OVERVIEW
Embark on the ultimate road cycling adventure along the Atlas Mountains to Sahara route through the rugged, mystical interior of Morocco. Departing from Marrakech, this carefully curated route challenges riders with monumental terrain and legendary roads, beginning high in the Atlas passes before plunging down the dramatic Ounila Valley past the ancient clay fortress of Aït Benhaddou. The journey traces the historic trans-Saharan caravan trails down the emerald Draa Valley, skirts the wind-sculpted dunes of Erg Chebbi, conquers the wild volcanic spine of the Anti-Atlas, and tackles the dizzying switchbacks of the Dadès Gorges before culminating in a high-alpine Queen stage through the Central High Atlas.  Beyond the saddle, the adventure immerses you deep into Moroccan culture with a guided trek through volcanic needle spires, an overland 4x4 desert safari, sunset over the Sahara, and an unforgettable night beneath the stars at an authentic Berber desert camp. Throughout this fully supported journey, riders recharge in intimate oasis riads and historic kasbah hotels offering courtyard living, fine Moroccan hospitality, and the vibrant sensory finale of Marrakech's imperial medina.
HIGHLIGHTS
Marrakech, "The Red City": Vibrant medina alleyways, artisan souks, and historic palaces.
Aït Benhaddou: The UNESCO-listed mud-brick fortress and ancient kasbah corridors.
The Draa Valley: Lush palm oases and villages along the historic trans-Saharan caravan route.
Erg Chebbi Dunes: 4x4 desert adventure, sunset camel ride, and stargazing at a Berber camp.
Jebel Saghro & Bab n'Ali: Guided hike among volcanic rock spires and the “Forest of Needles.”
Tizi n’Tazazert (2,250 m): A panoramic pass linking the High Atlas peaks with the Sahara.
Dadès Gorges: The iconic Tisdrine switchbacks carved into soaring red-limestone cliffs.
High Atlas Queen Stage: Remote alpine climbs over Tizi n’Fedghat and Col d’Azwin into Tessaout Valley.
Cascades d’Ouzoud: Morocco’s dramatic 300-foot waterfalls and the rugged Oued el-Abid canyons.
Authentic Stays With Full Board: Hand-picked kasbah hotels and traditional courtyard riads with full board including breakfast, lunch and dinner daily plus happy hours

Day 1 (Sat, October 9th 2027): Marrakech Arrival
Welcome to Marrakech, the "Red City." Meet our guide at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) for the transfer to our hotel. Once settled, set out at your own pace to wander the historic medina’s sun-baked passages. Drift past tucked-away workshops where metal crafters shape lanterns, open shopfronts piled high with aromatic powders, and quiet courtyards lined with intricately knotted Berber rugs. At 5:00pm, we gather for an orientation briefing, followed by a celebratory welcome dinner to toast the start of our journey.  >Medina Hotel, 4*, Meals: (-/-/D/HH)
Day 2 (Oct 10): Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou (Shakeout Ride:28 mi, +1180'/-680', Max Altitude: 7,500', transfer: 74mi.)
