Discovering Morocco: A New Cycling Adventure
The recently unveiled Route of Caravans presents a breathtaking journey through Morocco, leading intrepid cyclists from sun-scorched deserts to snow-covered peaks and finally to serene beaches. This 837 km trail offers an enticing glimpse into regions that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
While navigating a narrow canyon path in the High Atlas Mountains, I encountered a cheerful local, clad in traditional attire and guiding his donkey. His animated gestures highlighted the rough terrain ahead, yet I was determined to proceed. As I engaged him in conversation in French, it became clear that adventure lay in both directions—forward into the unknown and back to my urban origins.
A Unique Cycling Route
Cyclists embarking on the Route of Caravans will find a formerly untouched paradise that consists of two segments connecting Tiznit on the southwestern coast to Tangier in the north. This innovative bikepacking route, launched in autumn 2024 on the adventure cycling platform Bikepacking, has attracted a growing number of off-road cycle tourists. Crossing from Imilchil to picturesque hills and onward to Tangier, the route effectively marries rugged adventure with rich cultural exchanges.
The trail itself is a homage to Morocco’s heritage, tracing ancient caravan paths once traversed by camels and the nomadic paths of the local Amazigh people, who have resided in the region for approximately 20,000 years. This venture caters to those seeking to step beyond conventional tourism and experience life as it is lived in rural Morocco.
Immersive Experiences Await
Travel along the Route of Caravans feels akin to time travel, providing an authentic perspective of the local way of life. Pedalling through lush pastures, I encountered shepherds tending their flocks and Amazigh women foraging in remote meadows, gathering herbs and flowers. These encounters allowed me to witness the seasonally nomadic lifestyle still thriving in the mountainous terrain.
As I continued my journey, the landscape transformed drastically, revealing Morocco’s extraordinary geographical diversity. Evan Christenson, a San Diego-based cyclist and co-designer of the route, describes it as “shockingly diverse,” featuring the stark granite of the High Atlas followed by the lush, rolling pastures of the Rif Mountains.
The Route of Caravans also fosters connections among cyclists and communities. The Tamazight language, spoken in many mountain villages, created an intimate atmosphere where local greetings like “Azul” welcomed me warmly into the fold. Each stop was marked by newfound friendships and exchanges that felt genuine and meaningful.
A Glimpse into Rural Life
My journey took me through Boumia, a small town with a mere trickle of visitors. Nabil Abdullah, an enthusiastic local, remarked on the rarity of tourists and graciously invited me into his home for lunch. Moments like these starkly contrasted the booming tourism in cities like Marrakech, where 17.4 million arrivals in 2024 highlight the pressures of overtourism.
Challenges and Rewards
Setting off on the Route of Caravans requires an adventurous spirit, as the terrain can be tough and unforgiving. Typically, cyclists are well-equipped with off-road bikes capable of handling rough surfaces. Should you lack experience, group riding options, like the Cycle Morocco trip by Intrepid, provide an excellent alternative.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 837 km |
| Starting Point | Imilchil |
| Ending Point | Tangier |
| Ideal Bike Type | Off-road bike |
| Wild Camping | Generally allowed; ask locals for permissions |
As the trip drew to a close, a serene beach campsite beside the Mediterranean Sea allowed for a moment of reflection. With bare feet nestled in the warm sand and the horizon aglow with sunset, I contemplated the journey behind me that had transformed my understanding of Morocco, not through mere destinations, but through experiences carved in the landscapes and hearts of its people.
