The Imlil Gravel Tour

A High Atlas Mountain Biking Adventure

Experience the rugged beauty of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains on our exhilarating Imlil Gravel Tour. This intermediate to advanced-level ride takes you through breathtaking landscapes, traditional Berber villages, and challenging mountain terrain.

Tour Highlights:

• Ride the high-performance GIANT TRANCE 27.5 mountain bike
• Explore the tranquil mountain village of Imlil, a base camp for serious riders
• Navigate the stunning Moulay Ibrahim gorge
• Visit the vibrant Berber market in Asni (Saturdays)
• Climb past Sir Richard Branson’s exclusive Moroccan retreat
• Enjoy panoramic photo opportunities of the High Atlas Mountains
• Immerse yourself in authentic Berber culture

Route Description:

Starting approximately 70 kilometers south of Marrakech, this tour takes you through the heart of the High Atlas. You’ll begin in Imlil, climbing and descending through varied terrain guided by our expert local team. The route passes through picturesque villages, including a 17km climb beyond Asni, offering breathtaking vistas. You’ll encounter local Berbers and their mules throughout the journey, providing a genuine glimpse into mountain life.

What’s Included:

• High-quality GIANT TRANCE 27.5 mountain bike rental
• Experienced local guides intimately familiar with the terrain
• Support vehicle with snacks and water at checkpoints
• Traditional Berber lunch in a scenic mountain location
• Transportation from Marrakech to Imlil and back

FAQs:

How does the altitude affect the ride, and how can I prepare?

The Imlil Gravel Tour takes place at significant altitudes in the High Atlas Mountains, with some sections reaching over 2,000 meters above sea level. The thinner air can make physical exertion more challenging, especially during climbs. To prepare, we recommend arriving in Morocco a few days early to acclimatize. Stay well-hydrated before and during the tour, and consider doing some high-altitude training if possible. Our guides are experienced in managing altitude effects and will set an appropriate pace. If you have any concerns about altitude, please consult your doctor before the trip.

How challenging is the Imlil Gravel Tour, and what skill level is required?

This tour is designed for intermediate to advanced riders with solid mountain biking experience. The route includes significant climbs, technical descents, and varied terrain at high altitudes. Participants should be comfortable with long climbs, have good bike handling skills on gravel and uneven surfaces, and possess a high level of cardiovascular fitness. While our guides can adjust the pace, this tour suits those seeking a serious riding challenge.

What makes the GIANT TRANCE 27.5 bike ideal for this tour?

The GIANT TRANCE 27.5 is a full-suspension mountain bike ideally suited for the diverse and challenging terrain of the High Atlas. Its 27.5-inch wheels offer an optimal balance of agility for technical sections and stability for high-speed descents. The bike’s advanced suspension system helps absorb shocks from rough terrain, providing comfort and control on long climbs and rocky descents. This high-performance bike enhances your riding experience, allowing you to tackle challenging routes with confidence.