Our journey begins with a scenic 2-hour morning transfer through the Tizi n'Tichka pass into the High Atlas, launching our ride near Telouet (2,200 m). Here, we pause to explore the storied Kasbah du Glaoui stronghold. After lunch, we cycle into the magnificent Ounila Valley, where verdant terraced fields contrast sharply with glowing ochre kasbahs. The route carves through a string of striking Berber hamlets on undulating tarmac before dramatically descending into the ancient mud-brick fortress town of Aït Benhaddou. >Ksar Ighenda Hotel, (B/L/D/HH)  
Day 3 (Oct 11): Ait Benhaddou - Tamnougalt (Ride: 50mi, +3800'/-3100', Max Altitude: 5,400')
Following a morning exploration of the labyrinthine mud-brick corridors of Aït Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage frozen in time) a brief transfer brings us to the fringes of Ouarzazate. We saddle up beneath the shadows of Kasbah Tifoultout to begin the day's stage which skirts the rugged western flank of the Jebel Saghro range. Cycle on long, open flats before the road tilts upward toward our first hurdle: the 1,550-meter crest of Tizi n'Ouado. A brisk descent to Aït Saoun is followed by our centerpiece ascent to Tizi n'Tinififft. Topping out at 1,660 meters, we are rewarded with  panoramic views of the jagged, snow-dusted High Atlas peaks standing in stark contrast to the abyss of chasms carved below. From the pass, enjoy a long, flowing downhill run into Agdz with the distinctive, conical profile of Jebel Kissane dominating the horizon. Agdz itself is pure desert romance-an ancient oasis where trans-Saharan camel caravans once halted on the grueling road from Marrakech to Timbuktu. Rolling into this legendary gateway where the Draa Valley's lush sea of date palms takes hold, we finish the ride tracing the serene left bank of the river. >Kasbah Tamnougalt with swimming pool (B/L/D/HH)
Day 4 (Oct 12): Tamnougalt - Zagora  (61mi, +1640',-2230’)
We cycle into the upper Draa Valley along a tranquil route that traces a serpentine river fed by High Atlas snowmelt, weaving through lush palm groves, fertile terraced plots, and magnificent earthen kasbahs guarding the valley floor. Much of the day follows the legendary trans-Saharan caravan route-the historic artery where camel trains once traded northern salt for the gold, ivory, and spices of Timbuktu, Niger, and Old Sudan, bridging sub-Saharan Africa with the Mediterranean and Europe. Pedaling south, the cultural tapestry comes to life in mud-brick villages shaped by centuries of Berber, Arab, and Haratin heritage. The day’s journey concludes in the desert frontier town of Zagora, where we settle into an intimate local hotel nesting in the palm grove. >Riad LaMane Hotel (B/L/D/-)
Day 5 (Oct 13): Zagora – Tafraoute N’Sidi Ali (4x4 Safari)  (Ride: 37 mi, +1115'/-650')
We bid farewell to the lush palms of the Draa Valley, turning east to climb toward the Tizi n'Tafilalet-a historic trail that once linked Morocco’s two great oasis kingdoms, the Draa and the Tafilalt. Our route crosses an austere stone desert plateau, flanked by weathered, rain-sculpted massifs that stand stark against the horizon. Beyond the remote outpost of Tissardmine, the terrain levels out, leading to our rendezvous point where we rack the bikes and board robust 4x4s. From here, our desert expedition enters the wild ancestral territory of the semi-nomadic Aït Atta tribe. Our vehicles track across vast sun-baked plains and dry, sandy wadis deep into the Sahara. As shadows lengthen across the open desert, we arrive at a desert village to unwind in a traditional riad. >Jardins de Tafraoute Hotel (B/L/D/HH)

Day 6 (Oct 14): Tafraoute - Merzouga (Desert Camp) (Ride: 16 mi, +330'/-100')
Today we’re immersed in some of the most dramatic, desert landscapes Morocco has to offer. We hike to the crest of a towering golden ridgeline for sweeping, untamed vistas over the vast Saharan expanse. Rejoining our 4x4s, the overland journey carves through bone-dry riverbeds, unexpected palm oases, rolling dunes, and sprawling stone plateaus en route to the remote outpost of Atrouss. Here, we reunite with our bikes for a late-afternoon spin across the desert flats toward Merzouga. As evening approaches, we arrive at our traditional Berber desert camp nestled directly amid the legendary Erg Chebbi dunes. Renowned for their warm apricot hue and sculpted, knife-edge silhouettes, these monumental sands are a true Moroccan centerpiece. For the quintessential desert experience, saddle up for an optional sunset camel trek into the sea of dunes-watching the day's final light ignite the Sahara into rich shades of gold, crimson, and deep twilight. >Tented Berber Camp (B/L/D/-)  
