Ouarzazate: The Perfect Starting Point for Your Moroccan Motorcycle Trip
Why Start Your Moroccan Motorcycle Trip in Ouarzazate is the perfect starting point for your Moroccan motorcycle trip?
If you’re planning a motorcycle adventure in Morocco, Ouarzazate is the perfect starting point for your Moroccan motorcycle trip .
Known as the gateway to the Sahara, this southern city offers direct access to epic desert dunes, remote mountain passes, and the rugged beauty of southern Morocco. Whether you’re into off-road challenges or scenic road riding, Ouarzazate sets you on the right path.
Located just past the High Atlas Mountains, it’s a quieter and less hectic alternative to Marrakech — ideal for riders who want to escape city traffic and jump straight into nature. From here, you’re only hours away from iconic destinations like Merzouga, the Draa Valley, Dades Gorges, and the vast dunes of Chegaga.
Ride Straight into Adventure: Why Ouarzazate is a Rider’s Dream
Ouarzazate offers a perfect mix of on-road and off-road riding. From winding mountain switchbacks to open desert trails, every type of terrain is within reach. This makes it a great launchpad for both experienced riders and those new to motorcycle travel in Morocco.
Many riders choose the KTM 450 motorcycle for its reliability and performance, especially when riding through dunes and rocky paths. At Sahara Moto Tours, all our guided tours start with a careful briefing and test ride to make sure every rider is comfortable and ready for the journey ahead.
This city also has all the essentials: fuel stations, mechanics, gear shops, and knowledgeable local guides who understand the terrain like the back of their hand. Everything you need to start your Moroccan motorcycle tour is right here.
Ouarzazate: More Than Just a Starting Line
Ouarzazate is not only a great place to begin your trip — it’s also a destination worth exploring. The city is home to the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and filming location for Hollywood blockbusters like “Gladiator” and TV series like “Game of Thrones.”
Nearby, you’ll find the Atlas Film Studios, often called the Hollywood of Africa, and the scenic Fint Oasis, which offers a peaceful contrast to the desert surroundings. If you have a free afternoon before or after your tour, a ride out to these locations adds extra richness to your adventure.
Ideal Routes Starting from Ouarzazate
At Sahara Moto Tours, we’ve mapped out a variety of routes that start from Ouarzazate, each offering its own unique highlights:
- Ouarzazate to Merzouga: Ride through the Valley of the Roses, Dades Gorge, and Todra Canyon before reaching the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi.
- Ouarzazate to Chegaga Dunes: Take the wild route through Foum Zguid and the Iriki Lake dry bed for an ultimate off-road experience.
- Ouarzazate Loop Ride: A shorter circuit that explores the Draa Valley, Agdz, and back through scenic desert roads.
These trips are fully guided and supported with a 4×4 backup vehicle, and every tour includes accommodations, meals, fuel, and cultural stops to give you a full Moroccan experience.
Comfort and Support Along the Way
We understand that motorcycle travel is as much about comfort as it is about adventure. That’s why all our tours include hand-picked accommodations — from traditional kasbahs to desert camps — and hearty Moroccan meals that fuel your ride.
Our experienced bilingual guides (speaking English, French, and Spanish) are there not just for navigation, but to share local knowledge, translate when needed, and make sure you’re having a safe and exciting journey.
Why Ouarzazate Just Makes Sense to be the perfect starting point for your Moroccan motorcycle trip
Starting in Ouarzazate helps you avoid the crowds and jump straight into Morocco’s wild side. Its position at the crossroads of desert and mountains gives you access to a wide variety of routes, landscapes, and cultural encounters. With expert local support, quality motorcycles like the KTM 450, and a laid-back vibe, it’s no wonder more riders are choosing Ouarzazate as their starting point.
Whether you’re planning a 6-day ride through kasbah country or a 12-day expedition across the Sahara, it all begins here.
Ready to Ride?
Learn more and book your Moroccan motorcycle adventure today at Sahara Moto Tours.
