You’ve wandered the maze-like souks, trekked the sweeping Atlas Mountains, ridden a dusty camel and gorged on savory tajines. Now you’re ready to round out your Moroccan adventure with something completely unexpected: white water rafting. This guide will help you figure out what you need to know while you plan so that you can make white water rafting a safe, fun and unforgettable highlight of your trip to North Africa.

Where to Go

The Ahasanal River in the Atlas Mountains near Tiloguite is the most popular place for white water rafting and is only a few hours’ drive from Marrakech. Rafting trips are usually available in the spring (beginning in March and lasting until June) when the temperatures warm up and water runoff from the Atlas Mountains makes the river fast with class III and IV rapids.

What to Know

Beginner and intermediate rafters will enjoy the Ahasanal River. Most tour companies require at least six passengers to make a trip, so either travel with a large group or make friends at your riad. Depending on water levels and the group’s level of enthusiasm, trips can last from two days to a few weeks. Alongside the obvious thrill of riding down the turquoise river over bumpy water, there are opportunities for kayaking, exploring local village culture and, of course, campfires with lots of good Moroccan food for fueling up.

What to Expect

Whether you’re traveling with your family of beginners or intermediate white water junkies, your rafting guides need to take plenty of time for safety training, drills and a briefing of what to expect on the water. The white water on the Ahansal River is known for flowing continuously and varying from steep rapids to big waves. Hundreds of different rapids will challenge and delight you in a remote location with some of the best views in Morocco.

The water itself is crystal blue snow melt, so clear you might think you’re experiencing a Sahara Desert-induced mirage. If you can take your eyes off the river or the rapids in front of you, expect to see olive groves and sandy beaches on the shoreline. Monkeys and other less welcome wildlife (scorpions) aren’t unusual visitors in the Ahansal River canyon.

What to Pack

Check with your rafting outfitter to see what they provide for helmets, wetsuits, tents and sleeping arraignments but as a general guide don’t forget:

• Bathing suit
• Long sleeve T-shirts for warmth and sun protection
• SPF lip balm
• Waterproof sun screen
• Dry bags or Ziploc bags
• Sunglasses with a strap
• River shoes, old sneakers or booties
• Waterproof camera
• Change of clothes
• Quick dry towel

Written by Megan Wood.

Photo by Yohei Yamashita.

Morocco’s 35,500-plus kilometers (22,000 miles) of paved roads include stunning coastal vistas, deserts, valleys, gorges and high-mountain passes. Many areas of the country are suitable for cycling year round, and there are dozens of scenic roads popular with both independent cyclists and bike tour companies.

According to the UK periodical the Guardian, Morocco’s Atlas Mountains offers one of the five best cycle routes in the world. The Guardian suggests biking from Marrakech south into the Anti Atlas Mountains to the coastal Berber village of Mirleft, although from Marrakech you can also head south toward the Tiz n’ Test road or east to Morocco’s inland desert region.

The inland desert region between the High Atlas Mountains and the Algerian border is a sparsely populated area dotted with Berber villages. A popular cycle tour route is to ride from the picturesque desert town of Ouarzazate to the nearby Draa and Dades Valleys. Cycling further east takes you to the dunes of Merzouga. Biking in this region is easier than further south in the more rugged Atlas Mountains, although it is best to travel with a support vehicle as there are long stretches between villages, and access to food and water is limited.

The road along the Atlantic coast from Casablanca to Agadir via Safi and Essaouira is pleasant for biking during all four seasons. You can also cycle along the Mediterranean Coast through the Rif Mountains, but this route is not as popular with tour companies. Hashish sellers and drug traffickers utilize the Rif route between Tetouan and Melilla, so foreigners are often harassed by sellers and considered suspicious by police.

Since you’ll be spending a lot of time on the road, most tour companies recommend that you bring your own bike so you can ride more comfortably. Some airlines allow passengers to include boxed bicycles as part of their checked baggage allowance, while other airlines charge oversized or special baggage fees. Royal Air Maroc, Morocco’s national carrier, ships bicycles as special baggage and considers them to be medium/average size for surcharge purposes. As of October 2010, the special baggage fee for a bicycle on a short-haul domestic flight with Royal Air Maroc is 40 Euros ($56). If you would prefer to rent a bicycle, check with your tour company regarding rates and availability.

Moroccan drivers are not used to sharing the road with cyclists, so you should always be alert and on guard while on roads with heavy to moderate traffic. Although the majority of your Morocco cycling tour will likely be spent in the warm hospitality of villages, theft in major cities is common and you should never leave your bike unattended.

Tight clothing is not commonly worn in Morocco, so it is best to bring along some loose, modest clothing for the time you’ll spend exploring villages and cities. For women, cotton or linen pants and long-sleeve tunic-style shirts are a good wardrobe choice. Spandex or other form fitting clothing is likely to elicit stares, particularly in rural areas.

