Belgian Waffle Ride x Thomson
EPIC Morocco Adventure

Following a picturesque morning transfer from Marrakech, including a drive over the Africa’s highest road, the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, you’ll indulge in a quick lunch at the Dades Xaluca Hotel. Post-lunch. Get ready for a beautiful warm-up ride, presenting your initial encounter with this vast Moroccan terrain.

Your inaugural journey is mostly flat, a mix of asphalt and off-road trails. Departing from Boulmane du Dades, the route meanders through the Moroccan countryside, passing by typical small villages and farms before circling back to the hotel. As evening descends, enjoy a tasty Moroccan dinner and unwind on the hotel terrace, where you can witness the desert sunset—a perfect end to the day’s adventures.

After yesterday’s warm up, today’s ride takes a more challenging approach with a magnificent 73 kilometer loop that both starts and concludes at the hotel in Dades. This is an extended version of our already “tough” Dades loop on our classic gravel trips. Get ready. Venture into the foothills of the Atlas mountains, tackling several climbs that approach the 6500 feet mark. Pass through the small town of Boutaghrar, and cross the M’Goun river into a remote mountain desert landscape. Eventually, ride through the breathtaking “Gorges du Dades,” a series of rugged gorges that should not be missed.

Today marks your departure from the Dades Valley, venturing into the Saghro, a desert mountain range situated beyond the Atlas Mountains and serving as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Departing from Boulmane du Dades, you’ll traverse an astonishing mountain plateau featuring beautiful valleys, dry riverbeds, and remote villages. Expect local children to run alongside, seeking candy or pens. After covering about 55 miles, you’ll reach the small village of Nkob, where a traditional Kasbah-style hotel awaits.

The Big Day!

Bid farewell to Nkob as you embark on a journey across the flats, gazing at the mountains looming in the distance. This leg, often referred to as the Queen Stage, features beautiful yet challenging climbs and stunning views of the Sahghro range. Heading north via Imi n’Sit, where you’ll traverse some of the most remote valleys in the area.

The ride traverses the village of Ikniouen, where we start heading  to our next oasis at the Xaluca Arfoud Hotel.

Today’s ride promises an amazing experience as you venture towards the renowned Erg Chebbi sand dunes from Arfoud. Prepare for some amazing photo opportunities throughout the day, so ensure your phone/camera is fully charged before setting out!

As evening falls, immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience by sleeping under the desert stars in luxury bivouacs. For those seeking an extra adventure, indulge in a sunset dromedary ride, courtesy of our Xaluca bivouac hosts.

Today marks your departure from the colossal sand dunes as you journey north to the town of Rissani, renowned for its vibrant farmers market. Transport yourself 500 years into the past as local farmers arrive on donkeys, offering vegetables and spices to the tiny shops in the town center—a truly unique experience!

Conclude the day at the hotel in Arfoud where our dunes adventure began. Take some time to unwind at the spa and enjoy a splendid dinner, putting the finishing touches on this fantastic Moroccan adventure.

Unfortunately your journey through Morocco has come to an end.

You can choose from 2 different Drop-off options:

Option 1: Drop off in Fes

Private transfer in our support vehicles to your hotel in Fes

Journey time from our final hotel in Arfoud to Fes is approximately 6 hours so expect to arrive in Fes mid-afternoon

Option 2: Drop off at Er-Rachidia Airport

Private transfer in our support vehicles to the airport in Er-Rachidia

Journey time from our final hotel in Arfoud to Er-Rachidia Airport is 1 hour

Important:

• there is 1 flight from Er-Rachidia to Casablanca. The fight departs from Er-Rachidia at 7:30am, our shuttle will drop-you off at the airport at 6:00am
• if you prefer this option, you’ll need to book your flight from Er-Rachidia to Casablanca
• bike boxes are not permitted on the plane, so if you choose this option you will need to use one of our rental bikes
• please inform our Customer Service staff if you prefer this option