Cycling in Morocco is more than just pedaling through landscapes — it’s a gravel adventure that reshapes your body, mind, and perspective. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the remote plains near the Sahara, each stage offers gravel trails, mountain climbs, and cultural experiences that few travelers ever see.
With MTB Morocco, riders don’t just see Morocco — they live it. From the High Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic coast, every ride blends physical challenge, mental clarity, and cultural immersion.
Why Choose Morocco for Gravel Cycling?
Riders often ask:
“Why Morocco? Why not Europe or North America?”
Here’s why Morocco is ideal for gravel cycling adventures:
- Dramatic landscapes: High Atlas climbs, Anti-Atlas valleys, desert plateaus, and coastal gravel tracks.
- Varied terrain: Gravel, rocky tracks, paved roads, and sandy desert trails offer challenges for all levels.
- Cultural immersion: Village tea stops, local markets, Berber hospitality, and authentic Moroccan cuisine.
- Year-round riding: Mild winter weather ensures comfortable conditions when other countries are cold.
- Expert support: MTB Morocco provides guides, support vehicles, accommodation, and logistics for a seamless experience.
Day 1 – Arrival & Warm-Up: Marrakech to Lac Lalla Takerkoust
Upon arrival at Marrakech airport, riders are transported to Lac Lalla Takerkoust, a serene mountain lake. Here, the adventure begins with a short gravel ride to test bikes and stretch legs after the flight.
Emma from the UK remembers:
“The gravel trails around the lake were gentle yet fun. You could hear the water, smell the eucalyptus, and watch the Atlas Mountains in the distance — it felt like stepping into another world.”
Evening dinner introduces Moroccan cuisine: tagine, couscous, and fresh bread, setting the tone for a week of cultural and culinary exploration.
🎥 Warm-up ride video:
https://www.youtube.com/@mtbmorocco4548
Day 2 – Stage One: Lac Lalla Takerkoust to Imlil
Stage One is 50km with 1,565m of elevation gain, 52% off-road, taking riders from the lake into the High Atlas foothills. The gravel paths twist past terraced fields and small Berber villages, giving a first taste of Morocco’s hidden gems.
Lucas from France shares:
“The gravel tracks were alive — farmers in the fields, goats crossing the paths, children waving. It was a completely different cycling experience from anywhere I’ve ridden in Europe.”
The day ends in Imlil, a village at the base of Mt Toubkal. Dinner and overnight accommodation allow riders to rest before the legendary Queen Stage.
Day 3 – Stage Two: Imlil to Tizi n’Test (Queen Stage)
Stage Two is the highlight for any gravel and MTB enthusiast: 115km, 2,479m elevation gain, 55% off-road. The climb to Tizi n’Test is long, twisting, and exhilarating. Hairpins and gravel switchbacks reveal panoramic Atlas views at every turn.
Jack from Germany explains:
“I’ve done Alps climbs, but Tizi n’Test felt unique. The gravel was rough but manageable, the views were breathtaking, and reaching the summit felt like a major achievement.”
Night accommodations at Hotel Café La Belle Vue are simple but rewarding. Riders enjoy the mountain air, sunset views, and shared stories of the climb.
🎥 Tizi n’Test gravel climb:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHXooDy6g00
Day 4 – Stage Three: Tizi n’Test to Taroudant
Stage Three transitions from alpine terrain to southern plains: 107km, 496m elevation gain, 55% off-road gravel. Riders descend through red-earth valleys, small villages, and open plains.
Sarah from the Netherlands notes:
“The gravel trails here were softer, rolling through villages and open fields. Every stop — mint tea, fresh bread, a chat with locals — made me feel part of the country.”
Taroudant, known as the “Little Marrakech,” offers ancient city walls, souks, and centuries-old culture. This stage blends physical challenge with immersive experience, allowing riders to recharge before the final coastal push.
Day 5 – Stage Four: Taroudant to Taghazout
The final stage covers 70km with 2,119m of climbing, 55% gravel, leading riders to the Atlantic coast. The terrain varies from rocky trails to sandy stretches, with ocean breezes adding challenge and excitement.
Emma recalls:
“Finishing on the beach at Taghazout felt unreal. Gravel, mountains, desert, and now the ocean — all in one week. It was exhausting, beautiful, and completely rewarding.”
Evening celebrations include seafood, surf lessons, and reflection on the week’s journey. Riders leave not just physically tired, but mentally refreshed and culturally enriched.
🎥 Coastal gravel ride and finish:
https://www.youtube.com/@mtbmorocco4548
Benefits of Riding Gravel in Morocco
Riders consistently report life-changing benefits:
- Mental clarity: Vast open landscapes help reset perspective.
- Endurance and technical skill: Gravel climbs, rocky descents, and sandy trails push fitness and handling skills.
- Cultural connection: Village stops, shared meals, and local guides give deep immersion.
- Community: Multi-day rides foster friendships and shared adventure.
- Perspective: Cycling through ancient landscapes inspires reflection and personal growth.
Jack sums it up:
“I came for the gravel adventure, but I left with stories, friends, and a sense of achievement I didn’t expect.”
Why MTB Morocco?
Navigating Morocco’s diverse terrain requires expertise. MTB Morocco provides:
- Knowledge of gravel, off-road, and mountain trails
- Experienced local guides and support vehicles
- Accommodation, luggage transport, and meal logistics
- Small group adventures for safety, camaraderie, and learning
- Hidden routes and off-the-beaten-path experiences
🌍 Plan your adventure: https://mtbmorocco.com/
🎥 YouTube ride highlights: https://www.youtube.com/@mtbmorocco4548
📸 Instagram reels & stories: https://www.instagram.com/mtb_morocco/
Takeaway
Morocco offers a unique gravel cycling adventure: stunning landscapes, technical terrain, cultural immersion, and personal transformation. With MTB Morocco, riders experience the Atlas Mountains, Anti-Atlas valleys, desert trails, and coastal roads safely and memorably.
Every pedal stroke, every village stop, and every summit is a story — and Morocco is waiting for your story to unfold.
