Bicycle touring in Morocco - routes, seasons and what to expect on the road

Bicycle touring in Morocco gives you high mountain passes, desert edges, green valleys and some of the most hospitable people you will meet on a bike, all within a few days' ride of Europe. It is not always easy: the climbs in the Atlas are long, the heat can be intense and main roads can be busy. With the right season and route, though, Morocco is one of the most rewarding countries for a cycling trip.

Why go bicycle touring in Morocco?

Variety is the big draw. In a single trip you can ride through the Rif mountains in the north, cross the High Atlas, follow palm oases and river valleys on the southern side and reach the edge of the Sahara. Small villages, markets and roadside cafés mean you are rarely far from tea and bread on the main routes.

Cyclists who have travelled here often mention the hospitality, especially away from the tourist centres. Invitations for tea or a meal are common in rural areas. At the same time, you will get attention everywhere you go, and in some places children may run alongside you or ask for things. A friendly, relaxed attitude goes a long way.

Which routes are best for cycling in Morocco?

There is no single classic route, but a few areas come up again and again.

The High Atlas

The High Atlas is the heart of most cycling trips. Mountain passes such as the Tizi n'Tichka, the main road between Marrakech and Ouarzazate, climb to well over 2,000 metres. That road carries a lot of traffic, so many cyclists look for quieter alternatives over smaller passes and through side valleys. Expect long climbs, rough sections and big temperature differences between valley and pass.

The Middle Atlas and the north

The Middle Atlas around Ifrane and Azrou has cedar forests and cooler air, and it links the imperial cities of Fez and Meknes with the south. From the ferry ports in the north you can ride through the Rif mountains towards Fez; this region is greener and hillier than many people expect.

The south: valleys and desert edges

South of the High Atlas you find the Dades and Todra gorges, the Draa valley and the road towards the dunes near Merzouga. This is spectacular riding, but distances between villages grow, shade is scarce and some stretches carry many tour buses. Plan your water carefully.

The Atlantic coast

The coast between Essaouira and Agadir and further south is often milder in temperature, though the wind can be strong. Busy, flat stretches near the big cities are less attractive by bike.

When is the best time to cycle in Morocco?

Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons. Summer in the interior and the south can get extremely hot, which makes long climbs and desert stretches risky. Winter is mild on the coast and in the south during the day, but nights in the mountains are cold and high passes can get snow, which sometimes closes roads.

Weather varies a lot with altitude, so check forecasts for the passes you plan to ride, not just for the nearest city. Ramadan also affects daily life: cafés and shops may keep different hours during the day. It is good to know when it falls during your trip.

Food, water and supplies on the road

On the main routes you will find small shops and cafés in most villages. Bread, eggs, tinned fish, tomatoes, olives and dates are easy to buy, and a tajine or bowl of harira soup in a roadside restaurant is a good way to refuel. On remote mountain tracks and in the south, supplies can be limited, so carry food for at least a day.

Many cyclists treat or filter tap and well water, and stomach problems are a common complaint among travellers. Carry enough water capacity for long, hot stretches. For health questions and vaccinations, ask your doctor or a travel clinic before you leave.

Bike shops exist in the larger cities, but parts for touring bikes, such as specific tyres or derailleur parts, can be hard to find. Bring the spares you are likely to need.

Where to sleep when cycling in Morocco

You have several options:

• Guesthouses and small hotels are found in most towns and along popular routes, and often allow you to keep your bike inside.
• Campsites exist in tourist areas and along the coast, though quality varies.
• Wild camping is something many cyclists do in remote areas. Ask permission when you are near houses or farmland; it is often given, and sometimes turns into an invitation. Rules and local attitudes can differ per region, so check the current situation.
• Staying with people. Through Cycle Planet you can find cyclists who host each other; sign up for an account to connect.

Good guesthouses, water points and camping spots shared by other cyclists are on the Cycle Planet map. Found a place worth sharing? Add it to the map so the next cyclist can find it.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a visa to cycle in Morocco?

That depends on your nationality. Many travellers can enter visa-free for a limited period, but rules differ and can change. Check with the Moroccan embassy or your government's travel advice, and see the Morocco country page for notes from other cyclists.

How do you get to Morocco with a bike?

The most common way for cyclists coming from Europe is a ferry from southern Spain to northern Morocco, which makes it easy to combine with a ride through Spain. You can also fly into a major city with your bike in a box or bag; check your airline's bike policy.

Is Morocco safe for cycling?

Many cyclists ride through Morocco without problems, but traffic on main roads, heat and petty theft in cities are real concerns. Women cycling alone may get more unwanted attention. Read your government's travel advice before you go and check the safety section on the country page.

How difficult is cycling in the Atlas mountains?

The Atlas has long climbs, sometimes on rough or unpaved roads, and passes at high altitude. With a loaded touring bike, plan short days and give yourself time to get used to the climbing.

Start planning your Morocco tour

Bicycle touring in Morocco rewards you with mountains, desert and genuine hospitality, as long as you pick the right season and plan your water and sleeping spots. For visa basics, safety and tips from other cyclists, head to the Morocco country page, and browse the other country pages if you are planning a longer trip.