7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco
This 7 Days Motorcycle trip in Morocco from Marrakech to desert takes you on a captivating journey through Morocco’s varied landscapes, from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the golden sands of the Sahara Desert, and from the majestic Atlas Mountains to the dramatic Todgha Gorges. On this trip, you’ll visit some of Morocco’s most iconic sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aït Benhaddou, the tranquil oasis of Tafraoute Sidi Ali, the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, and the stunning Todgha Gorges. Along the way, you’ll experience traditional Berber culture, enjoy camel treks across the desert, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Morocco’s diverse terrain. This tour offers the perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
Highlights 7 Days Motorcycle trip in Morocco from Marrakech to desert
- Visit Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage kasbah
- Cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass with panoramic mountain views
- Explore the lush Draa Valley and the oases near Zagora
- Discover the rock formations and tranquil Tafraoute Sidi Ali oasis
- Experience a camel trek and overnight in a desert camp in Merzouga
- Walk through the stunning Todgha Gorges
- Visit the Kasbah Taourirt and Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains on your way back to Marrakech
7 Days Motorcycle trip in Morocco from Marrakech to desert
Day 1: Marrakech → Ouarzazate (200 km)
Your journey begins in Marrakech, where you’ll leave early to head toward Ouarzazate. As you leave the city, you’ll start driving through the High Atlas Mountains. The first major stop is the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of Morocco’s highest mountain roads, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you descend, the landscape transitions into a more arid, desert-like environment. Upon reaching Ouarzazate, you can explore the famous Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has featured in several blockbuster films. You can also visit the Atlas Film Studios, where famous movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. Spend the night in a cozy kasbah-style hotel.
Day 2: Ouarzazate → Zagora (160 km)
On the second day, your road trip continues from Ouarzazate to Zagora, a town located at the edge of the desert. The route takes you through the Draa Valley, one of Morocco’s most scenic areas, where you’ll be surrounded by palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and traditional mud-brick villages. Zagora is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Upon arrival, take a moment to enjoy the quiet charm of this desert town and explore the surrounding oases and villages. You might want to visit the Tamegroute village, famous for its traditional green pottery and Koranic library. Overnight in a comfortable guesthouse.
Day 3: Zagora → Tafraoute Sidi Ali (150 km)
After a restful night in Zagora, drive to the hidden oasis of Tafraoute Sidi Ali. This village is nestled amidst beautiful desert landscapes, with stunning rock formations and palm groves. The road here is less traveled, giving you a sense of solitude and connection to nature. You can take a walk around the oasis, explore the natural rock formations, and relax in this peaceful environment. Tafraoute Sidi Ali remains a little-known gem, offering a true desert experience. Spend the night in a desert guesthouse or camp under the stars, enjoying the serene atmosphere of this secluded location.
Day 4: Tafraoute Sidi Ali → Ramlia → Ouzina → Merzouga
Today, you venture even deeper into the Sahara Desert, traveling from Tafraoute Sidi Ali to Merzouga. On the way, you’ll pass through the small villages of Ramlia and Ouzina, which are largely isolated and provide a more authentic glimpse into the lives of the desert Berbers. As you travel through the vast desert, the landscapes shift from rocky plateaus to expansive sand dunes. The scenery is mesmerizing, with the contrast between the harsh desert terrain and the occasional oasis offering a striking sense of calm. You’ll arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon, where you’ll have the chance to take on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to witness the spectacular sunset over the dunes. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a Berber-style dinner and an unforgettable starry night.
Day 5: Merzouga → Todgha Gorges (180 km)
After an early sunrise camel ride in the dunes, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the camp before departing for the Todgha Gorges. You’ll drive through a combination of desert roads and oasis towns, making your way to one of Morocco’s most famous natural landmarks. The Todgha Gorges are dramatic, with towering cliffs reaching up to 300 meters, offering both incredible scenery and opportunities for trekking. You can walk along the river that runs through the gorges or take a more challenging hike into the canyon. After exploring, head to a guesthouse in the area for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Todgha Gorges → Ouarzazate (170 km)
On Day 6, you’ll return westward toward Ouarzazate. As you drive back through the Dades Valley (also known as the Valley of Roses), you’ll pass lush rose gardens and small villages where you can stop for a refreshing break. The region is known for its fragrant rose water products, so take the opportunity to buy some souvenirs from local cooperatives. Upon arrival in Ouarzazate, you’ll have time to explore any sites you missed on the first day, such as the Kasbah Taourirt or the Atlas Film Studios. Spend the night in Ouarzazate before your return to Marrakech.
Day 7: Ouarzazate → Marrakech (200 km)
On your final day, you’ll travel back to Marrakech, retracing your journey through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The return drive through the High Atlas Mountains will offer more chances for stunning photographs as the road descends into the plains and back toward Marrakech.
Included: in this 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a mix of comfortable hotels, traditional kasbahs, and desert camps.
- Transport: All transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
- Guide: A professional driver/guide throughout the journey.
- Meals: Breakfast and dinner
- Camel Trek: Camel ride to experience the Sahara Desert and spend the night in a desert camp under the stars.
- Excursions: Visits to iconic sites such as Aït Benhaddou, Kasbah Taourirt, Todgha Gorges, and other famous attractions.
