Our friends over at Desert Rats Morocco offer something very cool – motorcycle tours on 50 and 125cc local bikes. We’ve teamed up to produce this guide for travellers who want to try something different – whether you’re an adventure biker or a first-time rider, these little bikes will let you really explore Morocco…
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Motorcycle Morocco with the Desert Rats
By Martine Goldenbeld
Desert Rats Morocco Founder
Why ride in Morocco?
What makes Morocco so special for riders is the incredible variety of terrain, culture, and climate all packed into one country. In a single day, you can ride from snow-capped mountains to palm-filled valleys, cross rocky trails through remote Berber villages, and end the evening watching the sun set over golden dunes. Don’t forget the warm welcomes and mint tea with locals too.
You’ll love it because everything feels like an adventure, but it’s also accessible. The roads and trails are often quiet and open, the distances are manageable, and the country is safe, welcoming, and surprisingly close by, just a short flight from Europe.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a total beginner, Morocco offers an unforgettable chance to leave the main roads behind and ride into a world that feels raw, real, and wide open.
What’s a Desert Rats Morocco tour?
We’re a small, locally rooted company based at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains. Desert Rats specialise in 5-day off-road motorcycle tours on the rugged 50cc and 125cc bikes. These humble machines make instant connections, and the 50cc Bobber doesn’t require a motorcycle license to ride in Morocco, making them ideal for curious travellers and non-riders alike.
This isn’t about motorsport—it’s about exploring Morocco’s remote gorges, gravel plains, high passes, a lot of laughs and hidden villages that few tourists would ever reach. Small groups, personal feel, flexible and full immersion. It’s an offbeat adventure on local wheels and here’s five reasons you’ll love it.
6 reasons to join a Desert Rats Tour
Off-road heaven for every level
Morocco is an off-road dream, whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned explorer. What makes it special is the sheer variety of terrain packed into one country: smooth gravel roads winding through palm valleys, rocky mountain passes, dry riverbeds through desert plateaus, and hidden tracks connecting remote Berber villages.
Some of our favourite routes include the dramatic Dades Gorge switchbacks, the rugged Tizi n’Tazazert pass, and the wild trails through Jbel Saghro. And because we ride simple 125cc bikes, the pace is slower and perfect for those who want to ride without pressure, take in the views, and stop often for mint tea or unexpected encounters. You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to be curious.
A cultural experience on two wheels
Riding with Desert Rats isn’t just a motorcycle tour, it’s a cultural deep dive. Morocco is full of contrasts and traditions, and from the seat of a small local bike, you’re not just passing through, you’re part of it. Villagers wave, kids run alongside, and there’s a real connection between you and the people you meet along the way.
You’ll stay in small, family-run guesthouses, eat freshly cooked tagines and homemade bread, drink tea on rooftops, and sleep under star-filled skies. You won’t find staged “tourist shows” here. This is everyday Morocco, and it’s incredibly welcoming.
You don’t need a motorcycle license (and we’ll help you get started)
One of the biggest reasons people think they can’t join a motorcycle trip is because they don’t have a license. But that’s not a problem with Desert Rats. Our tours use small, street-legal 50cc bikes, and you don’t need a motorcycle license to ride them in Morocco (but just a normal car drivers license).
That means first-timers, non-riders, or people who just want to try something new can join in, learn quickly, and enjoy the freedom of two wheels. Som of our guests have never touched a motorbike before, and they end up loving it. The bikes are light, simple, and surprisingly fun, and our tours are paced to give you time to get comfortable.
If you have very little experience, or if you haven’t ridden in years and feel a bit rusty, we strongly recommend booking an optional training day with us the day before your tour starts. It’s a great way to gain confidence, learn the basics in a relaxed setting, and head into the tour feeling ready. No pressure, just support and encouragement, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
And just between us, here’s a little secret: while the Cimatti Bobbers are officially 50cc on paper (which keeps everything license-free and accessible), in reality they’ve got 125cc engines under the seat. We’ve upgraded them to make the ride smoother and more comfortable, especially when crossing high mountain passes. So, while they look modest, they’ve got plenty of go when you need it.
