Guide

All Intrepid cycling group trips are accompanied by one of our cycling leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Our cycling leaders are all passionate cyclists, as you’d expect, but they also go through some pretty rigorous cycle-trip specific training. Each one has undergone on-road training and supervision and knows how to do safety checks, basic repairs and emergency first-aid. And at the end of the day they’re still regular Intrepid leaders, which means they will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Others

Cycling Tour of Marrakech Fes - Guided walking tour Merzouga - Camel safari Todra Gorge hike

Transport

While there are occasions we use local public transport such as trains, buses or taxis to cover long distances or attend non-cycling activities we predominantly use the bicycle as our main form of transport. On most of our trips we also have a support vehicle as secondary transport for travelling longer distances, avoiding hazardous areas to cycle, as a backup should we have any incidents and of course an option for those that would prefer not to cycle for an hour or a day. These vehicles range from a minivan in most regions up to a full sized coach or overland vehicle in others. Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle INCLUDED BIKES : 2023 We have updated our bike fleet for 2022 and are now using the Cannondale fitness quick-cx bike. This alloy framed ’hybrid-style’ bike features 18-speed Shimano shifting, front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, flat bar handelbar, and 40mm wide multi-surface tires. All bikes are subject to availability and may be replaced by a bike of similar quality if the required size is not available. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an ’on request’ basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking. OPTIONAL RENTAL E-BIKES: Our Morocco rental e-bikes are the 2018 Cannondale Tesoro NEO2, available in both male (horizontal tops tube) and female (sloping top tube) models and in the following sizes: Male - Small (50cm) - 168cm to 175cm/5’6” to 5’8”, Medium (56cm) - 175cm to 185cm/5’8” to 6’, & Large (62cm) - 185cm to 205cm/6’ to 6’8” Female – Extra Small (47cm) - 155cm to 168cm/5’1” to 5’6”, Small (52cm) - 168cm to 175cm/5’6” to 5’8”, & Medium (58cm) - 175cm to 185cm/5’8” to 6’ Please stipulate which model and size you require at time of booking. For further details on sizing please see https://www.cannondale.com/en/International/Products/ProductCategory.aspx?nid=336eca6e-fee1-4bf7-a3f2-f3554628c732 (please note while this a model with different parts the frame measurements are exactly the same) BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE: While we’re confident in the quality and suitability of the bikes we include, we do recognise that sometimes you just need the comfort of your own bike to enjoy the ride. If you are thinking of bringing your own bike on this trip, please advise us at time of booking and take note of the below information. If you do choose to bring your own bike, please note that we will not being carrying a spare bike for you. SUITABLE TYPE OF BIKE: Although the surfaces of the roads we travel on are generally good there are occasionally gravel or potholed sections of road/track. As such, we recommend a ’mountain’ or ’hybrid’ style bike with plenty of gear selections for easy cruising. For more details on the type of roads we’ll be riding on see the ‘Physical Rating’ section of your Essential Trip Information. Please contact your booking agent if you have any questions about the suitability of your bike. We usually cannot accept tandem bikes on our trips as they are often too large for our transport. In some destinations we can make an exception. Please ask your booking agent if you are interested in bringing a tandem bike. BEFORE THE TRIP: We recommend that you have a full service of your bike performed by a trained mechanic to help minimise any issues you may have during the trip. Please also ensure that you have specific and adequate cover for loss, damage or theft for your bike under your travel, home and contents or specialist insurance policy. DURING THE TRIP: Your bike will be transported in the same way as our included bikes, usually in the support vehicle or on the bike trailer. While we endeavour to take the best care we can, you should recognise that transported bikes do get the occasional bump or scratch along the way. The same applies when we take other forms of transport, such as a train, where we are unable to pack the bikes ourselves. Your bike will be secured in the same way as our included bikes. This can occasionally be outside the vehicle (where the bikes are locked together). In order to reach our destination, it is necessary for us to travel via various modes of transportation, including planes and trains. Any extra costs involved with transporting personal bikes are your responsibility. This includes (but is not limited to) additional transport costs and customs/import fees. While our mechanics can usually assist with minor repairs, you are responsible for the safety and upkeep of your own bicycle. This includes conducting regular safety checks of your bike during the trip and cleaning your bike. In addition, any parts that require replacing are your responsibility. Most destinations have access to only limited spares along the way and access to bike shops can be days apart. Therefore, please ensure you bring any spare parts that you may require (especially specialist parts). TRANSPORTING YOUR BIKE TO/FROM THE DESTINATION: Your preferred airline should have no problem carrying your bike, but many will charge an extra fee. Contact them before departing to discuss their arrangements for transporting bikes. A well-padded bike box (obtainable from a bike shop) is usually the best method of plane transportation. We recommend that you accompany your bicycle on the flight. Unaccompanied bicycles have been known to spend some extra days in the hands of customs authorities. Many taxis are not large enough to transport a bike box/bag so you may be delayed waiting for a suitably sized vehicle. INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE: You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. INCLUDED OR HIRE BIKES: CONDITIONS OF USE: You must not mistreat the bicycle and must return it in the same condition as when you received it (excepting ordinary wear and tear). You should immediately inform the supplier in the case of breakdown or loss. The provider is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the bicycle during the period of hire. You must also make sure that the bicycle is secured when not in use. If the equipment is lost or stolen you may be liable for the replacement value of the bicycle. The bicycle remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, rent out or part possession with the bicycle. You must not use the bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Bicycle (e-bike option available , subject to availability) , Support vehicle , Train , Camel

