Many parents imagine that Morocco is only for serious cyclists. In reality, a family cycling holiday in Morocco can be one of the most memorable trips you take together: children see villages, animals and landscapes up close, and parents get a holiday that is active without being exhausting. The key is to plan for the family, not for the route.
Choose the right terrain for a family cycling holiday in Morocco
Look for gentle valley roads, lake paths and village tracks rather than long mountain passes. Short rolling rides in the Atlas foothills, around Lake Lalla Takerkoust or along a valley such as the Ourika are much better first experiences. Our Lalla Takerkoust lake e-bike ride and Ourika Valley e-bike adventure are good examples of this type of ride.
Keep the distances modest
For children, the most important thing is enjoyment. Short days with frequent stops for tea, snacks, animals and photos work far better than long mileage. As a rough guideline, plan a morning of riding and an afternoon of rest, then adjust to the age, fitness and mood of your group.
E-bikes keep families together
An e-bike evens out the differences between a keen parent, a tired teenager and a younger rider. Pedal assist takes the sting out of climbs, so everyone can ride at the same pace. Our guide to e-bike tours in Morocco explains how it works.
Support and safety
A support vehicle is the biggest comfort for a family trip. It carries water, snacks, spare clothes and bags, and gives a lift to anyone who has had enough. Basic safety habits apply: helmets for everyone, a calm pace and clear rules about staying within sight of the guide. Read our safety tips.
Heat, sun and food
The sun is strong, so pack sun cream, hats and light long sleeves, and encourage children to drink often. Choose cooler seasons: see the best time to cycle Morocco. Moroccan food is family-friendly, and most children enjoy bread, couscous and simple tagines: more in what cyclists eat in Morocco.
What to ask before you book
- What is the minimum age for this trip?
- Are bikes available in children’s sizes, and can they be adjusted?
- How long are the riding days, and can we shorten them?
- Is there a support vehicle, and can children ride in it?
- Can you adapt the pace and the route to our group?
For an easy first ride in the city, our partners at Marrakech By Bike run guided rides in Marrakech. Need a bike? Check the equipment list of our partners at Atlas Mountain Bike before you travel.
Related reading: Cycling in Marrakech: Medina Rides, the Palmeraie and Day Trips
Plan your family trip
Family trips are best designed around your children’s ages and your dates. Tell us about your family and we will suggest a route, or browse our day rides for an easy first ride.
