The best cycling routes in Morocco

Morocco offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 220 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy city explorations to challenging mountain passes.

The ideal time for touring cycling in Morocco is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, temperatures are pleasant, and skies are generally clear. While cycling is possible year-round, summers can be excessively hot in the plains, and winters may bring snow and freezing conditions to the High Atlas, though coastal areas remain mild.

Yes, Morocco has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the Souq Al-Adawat Hardware Store – Café Clock loop from Marrakesh is an easy 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that allows you to explore the vibrant city of Marrakesh. Another option is the Pikala Bicycle Atelier – Café Clock loop from Marrakesh, also an easy ride through the city.

Morocco's diverse landscape offers a variety of terrain for touring cyclists. You can expect a mix of paved roads, gravel tracks, and even desert paths. Routes often feature dramatic mountain passes in the Atlas Mountains, expansive desert landscapes, and scenic coastal roads along the Atlantic. Gorges, fertile valleys, and ancient fortified villages are common sights along many routes.

Absolutely. Morocco is home to many challenging routes, particularly in the Atlas Mountains. For instance, the Dades Gorge – Dades Gorge Switchbacks loop from Boumalne Dadès is a difficult 67.1-mile (108 km) route with significant elevation gain, known for its dramatic switchbacks and towering red rock formations. Another demanding option is the Switchback climb – View of the Ounila Valley loop from Aït Benhaddou, offering panoramic views and a substantial climb.

Many touring cycling routes in Morocco pass through or near significant cultural attractions. You can explore ancient fortified villages like Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or cycle through traditional Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains. Marrakech, a common starting point, offers bustling souks and historical sites such as the Koutoubia Mosque and Marrakesh Medina. The Draa Valley is also dotted with kasbahs and ksours.

Yes, Morocco offers numerous scenic loop routes. The Painted Rocks – Painted Rocks, Tafraoute loop from Tafraout is a moderate 12.4-mile (20 km) trail that takes you through the unique landscape of the Anti-Atlas. Another option is the View on the Lion of Tafraoute – Ameln Gorge loop from Tafraout, a difficult 26.8-mile (43.1 km) route offering stunning views of the Ameln Gorge.

The touring cycling routes in Morocco are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dramatic and diverse landscapes, the rich cultural experiences, and the varied terrain that provides options for all ability levels. The opportunity to cycle through mountains, deserts, and along the coast, often passing through traditional villages and ancient sites, is a highlight for many.

Morocco is rich in natural wonders, and many routes highlight these features. You can cycle through the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Todra and Dades Gorges, or explore the vast palm groves of the Draa Valley. The Dades Gorge – Monkey Fingers rock formations loop from Ait Youl is a difficult 27.6-mile (44.3 km) route showcasing unique rock formations. The Ait Mansour Gorge – Palm Oasis loop from Tafraout also offers a challenging ride through a stunning gorge and oasis.

Yes, Morocco's Atlantic coastline offers pleasant cycling conditions, especially during cooler months. For example, the Wild Camping Spot – Malabata Lighthouse loop from Tangier Mghouga is a difficult 41.7-mile (67.1 km) route near Tangier, providing ocean views and a taste of marine history. Coastal cities like Essaouira and Agadir also serve as excellent bases for exploring the coastline by bike.

Morocco offers many landmarks and points of interest for cyclists. In the High Atlas, you can find the Summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak, and the nearby Imlil Village. Marrakech features the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Many routes also pass by traditional kasbahs and ksours, offering glimpses into Morocco's rich architectural heritage.