>>Read more about Journey Beyond Travel’s bicycle tours.

Written by Heather Carreiro.

Photo by Jennifer Pickens.

There’s no doubt about it: Taking a cycling tour through Morocco will certainly pique your friends’ attention. Not only will the journey prove to be a great story, but a bike holiday is also the perfect way to discover the culture, adventure and mystery of this country.

Morocco, with its deep historical past and mysterious air, offers an array of bustling city activity, vibrant colors, quiet desert landscapes and unforgettable experiences. There are mountain trails to explore, crowded streets to navigate and small villages to cycle through. What this means is that you’ll never be bored when it comes to two-wheeled sightseeing.

While it is possible to visit Morocco on bike and put together your own trip, many who have done this before are quick to point out that the maps are not ideal for this sort of adventure. There are few facilities to stop at and people to ask if you get lost. If you thrive on spontaneous surprises, this is the kind of adventure for you. But, if you’d prefer to enjoy the scenery with a guided group, there are many outfitters available to meet your specific needs.

For those who want a bit more structure for their bike tour, a well-rounded Morocco travel experience will take about 10 days. Get acquainted with one of Morocco’s most famous cities first: Marrakech. There are several biking outfitters in the city who can provide information about the cycling adventures that begin in this 1,000-year-old city. The city pulses with energy, providing the perfect atmosphere to start your trip right.

Indeed, the stained ochre color of Marrakech is befitting of the treasures you will find inside, but that’s really just the beginning. Smell the cumin wafting out of the walled Medina, then make your way by bike or foot behind these walls. An old town with very narrow streets that criss and cross, the overcrowded markets and alluring alleys with smoke and secrets will tantalize you with what waits inside.

After a city adventure you will be transported to the mountain ranges of the High and Middle Atlas. This is where your off-road adventure begins. Bike paths here consist of old roads that are actually quite prehistoric and mountains with flat tops that have not only primitive dirt roads but also simple trails that the locals still use for transportation.

When you are traveling by bike in the Atlas Mountains, you will likely only encounter Berber people on your trip. This particular group of people have lived in the area since Neolithic times. You will sleep and eat dinner in their villages; don’t forget to drink some local-flavored mint tea before laying your head down under the stars for a good night’s sleep.

For the more outdoorsy type, go for the ultimate cycling adventure, but employ the services of a biking outfitter. You’ll still be cycling in the Atlas Mountains, but the extremes in elevation are significantly greater. From high mountain passes to deep valleys, a typical bike jaunt of this type will usually take you from the northeast area of Imilchil to North Africa’s highest peak, Toubkal. Of course you won’t be the first to traverse the area (the Berbers were here first, remember) and your guide will likely lead you along an array of mule tracks and tiny trails traversing from village to village.

Regardless of your skill level, cycling is still an outdoor activity that will get your blood pumping, and that is no exception in Morocco. If you decide to experience the country by bike, you will be rewarded with some of the greatest views in Morocco that are otherwise difficult to reach by vehicle.

When considering a cycling trip in Morocco, think about the terrain and what you can endure before solidifying your plans. If you’d like to see the country on bike but are nervous of your skill level, you might be interested in knowing that most biking tour companies have trucks that follow along—usually Land Rovers—prepared to help if needed. Many tour companies build in cultural highlights to the trips, including a steam bath at the Hammam in Tiznit and time to haggle over carpets, silver and trinkets in souks located throughout the country. But if you go solo, you have time to build in whatever it is that you are most interested in seeing and experiencing.

Whether you choose to explore Morocco by bike with a tour company or design your own itinerary, your days of cycling are sure to be followed by nights sleeping under the stars. In Morocco, it’s not only possible but absolutely expected and accepted.

Posted by JoAnna Haugen, managing editor at Journey Beyond Travel and author of Kaleidoscopic Wandering.

Are you interested in being more of an adventurer than Indiana Jones? A bike holiday in Morocco is the perfect way to find adventure, mystery, and diverse landscapes as you pedal over mountains, through deserts, and gorges and valleys.

Morocco, with its exotic air, offers vibrant sights and unforgettable experiences for willing two-wheeled sightseers. Mountains, oases unknown to tourists, majestic Imperial Cities, and the rolling dunes of the Sahara beckon cyclists the world over to bring their bikes to pedal on North Africa’s most inviting terrain.

Where to Start:

For those planning a solo Morocco Bike Holiday, it might best to first get your bearings by flying into the “Red City,” Marrakech. You can get one of many various budget Morocco flights flying into the Marrakesh airport. The exuberant life held within this city’s ancient walls are an inspiring starting point for any adventure seeker. Moreover, Marrakesh is a great location form which to get some supplies; fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and other types of energizing food are available within the medina (which is better than buying from those vendors with inflated prices aligned in the central and famous Djem Alfna Square).