Day 7 (Oct 15): Merzouga - Rissani - Nkob (Sahara Safari) (Ride: 21 mi, +490'/-330', transfer: 97mi)
Sunrise breaks across the dunes, painting the sands in rich dawn hues before we roll out west across wide-open desert plateaus toward Rissani. This sweeping, wind-carved expanse offers classic echelon riding whenever the Saharan breezes stir. Approaching the fortified settlements of the Tafilalet Valley, the stark stone desert yields to a lush green corridor of date palms, sustained by ancient irrigation channels nourishing winter crops and prized Medjool dates. In Rissani, we pause to explore its historic trading souk. As the ancestral seat of Morocco’s ruling Alaouite Dynasty, this crossroads remains a center of desert commerce where semi-nomadic pastoralists and oasis villagers meet to trade textiles, spices, and livestock. From Rissani, a vehicle transfer traces the arid southern foothills of the volcanic Jebel Saghro range through a stark, sun-bleached moonscape. Just past the oasis outpost of Tazarine, we saddle up once more for an easy spin into Nkob. Known as the "village of forty-five kasbahs," Nkob welcomes us with a dramatic silhouette of earthen towers and mud-brick ramparts rising above an ancient palm grove. >Kasbah Ait Omar, (B/L/D/HH)  
Day 8 (Oct 16): Djebel Saghro (Trekking)  (Road transfer: 128mi, Hike: 5 hrs,+1475’/-1575’)
Today we trade pedals for hiking shoes to explore the volcanic heart of the Anti-Atlas range on foot. This rugged highland realm is a geological marvel of sculpted volcanic chimneys, sheer canyons, and deep-hued basalt plateaus, steered for generations by the warm and resilient semi-nomadic Aït Atta tribe. A short drive brings us to the Berber village of Ighazzoun to begin our trek. We climb the windswept ridge of Tadaout n'Tablah, rewarded with panoramic vistas over the surreal rock spires and pinnacle formations known as the "Forest of Needles." Continuing eastward, our trail winds through ancient gorges and shepherd trails toward the iconic twin basalt towers of Bab n' Ali, soaring like monoliths above the valley floor. >Kasbah Ait Omar, (B/L/D/-)  
Day 9 (Oct 17): Nkob - Dades  (Ride: 52 mi, +4850'/-3000')
Back in the saddle, we ride north through the volcanic core of the Jebel Saghro in the Anti-Atlas-the rugged ancestral heartland of the nomadic Aït Atta. A gentle rollout across sweeping high-desert plains sets an easy tempo before the route tilts upward into a series of twisting switchbacks that carve into the heights. Our efforts culminate at the windswept crest of the Tizi n'Tazazert (2,250 m), a monumental vantage point framed by eroded volcanic spires and sheer chasms. The panorama from the summit bridges two worlds: the sun-bleached expanse of the Sahara rolling away to the south, and the jagged, snow-capped crests of the High Atlas dominating the northern horizon. We then descend into the emerald floor and towering red cliffs of the legendary Dadès Valley.  >Ksar Sultan Hotel, (B/L/D/HH)
Day 10 (Oct 18): Dades Valley  (Ride: 53 mi, +4260’/-4260’)
Today's spectacular ride traces the iconic Dadès Valley, celebrated as Morocco's fragrant "Valley of the Roses." Following the river upstream, the route unfurls a tapestry of weathered adobe villages and terracotta kasbahs clinging to sheer red-rock cliffs, flanked by the bizarre, wind-sculpted sandstone formations known as the "Monkey Fingers." Along the riverbed, lush irrigated terraces burst with Damascus roses, figs, peaches, and groves of almond trees. The landscape shifts dramatically as we leave the valley floor on a dizzying ribbon of hairpin switchbacks carved straight into the cliff face. Cresting the summit, we are rewarded with soaring vistas looking down into the deep limestone gorge below. The route rolls across a high plateau before plunging between sheer canyon walls at the gorge's narrowest defile, where tarmac and torrent squeeze side by side beneath towering rock overhangs. Enjoy an exhilarating descent back down the canyon, catching the magnificent late-afternoon light as it turns the canyon walls a fiery crimson. >Ksar Sultan Hotel,(B/L/D/HH) 
Day 11 (Oct 19): Dades - Skoura (Ride: 47 mi.,+2395',-1900', Max Altitude: 6,200')
