High Atlas Loop
High Atlas Loop is a 6-day gravel cycling expedition in High Atlas, Morocco — 350 km and 4,800 m of climbing from Marrakech to Marrakech, rated Challenging. A 6-day loop through the High Atlas — the Tizi n’Tichka, the Ounila Valley and the Marrakech foothills in one circuit. Fully supported with a lead guide, mechanic and support vehicle, with a guesthouse every night. Book your High Atlas gravel expedition with Gravel Morocco.
Highlights
- A full High Atlas circuit from Marrakech
- Cross the Tizi n’Tichka (2,268 m)
- Ride the Ounila Valley and the Tizi n’TTest corridor
Itinerary
- Day 1: Marrakech → Ait Ourir → Tizi n’Tichka approach — Ride out of Marrakech and climb toward the Tizi n’Tichka.
- Day 2: Tizi n’Tichka → Telouet — Cross the 2,268 m pass and descend the caravan piste to Telouet.
- Day 3: Telouet → Ounila Valley → Ait Benhaddou — Ride the ochre piste to the UNESCO ksar.
- Day 4: Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → return crossing — Roll to Ouarzazate, then transfer back over the Atlas to the south side.
- Day 5: South Atlas → Ouirgane — Descend to the Ouirgane valley and ride the Tizi n’TTest corridor pistes.
- Day 6: Ouirgane → Asni → Marrakech — Final ride beneath Toubkal back to Marrakech.
Frequently asked questions
How do I book a gravel cycling trip in Morocco?
Request a date through the booking form or contact us. We confirm availability and send a quote; a small deposit secures your place and the balance is due before departure.
Can I rent a gravel bike in Morocco?
Yes — quality gravel bikes and helmets are available to rent in Marrakech, set up for the local pistes. Tell us your size at booking and we confirm fit and setup.
What fitness do I need for gravel cycling in Morocco?
It depends on the trip difficulty. Each trip page states the honest fitness and experience requirements — read the difficulty and safety sections. Day rides need moderate fitness; multi-day expeditions need excellent fitness.
What happens if the weather turns?
We monitor conditions and hold bad-weather alternatives. No one rides a closed pass or an impassable piste; we reschedule or reroute and are flexible on genuine weather cancellations.
Is travel insurance required for Morocco gravel tours?
Yes. Multi-day and remote trips require insurance that covers cycling and medical evacuation. We ask for your insurance details at booking.
Can I bring my own gravel bike to Morocco?
Yes. Bring spares specific to your setup (tubes, quick links, brake pads). We help with bike build and box storage at the start hotel in Marrakech.
When is the best time for gravel cycling in Morocco?
The main season runs September to May. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal for the Atlas and Sahara. Winter suits the desert, Anti-Atlas and coast; summer is too hot for the lowlands but works for high-altitude Atlas routes.
Are Morocco gravel tours guided and supported?
Yes. Every multi-day tour includes an expert local guide, a support vehicle carrying water, food, luggage and spares, and mechanical support. Day rides are guided with route support, water and snacks.