Gravel bike trip from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, including riding details, altitude climbing, and other essential information:
Trip: Atlas to Sahara Gravel Adventure
Duration: 7 days
Overview: Embark on an epic gravel bike journey from the majestic Atlas Mountains to the vast and captivating Sahara Desert. This challenging expedition will take you through diverse landscapes, remote villages, and stunning natural wonders. Prepare for thrilling rides, breathtaking vistas, and a cultural immersion like no other.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
- Altitude: 466 m
- Arrival in Marrakech, transfer to your hotel, and meet your guide.
- Bike fitting and tour briefing.
- Explore the vibrant streets and vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech.
- Overnight in Marrakech.
Upon your arrival in Marrakech, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant sights and sounds of this bustling city. Transfer to your hotel where you’ll meet your experienced guide. You’ll have a bike fitting session to ensure your equipment is set up correctly. Afterward, your guide will provide a detailed briefing about the upcoming adventure. Take some time to explore Marrakech’s lively medina, visit historical landmarks like the Bahia Palace or the Koutoubia Mosque, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the city. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech to Tizi n’Test Pass
- Distance: Approximately 80 km
- Altitude: Start at 466 m, climb to 2,092 m
- Depart from Marrakech and ride towards the High Atlas Mountains.
- Ascend the challenging Tizi n’Test Pass, enjoying panoramic views along the way.
- Descend into the picturesque Ounila Valley and pass through traditional Berber villages.
- Overnight in a local guesthouse.
Prepare for an exhilarating ride as you leave Marrakech behind and head towards the High Atlas Mountains. The route takes you along winding roads, passing through traditional Berber villages and picturesque landscapes. The highlight of the day is conquering the Tizi n’Test Pass, a challenging climb that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. As you descend into the Ounila Valley, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the rugged terrain and ancient kasbahs. Spend the night in a local guesthouse, enjoying warm Berber hospitality.
Day 3: Ounila Valley to Boumalne Dades
- Distance: Approximately 70 km
- Altitude: Start at 1,300 m, climb to 1,600 m
- Ride through the scenic Ounila Valley, known for its ancient kasbahs and stunning landscapes.
- Encounter challenging gravel roads and undulating terrain.
- Pass through the famous Valley of Roses and reach Boumalne Dades.
- Overnight in a charming hotel in Boumalne Dades.
Today’s ride takes you through the enchanting Ounila Valley, characterized by its stunning rock formations and historic mud-brick kasbahs. As you pedal along gravel roads and undulating terrain, you’ll be immersed in the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Pass through the famed Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant rose gardens, and continue to Boumalne Dades. This small town is nestled amidst impressive rock formations, offering a unique atmosphere. Relax and unwind in a charming hotel, taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Day 4: Boumalne Dades to Merzouga
- Distance: Approximately 110 km
- Altitude: Start at 1,387 m, climb to 1,600 m
- Ride through the dramatic Todra Gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Traverse the vast desert plains and pedal towards the Erg Chebbi sand dunes in Merzouga.
- Experience a magical sunset camel ride among the dunes.
- Overnight in a traditional desert camp.
Embark on an epic journey as you leave the Dades Valley and ride towards the desert oasis of Merzouga. Pedaling through the captivating Todra Gorge, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs and awe-inspiring rock formations. The landscape gradually transforms into vast desert plains, and you’ll eventually reach the Erg Chebbi sand dunes in Merzouga. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you hop on a camel and ride into the desert, witnessing a mesmerizing sunset over the dunes. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp, enjoying local cuisine and stargazing under the vast desert sky.
Day 5: Merzouga to Nkob
- Distance: Approximately 100 km
- Altitude: Start at 770 m, climb to 1,200 m
- Leave the desert behind and ride through the stunning Draa Valley.
- Pass through small oases, palm groves, and traditional mud-brick villages.
- Enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape as you approach Nkob.
- Overnight in a local riad in Nkob.
Bid farewell to the desert as you embark on a scenic ride through the Draa Valley. Pedal through small oases, palm groves, and traditional mud-brick villages, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the desert landscape accompanies you as you approach Nkob. This charming village is known for its distinctive kasbahs and picturesque setting. Relax and unwind in a local riad, savoring delicious Moroccan cuisine and enjoying warm hospitality.
Day 6: Nkob to Ouarzazate
- Distance: Approximately 80 km
- Altitude: Start at 1,250 m, descend to 1,150 m
- Ride through the rugged Anti-Atlas Mountains, known for their stunning rock formations.
- Pass through the famous Tizi n’Tinififft Pass and enjoy the scenic descent towards Ouarzazate.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified city along the route.
- Overnight in a hotel in Ouarzazate.
Today’s ride takes you through the rugged beauty of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. As you navigate challenging gravel roads and steep climbs, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of unique rock formations and sweeping valleys. The highlight of the day is conquering the Tizi n’Tinififft Pass, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Descend towards Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified city that has served as a backdrop for numerous movies. Overnight in a hotel in Ouarzazate.
Day 7: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
- Distance: Approximately 200 km
- Altitude: Start at 1,150 m, climb to 1,600 m, descend to 466 m
- Depart from Ouarzazate and ride back towards Marrakech.
- Encounter varied landscapes, from arid plains to lush valleys.
- Pass through the High Atlas Mountains and conquer the challenging Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Arrive in Marrakech, celebrate the completion of your journey, and enjoy a farewell dinner.
- Overnight in Marrakech.
Elevation Gain: -470m / 850m
On the final day of your adventure, set off from Ouarzazate and embark on a challenging ride back to Marrakech. The route takes you through a variety of landscapes, from arid plains to lush valleys, showcasing the diverse beauty of Morocco. Ascend the High Atlas Mountains and conquer the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in North Africa. As you descend towards Marrakech, reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced and celebrate your achievements. Enjoy a farewell dinner in Marrakech, savoring traditional Moroccan dishes and reminiscing about the memorable moments of the trip. Overnight in Marrakech.
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