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MOROCCO GRAVEL 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. For early arrivals, unwind at the hotel before joining the group for the day's activities.

We strongly recommend you arrive into Marrakech on the 7th September, to fully enjoy planned activities for 8th September and recover from any jetlag. Let us know if you would like us to arrange any extra accommodation for you.

Today, you'll experience a half-day walking tour of Marrakech 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 an alternative activity, you can partake in an early sunrise hot air balloon flight, which is not officially part of the Après Vélo tour and is an additional cost, which we can arrange on your behalf. Please also note that this activity is not private and will be shared with other people. Should you be interested, talk to us when booking.

A traditional lunch follows, before the riders are transferred to our rental bike providers to ensure correct bike set - up is completed and that we are good to roll tomorrow.

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 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 Nashira, Marrakech.

DAY 2: THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Ride Distance - 80km, (or 45km without Tizi)
Elevation - 1450m, (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 Ighenda - Ait Ben Haddou.

DAY 3: SKOURA

Ride Distance – 60km
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- Hotel Xaluca, Dades.

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, Erfoud

DAY 6: LAND OF NOMADS

Ride Distance – 50km
Elevation – 850m

Ride the back roads of Boumalen Dades and discover a landscape of striking contrasts. You’ll pass through dramatic red-rock gorges, winding desert tracks, and lush palm groves, with centuries-old kasbahs and traditional Berber villages dotting the route. The rugged High Atlas Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and every turn reveals sweeping vistas of the valley’s unique geology and timeless way of life. It’s a journey of both adventure and cultural discovery.

We have a short transfer to Erfoud following the ride.

Accommodation- Hotel Riad Xaluca, Merzouga

DAY 7: THE ERG CHEBBI DUNES

Ride Distance – 35km (don't let this fool you)
Elevation – 80m

Rugged terrain, shifting sand dunes, and roaming camels set the scene for today’s adventure as we head deeper into the desert. Cycling from Erfoud to the Erg Chebbi Dunes, sculpted by wind and time, offers an exhilarating journey across a dynamic landscape of sand and gravel, taking you straight into the heart of Morocco’s vast Sahara. Along the way, the horizon is dominated by the towering golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, growing ever closer with every turn of the pedals.

Be ready for anything — sandy stretches, loose gravel, or occasional mud — as the terrain shifts with local weather patterns, adding to the thrill of the ride.
The payoff is spectacular: reaching the iconic Erg Chebbi Dunes, where you can marvel at their majestic shapes and watch the sunset illuminate the sands in fiery hues. After this challenging yet unforgettable ride, we’ll enjoy a short transfer to Merzouga to relax and freshen up by the pool.

Early evening we transfer to a luxury desert camp, your home for the night nestled among the dunes. This unique camp provides a blend of traditional Berber charm and modern glamping, featuring cozy tents, and opportunities to relax around a campfire. The tranquil setting and warm hospitality make it a magical way to immerse yourself in the beauty and stillness of the Sahara Desert.

What better way to finish off this incredible day, than with a camel ride at sunset before commencing our farewell dinner.

Tonight, you will sleep under the shimmering Moroccan stars, a truly magical conclusion to the day and tour.

Accommodation- Sandy Camp (luxury tent), 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.
E Gravel bikes. This can be arranged for you at an additional charge of AU$75 per day.
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.