While it is possible to visit Morocco on bike and put together on your own itinerary, many who have come before have pointed out that maps are not as accurate as they should be for such an adventure. There is also a shortage of facilities to stop at and people to ask if you get lost. With that said, perhaps this is the kind of adventure you seek. For others who are wanting to join a Morocco bike tour, then start by contacting those tour operators who offer quality bike trips during the best times of the year. We at Journey Beyond Travel put together private and customized bike tours for small groups and families throughout the year.

From Marrakesh, it’s a long and arduous climb over the Tizi N Techka towards Ouarzazate. Numerous bikers choose to take private transport over this High Atlas Mountains pass in order to not only save their legs, but to start in Ouarzazate or farther along.

When to Go:

By far, the best months to go biking is when the weather in Morocco (less rain and not as hot in the southern region) is cooperating. The best time to cycle is in the latter weeks of March, through April, and the first two weeks of May. This time period, followed by the latter two weeks of September and through October make the best periods in which to plan your biking holiday.

In order to get some quality biking, you’ll need at least ten days in country. This will give you plenty of time to bike down south and also time to spend the night in the Sahara Desert, with plenty of time to return to Marrakesh.

Where to Continue:

From Ouarzazate, the best route is to continue through the Draa Valley towards Zagora. Here, you can plan on a trip to the nearby region of M’hamid to spend the night in the desert, but save this excursion for Merzouga (farther east) if you are heading in that direction.

From Zagora, the best route to take is one of the back roads that take you to Tazzarine. With 4×4 support (hired in Marrakesh or better arranged before your tour begins), you can then head to Erfoud for the night. Then, it’s a ride straight south to Merzouga (start riding early due to the heat!) for a camel ride and a night under the stars in the Erg Chebbi region of the Sahara Desert.

This is a good point to take a break as well before heading on the back road towards Tinjedad, where you can have lunch (and spend the night) in El Khorbat, which houses an artists retreat and amazing Berber heritage and agricultural museum. Additionally, they serve a wonderful lunch and make a good resting point before heading further afield.

Following, riding through the Todra Gorge and even connecting it to the Dades Valley is an option. One small loop that should not be missed is this smallish horse-shoe loop just before Morocco’s rose capital, El Kelaa Mgouna (Klat Mgouna). A night in Skoura (the Valley of 1000 Kasbahs) makes a splendid stopover before heading to Ait Ben Haddou (very worthwhile) and then onwards over the mountains back towards Marrakesh.

Overall, easy, hard or somewhere in between, biking is still an outdoor activity that will get your blood pumping and allow you to enjoy a slower type of travel through Morocco’s southern gems. If in doubt about your ability (most of the biking is relatively flat, except for the Todra Gorge and Dades Valley), hire a driver and Land Rover for that added security and comfort. With such a magnitude of beauty, your bike trip through this mystifying country really might end up feeling just like a magic carpet ride you have always dreamt about!

Check out the Morocco bike tours page here at Journey Beyond Travel.

Travelers who think of visiting Morocco probably don’t consider outdoor adventure and sports – They usually get caught up in all the museums, colorful bazaars and cuisine choices instead. However, Morocco is full of outdoor options for the sports-minded enthusiasts. In fact, the skies the limit from golfing to hiking to biking to skiing to fishing, surfing, birding or even camel trekking, you can indeed, stay active in Morocco.

Golf is one of the most popular sports in Morocco and it might have something to do with the fact that the late King Hassan II was an internationally ranked player who launched the annual Hassan II Trophy competition. There are 12 golf courses in the country from Tangier to Ouarzazate with the most well-known course being the Royal Dar Es Salaam Golf Club in Rabat. It is ranked as one of the world’s best 50 courses and is where the Hassan II Trophy is held every year.

For those up for hiking you can find somewhere to stay active from the Rif Mountains up north near Chefchaouen to the Sahara Desert near the famous Erg Chigaga. With four distinct mountain ranges in Morocco – the Rif, the Middle Atlas, the High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas – there are quite a few long-distance Atlas routes to follow. For the most challenging trek, it’s the Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 meters as North Africa’s highest peak.

Moving right along, and you will be when you decide to go biking in Morocco. Again, many choices and just not enough time. Escorted cycling vacations are catching on in Morocco, but even if that is not your thing you can still find some great places to ride in the Atlas Mountains around Ouirgane or the Atlantic coast around Essaouira. Also popular is biking in the southern coastal area from Quarzazate exploring the Draa Valley and Todra gorge. One thrilling biking moment on a bike ride is the descent down the Tizi n’Tichka pass towards Ait-Ourir and Marrakech.

