12 Days Tangier to Marrakech Atlas Mountains & Sahara Cycling Adventure

(3 Reviews)

12 Days Cycling Tour From Tangier Overview:

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day cycling adventure from Tangier to Marrakech, crossing Morocco’s most spectacular landscapes: the High Atlas Mountains, Berber valleys, remote canyons, the Saghro range, and the Sahara Desert dunes.

This Morocco bike tour is designed for adventure lovers seeking both physical challenge and cultural immersion. Each day offers new contrasts—from winding mountain passes and lush palm oases to arid plateaus and the golden dunes of Erg Chigaga.

Along the way, you’ll meet Berber families, discover ancient kasbahs, and ride through the legendary Draa Valley. The tour combines cycling, cultural visits, and guided experiences in Marrakech and Casablanca.

12 Days Morocco Cycling Tour Highlights:

  • Cycle across the High Atlas Mountains and descend through scenic valleys.
  • Visit the UNESCO site Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
  • Ride through the Draa Valley palm groves and Berber villages.
  • Cross the wild Djebel Saghro range and remote nomadic trails.
  • Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert at Erg Chigaga dunes.
  • Ride across the dry Lake Iriki, a surreal desert landscape.
  • Explore Marrakech’s souks, palaces, and hidden gems with a local guide.
  • Enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Marrakech (optional).
  • Discover Moroccan hospitality in riads, guesthouses, and desert camps.

12 Days Cycling in Morocco Itinerary:

Day 1Arrival in Tangier – Welcome to Morocco

Arrive at Tangier Airport, where our driver will greet you and transfer you to your charming guesthouse. After a traditional Moroccan dinner, you’ll meet your cycling guide and support team for a tour briefing.
Overnight: Tangier – Hajrienne Guest House

Day 2Tangier – Casablanca – Marrakech (Transfer Day)

After breakfast, transfer south via the Atlantic coast and Casablanca, before reaching Marrakech, the Red City. Stroll through Jemaa el-Fna square in the evening.
Overnight: Traditional Riad in Marrakech

Day 3Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou

Your cycling adventure begins! Transfer by support vehicle to the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,268m), Morocco’s highest road pass. Ride downhill past Telouet Kasbah through the scenic Ounila Valley, filled with ochre kasbahs and terraced gardens, before arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.

  • Cycling Distance: 72 km

  • Highlights: High Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Telouet, UNESCO Ait Ben Haddou
    Overnight: Riad in Ait Ben Haddou

Day 4Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Agdz

Cycle through the Anti-Atlas mountains, climbing over Tizi n’Tinififft (1,660m) with breathtaking views of canyons and snow-capped peaks. Descend into the lush palm groves of Agdz in the Draa Valley.

  • Cycling Distance: 82 km

  • Highlights: Ouarzazate, Tizi n’Tinififft Pass, Draa Valley Palm Groves
    Overnight: Boutique Hotel in Agdz

Day 5Agdz – Djebel Bani (Desert Camping)

Ride through the Draa Valley’s oasis villages, before heading into vast desert plains towards the Djebel Bani mountains. Camp in a remote desert amphitheater under the stars.

  • Cycling Distance: 62 km

  • Highlights: Berber villages, palm oases, Djebel Bani desert camp
    Overnight: Nomadic Desert Camp

Day 6Djebel Bani – Sahara Desert (Erg Chigaga Dunes)

Cycle along ancient caravan trails and rocky canyons until the golden dunes of Erg Chigaga appear. Enjoy a magical evening in a luxury desert camp, complete with camel rides and traditional music.

  • Cycling Distance: 40 km

  • Highlights: Erg Chigaga dunes, Sahara Desert sunset
    Overnight: Sahara Desert Camp

Day 7Erg Chigaga – Lake Iriki – Foum Zguid

Today’s ride is one of the most spectacular! Cycle across the dry Lake Iriki, an endless white salt flat, before reaching Foum Zguid, a desert town famous for its rock formations.

