A closer look at the route
This is the Central Atlas at cycling pace: 286 kilometres over six riding days, from the natural bridge at Imi n'Ifri to the waterfalls at Ouzoud, taking in the Amarskine, Tirghist and Tagought passes and the long valleys in between. Altitudes run from 1,100m to 2,800m and the days are honest — 37 to 71 km with 840 to 1,450m of climbing each.
The surfaces vary from tarmac mountain roads to rough piste and mule track, so a good level of off-road confidence and regular training are needed. A support vehicle follows the route with luggage, spares and water, and one stage begins with a 4×4 lift to the Tirghist pass at 2,700m to open a long descent. Nights are in guesthouses and with local families, and the final morning is spent at the Ouzoud falls.
Arrival in Marrakech
Welcome at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Bike fitting and route briefing. Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
Marrakech → Imi n'Ifri → Imi n'Ouaqqa
Transfer to Imi n'Ifri (1,100m) and lunch beneath its natural bridge, then ride up to the Amarskine pass (2,012m) and descend to Imi n'Waqqa (1,817m). Dinner and overnight with local families. 37 km, +1,350m / −680m.
Tizi n'Tirghist → Aït Bouelli → Aït Bouguemez
Over the Tirghist pass (2,399m), down to Abachkou and through the Aït Boualli valley, then on to Agouti (1,760m) in the Happy Valley. Guesthouse. 50 km, +1,450m / −1,350m.
Agouti → Zaouiat Ahançal
A 4×4 lift to the Tirghist pass (2,700m) to start, then high mountain riding and a long descent into the Zaouiat Ahançal valley (1,582m). Guesthouse. 71 km, +1,380m / −1,700m.
Zaouiat Ahançal → the Cathedral
Ride along the Ahançal river, climb to the Tagought pass (1,912m) and descend beneath the great rock spire known as the Cathedral. Dinner and overnight by the river. 43 km, +840m / −1,320m.
The Cathedral → Ouaouizaght
Cross a series of passes to reach the lake, then descend to Ouaouizaght (1,250m). Guesthouse. 55 km, +950m / −950m.
Ouaouizaght → Ouzoud → Marrakech
A short final stage, then the Ouzoud waterfalls before transferring to Marrakech. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. 30 km.
Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Included
Qualified mountain bike guide
4×4 support vehicle and driver
Accommodation in guesthouses and with families
Full board (all meals)
Luggage transport throughout
Basic spares and repair kit
Not included
Mountain bike and helmet (rental available)
International flights
Travel & mountain rescue insurance
Personal cycling clothing
Drinks and personal expenses
Tips