We traverse the open high plateaus set between the snow-dusted High Atlas rising on our right and the rugged volcanic ridges of the Anti-Atlas on our left. Cycle downhill through El Kelaa M'Gouna-Morocco’s aromatic rose capital, celebrated each May with its vibrant ‘Festival of the Roses’ - before the landscape opens into vast, windswept plains where semi-nomadic Berber shepherds graze their seasonal flocks. The wide horizons gradually give way to a lush expanse of green as we reach Skoura, a legendary 17th-century oasis. Here, deep palm groves conceal a magnificent labyrinth of weathered earthen architecture, crowned by some of the most celebrated and intricately preserved kasbahs in the south.  >Riad Skoura Hotel (B/L/D/-)
Day 12 (Oct 20): Skoura - Imi n'Ifri (Ride: 46 mi, +3580'/-7709', Max Altitude: 7,150')
Today’s Queen mountain stage carves deep into the remote valleys and soaring passes of the Central High Atlas. A gentle 25-kilometer warm-up across the flats brings us to the foothills near Ghessat. From here, the road narrows and snakes skyward to the wind-buffeted crest of Tizi n'Fedghat (2,180 m) for sweeping panoramas across dramatic, folded mountain strata. A brisk descent drops us into the hidden, verdant sanctuary of the Tessaout Valley at Toufghine. We trace the riverbed through timeless adobe hamlets before the challenging ascent to the Col d'Azwin. Topping out at 2,200 meters, the summit commands jaw-dropping vistas over plummeting ravines and the distant, snow-capped giants of the High Atlas. From this alpine perch, the route hugs an exposed, high-altitude spine before unleashing a long, exhilarating descent past Aït Khlouf, winding deep into the foothills toward our evening retreat near the dramatic limestone cavern and natural bridge of Imi n'Ifri. >Kasbah Ait Oumghar (B/L/D/-)
Day 13 (Oct 21): Imi n'Ifri - Ouzoud - Marrakech (Ride: 68 mi, +2060'/ -2600', Max Altitude: 7,135', transfer: 43 mi )
Our final day in the saddle begins with a brisk descent toward Demnate, an ancient gateway town framed by silver-green olive groves and sprawling almond orchards. Cycling past Sour El Aaz, we gradually climb toward Aït Taglla. Our reward is an exhilarating downhill run delivering us straight to the spectacular Cascades d'Ouzoud, where Morocco's most famous multi-tiered waterfalls tumble over 300 feet into lush, misty river gorges. Following a relaxed lunch beside the falls, we clip in for our grand finale. The route hugs the high cliffs overhanging the dramatic Oued el-Abid canyons before plunging into sweeping switchbacks down toward Aït Attab. From here we transfer back to the vibrant medina of Marrakech. >4* hotel near Marrakech Medina, (B/L/-/-)
Day 14 (Oct 22): Marrakech Exploration
The morning is yours to stroll through the cobalt-blue pavilions and exotic botanical collections of the iconic Jardin Majorelle and neighboring Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Alternatively, marvel at the exquisite zellij tilework of the 14th-century Ben Youssef Medersa, or simply sip an espresso at an open-air café while watching the street life unfold. In the late afternoon, we reconvene for a guided walking exploration into the pulse of "The Red City." Guided through a labyrinth of honey-colored alleyways, you'll explore vibrant artisan souks-passing copper beaters, spice mounds glowing with turmeric and saffron, and stalls draped in hand-woven kilims. Our walk emerges into the legendary spectacle of Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech’s central stage of acrobats, musicians, storytellers, and open-air food stalls. Navigating the edge of the square as the dusk air fills with the aroma of roasting cumin and cedar smoke, we arrive at our courtyard restaurant for an exceptional farewell dinner to celebrate our epic trans-Atlas journey. >4* hotel near Marrakech Medina,  (B/L/D/HH)
Day 15 (Sat October 23rd 2027): Departure Group transfer to Marrakech airport, (B/-/-)

RIDE RATING
The tour is rated 3B* with 11 riding stages and one active trekking day. Over the trip, we cover approximately 450 miles on paved roads with 19,700 feet of mandatory climbing (up to 25,700 feet with optional extensions). While the daily average of 40 miles and 1,784 feet of gain falls within a Level 2B profile, the tour carries a 3B* rating because climbing is concentrated into several challenging stages—including Days 4 and 13 (rated 2C), and Days 9, 10, and 12, each exceeding 3,500 feet of elevation gain. High-altitude sections over 5,000 feet are noted throughout the itinerary. Road grades are rarely severe, and the distances are well within reach for riders with solid endurance conditioning. Full vehicle support is available at all times for anyone wishing to bypass climbs or shorten a stage, and a dedicated trailer transports all guest luggage and soft bike cases throughout the journey
