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MOROCCO GRAVEL EXPLORER CYCLING TOUR

Experience the magic of Morocco on this premium gravel cycling adventure—from the bustling souks of Marrakech to the dramatic Atlas Mountains, desert plains, and golden dunes of the Sahara. Ride through Berber villages, explore the Dades Gorges, enjoy a sunset camel ride, and sleep under the stars in a luxury desert camp. With expert local guides, all-inclusive cultural experiences, and stunning scenery on and off the bike, this tour offers unforgettable moments for riders and non-riders alike.

TOUR OVERVIEW

The majesty of Morocco is a feast for the senses and is waiting to be explored on an epic journey across the mountains and desert plains.

From Marrakech’s ancient mystique to the vast silence of the Sahara, this adventure reveals Morocco’s soul in all its contrasts. You’ll conquer high mountain passes, wind through striking desert landscapes, experience the surreal beauty of riding alongside giant golden dunes and witness daily life in remote Berber villages—all from the saddle.

With thoughtful logistics and expert support, this is a cycling adventure that balances raw exploration with refined comfort.

For non-riding partners, a parallel itinerary offers rich cultural encounters and desert adventures, ensuring everyone shares in the magic of Morocco.

This is a trip for adventure seekers that will create fond memories which will last forever.

EXPERIENCE THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME

Come join us and discover why the high-altitude deserts of Morocco are a gravel biking paradise, whilst immersing yourself along the way in the most authentic Berber hospitality.

We will guide you on a fully supported adventure through expansive orange deserts to ancient adobe cities. Climb into the highlands of the legendary Atlas Mountains followed by remarkable sweeping descents into valleys lined with date palms.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1: WELCOME TO MARRAKECH

Arrive in the enchanting city of Marrakech, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences.

Upon landing, you'll be warmly greeted by our team and transferred to your luxurious accommodation in the heart of the city.

We strongly recommend you arrive into Marrakech on the 6th September, to settle in and recover from any jetlag. Let us know if you would like us to arrange any extra accommodation for you.

Today, you are free to explore Marrakech at your own pace, where you'll marvel at the intricate details of the Bahia Palace and the historical significance of the Saadian Tombs. Take in the vibrant atmosphere of the medina, with its colourful spice markets, captivating musicians, and lush gardens.

As alternative activities, you can partake in an early sunrise hot air balloon flight or a guided half day walking tour which are not officially part of the Après Vélo tour and is an additional cost, which we can arrange on your behalf. Please also note that these activities are not private and will be shared with other people. Should you be interested, talk to us when booking.

Over welcome drinks, you will get to meet your fellow adventurers and the Après Vélo team, who will provide a tour briefing.

As evening falls, Marrakech transforms into a lively spectacle. Enjoy welcome dinner at the renowned Dar Dar restaurant (or a similar venue) overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa square. From your vantage point, witness the square’s magical energy as henna painters, street vendors, performers, and storytellers create a mesmerizing display.

Your adventure into the heart of Morocco has well and truly begun with an unforgettable day immersed in its culture, history, and flavours.

Accommodation- Riad Cle D, Marrakech.

DAY 2: THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Ride Distance - 80km, (or 45km without Tizi)
Elevation - 1300m, (or 550m without Tizi)

Today we have a short transfer of around 60 minutes out of Marrakech and into the Atlas Mountains.

On our ride menu, we will be providing you with 2 different options, with and without the Tizi ‘n Tichka climb.

Riding through the Atlas Mountains from the base of Tizi n’Tichka Pass to Ait Ben Haddou is an unforgettable experience. The journey begins with spectacular winding mountain roads that offer sweeping vistas of rugged peaks and lush valleys, showcasing the dramatic contrasts of the region. At over 2000m, you will start to feel the coolness, with scenery reminiscent to the lunar landscapes of Mont Ventoux. As you descend, the terrain transforms into a more arid landscape, dotted with traditional Berber villages and ancient kasbahs.

The route is steeped in history and culture, eventually leading to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a magnificent ksar (fortified village) famous for its mud-brick architecture. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views, from terraced hillsides to deep gorges, making this one of Morocco’s most scenic.

Our accommodation is a luxury Riad/Kasbah in the heart of Ait Benhaddou, the city they filmed The Mummy, Gladiator and most recently, Game of Thrones.

Accommodation- Ksar Ighnda - Ait Ben Haddou.

DAY 3: SKOURA

Ride Distance – 72km
Elevation – 750m

Today we ride from the legendary UNESCO-listed kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou to the verdant palm groves of Skoura on an unforgettable adventure. This off-the-radar route connects two of southern Morocco’s most captivating destinations. Along the way you’ll ride against a backdrop of red-ochre valleys from the High Atlas and hidden canyons, weaving through traditional Berber villages, palm-fringed trails and timeworn kasbahs, before descending into Skoura’s cool, green oasis, a striking contrast to the desert terrain.

Accommodation- Kasbah Ait Ben Hada.

