Highlights
- The rugged Tessaout gorge and its isolated villages
- Tizi n’Oulaoun pass at 2,800 m
- The volcanic Jebel Saghro
- Palm oasis of the Draa and the Tizgui waterfall
What awaits you
This is the toughest ride in our catalogue, with long days of 50 to 85 km and up to 2,100 m of climbing. It starts at the foot of the High Atlas, follows the remote Tessaout gorge with several river crossings, climbs the Tizi n’Oulaoun at 2,800 m and then heads south through troglodyte plateaus and the volcanic Jebel Saghro to the Draa valley.The support vehicle carries luggage and, if needed, tired riders. Mountain bikes are included; an e-bike costs €50 extra.
Itinerary
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Arrival in Marrakech
Airport welcome and transfer to a 3-star hotel, with dinner and breakfast.
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Ait Adel – into the High Atlas (65 km, +2,100 m)
After an 80 km transfer, we ride south from the foot of the mountains through traditional, isolated Berber villages. Night in a guesthouse at the start of the Tessaout gorge.
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Tessaout gorge – Tizi n’Oulaoun – Toundoute (85 km, +1,800 m)
Straight through the rugged gorge, crossing the river several times (with an optional detour to Megdaz, one of the prettiest villages in the Atlas). Then the climb to 2,800 m and a fantastic descent on a road cut into the rock.
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Toundoute – Boutaghrar (70 km, +1,200 m)
Via Aguerd and Alemdoun over a desolate plateau of troglodyte dwellings. Night in the Tamaloute guesthouse, looking over a green valley against red mountains.
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Talouin pass – Saghro mountains (70 km, +1,200 m)
A steep morning climb to the Talouin pass (1,900 m) with views of the M’Goun (4,067 m) and the Saghro, a descent to Kelaat M’Gouna, then through the volcanic Saghro to the village of Tagmout.
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Across the Saghro to the Draa valley (75 km, +900 m)
Straight through the Saghro range: rough, empty country, passes and fast descents between amazing rock formations. Night in a small hotel in the palm oasis of the Draa.
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Draa palm oasis – Tizgui waterfall – Marrakech (50 km, +400 m)
A few hours through the palm groves to the Tizgui waterfall, a last steep climb to lunch, then the transfer back to Marrakech.
Timings are a guide. Your guide adapts the pace to the group and the weather.
Route
Starts at Marrakech
Historic sites along the way
Kasbah Telouet
19th century · 20 km from the route
The former palace of the Glaoui family, with richly decorated rooms hidden behind crumbling earthen walls.
Kasbah Amridil
17th century · 23 km from the route
One of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco, in the palm oasis of Skoura.
Watch the ride
Photos from this tour
What’s included
- Airport transfers in Marrakech
- Local guide
- Cook and support team
- Support vehicle with driver all along the route
- Luggage transported between overnight stops
- Accommodation as listed in the itinerary
- All meals during the tour
- Water and snacks during the rides
- Mountain bike and helmet
- Hotel or riad near the medina in Marrakech with breakfast
Not included
- E-bike upgrade (€50)
- Meals in Marrakech
- Drinks and alcohol
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for guides and drivers
What to bring
- Cycling shoes or sturdy trainers
- Padded shorts and gloves
- Warm layer and rain jacket
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Small backpack or hydration pack
Season
October to May
