stretch your legs on a ride along a quiet undulating road and through sparce landscapes to Tabouda. As the roads get busier and the day heats up, retreat to the comfort of the support vehicle and leave the quiet of the Rif Mountains behind you. You’ll then drive to Fes – the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. When you arrive, you have the rest of the day free to rest and recharge.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave your bike behind today and embark on a guided walk through the secret shortcuts and twisting alleyways of Fes. Pass donkeys piled high with goods and feel like you’re stepping back in time to the Middle Ages in the labyrinth of the medina. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Consider watching the sunset over the medina tonight and ask your local leader where the best local delicacies can be found.
Included Activities:
- Fes - Guided walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Pastry Cooking- Cafe Clock Fes (400 MAD)
- Belghazi Museum - Entrance - Fes (40 MAD)
- Fes - Medersa El Attarine (20 MAD)
- Fes - Funduq al-Najjarin (20 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Avoid the traffic and the heat with an early start today. Leave Fes behind and drive into the Middle Atlas Mountains, arriving at Dayet Aoua for your ride through the high-altitude mountains. After a quick coffee stop, climb through the wooded hills of Ifrane National Park for a unique view of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Coast gently downhill to the tiny town of Timahdte, where you’ll finish riding for the day. Drive up to Aguelmame Sidi Ali Lake – a placid clear blue lake and wetland sanctuary where you’ll have lunch. If the mood calls, you can cycle a further 15 km to the Timahdte section of the lake. After lunch, drive to the Kasbah town of Midelt. Nestled in a valley, Midelt is surrounded by farmland and orchards. The rest of your day is free – maybe explore the town or visit a local embroidery co-operative run to benefit the local Amazigh women.
Optional Activities:
- Midelt - Folklore Musical Performance (600 MAD)
- Midelt - walking tour Berrem Village (200 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Midelt to Merzouga is a long journey, so you’ll embark early and tackle the distance on two separate rides, with a vehicle transfer filling the gaps. Drive to the Tizi n Talrhemt Pass, then get your wheels moving on a gentle downhill cycle to Er-rich for a coffee stop. From Er-rich you’ll continue downhill by bike to the banks of the Ziz River and the cavernous Tunnel Zaabal. Re-board the vehicle and drive through frontier towns like Erfoud that have been the setting for films like ‘The Mummy’ and James Bond’s ‘Spectre’. Arrive in Merzouga, leave your gear at your overnight camp and jump on a camel for a sunset ride to the edge of the Sahara Desert. Later tonight, return to camp for a dinner of delicious local cuisine and fall asleep under a sky dotted with North African stars.
Included Activities:
- Merzouga - Camel safari
Accommodation:
- Desert Camp (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Tinghir – your entry point to the remarkable Todra Gorge. This massive trench with sheer rock walls rises over 300 m to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. In Tinghir you’ll hop in the saddle and work out your legs after the long drive along the route of the Todgha River as it snakes into the canyon. The limestone stacks make this area best discovered on foot, so join in for a walk through the surrounding farmland and a ruined village. Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to take it easy at your Kasbah accommodation, which sits in the middle of the gorge surrounded by palm trees.
Included Activities:
- Todra Gorge hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning you’ll drive to the green-fringed Dades Valley. This is one of the most scenic stretches of road in Morocco and you’ll begin your ride at the hairpins of the Dades Gorge. Leaving the greenery behind, take a small gravel road deep into the desolate Mgoun Valley near Bou Tharar, as you wind through the red rock scenery with the Dades River below. On the way, stop in at a local family's home and share a traditional cup of tea with your hosts. This is a genuine opportunity for local interaction with a nomadic family who spend their lives travelling this remote land. Your leader will be there at all times to help you communicate and understand each other. Later in the afternoon, bid farewell to your new friends and head to your accommodation in a mountain gite, where you’ll sit down for a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Accommodation:
- Gite (Number of Nights: 1)
A drive through arid surroundings brings you to the dramatic Lake El Mansour, which sits among the sandy rocks surrounding Ouarzazate. Get the bikes out and begin your ride to mythical Ait Benhaddou, passing ancient Kasbah ruins, former military outposts and austere mountains. Pause for lunch in Ouarzazate, where ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘Black Hawk Down’ were filmed. If time permits, maybe tour the Atlas Movie Studios. Visit the Horizon Association for People with Disabilities – an organisation dedicated to the rehabilitation, health and empowerment of people living with disabilities. They provide essential services like prosthetic limbs, physio and social therapy, as well as training in skills like pottery or metal work. After, take a walk to Ait Benhaddou – centuries ago, this was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today, its grand Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the star of movies and TV shows like ‘Gladiator’, ‘Games of Thrones’ and ‘The Living Daylights’.