For skiers, you can do that in Morocco too. A place called Oukaimeden in the High Atlas (only a two-hour drive from Marrakech) is really the best skiing in the country. There are a few beginner and medium slopes, but most are for the hardcore experienced skier. You will also find ski resorts just a few hours away from the city of Fez and the season is open anytime between late December and mid-March.

As far as fishing is concerned, there are a number of lakes and rivers in Morocco that are calling your name teeming with trout, perch and carp, to name but a few. Ifrane, particularly, has a reputation for its fishing. There is also a chance to go sea fishing, after all Morocco does have a long coast line, either from the beach, on a deck or in a chartered boat. Out on the water you never know if you might bring in a barracuda, tuna or marlin.

Surfers can hang ten on the southern Atlantic coast where the waves will certainly be memorable. There are actually two surfing areas in Morocco, in Agadir with surfing schools and great waves and the renowned Anchor Point in the village 14 miles south of Agadir called Taghazaoute. Or, try Essaouira, which also offers surfing with especially good waves anytime between May and September. This is also Morocco’s windiest town and novice and intermediate surfers will love the waves both on Cap Sim and Sidi Kaouki. Kite surfing competitions are held here regularly too.

Birding in Morocco’s wildlife reserves is well worth the detour if you enjoy that sort of thing and Souss Massa National Park is a must. This place stretches 40 miles down the Atlantic coast just 32 miles south of Agadir and the wetlands are definitely an ideal place for this ecosystem home to flamingos and cranes as well as 257 species of birds. The park is also the shelter for the endangered bald ibis.

A bird sanctuary off the Atlantic coast at Essaouira called the Iles Purpaires is home to thousands of falcons and gulls. And up the Mediterranean coast south of Tangier is the Merja Zerga or Blue Lagoon – a home to waders and waterfowl.

Of course, when in Morocco don’t miss your chance to go camel trekking with your private morocco family tour. You can opt for a full-day adventure and it is a good way to get an overview of the Saharan culture. For longer treks following the trans-Saharan caravan routes, you will also have a chance to meet the Bedouin people of the oases while camping under the stars at night. From Zagora you will travel south to Mhamid to begin any desert safari either by four-wheel drive or camel with overnight tent stays that are unforgettable.

So when you think of Morocco next time, sure take the time to enjoy the culture and the shopping, but stop a moment and get into the active side of the country as well.

by Rita Cook, JBT Writer & Correspondent

In the early days, rivers were used as a large source of transportation, taking supplies from one fort, village or settlement to another. There, barters, deals and business insured people got what they needed to survive–say a shovel for a earthenware, for example . Today, however, rivers are used for something quite different entirely. With the advent of white water rafting the world over in general and Morocco specifically, the sport is growing leaps and bounds never before imagined.

Many White Water Rafting Morocco trips are run on the picturesque River Ahansal. The trips go during late February, April and early May. This excursion can be done in three to four days.

Morocco Trip, Day 1:

After your arrival , you will be taken by private minibus or 4×4 to the Cascades D’Ouzoud. These falls have become very famous in Morocco, mostly because of the photo-opps offers to amateurs and pros alike. Make sure to pack a waterproof camera or encasement and plenty of film or memory cards. This area is just one of the hidden treasures of Morocco, and few people experience it.

Next, you’ll drive past Bin El Ouidane. This majestic lake is 7,500 acres of crystal blue water in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here is where you will be introduced to your base camp. A base camp? You’ll hardly believe it.

Situated directly on the banks of a river, you’ll be lulled to sleep by the rushing inlet. This afternoon is yours to do with as you please. Relax with a book perhaps, or take a walk and soak in the incredible views. This is when you will be oh-so-pleased with yourself that you have your camera. Your next thought… Do I have plenty of film or memory cards? No worries, even most hobbyist photos pack more than they think they’ll need. Better to be safe than sorry, than to miss the shot of a lifetime!

Morocco Trip, Day 2:

You will awake today to magnificent reddish hills and captivating surroundings. You blink your eyes, then pinch yourself to make sure you aren’t dreaming. Yep, it’s real. You are here and getting ready for a big adventure.

First things first, safety is a priority, so your guides will tell you everything you need to know with an hour introduction to the river and equipment. Even an inexperienced rafter will get the instruction they need to stay safe and have a great time. You will also learn all the necessary paddle commands from your guide.

The first part of your journey is just a warm up. You try hard to not ‘stand’ in awe at where you are and what you are seeing. The peaceful silence is broken only by the sounds of the upcoming rapids or possibly spying wildlife from a distance.