  • Cycling Distance: 56 km

  • Highlights: Lake Iriki, Djebel Mdaouer Kebir, Foum Zguid
    Overnight: Hotel with swimming pool in Foum Zguid

Day 8Foum Zguid – Marrakech (Transfer)

After breakfast, drive north across the Anti-Atlas mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech by late afternoon. Free evening to explore the lively medina.
Overnight: Traditional Riad in Marrakech

Day 9Marrakech City Tour with Local Guide

Discover Marrakech’s history and culture: Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, souks, Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square. Your local guide will show you hidden gems off the tourist trail.
Overnight: Marrakech Riad

Day 10Hot Air Balloon & Marrakech Discovery (Optional Adventure)

Optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains. Later, visit the Majorelle Gardens, El Badi Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and more. Evening at leisure.
Overnight: Marrakech Riad

Day 11Marrakech – Casablanca

Morning free in Marrakech before transferring to Casablanca. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, and enjoy a farewell dinner at the legendary Rick’s Café.
Overnight: Hotel in Casablanca

Day 12Departure from Casablanca

After breakfast, transfer to Casablanca Airport for your flight home. End of your unforgettable Morocco cycling adventure.

Included 12-Day Morocco Cycling Tour:

  • Airport transfers (Tangier arrival & Marrakech/Casablanca departure).
  • Full board during the cycling tour (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and mineral water).
  • Support vehicle (minibus or 4x4) throughout the cycling trip.
  • Professional Moroccan cycling guide.
  • Arrival and departure transfer Marrakech airport by Minibus

Not included:

  • Lunches, drinks, and dinners not specified
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities (optional)
  • Optional activities such as quad biking or sandboarding

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Travel to Desert’s Morocco tours?

All TravelToDesert tours include comfortable accommodations, daily breakfast, select dinners, private or shared transport in air-conditioned vehicles, English-speaking drivers or guides, and unique experiences such as camel rides and guided city tours. Specific inclusions vary by itinerary and are listed on each tour page.

Are the Morocco desert tours private or shared?

We offer both private and shared Morocco desert tours. Private tours provide a personalized experience, while shared tours are budget-friendly and ideal for meeting fellow travelers. Each option is clearly indicated on the tour listing.

Can I customize my Morocco tour itinerary?

Yes, TravelToDesert specializes in customizable Morocco tours. Whether you want to add activities, upgrade accommodations, or adjust the route, we can tailor your itinerary to match your interests and schedule.

Are camel rides included in all Sahara Desert tours?

Yes, most TravelToDesert Sahara tours include a camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga or similar desert areas. If you prefer to skip the camel ride, we can arrange alternative transport such as a 4WD vehicle.

What should I pack for a Sahara Desert tour?

We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, a warm layer for cool desert nights, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, sturdy shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera for unforgettable desert landscapes!

Are meals included in the tour price?

Daily breakfast is included in all tours. Most desert tours also include dinner in the desert and other select locations. Lunch and drinks are generally not included unless specified.

Is the desert camp accommodation private?

Yes, all desert camps include private tents. Luxury options with en-suite bathrooms are available and can be requested when booking.

Can I book quad biking or sandboarding in the desert?

Yes, TravelToDesert can arrange optional activities like quad biking, sandboarding, and 4WD dune tours in Merzouga. These can be booked in advance or on-site, depending on availability.

What is the best time to visit Morocco and the Sahara Desert?

The best time to travel to Morocco and explore the Sahara Desert is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and desert activities.

Do you offer airport transfers for Morocco tours?

Yes, all TravelToDesert tours include pick-up and drop-off at the airport, your hotel, riad, or any agreed location.

Are your tours suitable for families with children?

Yes, our Morocco tours are family-friendly. We offer customized options for families, including shorter camel rides, flexible itineraries, and child-friendly accommodations.

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3 Reviews
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Julia Kilyy

Group Traveller

I loved how well organized the trip was. The mix of cycling, trekking, and cultural experiences gave me a true taste of Morocco. The Berber villages, local food, and warm hospitality made it unforgettable. I would definitely book again

June 11, 2025

Sarah Mira

Group Traveller

I booked a Morocco cycling and trekking tour with my friends and it was beyond expectations. The guides were professional, the bikes were in great condition, and the landscapes were breathtaking – from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

April 9, 2025

Ahmed R

Group Traveller

The camel trekking experience was incredible. Riding across the dunes at sunset and sleeping under the stars in the desert camp felt magical.

March 6, 2025