BIKES
The ideal machine for this ride is a road bike or hybrid touring bike fitted with a minimum 25mm tire width and 2 water bottle holders. If bringing your own bike,please make sure that it is in excellent working order, and that you bring sufficient parts and supplies to complete the distance. Tubes and compressed air cartridges can be requested in advance. Soft bike cases are accommodated on our trailer but hard cases stored at the initial hotel. Tandems can potentially be accommodated on request. Limited bike rentals (Road & eBike) are available from WeAdventure upon request. Saddles, clips and accessories can be fitted to rental bikes at the fitting. Please mention these when booking a bike rental.
Bike rentals (with helmets) are available from WeAdventure on request per the below rental costs:
  -Road Bike -  EUR 380 ($440USD)
  -E-bike - EUR 570 ($660USD, limited availability)
WEATHER
Mid-October is widely considered the sweet spot for cycling in Morocco, offering reliable sunshine, dry skies, and comfortable riding conditions before the chill of late autumn sets in. At lower elevations - across the Marrakech plains, the Draa Valley, and the desert oasis routes - daytime highs typically reach a pleasant 73°F to 82°F. However, because our journey traverses high mountain terrain with passes exceeding 7,500 feet, expect significant temperature swings. Alpine ascents and early-morning descents call for a flexible layering system (wind vest, arm/leg warmers, and a packable shell). While daytime riding is comfortably warm, the clear desert and mountain air cools down swiftly once the sun drops, with evening temperatures settling around 50°F to 59°F - and cooler at our highest lodges and dune camp - making a cozy fleece or light down jacket essential for nights under the stars.
LODGING & MEALS
Accommodation is on a double room basis, with private facilities  ranging from comfortable hotels, to opulent Riads and a tented desert camp. Included in the tour price are 14 hotel nights with full board: 14  breakfasts, 13 lunches and 13 dinners, all with mineral water included, catered to all dietary requirements, as well as eight happy hours with snacks and drinks featuring local wines & craft beers and non-alcoholic drinks. Snacks, water and electrolyte powder are available in the van while riding.
LOGISTICS
The tour will begin October 9th, 2027 with a pickup at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and minibus transfer to our initial hotel.  Our tour ends after breakfast on October 23rd, 2027 with a minibus airport transfer. US citizens visiting Morocco for tourism do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Entry requires a passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure date with at least one blank stamp page, as well as proof of onward travel.
COST & ADMINISTRATION
Total tour cost is $4,800 USD per person, based on sharing a room and priced at the currency exchange rate of $1.1532 USD equals 1 EURO. Depending on currency exchange rates, there may be an adjustment in the amount of the final payment. The Tour Deposit on booking is $1500 USD with the final payment of $3,300 USD due on July 9, 2027. The actual Commercial Operators charge is 3,950 EUR per person. Also included in the tour cost is the BAC payment processing fee of 3% plus currency contingencies. The tour minimum is 11 and maximum 16. At the end of the tour, riders will receive a refund of any remaining money in the budget. The cost excludes flights, bike rentals, meals or activities not mentioned in the itinerary, beverages other than breakfast, mineral water, trailside or happy hour, non-group airport transfers, guide team gratuities (at participant discretion but a standard range: $100-200 USD) and travel cancellation, interruption and delay insurance (highly recommended)
SINGLES & SOLOS POLICY
There are a maximum of two solo supplements available at 1050 EUR ($1225 USD) per room. Solo supplement payments need to be sent to the BAC office by July 9th, 2027. The solo supplement payment can be paid by Zelle or check. To pay using Zelle: In your bank's website, add Bicycle Adventure Club as new recipient, with email address treasurer@bicycleadventureclub.org, then initiate a payment, In Message block, enter ride name
-If you have questions, contact Nancy Bohnett nbohnett@bicycleadventureclub.org. Checks should be made out to “BAC” with a notation of the tour name included on the check and mailed to: Bicycle Adventure Club, PO Box 23998, San Diego, CA 92193.
