Visiting Morocco by bike: must-see places !

Is Morocco calling out to you as your next gravel biking destination? It’s no wonder! This North African country, with its exceptional topography, breathtakingly colorful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its people, offers all the ingredients for an unforgettable cycling adventure.

From majestic mountains and endless desert expanses to lush oases and Berber villages, Morocco is one of the top destinations for gravel enthusiasts seeking a change of scenery and a sense of freedom. But before you embark on this one-of-a-kind adventure, let us share some must-see locations and a few helpful tips to prepare for the incredible journey ahead!

Discovering Morocco by bike: an amazing adventure!

If Morocco is so highly praised by all gravel biking enthusiasts, it's because of the diversity of its landscapes and its quiet roads. Whether you're an experienced cyclist looking for technical routes or an outdoor lover seeking a getaway, we have a feeling that this North African country has more than a few tricks up its sleeve to charm and take you on a journey!

An ideal climate year-round

One of Morocco's greatest assets is its sunny climate for much of the year! This makes it an ideal destination for a cycling trip that, while enjoyable at any time, is particularly delightful in the autumn or spring. With milder temperatures compared to the height of summer and long daylight hours, these seasons promise stunning bike rides under perfect skies.

Incredibly diverse landscapes

From the Rif Mountains to the Saharan dunes, passing through the Atlas Mountains or the Atlantic beaches, every region of Morocco offers the chance to discover landscapes as varied as they are breathtaking. Let the numerous gravel trails guide you through steep valleys, desert plateaus, and red-orange mountains. In our experience at GravelUp, we've rarely seen a country with such diversity. So keep your eyes wide open—you might just be amazed around every bend!

An authentic culture and quality gastronomy

But gravel biking in Morocco also means immersing yourself in a culture that’s several thousand years old. Berber villages, their kasbahs, and colorful markets will offer plenty of stops to experience the legendary hospitality of the Moroccan people and savor the many local flavors. And between you and us, finishing a day of cycling under the stars, with the aroma of fragrant tagines wafting through the air—well, we haven’t found a better way to end the day!

5 Must-See Places for an Unforgettable Cycling Trip in Morocco

Discovering Morocco's gems requires preparation, like anything else! To ensure you don’t miss out on the country’s treasures, we’ve selected a few must-see spots you won’t want to miss:

1. The Atlas Mountains and its Hidden Villages

From Mount Toubkal to the Ourika Valley, from the Tessaoute Valley to the Aït Bouguemez Valley, venture into the High Atlas Mountains, also known as the "roof of North Africa."
With mountain passes, rivers, waterfalls, and lush valleys, you’ll immerse yourself in these remote lands. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden villages nestled in the mountains and meet the Amazigh (or Berber) people, who still live traditionally.
During your journey through the High Atlas, don’t miss the Kasbah of Telouet, a masterpiece of traditional Berber architecture, and take a detour to visit Aït-Benhaddou, a fortified village (ksar) renowned for its unique architecture and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Finally, the Dades and Todra Gorges will offer you spectacular landscapes, with their unique rock formations in vibrant red, creating a movie-like backdrop. And as a special treat, if you travel in spring, don’t miss the Valley of Roses and its iconic harvest!

2. The Anti-Atlas and Tafraoute

Less famous than the High Atlas, the Anti-Atlas, located in the Souss-Massa region southeast of Agadir, is the last mountain range before the Sahara. Although less visited than its big brother, the Anti-Atlas offers exceptional landscapes with desert plateaus, mountain cirques, perched villages, canyons, and palm groves.
The discovery of Taliouine, the saffron capital, and Tafraoute, a town famous for its vibrant colors and countless rock formations, are among our must-see spots. A few kilometers from Tafraoute, don’t miss the group of boulders painted blue by Belgian artist Jean Vérame (dubbed the “painter of deserts”) in 1984. This outdoor art installation gives the desert landscape a whimsical, colorful feel.
Lastly, the Aït-Mansour Gorges are a true natural wonder. Picture this: after a long winding road, you’ll spot the first palm tree, then another, and soon hundreds of them, forming a spectacular oasis hidden within a pink rock canyon.