Meals

13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Accommodation

OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION: The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances. TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS: Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on a different Intrepid trip than your own. CHECK-IN TIME: Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION: If you’ve purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights. HEATING: Some of our guesthouses/hotels are unable to supply heating as this would be a major financial and environmental strain. It’s also a case of energy supply and timing provisions, which is limited in some places. Please be prepared for cold showers, which are a pleasure for most of the year. Air-conditioning systems (if available) don’t always function. OVERNIGHT TRAIN: Travellers will be in shared 4 bunk compartments and will be spread across several different compartments. There may be times when yo are sharing with non-Intrepid travellers. DESERT CAMP : & GITE: Desert camp: - Accommodation is in shared tents. - Tents have a camp bed, with one mattress per person - blankets, pillows and sheets provided - Bathroom facilities are shared - There is no power to change devices Gite: - All rooms have beds and bathroom facilities (inside each room) - There is electricity to charge devices Hotel (10 nights), overnight train (1 night), desert camp (1 night), gite (1 night)

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services not included.

Optional

Other activities and services not included.

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (https://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Flights

International flights are not included.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Marrakech
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Marrakech

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins in Marrakech with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not visit the Dar Si Said Museum or nearby Saadian Tombs. Maybe chill out in the Marjorelle Gardens, luxuriate in a hammam or see Marrakech from above on a hot air balloon ride. After the meeting, head out to explore the city’s lively Djemaa el-Fna – one of the largest public spaces in the world, unique to Marrakech. When night falls it transforms into a hive of activity. Henna painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls. You’ll have an included welcome dinner here while the performers vie for your attention.
Day 2 Day 2: Marrakech
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Marrakech

Fuel up with breakfast this morning, then get fitted for your bike – your transport and best friend for the next 13 days. Take a short test ride to make sure everything’s working properly, then begin a cycling tour in and around the city. Start near the royal olive groves of Menara Gardens and ride to well-known sites like Koutoubia Mosque and the Marrakech Medina. Finish your cycle in the Palmeraie – a palm tree oasis. Return to Djemaa el-Fna for an afternoon snack (a street stall pastry) with a glass of fresh orange juice. There will be ample time in the afternoon to freshen up before you board your sleeper train this evening for the journey to Tangier.
Day 3 Day 3: Tangier
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Tangier

