Jebel Sahro Ride & Marrakech

8 days - from $1190

An exotic ride through lush oases and lunar landscapes plus a day in vibrant Marrakech
As our least-demanding Moroccan off road trip, you don't have to be an expert biker to enjoy the superb scenic contrast of Morocco's exotic south. We start the week riding through the date palms and lush oases of the Draa Valley before arriving at the imposing volcanic gateway of Bab'n'Ali. Our journey past isolated Berber settlements where nomads tend their herds of goats, and numerous villages with mud-brick houses and ancient kasbahs, allows us to witness the traditional way of life. Riding amid the stunning Atlas Mountains to the impressive Saharan sand dunes is exciting, but not too long or technical, making this the ideal introduction to off road biking in Morocco. Our adventure is completed with an overnight stay overlooking the famous Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou followed by a transfer over the incredible Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m) to the beautiful 'Pink City' of Marrakech. We have a full day to explore this exotic city, including the medina, the busy souks or the peaceful Majorelle Gardens. A night time visit to the colourful Djemaa el Fna is not to be missed!

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Ouarzazate. 2 From Tizi-n-Tinnififft, we ride past lush palmeries and isolated villages to Agdz. 3 Ride through the fertile Draa Valley passing numerous kasbahs and finish in the desert gateway town of Zagora. 4 Ride/transfer into the heart of the Jebel Sahro, a nomadic tribal land; overnight in a spectacular converted kasbah in the village of Tamsahelt. 5 Challenging day with some optional rewarding ascents as we cross the Jebel Sahro and visit the spectacular rock pillars at Bab'n'Ali; to Boumalne Dades. 6 Superb mountain scenery is our reward as we ride on the edge of the Atlas Mountains, with some great descents. 7 Morning transfer to Marrakech and free time to wander the labyrinth of bazaars off Djemaa el Fna Square. 8 End Marrakech.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 45km (28 miles) No. of days cycling: 5 Vehicle support: 100% Terrain and route: 80% off road. Great riding mostly on hard packed trails with the occasional rough, rocky section. Rides are mostly undulating with optional long climbs and fast descents. Off road experience advisable but not essential.
Group size: Normally 5 to 15, plus leader and local staff. Additional local cycling guide for groups of 12 or more.
Accommodation: 7 nights 2 to 4 star hotels, including 1 night in a restored kasbah. All accommodation is clean and functional although the rooms and facilities may be basic and breakfasts simple. Some hotels towards the end of the trip have swimming pools.
Food: All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 5 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $140.00
Trip Reference: MMS
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Local Bike Hire: Trek 4900 Disc mountain bikes with front suspension GBP95, paid on booking
Trip Reference: MMS