Your first big smiles come courtesy of passing through a small village called Tiloguite. What catches your eye is the waving children ‘chasing’ your raft as it goes by. Not to far from here comes your first adrenaline rush. There are more rapids than you can count. Just when you catch your breath to cheer, here comes another one. You are paddling through crashing waves and zig zagging around rocks. Would you like to know some of the names of your rapids? Here they are…”The Squeeza”, “The Wall” and “The Bridge Beast.” Are they intimidating? Not to worry, with your guides instruction, you’ll have plenty of guidance to get around any cliff, rapid or rock. Your day will end at our camp for the night; an actual working watermill. The cuisine is an authentic Moroccan meal of Tajine.

Morocco Trip, Day 3:

As you awaken to the sounds of wildlife and flowing water, the freshly brewed coffee helps pry your eyes open. The start of your last morning is above a wonderful rapid called “Morning Sunrise.” A massive highlight is “Rock the Casbah”; it’s a technical rapid, yet 100% exciting. You’ll be treated to true hidden wonders as you enter the lower gorges of the river. There is no other way into this region, except on the route you are taking. Similar to Todra Gorge, these gorges are seldom visited. Your surroundings quickly halt all other thoughts running through your mind. Pay the bills, answer the phone, wash the dog. They all melt away as you are carried to another place by the majesty you are being shown by nature.

The next morning you’ll paddle some flats back to an awaiting boat at Bin El Ouidane lake. This is the last leg of your journey. After a “floating water lunch,” you’ll relax and enjoy the crystal waters as the boat takes you back to your former landlubber life.

A White Water Rafting in Morocco novice or pro, this guided Morocco tour will kick you into high gear. Pull on your dry suit and man those paddles, you are in for the ride of your life!

…more on Morocco White Water River Rafting

by Sam Mitchell

Morocco lies in an abundant region of the globe that proffers glorious mountain backdrops, vibrant forest centerpieces, heavenly oasis fortresses and indescribable desert landscapes. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Morocco is on two wheels. That is, biking in Morocco affords you the chance to witness firsthand the authentic culture and landscapes this region provides visitors each year.

Morocco Biking Trails

If you’re looking for off-road routes, there are three principal biking trails through Morocco. These trails take riders on adventures through valleys, gorges and the majestic Atlas Mountain range. You’ll ride through quaint Berber villages that have yet to be touched by modern or even western civilization.

Here, day-to-day life is carried out in authentic Moroccan tradition. It is advisable for visitors to travel these Moroccan bike trails with the assistance of an experienced Morocco Tour Operator. These individuals are well acquainted with the area and speak the native languages–French and Arabic.

Biking Morocco: The Kasbah Trail

This trail takes riders on a journey back into the days of biblical times. Daily life plays out before stunning natural surroundings. Children scamper about in the various Berber villages without a seeming care in the world. “Stylo” “Pen” they call out to passerby.

This bike ride begins with a brisk ride through the Draa valley. It continues on from here through a route paved with a business trade lifestyle. Here merchants make their daily income selling items to passersby and other merchant customers.

At this point in the ride, riders head towards Timbuktu and Jbel Sahara Plateau. Riders need to muster up a healthy dose of energy for this section of the route. Though days are needed to ride certain sections, but you can fit it all in within a couple weeks.

The next leg descends into the High Altas Mountains. Inside the mountain range riders will be treated to two of the most beautiful gorges in Morocco as the mountain portion of the ride comes through the Valley of the thousand Kasbahs.

Finally, this amazing bike trail adventure comes to a close in the Valley of the Roses. Although the easiest sections of the Moroccan bike trail, you should listen to the guide as truck traffic passes occasionally.

Morocco Biking: Skill or Not to Skill

It is advisable for riders to maintain a moderate mountain biking skill level. The path into the mountain and down the valleys will be an exuberant challenge for any level of skilled bike rider. 90% of the Kasbah trail is off road, while we offer other road bike tours to boot. Guided tours generally cover an average of 25 to 45 miles per day. It can take varying days to bike the entire trail or road routes.

Biking Morocco: The Nomad Trail

This trail imparts bike riders with a taste of the wilder side of Morocco. A major portion of the pathway takes bikers through the High Atlas Mountain Range. While a challenging course to follow, it also provides some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Morocco.

The journey begins in the Jbel Sarhro and takes riders through the Draa valley. At this point riders find themselves in a mixture of vibrant contrasting landscapes. To the north is the snowcapped High Atlas Mountains and to the south is the steamy Sahara desert. From here, the biking adventure turns towards quaint villages with mud baked housing and open fields blanketed with livestock.

Nomads and herders and shepherds alike frequent this area herding flocks of sheep and goats along the way. Bright colored homes showcase ancient Moroccan architecture. It is these lifestyle representations that give the bike trail its name of the Nomad Trail. Life along this trail is unlike anything one will find in other portions of the region.

The journey starts to wind down with the presence of an unforgettable sunset at Erg Chebbi once you got out into the desert by camel. This is the highest sand dune in the entire Sahara desert. Winding upwards through the Ziz valley the bike trail finishes in the foothills of the majestic canyon of Todra.