3. The Sahara Desert

When you think of Morocco, you inevitably think of the Sahara Desert! It’s hard to imagine a trip through Morocco without visiting its vast sandy expanses. While the sandy tracks may challenge your legs, rest assured that in the evening, you’ll be rewarded with spectacularly clear and pure starry skies.
Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss during your Sahara adventure:
- Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes: You’ll likely need to swap your bike for hiking shoes here, but the reward is well worth it, with breathtaking sunsets over the towering dunes.
- Ouarzazate and the Drâa Valley: Known as one of the gateways to the Sahara, Ouarzazate offers several gravel trails leading to the palm groves of the Drâa Valley.
- The Tighmert Oasis: Another golden opportunity to discover an incredible palm grove and immerse yourself in nomadic culture. If you’re seeking a true sense of disconnect, this is the perfect illustration!

4. Essaouira, its Medina, and the Atlantic Coast

The Essaouira Medina! Nicknamed the "Pearl of the Atlantic," this coastal city, with its charming and enchanting colors, is an excellent starting point for exploring the cliffs and wild beaches of the Atlantic. Unlike Marrakech, Essaouira exudes calm and serenity, offering a welcome break after days of cycling.
If you have time, lose yourself in the labyrinth of white houses with blue shutters, browse the stalls of small souks, and climb the city walls for stunning ocean views.
After wandering the picturesque streets of the UNESCO-listed Medina, head to the port, one of Essaouira's most iconic spots. Here, you can watch fishermen with their daily catch and marvel at the myriad of traditional blue boats, turning the small fishing harbor into a real-life postcard.

5. Ifrane and the Middle Atlas

Nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco” Ifrane stands out from other Moroccan cities with its unique Alpine-like architecture, featuring sloped roofs, wooden chalets, and beautifully maintained parks. It’s a surprising contrast to your experience in the Moroccan desert.
Surrounded by vast cedar and oak forests, lakes, and waterfalls, Ifrane is also a great starting point for numerous hikes. It’s the perfect base for exploring Morocco's diverse topography. And for wildlife lovers, the Middle Atlas is home to a rich variety of fauna, including the endangered Barbary macaques, which can be observed in the Azrou National Park. This region is a refreshing green oasis, a surprising link between northern Morocco and the Saharan south.

5 tips for a successful gravel trip

To fully enjoy your gravel stay in Morocco, good preparation is essential. From choosing the right equipment and planning your route to following safety rules, here are 5 tips to make your gravel adventure a memorable escape:

Choose the right gear

Before embarking on your gravel adventure, ensure that your bike is well-suited for the different types of terrain you’ll encounter. Opt for a gravel bike equipped with quality tires and brakes, and consider visiting your local bike shop to fine-tune your settings before you start.
If Morocco is calling but you don’t have a gravel bike, you can visit our rental platform to find high-quality muscle or electric bikes provided by our partner brand, Origine.
Additionally, choose lightweight and well-balanced bags, and select breathable clothing suited to temperature variations and the season in which you plan to travel.

Plan your route

Plan your itinerary by listing all the points of interest mentioned above. Also, take into account water sources and supply locations. If you’re short on inspiration despite our preview, many apps today allow you to trace your route and/or find suggested itineraries.
Once on site, carry a map or GPS to check your route while conserving your phone’s battery.

Ride safely

While not mandatory, wearing a helmet is a crucial safety measure. We highly recommend wearing one during your gravel rides, especially since Moroccan trails can sometimes be rugged. Also, consider bringing reflective gear and appropriate lights if you plan to ride into the evening.

Stay hydrated

In the midst of effort, it’s easy to forget to hydrate. However, it’s very important to drink regularly. Bring enough water and energy snacks, and take regular breaks to preserve your strength and maintain your energy throughout the day.

Respect local rules and preserve the environment

Cycling is inherently eco-friendly. But if you also make sure to leave no trace on the trails, you’ll definitely earn the title of a super adventurer!
Always carry a small bag to take back all your waste, including organic waste.

Discover Morocco by gravel bike with GravelUp!

Embarking on an adventure with GravelUp means choosing a tailor-made journey, guided by a team of enthusiasts.

Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a beginner, at GravelUp, we’re dedicated to meeting all cycling needs. Depending on your level, we explore the most beautiful destinations in France and Europe together on gravel bikes for customized adventures.

During your stay, we handle everything so you can focus on what matters: charming accommodations, tailored meals, wellness, and cultural visits.

Additionally, our trips are fully guided, and we also offer high-quality gravel bikes for rent.

All you need to do is embark on the adventure—GravelUp takes care of the rest.
→ Learn more about the Morocco Destination
→ Contact us for a customized travel request