Cycling in The Moroccan Atlas Mountains
7 Days
1-30 People
Tour
Atlas
Embark on the ultimate two-wheeled adventure from the vibrant chaos of Marrakech into the serene, majestic heart of the High Atlas Mountains. This is not just a cycling trip; it’s a journey through time, culture, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech - Acclimatization & Bike Setup
Activity: Arrive at Marrakech (RAK) airport. Transfer to your hotel or riad in the medina. In the afternoon, assemble your bike or do a test ride on a rented one. A short, easy spin to the Palmeraie (palm grove) outside the city is perfect.
Evening: Explore the famous Djemaa el-Fna square as it transforms into a huge open-air theatre with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls.
Accommodation: Riad in Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech to Ouirgane Valley (The First Challenge)
Distance: ~75 km (47 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 m (3,940 ft)
Route: Depart Marrakech and begin the gradual climb into the foothills of the Atlas. The traffic thins out as you ascend. The landscape changes from red earth to lush valleys. The climb is steady but not overly steep, a perfect introduction.
Highlight: Arriving in the serene Ouirgane Valley, a beautiful area of almond and walnut groves with the High Atlas as a backdrop.
Accommodation: Guesthouse or eco-lodge in the Ouirgane Valley.
Day 3: Ouirgane to Aït Bouguemez (The Happy Valley)
Distance: ~85 km (53 miles) – A very challenging day.
Elevation Gain: ~2,200 m (7,220 ft)
Route: This is a massive day of climbing. You’ll tackle the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260m / 7,415ft), the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. The road is well-paved with endless switchbacks. The reward is an unforgettable 50km descent on the other side into a different world.
Highlight: Reaching the summit of Tizi n’Tichka and the subsequent epic descent into the remote and stunning Aït Bouguemez Valley, known as “The Happy Valley.”
Accommodation: Berber guesthouse (gîte) in a village like Agouti or Tabant.
Day 4: Rest Day / Exploration in Aït Bouguemez
Activity: A well-deserved rest day. Explore the valley on foot or with an easy bike ride on flat tracks. Visit traditional villages, see ancient petroglyphs, or hike into the surrounding hills. Experience genuine Berber hospitality.
Cultural Note: This is a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the slow, agricultural pace of life in the High Atlas.
Accommodation: Same Berber guesthouse.
Day 5: Aït Bouguemez to Aït Benhaddou (From Berber Valleys to Kasbahs)
Distance: ~90 km (56 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 m (3,280 ft) – features one big climb and a long descent.
Route: A long cycling day but predominantly downhill or rolling. You’ll leave the High Atlas via a different route, crossing the Tizi n’Ait Imguer pass before a spectacular descent towards the Sahara desert. The landscape becomes drier and more dramatic.
Highlight: The final approach to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou, a stunning fortified village (ksar) that has been the backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse near Aït Benhaddou.
Day 6: Aït Benhaddou to Telouet & Return to Marrakech (Optional/Transfer)
Option 1 (Shorter Ride + Transfer): Cycle a ~35km loop from Aït Benhaddou to the fascinating Telouet Kasbah, once the seat of the powerful Glaoui tribe. The road is quiet and scenic. Afterwards, load bikes into a support vehicle for the 3-hour drive back to Marrakech.
Option 2 (Full Ride – For the Very Strong): Cycle the entire ~140km back to Marrakech over the Tizi n’Tichka pass a second time (extremely challenging).
Evening: Celebratory farewell dinner in Marrakech.
Accommodation: Riad in Marrakech.
Day 7: Departure from Marrakech
Activity: Last-minute souvenir shopping in the souks, a final Moroccan mint tea, and transfer to the airport for departure.
What’s Included
Accommodation
Meals
Support & Logistics
Bike & Equipment
Transfers
Cultural Experiences
Miscellaneous
Not Included
International & Domestic Flights:
Travel Insurance
Visa Fees
Meals in Marrakech
Alcoholic Beverages & Extra Drinks
Single Room Supplement
Personal Cycling Equipment
Personal Expenses
Optional Activities & Entrance Fees
Gratuities (Tips)
Costs from Unforeseen Events
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