Optional Activities:
- Ait Benhaddou - Cooking Demonstration & Dinner (313 MAD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Commence the long, winding ride up into the Atlas Mountains and the small town of Anmiter on your last cycle of the trip. You’ll then drive to the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass. At 2260 m above sea level, this is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. After a brief break for refreshments and photos, descend the High Atlas Mountains back to Marrakech. When you arrive, say goodbye to your support crew and settle in for some free time to relax. Tonight, you’ll likely be drawn back to the Djemaa el-Fna for a celebratory dinner.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Bob - Traveled, March 2024
Really excellent trip. I was delighted with the organization and execution of the trip. Morocco is fascinating and has some excellent cycling.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Nora Joan - Traveled, March 2024
My trip through Morocco was absolutely amazing. I am a solo female traveller and I was very fortunate to be part of a great group of travellers who connected quickly and enjoyed each other's company. Mohamed was instrumental in ensuring that everything ran smoothly, and that our entire tour was a positive experience. I am not as strong a biker as many of the others and chose to pay the extra for an e-bike, which was a great decision. Some of the elevations are intense, so if you are not a strong biker, this is a perfect solution to be able to enjoy the journey. If you are a woman travelling alone, and want to have a more meaningful experience of a country, then I would recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
jonathan - Traveled, March 2024
A great way to see many aspects of Morocco while enjoying some challenging rides
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/04/2024
Thomas - Traveled, March 2024
Our Intrepid adventure met or exceeded our expectations on all fronts! We enjoyed the variety of our experience every day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Manfred - Traveled, March 2024
I highly recommend this trip with Mohamed and his crew. He is very competent in managing his crew and wonderfully connected with the Arab and Berber communities and guides. He is very accessible and makes one feel safe and taken care of.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2024
Suzanne - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent tour that allowed me to experience Morocco in a way that I would have been unable to alone. As a cyclist I would have preferred more bicycle mileage
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Adrian - Traveled, March 2024
This is a great way to see Morocco, loved the scenery, especially the Atlas Mountains. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Giles - Traveled, March 2024
Fabulous holiday, much more than just a cycle trip. Felt very safe and looked after by the great support crew. Loved it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Lindsay - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip! So fun with great sites to see. Not a trip for beginner cyclists! Some difficult climbs. Worth the views!….mostly :P
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Simon - Traveled, March 2024
An amazing trip with a great combination of cycling and other activities. Fantastic introduction to Morocco provided in safe and fully supported way. Opportunities provided that would be hard to replicate if travelling solo. Incredible value.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Glynn - Traveled, December 2023
Great tour. You need to be fit. Good tour guide that was professional at all times. Ensure that you have warm cycle clothing and gloves during the Winter season. It is cold in the Atlas Mountain regions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/31/2023
Nick - Traveled, December 2023
Brilliant cycling trip to tantalise and highten your knowledge and interest in Marocco. Fun leaders with a fully colourful experience of landscaps, culture, companionship. Do it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/31/2023
Crystal - Traveled, December 2023
Really enjoyed this tour although was surprised by the difficulty level at the beginning. My fault. Did not check the physical grading while booking. But not only survived but also thriving at the end. The highlight of the day was when we visited the Normad’s cave home followed by visiting our assistant guide’s home — guess this is a bonus depends on who your guide is. Lucky us!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/02/2024
David - Traveled, November 2023
Would highly recommend the cycle Morocco trip. Excellent cycling in a wonderful country with many varied terrain. Scenery on this trip is absolutely fantastic. Abdul our trip leader was first class in looking after us on the trip. ( as was the rest of his team especially our man Josef who looked after my wife and I at the back of the group ) My advise is " book cycle Morocco" you will love it. Cheers David and Ali
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Adnane - Traveled, November 2023
This is the BEST Morocco trip I`ve ever done Absolutely amazing 14-day cycling trip over my home country `Morocco`, beautiful perfect weather, and the landscapes are out of this world in every place we went to, from the north through the Rif mountains, ocean, blue city, Fes Medina, middle Atlas, forest, and desert to High Atlas and much more, I got to see all of Morocco highlights, and you experience these spectacular nature and history sometimes slowly on your bike, others riding down excitedly with adrenaline rush on an a descent road, other off-road biking and meeting a nomad family over a tea with picnic lunch. I experienced different hotel styles in each place, sometimes simply modern, others traditional lovely sites. Very well organized, timing was good, well done to our leader ` Abderrahim` and leader assistant `Youssef`and both drivers ` Mohammed` and `Khalid`, they worked very hard to take care of everyone and manage all the trip logistics details very well, Well done everyone, I enjoyed this trip so much I want to do it again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/27/2023
Lynn - Traveled, November 2023
Our November 12 to 25, 2023 Morocco Cycle Tour was a delight from start to finish! Fascinating itinerary, stunning landscapes/seascapes, challenging-yet-doable cycling, delicious local food, and interesting off-bike experiences were the order of the day. Our guides were excellent - caring, attentive, organized, informative, flexible - and our drivers always on time and safely driving us to our destinations. Fellow travelers were fun, adventurous, curious and compassionate. Sun shone every day! A big thank you to everyone at Intrepid; we are already planning our second Intrepid tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2024
1 Star - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip and guides. Itinerary different too reality. Less cycling than stated.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/05/2023
Terry - Traveled, October 2023
We have deliberately avoided guided trips in the past whether it was cycling or trekking, but our views have changed now because of our very positive Cycling Morocco experience. The riding was very fun, challenging at times, and on excellent roads. The guiding was excellent, the routes and inclusions beautiful and interesting, and our cycling mates an interesting group from around the world. We would not have seen so much, or so efficiently, without joining this group. And our guide, Abderrahim, was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
William - Traveled, October 2023
What a wonderful trip! Mohammed and Rachid were marvelous guides and they both made our trip to Morocco all the more memorable. Their pride in their country was palpable and it was abundantly clear that they were eager to show us the beauty of Moroccan culture.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
Dexter - Traveled, October 2023
The Morocco cycling trip was excellent-a superb way to see and experience many different regions and cultures of this extraordinary country. The guides-Mohamed and Rasheed- were great. The cycling was challenging but not overwhelming. A wonderful experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
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