DAY 4: BOUMALEN DADES

Ride Distance - 62km
Elevation - 900m

Time to journey into the heart of the Dades Valley, famously known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” You’ll wind past lush palm groves, desert tracks, centuries-old kasbahs and traditional Berber villages, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains. This section is renowned for its beauty: the road gradually rises into rugged terrain, revealing sweeping views of arid landscapes and the striking red rock formations of the Dades Gorge — a perfect blend of cultural discovery and natural wonder for adventurous travellers.

As you traverse through these breathtaking landscapes, you may encounter nomadic tribes who still roam the desert as they have for generations. Moving with the seasons, these resilient communities tend to their camels and goats, establish temporary camps, and cross the dunes with a quiet grace that reflects a deep connection to the land. Meeting them, as we’ve experienced on previous tours, is a rare privilege offering a genuine glimpse into a timeless way of life.

By afternoon, you’ll retreat to your hotel — a serene haven perched at 1,612 m in the mountains. Unwind and take in the views before savouring a traditional Moroccan dinner as the sun sets over the desert.

Accommodation- Hotel Xaluca, Dades

DAY 5: REST DAY

Today is a rest day, which offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Morocco’s untouched backcountry. The best way to experience Dades is on foot.

Speaking of authentic, we've organised lunch with a local Amazigh family, something that will be a highlight of your time here.

This unique encounter provides a rare insight into the Amazigh way of life, showcasing their hospitality, traditions, and connection to the land.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to a hammam in the hotel Spa or sunbathe at the outdoor pool.

For those who crave more adventure, cycling along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs offers an unforgettable experience through Morocco’s enchanting Dades Valley and is highly recommended. This iconic hot mix route features a mesmerising blend of ancient kasbahs, verdant palm groves, and rugged switchback mountain landscapes, perfect for those seeking both cultural immersion and stunning natural vistas.

In the evening, unwind and reflect on the day over a delicious dinner at your hotel.

Accommodation- Hotel Xaluca, Dades

DAY 6: LAND OF NOMADS

Ride Distance – 50km
Elevation – 850m

After breakfast, we ride towards Jbel Saghro, the desert mountain range that sits beyond the Atlas and leads toward the Sahara. The first climb up Touririte Peak quickly brings us to the 2,000m summit near the small town of Ikniouen. From here, we enter a remote mountain plateau of sweeping valleys, dry riverbeds, and scattered Berber villages, with children often playing as we pass on our way to Alnif, our ride’s end point. A short transfer then takes us to Erfoud for the night.

Accommodation- Palais de Désert

DAY 7: THE ERG CHEBBI DUNES

Ride Distance – 40km (don't let this fool you)
Elevation – 70m

Today’s ride rolls out of Erfoud and into the quiet roads of the Sahara, covering around 40km of shifting sand and desert silence. We’ll stop at the local date market early in the ride before turning off toward open desert, visiting a Berber community for a short break and refreshments.
After an authentic Medfouna lunch – often referred to as the “Berber pizza”, you’ll transfer to Riad Xaluca to unwind by the pool before we head into the dunes for a sunset camel ride and a relaxed evening at our desert camp.

Accommodation- Xaluca Merzouga

DAY 8: FAREWELL TO MOROCCO

Tis' time to bid farewell to mesmerising Morocco.
Our team will provide a transfer to Moulay Ali Cherif airport in Errachidia, which is a 1.5hr drive from our desert campsite, and provides flights to most major destinations in Morocco. Alternatively, we can arrange a helicopter flight for you from the dunes direct to Marrakech, alternatively overland transport to your destination of choice, at an added cost.

Speak to us about organising additional days, accommodation and tours in Morocco.

Marrakech: Explore Marrakech prior to or at the end of our trip. There is a lot of ancient history, sightseeing and unique shopping opportunities.

Chefchaouen: Chefchaouen (the blue city) is known for its striking, blue-washed buildings, roofs, flower pots, stairs, which line its steep cobbled lanes, flanked by leather and weaving workshops. A worthy visit indeed.

Fes: One of the oldest medieval cities in the world and highly recommended. Indulge in some of the many food tours, perfume making classes or explore the beautiful architecture, mosques, museums, flea and street markets.

The Après Vélo itinerary may be subject to route and hotel changes, and other modifications subject to circumstances prevailing at the time.

PRICE

$200 OFF Your First Tour!

Simply request our digital brochure and get $200 off!

*Offer excludes Hobart Half Day tours.

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INCLUSIONS

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare.
Travel and personal insurance.
Additional hotel expenses i.e. in-room hotel charges, incidentals.
Gravel Bike hire (including E bikes) suitable for the terrain is available to rent for the tour duration. Talk to us when booking.
Alcohol.
Tipping.
Laundry. Facilities are available at your hotels for your convenience.
Hot Air Ballooning (optional extra in Marrakech).

NON-RIDING PARTNERS

APRÈS VÉLO ENCOURAGES AND WELCOMES NON-RIDING PARTNERS TO ATTEND OUR MOROCCO TOUR.

Riders and non-riding partners partake in all meals, and post ride activities making it an inclusive and shared experience for all.
A specific itinerary will be put together for non-riding partners that will ensure an equally satisfying and fulfilling experience.

Non-Riding partners will receive a 20% discount off the quoted prices.