Arrive in Tangier this morning and check into your hotel, then meet up with your support crew and vehicle. Saddle up for today’s ride, which starts with an easy ride to the Grottes d’Hercules (Caves of Hercules). Legend says Hercules stayed in this cave before doing his 11th labour – collecting the golden apples from the Hesperides Garden. Its modern uses have been quite varied, from a brothel to a concert venue. From here, the road undulates and climbs as you jump back on the bike to explore Cap Spartel, known to the Romans and Greeks as the ’Cape of the Vines’. Stop by the 19th-century lighthouse and maybe climb up to the top for an amazing view across the Atlantic Ocean. Have lunch here, then a ride downhill back towards Tangiers’ Mediterranean port. After, maybe relax with a mint tea at the rooftop cafe Salon Bleu, which overlooks the medina and the ocean.
Day 4 Day 4: Chefchaouen
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Chefchaouen

Leave Tangier behind and travel through the arid inland towards the beachside village of Azla. When you arrive you’ll hop on your bike and begin today’s ride – follow the winding coastal road south to the small fishing town of Oued Laou. The shimmering waters of the Mediterranean will be on your left, steep mountains on your right and small coves dotted with beaches in-between. The climb will all be worth it when you stop for lunch at one of the beaches and take the opportunity to go for a swim. Later today, maybe leave the saddle behind and let the support vehicle do the hard work of climbing the steep hills to the ‘Blue City’ of Chefchaouen (you can cycle if you prefer). Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe shop for handicrafts in the ancient medina or find a spot at a local cafe and people-watch.
Day 5 Day 5: Chefchaouen
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Chefchaouen

Today is a free day to explore Chefchaouen. Maybe take it easy at a cafe in the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, chill out in a Hamman or stroll around town admiring the architecture of the 15th-century Grand Mosque (the interior closed to non-Muslims). If you’re still feeling energetic, you might prefer to take an optional guided tour of the Blue City or head out of town for a hike in the Rif mountains (which lasts approximately 4 hours).
Day 6 Day 6: Fes
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Fes

This morning, drive from Chefchaouen to the outskirts of Bab Taza village. When you arrive, you’ll stretch your legs on a ride along a quiet undulating road and through sparce landscapes to Tabouda. As the roads get busier and the day heats up, retreat to the comfort of the support vehicle and leave the quiet of the Rif Mountains behind you. You’ll then drive to Fes – the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. When you arrive, you have the rest of the day free to rest and recharge.
Day 7 Day 7: Fes
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Fes

Leave your bike behind today and embark on a guided walk through the secret shortcuts and twisting alleyways of Fes. Pass donkeys piled high with goods and feel like you’re stepping back in time to the Middle Ages in the labyrinth of the medina. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Consider watching the sunset over the medina tonight and ask your local leader where the best local delicacies can be found.
Day 8 Day 8: Midelt
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Midelt

Avoid the traffic and the heat with an early start today. Leave Fes behind and drive into the Middle Atlas Mountains, arriving at Dayet Aoua for your ride through the high-altitude mountains. After a quick coffee stop, climb through the wooded hills of Ifrane National Park for a unique view of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Coast gently downhill to the tiny town of Timahdte, where you’ll finish riding for the day. Drive up to Aguelmame Sidi Ali Lake – a placid clear blue lake and wetland sanctuary where you’ll have lunch. If the mood calls, you can cycle a further 15 km to the Timahdte section of the lake. After lunch, drive to the Kasbah town of Midelt. Nestled in a valley, Midelt is surrounded by farmland and orchards. The rest of your day is free – maybe explore the town or visit a local embroidery co-operative run to benefit the local Amazigh women.
Day 9 Day 9: Merzouga – Desert Camp
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Merzouga – Desert Camp

