Southern Oasis Cycling (EXCSO)

Duration: 8 days (may vary)
Areas: Morocco
Tour types: Cycling, History & Culture, Nature & Wildlife

Description

Gateway to the Sahara
From Ouarzazate our first ride takes us down into perhaps the lushest oasis south of the Atlas - the Draa Valley. Millions of date palms, ancient kasbahs and ksours (fortified villages) line the way, with the breathtaking mountains of the Jebel Sahro as a backdrop. After a night in the small town Tazzarine we arrive in Rissani, where there's time to cycle or visit Erfoud, to enjoy the local market. In the afternoon a short jeep ride (optional) takes us to the huge sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi. A walk across them at sunset is an unforgettable experience when light and colours are changing every minute. Here one gets the first impression of what the real Sahara is like.

Todra Gorge & freewheeling in the High Atlas
Next we cycle towards Tinerhir and, completing the journey by vehicle, enter the dramatic Todra gorge - one of the most impressive rock formations in the region. From El Kelaa Mgouna, famed for it's rose-water, we continue by bus through the scenic “Valley of the 1000 Kasbahs”. Then, driving into the High Atlas, we slowly ascend the Tizi n'Outfi pass (2,150m). From we take an exhilerating ride downhill through some of North Africa's most spectacular mountain scenery - from fortified kasbahs to lush valleys and snow-capped peaks - to the natural bridge of Imi n'Ifri.

Marrakech - A Feast for the Senses
Leaving the majestic Atlas mountains behind, we reach Marrakech, the 'Red City'. There will be time to enjoy the maze of alleyways in the souks and the celebrated 'circus' of Djemma-el-Fna Square. Crammed with story-tellers, musicians, jugglers, snake-charmers, peddlers and kebab stalls, it is a scene straight from the Arabian Nights. An optional guided walking tour can be organised for anyone interested.

Tour itinerary

Day 1

Join Ouarzazate; transfer to hotel.

Day 2

Drive and cycle through the Draa Valley to Tazzarine.

Day 3

Drive and cycle south of the Jebel Sahro to Rissani.

Day 4

In Rissani, optional cycle ride or visit Erfoud oasis; afternoon optional jeep drive to Erg Chebbi sand dunes at Merzouga for desert sunset.

Day 5

Cycle and drive to Tinerhir and Todra gorge; continue to El Kelaa Mgouna.

Day 6

Transfer into High Atlas to Tizi n'Outfi pass (2,150m); dramatic descent by bike towards Demnate and Marrakech (weather permitting); drive into Marrakech.

Day 7

At leisure in Marrakech; optional guided city walk.

Day 8

End Marrakech.