-We encourage single riders who are willing to share a room to sign up. It is recommended that singles who want a roommate try to find their own. The Ride Leader will assist by attempting to match singles who apply for the ride. Singles will be asked to stay on the pending list until they find a roommate.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Participants are expected to come to the tour in good health and ready to ride. Should someone's health become compromised and the group’s health and safety placed in jeopardy, a plan will be developed by the ride leader(s) and communicated to all individuals. The expectation is for the group to work together to mitigate any spread of infection or illness as a means to ensure the tour can continue as planned.
CANCELLATION POLICY
The BAC Ride Registration Fee and Payment Processing Fees are not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled because the number of participants registered is less than the minimum established for the tour. Refunds of tour payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recouped. The amount refunded will be based on the principle that the tour’s remaining participants will not incur any additional cost as a result of cancellations. If the canceling participant is replaced, a refund will be made at that time. If the canceling participant can't be replaced, any refund will be determined after the ride and final expense report are completed. If a single participant cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped the canceling roommate may also be liable for the solo supplement fee of the roommate remaining on the tour. We Adventure charges an admin fee expense of $150 to cover bank fees and administration plus any additional non-recoverable supplier costs. BAC encourages members to purchase trip cancellation insurance.
RIDE PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITY
Please remember that BAC Ride Leaders are volunteers, and that successful tours depend on participants providing much of their own support. Participants are expected to come to the ride well trained, in good health and ready to accomplish the required daily riding using well-maintained bicycles. All participants should accept responsibility for a safe and enjoyable tour. We encourage you to read the ride description carefully and respond to requests from the Ride Leader. While on the ride, support your Ride Leader with offers to help with various tasks such as happy hour preparation and cleanup. Please do not interfere with the ride by inviting non-participants onto any portion of the ride or tour. Please inform the Ride Leader  of any special requests and respect the Ride Leader’s decisions.
INSURANCE STATEMENTS
BAC maintains two insurance policies: a) United States, and b) Foreign (all other countries). Both the U.S. and Foreign policies are considered secondary policies to your personal medical insurance policy. They are subject to a $1000 deductible and may not cover all expenses related to an accident. Copies of the current policies are located under the “Docs” tab on the BAC website.
Before participating in any BAC tour, you should assess whether your medical and travel insurance coverage is sufficient. While touring in the U.S, the BAC insurance includes coverage for injuries due to accidents during the bike trip. Members’ personal insurance will need to cover medical emergencies such as sudden and unexpected illness (i.e. treatment for unexpected illnesses, including Covid, are not covered).  While touring internationally, i.e., outside of the U.S., BAC maintains Foreign accident insurance to assist with expenses related to accidents, medical emergencies (including sudden and unexpected sickness), and repatriation. Insurance will apply door-to-door for treatment and travel for a maximum of 90 days overall. Coverage extends to a limited period spanning the published BAC trip dates, allowing for side trips occurring before and after the BAC ride; the limitation period is 7 days before or after the published BAC trip dates. 
SIGN-UP
To register for this ride, use the sign-up links just above the Ride Description.
After preliminary acceptance, you will be moved to the pending list and receive an email requesting you to go back to the BAC site to digitally accept the terms of the Release of Liability (ROL), and pay the Tour Deposit and the non-refundable BAC Ride Registration Fee by credit card. There is an $150.00 international ride fee. As soon as your deposit has been processed, your name(s) will be added to the Participant List. BAC members with questions may contact the Ride Director by "clicking" the name at the top of this Ride Description.