The Nomad Trail is 90% off-road. A majority of the guided Morocco tours will cover 30 miles of trail pathway during the two to three day trail trip.

Biking Morocco: The Tuareg Trail

The Anti Atlas Mountains provide the setting for this adventure in the South West portion of Morocco. It is the perfect place for a Morocco biking trip 2009 during the winter months. Quaint villages provide weary riders home cooked authentic Moroccan meals.

Some may consider this to be a show of hospitality. Actually it is nothing more than traditional Berber living. Along this trail riders discover hidden treasures around every corner. Undiscovered gems include palm tree with oasis after oasis and remote canyons just waiting to be explored.

This trail path offers a little bit of everything in terms of road conditions. 70% of the trail is off road with the remaining 30% transpiring over paved roadways. This trail can be completed in one day as it is only approximately 35 miles in length.

Morocco Biking

Morocco is a region of natural beauty that offers adventure alongside vibrant scenic views. There is so much to love about Moroccan life that one really should consider a biking tour as a way to get lost in the true sense of all the rich beauty and cultural history Morocco has to offer.

by Sam Mitchell

Snaky Moroccan rivers that wind throughout the mountainous regions provide a serene setting for some of the most thrilling Morocco kayaking and river rafting adventures in the world, though this my friend is still a muzzled secret. Lush river valleys turn to vibrant, knife-cut gorges on the outskirts of arid land; non-touristy sundried, mud houses grip influential cliffs where children scream and wave in excitement. Navigating your way through these waterways will prove to be some of the most adventurous yet turbulent experiences for anyone wishing to become one with Moroccan nature through adrenaline-rush titillation.

Scenery

A kayaking trip down one of several rivers in Morocco affords some of the most picturesque topography underneath the always prevalent Moroccan sunshine. Many of the kayaking and rafting trips begin on the Ahansal River. The waters for this majestic river stream down from the High Atlas Mountains and start to channel down a narrow churned path. At the point where the two water bodies meet provides doers and daredevils alike up to ten days of Morocco’s best kayaking.

At certain spots where the rapids run wild, kayakers and river rafters will be on the edge of their seat trying to win the raging battle against the waters. All of the hard work is handsomely rewarded with a short span of down-time before the next set of rapids is approached – as usually is the case with river rafting in Morocco. The perfect end to a great day kayaking on the river is setting up camp on the riverbed and enjoying a communal dinner cooked over an open fire with friends.

Another highlighted yet unknown spot for kayaking resides at the Lala Takerkoust reservoir. The backdrop for the reservoir is the majestic Central High Atlas Mountains, mid-way down the spine of the High Atlas Mountains.

Novice kayakers typically select this spot to practice skills and techniques before heading further down the river course. It is conveniently accessible by its approximately 30 km from the vibrant city of Marrakech.

As kayaking adventures draw to a close, the sightseeing does not end on the river. Marrakech holds some elements of thrill to boot. Here, kayakers have animated Morocco market souks to browse and shop through. Sore muscles can be rejuvenated with a Hammam massage or spa treatment.

Trip Itinerary

down the rivers of Morocco span a course from three to ten days. Morocco tour operators suggest guided trips down the Ahansal River. Prices include kayaking or rafting equipment, meals and snacks along the trip; camping gear for overnight stays along river side can be rented for nominal fees.

The Morocco kayaking adventure begins with introductions to your travel guide in Marrakech. This individual will serve as the experienced eyes and ears of the group as it heads later down the river. Many Morocco tours elect to have travelers spend the night in a hotel for rest and relaxation before heading out the next morning.

Some river rafting and Morocco kayaking include an element of trekking in the Atlas Mountains. This may be necessary in order to commence the following day at the correct launching point. Often, rapids are too shallow or simply too dangerous to risk being on the water. This is not always necessary, however.

On day three, Kayakers and river rafters receive another class on what to do out on the water in the event an emergency arises – such as corkscrewing or flipping over. Tour guides take the safety one step further by having kayakers execute safety techniques with paddles and other pieces of equipment in lulling water.

After a lesson in safety, kayakers and river rafters alike are finally ready to get a taste of Moroccan river rapids. This comes with a journey through the town of Tilouquite where the first overnight camping stop is made. Moroccan hospitality comes in the form of prepared dinners that are provided by many travel guides as part of the journey down the river.

Over the next couple of days, kayakers will experience twists, turns and more adventure than you can shake a paddle at. A memorable portion of the trip takes kayakers through the majestic gorges located near Lake Bin El Quidane. All of this kayaking adventure plays out underneath the Moroccan sunshine by day and stars at night – some say “million star service.”

