High Atlas to Sahara
High Atlas to Sahara is a 9-day gravel cycling expedition in High Atlas → Sahara, Morocco — 480 km and 5,800 m of climbing from Marrakech to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi), rated Challenging. A 9-day expedition from Marrakech across the Atlas passes to the dunes of Erg Chebbi at Merzouga. Fully supported with a lead guide, mechanic and support vehicle, with a guesthouse every night. Book your High Atlas → Sahara gravel expedition with Gravel Morocco.
Highlights
- Cross the Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka and Ounila
- Ride the Dades and Todra gorges
- Finish on the Erg Chebbi dunes at Merzouga
Itinerary
- Day 1: Marrakech → Tizi n’Tichka approach — Ride out of Marrakech toward the pass.
- Day 2: Tizi n’Tichka → Telouet → Ounila — Cross the pass and ride the Ounila piste.
- Day 3: Ounila → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate — Ride to the ksar and on to Ouarzazate.
- Day 4: Ouarzazate → Skoura → Valley of Roses — Ride to the Skoura oasis and the Valley of Roses.
- Day 5: Valley of Roses → Dades Gorge — Climb to the Dades Gorge and the fingers of rock.
- Day 6: Dades → Todra Gorge → Tinghir — Cross to the Todra Gorge.
- Day 7: Tinghir → Erfoud approach — Ride east toward the desert and Erfoud.
- Day 8: Erfoud → Merzouga → dunes — Ride to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes; sunset camel walk.
- Day 9: Merzouga — desert rest & finish — A desert morning and farewell; transfer option out.
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.