- Fuel & Tolls: All fuel and toll charges for the trip.
- Airport Pickup/Drop-off: Pickup and drop-off at Marrakech airport (if applicable).
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour. The vehicle will carry your luggage, and you’ll use it to travel between towns and destinations.
- Motorcycle Rental: The tour includes motorcycle rental for your desert exploration. You will have a well-maintained, reliable motorcycle to explore the stunning Sahara Desert and surrounding landscapes.
- Motorcycle Equipment: Essential gear, including helmet, protective jacket, gloves, and knee pads, for a safe ride.
Excluded:
- Lunches
- Entrance Fees
- Tips
- Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases, souvenirs, or extra snacks during the trip.
Extra Details – What to Expect I during this 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco
What Makes This 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco Special?
This 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco is more than a loop — it’s a full immersion. You’ll ride through everything Morocco is known for: red kasbahs, green valleys, golden dunes, and black-rock mountains. But what really sets it apart? The small, personal moments: tea with nomads, a quiet sunrise on camelback, or the first time you hear the echo of your engine in an open canyon.
This tour is ideal for intermediate riders who love changing landscapes, moderate off-road adventure, and the feeling of freedom only a motorcycle can bring. Every day delivers a different kind of ride, from mountain twisties to sandy straightaways.
Packing Tips for Desert Riders for this 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco
- Dual-sport riding jacket with ventilation
- Light and warm layers for temp changes
- Motorcycle gloves (two pairs: light & insulated)
- Buff or scarf for dust protection
- Hydration pack (essential in the desert)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Power bank & camera
- Closed shoes for walking in gorges and towns
- Small medical kit (just in case)
Day-by-Day Extra Details
Day 1: Marrakech → Ouarzazate
This first stretch of this 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco is all about contrasts. You begin in the buzz of Marrakech and quickly rise into the cold air and winding bends of the High Atlas. Tizi n’Tichka is a thrilling climb — make sure to stop often for photos. Aït Benhaddou is best explored in the afternoon light when the kasbah glows amber.
Day 2: Ouarzazate → Zagora
Draa Valley is lush, ancient, and slow-moving. You’ll pass caravan routes, old ksour, and donkeys carrying firewood through the palm groves. It’s a ride full of beauty and quiet power. Optional stops include the underground library at Tamegroute and pottery workshops.
Day 3: Zagora → Tafraoute Sidi Ali
You’re now deep in the pre-Sahara zone. This is a true 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco open pistes, rocky hills, and silence. Tafraoute Sidi Ali is a highlight. The terrain here is so raw and beautiful it almost feels Martian. Perfect for night photography.
Day 4: Tafraoute → Ramlia → Ouzina → Merzouga
Arguably the most adventurous day of this 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco. The ride becomes freer, more remote, and visually mind-blowing. The horizon goes on forever. Arrival at Merzouga is magical — camels, dunes, and that first breath of Saharan stillness.
Day 5: Merzouga → Todgha Gorges
The morning camel ride is unforgettable, especially in silence. As you ride out of Merzouga, you’ll pass date plantations and flat valleys. Todgha Gorges is a motorcyclist’s dream: tight, echoing walls and cooling streams. Try to walk inside the canyon late afternoon when the light softens.
Day 6: Todgha → Dades Valley → Ouarzazate
This day brings curvier roads and rose-scented stops. In April/May, the Valley of Roses is in bloom. Dades Valley’s switchbacks (Tissadrine Road) are often compared to the Alps — but with red cliffs instead of pine trees.
Day 7: Ouarzazate → Marrakech
The return to Marrakech is smoother now, with the Tizi n’Tichka Pass feeling like an old friend. As you descend into the plains, the city lights of Marrakech reappear, welcoming you home after an unforgettable 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco.
🏕️ Optional Experiences to Add to your 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco
- Quad biking in Merzouga dunes
- Hammam and spa in Ouarzazate or Marrakech
- Pottery workshop in Tamegroute
- Short guided hike in Todgha Gorge
- Lunch stop in Nkob or Agdz (Berber tagine in a kasbah)
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What level of riding is needed?
A: Intermediate recommended. Some off-road days are optional or have alternate paved routes.
Q: Can the tour be guided or self-guided?
A: Yes, we offer both. GPS routes available for self-guided riders.
Q: What kind of bikes are used?
A: We use dual-sport motorcycles (KTM 450, Honda Africa Twin, BMW GS). All serviced before each trip.
Q: What’s the group size?
A: Small groups (max 8 riders) to keep the vibe personal and flexible.
Q: Can I ride two-up with a passenger?
A: Yes — but we recommend this tour for solo riders due to off-road segments. If you’re traveling with a partner, we suggest alternatives or customized versions.
✨ Final Thoughts
This 7 days motorcycle trip in Morocco is for riders who want the real Morocco — not just a series of tourist stops, but a dynamic journey across centuries of culture and landscapes that feel like they belong on another planet.
You’ll climb, descend, coast, and drift. You’ll meet kind strangers, eat food you’ll dream about, and sleep under more stars than you ever thought possible.
If you’re ready to ride differently — this tour is waiting.
Let’s kick up the dust.
