Exploring Morocco’s Scenic Route of Caravans
Stretching from sandy southern deserts to the snow-peaked mountains and onto pristine northern beaches, the Route of Caravans is a thrilling cycling expedition that unveils some of Morocco’s most hidden gems. This captivating journey is not only about the picturesque landscapes but also about the rich culture and traditions that thrive along its path.
A recent encounter with a local shepherd, dressed in traditional attire, underscored the adventure’s authenticity. As he encouraged my companion and me to reconsider our chosen pathway—an arduous canyon trail in the High Atlas mountains—we found ourselves contemplating the essence of exploration. While the trail was rough, it marked the beginning of an exciting 837-kilometer circuit known as the Morocco Traverse (North).
A Journey Across Diverse Landscapes
This newly established bikepacking route, which recently debuted on the adventure cycling website Bikepacking, links the southern coastal town of Tiznit to Tangier in the north. Since its launch, outdoor enthusiasts have flocked to this trail, seeking to navigate a network of ancient caravan routes and traditional shepherd paths used by the Indigenous Amazigh people for millennia.
The allure of the Route of Caravans lies not just in its scenic beauty but also in its historical significance. The journey takes cyclists through thriving pastoral regions, offering a rare glimpse into the seasonal nomadic lifestyle still practiced in remote areas—where combatting rugged terrain becomes a mere backdrop to the camaraderie of nature and community.
A Personal Return To The Heart of Morocco
Having previously traversed Morocco as a tourist, I was drawn back to explore the lesser-known paths. My journey began after checking my mountain bike as luggage and embarking on a 135-kilometer ride from Beni Mellal to Imilchil, the route’s starting point. Over the upcoming weeks, I anticipated traversing diverse landscapes, including lush pastures and grand mountain ranges, while indulging in the rich tapestry of local cultures.
As I journeyed, I was struck by the extraordinary variety found along the route. From arid granite formations in the High Atlas to verdant hills of the Rif Mountains, every pedal stroke brought forth encounters with locals who greeted me with warmth and hospitality, emphasizing the notion that every cyclist is a part of the community they traverse.
| Feature | Route Highlights |
|---|---|
| Length | 837 kilometers |
| Main Regions | High Atlas, Rif Mountains, Coastal Areas |
| Cycling Type | Off-road bikepacking |
| Cultural Encounters | Interaction with local Amazigh communities |
The Community Connection
While many visitors flock to major cities, the tranquility found in the remote villages along the Route of Caravans offers a stark contrast. In places like Boumia, friendly interactions with locals reveal a different side of Morocco, where only a handful of tourists arrive monthly. My day-to-day experiences included sharing meals, engaging in conversations, and immersing myself in the rich traditions of each community I visited.
Creating a route that intertwines these unique experiences necessitated significant effort and collaboration. Visionaries like Evan Christenson, who designed this route for Bikepacking, traveled extensively by bicycle to map out the ideal paths, ensuring an exhilarating adventure awaits all who dare to explore.
The final stretch led me toward the coast, where the scent of sea salt filled the air. With the captivating view of Tangier in sight, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the depths of connection this journey has fostered, leaving me with lasting memories of sunsets shared on unspoiled beaches.
In this era of rapid tourism growth, the Route of Caravans serves as a reminder that true exploration lies beyond well-trodden paths, allowing for authentic interactions and unforgettable experiences amidst Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes.
