8-Day Cycling Tour to the Sahara Desert

Embark on the mountain bike journey of a lifetime. This 8-day fully supported Sahara Desert cycling tour is designed for adventurous riders seeking to conquer Morocco’s most iconic and dramatic landscapes. Journey from the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, through lush palmeraies and deep gorges, to the ultimate prize: the golden, endless dunes of the Sahara. This is more than a bike ride; it’s a true expedition into the heart of Morocco.

Highlights Conquer Legendary Terrain: Experience a thrilling mix of rocky hamada (desert plateaus), fast-flowing wadi beds, technical single track, and the unforgettable challenge of riding on sand.

  • Sleep Under the Stars: Enjoy authentic Berber camping in the deep desert at Erg Chebbi. Savor a traditional tagine, share stories around a campfire, and witness a night sky ablaze with stars.

  • Ride Through Todra & Dades Gorges: Marvel at and mountain bike through the towering canyon walls of these world-famous gorges, a highlight of any Moroccan cycling adventure.

  • Immerse in Berber Culture: Experience genuine hospitality in remote villages, visit ancient kasbahs, and gain insight into a way of life that has endured for centuries.

  • Fully Supported Adventure: Focus purely on the ride. Our support vehicle carries your luggage, provides mechanical assistance, and ensures constant access to water, snacks, and security.

Detailed Description
Your expedition begins with a journey from Marrakech towards the towering High Atlas Mountains. The initial days of riding introduce you to Morocco’s diverse beauty, from fertile valleys to rugged, pre-desert trails.

As you pedal east, the landscape transforms around you. You’ll test your skills on the remote and rugged trails of the Jebel Saghro massif, a rewarding challenge that offers a sense of true isolation and adventure. The route then leads you to the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where you can ride along the river at the base of its 300-meter tall cliffs.

The final push into the Sahara Desert is a moment you will never forget. The sight of the golden Erg Chebbi dunes rising from the desert floor is your ultimate reward. Here, you’ll trade your bike for a camel for a short trek to a secluded desert camp. Celebrate your incredible achievement with new friends, immersed in the profound silence and magic of the Sahara.

This tour is designed for competent intermediate to advanced mountain bikers with a good level of fitness and a spirit of adventure.

Key Tour Highlights:

Discover Ancient Marrakech: Explore the vibrant souks, historical palaces, and the rich culture of Morocco’s most famous city.Cycle Through the Atlas Mountains: Experience the rugged beauty of the Atlas, cycling from lush valleys to high mountain passes.Berber Villages & Kasbahs: Ride through ancient kasbahs and charming Berber villages, learning about the local way of life.Sahara Desert Adventure: Enjoy two incredible days cycling through the Sahara Desert, with overnight stays in desert camps under the stars.Draa Valley: Cycle along the longest valley in Morocco, home to North Africa’s largest date palm oasis.Nomadic Lifestyle: Experience the hospitality and lifestyle of Morocco’s nomadic desert tribes.

Practical Information

Period: September to JuneAccommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, and nomadic desert campsGroup Size: Minimum of 3 participantsDifficulty Level: Medium (suitable for intermediate cyclists)Meals Included: All meals provided during the tour except for dinner and lunch in MarrakechTransportation: 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser for assistance during the biking tourStarting/Finishing Point: MarrakechBike Rental: High-quality mountain bikes available for rent (full or front suspension). If you prefer to bring your own bike, we’ll provide you with packing guidelines.

Booking Your Tour:This is more than just a cycling tour – it’s a chance to immerse yourself in Morocco’s culture and landscape, from the High Atlas to the Sahara. Experience the thrill of cycling across some of the most beautiful and diverse terrains in the world. Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure today!
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply seeking a new adventure, this 8-day cycling tour across Morocco will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper connection to this fascinating country.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Highlights: Arrival and Introduction to MarrakechDetails: Welcome to Marrakech! Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. There will be time to assemble your bikes, with assistance from local staff. After a pre-trip briefing, feel free to explore Marrakech at your leisure. Enjoy a delicious dinner and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.

Distance: 30 km (Cycling)Elevation Gain: Tichka Pass (2,260m)Details: Depart from Marrakech in a 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser, driving through the stunning Tichka Pass. After stopping for lunch in Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll cycle towards Ouarzazate. This is a shorter, warm-up cycling day, giving you a chance to settle into the rhythm of the tour.

Distance: 46 kmDetails: After breakfast, a one-hour car ride will take you to Pass Tinifift, where your cycling adventure continues with a long descent to the Tizqui waterfall, a lush green oasis surrounded by volcanic mountains. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool at the Kasbah where you’ll spend the night.

Distance: 70 kmDetails: Cycle through the heart of southern Morocco, heading towards Zagora, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Ride through the scenic Draa Valley, home to the largest date palm oasis in North Africa. Your night will be spent in a Desert Camp, where you’ll sleep under the stars.

Distance: 64 kmDetails: Start your day with a short drive before cycling towards the majestic Chegaga Dunes. The ride will take you through sacred oases and dry, fast tracks. Enjoy lunch at the Oum El Alg oasis before setting up camp in the desert for the night. Experience the peace of the desert and sleep beneath the stars.

Distance: 70 kmDetails: Begin the day by watching the sun rise over the dunes. Cycle through the iconic Paris-Dakar route, passing the dry Iriki Lake to reach Foum Zguide, where you’ll stop for lunch. Continue towards Taznakht, where you’ll overnight at a hotel with a swimming pool to relax and recover.

Distance: N/A (Driving)Details: After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Marrakech via the Tichka Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains. Upon arrival in Marrakech, you’ll check into your hotel or riad for a night’s rest. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s monuments, souks, or simply relaxing by the pool.

Details: Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight, marking the end of your Sahara Desert adventure.

What's includes​​​

Guide

Cook

Food

Transport

​Nights

What's Not includes​​​

Insurance.

Tip.

Tools.

​Bikes (you can hire it from our shop.).

​Helmet.

2450Per Person

8 Day

Sahara

Cycling

Ability Levels

2/10

Info

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