When to Come

The ideal time of year to kayak a Moroccan river is anytime from the start of January to the end of March. During these times, the rivers are in their prime. Rugged mountain backdrops meet serene and stony riverbeds as the two elements come together to create a Morocco white water rafting and kayaking adventure that will not be forgotten once the water have been left behind.

One of the greatest things about kayaking in Morocco is that it provides a relaxing break from some hustle and bustle aspects of a Morocco holiday. The kayaking season also provides a welcome break from cold winters for many adventure enthusiasts. There is perhaps no greater way to experience Morocco than through a kayaking trip through its waters, where you’ll see untouched villages dangling from surreptitious cliffs.

By Sam Mitchell

One of the highlights to a Moroccan holiday is taking in the beautiful scenery: A seasoning of California’s topography, Arizona’s rocky variance and Florida’s temperatures gives would-be visitors a vicarious notion of Morocco. One of the finest ways to take it all in–slowly and at your own pace–is a Morocco bike tour through, around and in Morocco.

Cycling in Morocco is as if you’re taking a step back in time. Pathways wind through ancient towns where heritage and tradition is still as much a part of daily life as a hundred years ago–mules carrying loads of sticks and grain; hanoots (small shops) selling carpets, tea kettles and metal and plastic wares; men smiling, staring, listening and rough-housing. There’s a part of Morocco that has always been around, almost timeless.

Cycling trips are comfortable yet adventurous at the same time. Generally, you will cycle in Morocco for a certain number of hours or kilometers, and then jump into a support vehicle to carry you the rest of the way. Cycling in Morocco can take Morocco holiday travelers on voyages that last one day, one week or more. Even the faintest of roads are paved, thanks to the French. However, veering off-road is quite possible and not recommended without a Morocco tour operator and guide.

Guided Tours

A great way to embark on a cycling trek through Morocco is with a guided tour. These tour guides know the layout of the land and which roads lead where. These are two important elements for navigating through the backyards of Morocco. Plus, if body language and grunting don’t get your point across, then at least your guide can help you order that much needed Coke.

A guided cycling tour of Morocco may begin in the North through towns and villages. One of your first stops might be Fez. From here, the tour continues on to other destinations, such as Meknes and Moulay Idriss. This latter, quaint town sits atop a hill shaped like a sleeping camel. It used to be illegal for visitors to stay after dark. Recently, however, such limitations have been uplifted. Farther down the road, a cycle traveler can reach the Ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis, part of Morocco’s Roman past.

Another cycling trek destination point in the north side is the Rif Mountains, near Chefchaouen. If you so desire, you can take a one-, two- or multi-day hike in Chefchaouen. If you wish for a tucked away mountain/hillside town in this mountains, Chefchaouen is it. Jewish settlers came to this town during the 1930s and painted legendary blue walls that later created a maze. For this reason, the town has a certain serenity and hospitality to it. Take a bike trek or simply hiking trek in Chefchaouen to take in all the picturesque scenery.

If northern Morocco holds your attention, the try a Morocco cycle tour through Al-Hoceima National Park. Other tours may veer west towards Asilah or Moulay Bousselham. These destination points may require some time if done on an individual basis, however. The guided cycling treks bring support vehicles along on the journey. This affords the luxury of traveling rocky terrain that would take days on a bike to be covered in mere minutes.

For a sense of Moroccan adventure, take a guided cycling tour through the south of the country. One such adventure starts in the magical city of Marrakech. The architecture offered up by this city is an adventure in and of itself. Just west of Marrakech is the city of Imlil, a hiking and trekking Morocco destination, and the jumping off point for Mount Toubkal treks.

Make a stop at Ouarzazate for a relaxing chicken and prune tagine lunch or a snack of sweet vegetable couscous before heading back out on the road. The road leads towards the Dades Gorge and the Torda Gorge. Both are world renowned for the scenic views of rocks and canyon formations. You can go rock climbing, hiking or simply walk through the ginormous canyons.

Each of these destination points are enhanced by the services of guided cycle tours. The services of these guided tours will take the hassle and worry out of getting lost or having a mechanical problem with a bicycle.

Trails

For those willing and able to go it alone, there are several cycle trails scattered throughout Morocco. The first one is the Kasbah Trail that takes riders through a natural Moroccan setting. Destination stops along the way include the Draa valley, Timbuktu and onward to Jbel Sarhro plateau.

From there, the trail winds upwards to the High Atlas Mountain range. Here, cyclers will come across two world renowned gorges and continue down into the Valley of a thousand Kasbahs. The Kasbah Trail comes to an end at the Valley of the Roses. You can buy natural rose water here. On the way off the trail, cyclers are treated to scenic views afforded by the Berber villages. Mud built houses and children tending to livestock are the daily norm in these villages.

