Morocco has become a tourist hotspot over recent years with more than 5.1 million tourists visiting the country during the first half of 2018. There are countless reasons why one of Africa’s northernmost countries has become so popular. Apart from sporting huge expanses of breathtaking landscapes, delicious traditional cuisine, and impressive architecture, Morocco is also home to some of the most delightful motorcycle routes in the entire world. While there are numerous reasons why you should explore the country from inside a luxury, air conditioned vehicle, you only need three to convince you that doing it on a motorcycle may turn out to be the best decision of your life 😉
You can do it on a budget
Traversing Morocco on two wheels is a lot more affordable than most people would imagine. No more purchasing bus/train tickets everywhere. No struggling to learn the local transportation systems or accidentally ending up in the wrong destination. Forget about arguing with greedy taxi drivers on a daily basis. Best of all, no more constantly being confined to the overpriced tourist neighborhoods — with a motorcycle the possibilities are endless.
Traveling by motorcycle through Morocco provides complete freedom of both destination and pace, which in turn results in increased opportunities to interact with locals and learn so much more about both the country and its culture. Although purchasing a motorcycle is a big financial obligation that may require you to take out a loan, it is undeniably a life-changing event. I would even call it priceless. Why? All of these incredible new experiences not only create everlasting memories but also forever change you and your perception of the world. That is why travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. Whether choosing to bring your own bike along for the journey or to rent one in Spain or Marrakech is entirely up to you.
If you have to rent a bike for a 20-day round trip it will set you back approximately 11,000 Moroccan dirham (roughly $1,200 USD) including gas. Affordable accommodation and food are readily available all over the country which means that there is no need to spend a small fortune staying in luxury accommodation and eating at Michelin Star establishments.
There are countless trails to choose from
The Ceuta to Marrakesh loop is undoubtedly one of the most popular motorcycle routes in the world, however it is not the only stretch of the country that is worth exploring. The N3 mountain route that stretches from Errachidia to Midelt combines simple corners with long straight stretches and offers bikers spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains. Or if you are looking to explore Cedar forests, high plateaus, gorges, and beautiful oasis, consider traversing the road between Mid-Atlas and the Southern Oasis.
If you are adventurous by nature and prefer a ride that is more challenging than your typical tarred road, seek out one of many unpaved trails that cross the Atlas mountains. Alternatively, if your bike can handle it, try navigating your way along the dunes of the Sahara Desert.
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The locals are wonderful and the crime rate is low
There are few nations in the world that are as hospitable as the Moroccans are. The respectful, friendly, and extremely generous natives will welcome you into their midst with open arms. You will be treated like a long lost family member wherever you go and everyone will do their utmost best to accommodate any wishes you may have.
As far as safety is concerned you should not encounter any problems during your visit. Compared to other African countries and even many first-world destinations, the crime rate is exceptionally low in Morocco. Yet another things that makes it even more appealing to avid bikers.
If you are looking for an exhilarating and memorable motorcycling, Morocco should be at the top of your list. Not only will you be able to explore one of Africa’s most valuable gems in terms of natural beauty but you will also meet countless intriguing people along the way that will remain in your heart forever.