City Tours Sahara: Morocco: Hike & Bike
Tour Description:
Breathtaking Adventure Infused with Cultural Discovery in Morocco
Embark on a nine-day journey through Morocco, tracing ancient caravan routes towards the Sahara on a captivating combination of cycling and hiking adventures. Immerse yourself in the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture as you explore by foot, bike, and even camel, gaining a deep understanding of Morocco’s essence. Traverse mountain passes, pedal through Amazigh villages, and hike amidst lush oases and towering gorges. Spend nights in traditional Amazigh gites and camp under the star-filled desert skies at a desert campsite. This expedition offers the perfect blend of thrilling adventure and enriching cultural exploration.
Tour Highlights:
– Experience a unique perspective of Morocco by bike on two guided cycling excursions, venturing off the beaten path through Amazigh villages and verdant fruit and nut orchards.
– Descend from the mountains along a historic caravan route into the fortified oasis of Ait Benhaddou, steeped in centuries of history and culture.
– Embark on a camel ride across shifting sand dunes in Erg Chebbi, followed by a nighttime desert walk and camping under the dazzling canopy of stars.
– Explore the majestic red gorges and verdant palm groves of Todra on foot, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Morocco.
– Begin and end your journey in vibrant Marrakech, where you’ll discover the bustling Djemaa el-Fna Square and meander through the labyrinthine alleys with the guidance of a knowledgeable local leader.
Itinerary :
Day 1: Marrakech Welcome
Welcome to vibrant Marrakech! Tonight, join your group and leader for a 6 pm welcome meeting at the hotel. Afterward, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s famous market square. Indulge in optional dinner choices ranging from grilled foods to ginger tea amidst lively stalls.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: None included
Add-on activities: Various optional activities available in Marrakech
Special Information: Attendance at the welcome meeting is essential for gathering important details. Consider arriving a few days early to explore Marrakech fully. Extra accommodation can be arranged upon request.
Day 2: Atlas Mountains Cycle & Hike
After breakfast, venture about an hour outside Marrakech for a thrilling day of cycling and hiking in the Atlas Mountains. Navigate challenging trails through Amazigh villages, then relax with a leisurely walk by the lake in Imlil village. Finally, reach Aroumd village for a traditional Amazigh dinner in a charming gite.
Accommodation: Gite (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities: Guided Hike – Imlil to Aroumd, Guided Cycling – Atlas Mountains
Special Information: Cycling distance: approx. 34 km (23 miles) with 970 m (3,200 ft) elevation gain. Hiking distance: approx. 2 km (1 mile).
Day 3: Atlas Mountains Hike
Start the day by learning to bake Amazigh bread for breakfast before embarking on a captivating hike through Amazigh villages. Traverse twisting mule tracks over a mountain pass, then descend to Aroumd village. Optional hammam experience awaits back at the gite.
Accommodation: Gite (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities: Imlil – Bread making workshop, Guided Hike – Atlas Mountains
Add-on activities: Hammam Visit – Aroumd
Special Information: Hiking distance: approx. 8 km (5 miles).
Day 4: Ait Benhaddou
Drive over the High Atlas Mountains to Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the fortified village and enjoy Moroccan pastries at Tawesna tea house. Optional cooking demonstration and dinner available.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included activities: Ait Benhaddou – Leader-led ksar walk, Tea at Tawesna association
Add-on activities: Cooking Demonstration & Dinner
Special Information: Itinerary subject to changes due to earthquake-affected areas.
Day 5: Agdez Cycling
Cycle through the oasis town of Agdez, nestled along the Draa River. Explore the town and nearby Ziz Valley, surrounded by palm trees and ancient kasbahs.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included activities: Guided Cycling – Agdez
Special Information: Cycling distance: approx. 50 km (31 miles) with 800 m (2,600 ft) elevation gain.
Day 6: Desert Camp & Camel Safari
Journey south to Erg Chebbi and experience a camel safari at sunset. Enjoy traditional feast and Gnaoua music at the desert camp, followed by a night walk under the starry sky.
Accommodation: Desert Camp (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included activities: Camp Fire, Merzouga, Camel safari, Sahara Desert Night Walk
Day 7: Todra Gorge
Explore Todra Gorge with a hike through the stunning red-hued limestone cliffs. Learn about local agriculture on a palmerie and farm walk.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Included activities: Todra Gorge – Palmeraie and farm walk
Add-on activities: Rock Climbing – Todra Gorge
Day 8: Todra Gorge Hike & Marrakech
Hike through Todgha Gorges before returning to Marrakech. Optional guided medina tasting tour in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast
Included activities: Todra Gorge hike
Add-on activities: A Taste of Marrakech – tour leader
Day 9: Marrakech Departure
Your adventure concludes after breakfast. Extend your stay to explore Marrakech further with additional accommodation arrangements available upon request.
Meals: Breakfast
This SEO-optimized itinerary offers an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