Another Moroccan trail worth traveling down is the Nomad Trail. Highlights of this pathway include the Jbel Sarhro, Draa valley and Ziz valley. These spots provide a beautiful backdrop for a winter cycle trek. As the trail moves through the Draa valley, vibrant colors are played before the traveler as the river slowly disappears into the Sahara desert. Turn east for a dramatic sunset view at Erg Chebbi, among the highest sand dune in the Sahara, with its famous erg chigaga.

Another amazing cycle trail is the Tuareg Trail. This travels the south western side of the country. For that reason, it is a great cycle trail to embark on during the winter. A vibrant mix of fields runs alongside secluded mountain villages. Each of these trails offer something a bit different, but inherently the same, in Morocco.

Whether choosing to embark on a biking in Morocco trek with a guided tour or going at it solo, the picturesque views afforded by this method of transportation are unforgettable. Traveling across Morocco on a bicycle is one of the best ways to soak in all that the sympatico yet charming region has to offer.

by Sam Mitchell

There is perhaps no other place on the planet that offers up scenic views mixed with cultural pride shining through than while you travel in Morocco. One of the best ways to spend a morocco holiday adventure is by white water rafting. This is a water sport activity that the whole family can enjoy. Adults and kids alike will enjoy taking to the open water and going on the excursion of their lives.

Imagine the family holiday memories that will be created from white water rafting in Morocco. Take a journey through the High Atlas Mountains where sun kissed mountain tops light the way through majestic gorges that practically touch the sky on both sides of the Ahansel River. The crystal clear water gives off the illusion of being as mellow as a piece of colored glass hanging in grandma’s window. Make no mistake, however, for churning rapids will have you hanging onto your seat in excited anticipation as around the corner lies an impressive and bumpy ride; not so much like grandma’s anymore!

Moroccan Landscapes:

Morocco offers up some of the most beautiful landscapes on the globe for rafting in Morocco. Various white water rafting Morocco tour operators begin their adventure on the Ahansel River. There is good reason for this. It is one of the mightiest, hidden gems in Morocco.

The Ahansel River travels a course of rock beds as it gushes through the gorges of the Middle Atlas Mountains near the famed areas most known for Morocco trekking. Lining the shore are small towns rich in Moroccan tradition and heritage. These provide quaint resting spots as the Morocco rafting tour continues down the river.

As the Morocco trip draws to a close, riders are welcomed back onto dry land with a visit to the eclectic city of Marrakech. The atmosphere found here is one of constant activity. It is a place where historical values merge with modern living to provide the best of both worlds. Traditional Morocco souks -or outdoor markets- blanket the city offering traditional Moroccan accent pieces and woven fabric creations. These pieces exhibit a hand crafted flair to that is unique to Morocco. It is a creative way for visitors to take a moment from a Morocco holiday home with them.

Equipment: Back to Rafting!

The average Morocco itinerary down a white water rafting course utilizes rafts that can accommodate anywhere from 6 to 8 people. A trained river tour guide accompanies each raft as well. Before the raft pushes off for that unforgettable Morocco holiday adventure, the tour guide reviews safety techniques with passengers.

This includes what to do should a passenger fall overboard at any point. As an added safety measure, many of the tours commission the skills of an experience kayaker. This individual paddles ahead of the raft as rapids approach in order to provide extra assistance to the raft, if needed, as it passes over the area.

Other vital pieces of equipment to make a Morocco white water rafting trip complete include the paddles. Outside of the raft, this is perhaps the single most important piece of equipment. Most white water rafting paddles are 16 feet in length. Each rider in the raft is an active participant in this unforgettable Moroccan journey. The paddles are utilized to navigate the raft through the waters of the Ahansel River. Directions are given out to the team from the tour guide seated in the back of the raft.

Many of the Moroccan white water rafting adventures span the course of three days and two nights. In this time period, virtually every inch of the mighty Ahansel River is explored via the white water rafting expedition. As night approaches, the tour guide will direct the raft participants to make camp along the shoreline. For this reason, many of the white water rafting Morocco tour operators includes camping gear as part of the equipment that is brought along. There is nothing more spectacular than brining an exciting day of Morocco adventure to a close lying underneath the stars of its beautiful sky.

What to Expect

A Moroccan rafting adventure is ever bit as thrilling with exciting twists and turns waiting around every corner. For starters, first time rafters can expect to spend an average of 4 to 5 hours per day traveling the Ahansel River. This is broken down into 2 to 3 hour smaller shifts on the water. Afterwards, a lunch stop is made. Then it’s back into the river waters for more white water rafting excitement.

Participants are on a Morocco holiday, so it you won’t have to do all the work. Almost everything is taken care of for you–from tents and beds to food, snacks and parties. The fast paced nature of the trip is left at the shoreline so that Morocco holiday travelers can soak in the beauty that surrounds them. This adventure is one you’ll never forget. Just don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera!

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By Sam Mitchell