Midelt to Merzouga is a long journey, so you’ll embark early and tackle the distance on two separate rides, with a vehicle transfer filling the gaps. Drive to the Tizi n Talrhemt Pass, then get your wheels moving on a gentle downhill cycle to Er-rich for a coffee stop. From Er-rich you’ll continue downhill by bike to the banks of the Ziz River and the cavernous Tunnel Zaabal. Re-board the vehicle and drive through frontier towns like Erfoud that have been the setting for films like ‘The Mummy’ and James Bond’s ‘Spectre’. Arrive in Merzouga, leave your gear at your overnight camp and jump on a camel for a sunset ride to the edge of the Sahara Desert. Later tonight, return to camp for a dinner of delicious local cuisine and fall asleep under a sky dotted with North African stars.
Day 10 Day 10: Todra Gorge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Todra Gorge

Drive to Tinghir – your entry point to the remarkable Todra Gorge. This massive trench with sheer rock walls rises over 300 m to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. In Tinghir you’ll hop in the saddle and work out your legs after the long drive along the route of the Todgha River as it snakes into the canyon. The limestone stacks make this area best discovered on foot, so join in for a walk through the surrounding farmland and a ruined village. Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to take it easy at your Kasbah accommodation, which sits in the middle of the gorge surrounded by palm trees.
Day 11 Day 11: Dades Gorge – Mountain Gite Stay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Dades Gorge – Mountain Gite Stay

This morning you’ll drive to the green-fringed Dades Valley. This is one of the most scenic stretches of road in Morocco and you’ll begin your ride at the hairpins of the Dades Gorge. Leaving the greenery behind, take a small gravel road deep into the desolate Mgoun Valley near Bou Tharar, as you wind through the red rock scenery with the Dades River below. On the way, stop in at a local family’s home and share a traditional cup of tea with your hosts. This is a genuine opportunity for local interaction with a nomadic family who spend their lives travelling this remote land. Your leader will be there at all times to help you communicate and understand each other. Later in the afternoon, bid farewell to your new friends and head to your accommodation in a mountain gite, where you’ll sit down for a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Day 12 Day 12: Ait Benhaddou
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Ait Benhaddou

A drive through arid surroundings brings you to the dramatic Lake El Mansour, which sits among the sandy rocks surrounding Ouarzazate. Get the bikes out and begin your ride to mythical Ait Benhaddou, passing ancient Kasbah ruins, former military outposts and austere mountains. Pause for lunch in Ouarzazate, where ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘Black Hawk Down’ were filmed. If time permits, maybe tour the Atlas Movie Studios. Visit the Horizon Association for People with Disabilities – an organisation dedicated to the rehabilitation, health and empowerment of people living with disabilities. They provide essential services like prosthetic limbs, physio and social therapy, as well as training in skills like pottery or metal work. After, take a walk to Ait Benhaddou – centuries ago, this was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today, its grand Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the star of movies and TV shows like ‘Gladiator’, ‘Games of Thrones’ and ‘The Living Daylights’.
Day 13 Day 13: Marrakech Via Tiz N Tichka
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Marrakech Via Tiz N Tichka

Commence the long, winding ride up into the Atlas Mountains and the small town of Anmiter on your last cycle of the trip. You’ll then drive to the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass. At 2260 m above sea level, this is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. After a brief break for refreshments and photos, descend the High Atlas Mountains back to Marrakech. When you arrive, say goodbye to your support crew and settle in for some free time to relax. Tonight, you’ll likely be drawn back to the Djemaa el-Fna for a celebratory dinner.
Day 14 Day 14: Marrakech
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Marrakech

There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You’re free to leave at any time after check out. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

+11

14 days tour

Cycle Morocco

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Cycle Morocco

Day 1: Marrakech

Day 2: Marrakech

Day 3: Tangier

Day 4: Chefchaouen

Day 5: Chefchaouen

Day 6: Fes

Day 7: Fes

Day 8: Midelt

Day 9: Merzouga – Desert Camp

Day 10: Todra Gorge

Day 11: Dades Gorge – Mountain Gite Stay

Day 12: Ait Benhaddou

Day 13: Marrakech Via Tiz N Tichka

Day 14: Marrakech

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