It’s an adventure you can afford
Morocco is one of the few places in the world where you can still have a real off-the-grid adventure without spending a fortune. The cost of living is low, accommodations are charming and budget-friendly, and meals, often made with local produce, are both delicious and inexpensive. Whether you’re on a shoestring or a flexible budget, Morocco delivers more value per mile than almost anywhere else.
You’ll get a fully supported adventure without the luxury-tour price tag. Your lodging, meals, bikes, fuel, and support vehicle are all included in the tour. That makes this type of trip mega accessible.
Big adventures, small bikes
There’s something unique about exploring epic landscapes on small bikes. These are similar to the motorcycles that locals use to carry families, market goods, and even the occasional goat. Riding them strips away the idea that motorcycle touring is only for big, powerful machines. Instead, it becomes accessible, light-hearted, and focused on the experience, not the ego.
You don’t need to be tall, strong, or experienced. These bikes are for everyone—and they open up terrain and moments that would feel intimidating on larger bikes. Plus, locals love welcoming foreigners on smaller bikes, it sparks conversations, smiles, and a sense of shared connection.
Great weather almost all year round
One of the best things about Morocco is its incredibly diverse climate, which means there’s almost always somewhere perfect to ride, no matter the time of year. With everything from snowy mountains to hot desert plains, the country offers a wide range of riding conditions depending on the season and elevation.
The best times to ride are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild, the landscapes are at their most beautiful, and the light is golden and clear. You’ll get warm days, cool evenings, blooming valleys, and snow still lingering on distant peaks.
Even winter is rideable, especially in the south, where the sun still shines and the days are crisp and clear. Summer, on the other hand, is best avoided in the deep desert, but up in the Atlas Mountains it can still be surprisingly pleasant.
We carefully plan our tours to match the best season for each region. For example, we run the High Atlas Mountains tours during the warmer months when the passes are clear and the days are long. Meanwhile, the Sahara Desert tours take place in the cooler winter months, making the desert rides far more comfortable and enjoyable.
Because we’re based in Ouarzazate, at the foot of the High Atlas, we can easily adapt to the weather, whether that means chasing sunshine, avoiding heat, or timing a mountain pass just right.
Tips and info for joining a tour in Morocco
Types of riding and difficulty level
We focus on light off-road/on-road riding, mostly on small asphalt roads, gravel tracks, dirt trails, and some short sections of sand. The terrain includes mountain passes, desert plains, riverbeds, and rural village roads. The pace is relaxed, designed for beginners, intermediates, and rusty riders alike. You don’t need off-road experience to join our tours, and no motorcycle license is required for our 50cc Cimatti Bobber. Optional training is available for newcomers, and advisable!
Bikes on offer
Cimatti Bobber 50cc (Moped tuned to 125cc)
- Requires a car driver’s license
- Light, accessible, perfect for beginners
- Ideal for relaxed off-road touring
Cimatti Scrambler 125cc (Motorcycle)
- Requires a motorcycle license
- More capable on longer or rougher terrain
- Ideal for riders wanting a bit more power
Paperwork needed
- 50cc Bobber → Car driver’s license
- 125cc Scrambler → Motorcycle license
- Passport
- Security deposit
All Desert Rats bikes are third-party insured. We strongly recommend personal travel insurance that includes off-road motorcycling and medical repatriation.
What to bring
- Your own helmet is recommended for hygiene and comfort,
- Lightweight but protective riding gear: gloves, jacket, and sturdy boots.
- Layers: temperatures can vary widely, especially in mountains and at night.
- A small backpack or tank bag for water, snacks, camera, and personal items.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection when off the bike.
- Personal medications and basic first aid.
Where to fly in
The two main international gateways for motorcycle touring in Morocco are:
Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK):
Marrakesh is a vibrant city and a popular entry point with many international flights from Europe and beyond. It offers easy access to the High Atlas Mountains and surrounding regions, making it perfect for riders wanting to explore mountainous routes, valleys, and desert edges.
Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ):
Often called the “Gateway to the Sahara,” Ouarzazate is ideal if your focus is desert riding and exploring southern Morocco. It’s closer to the Sahara Desert and some of the most dramatic off-road terrain.
Both airports are well connected with domestic transfers, and we can assist with transfers or advice on the best way to reach your tour start location.
Best time of year to visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons, offering mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and clear skies.
Winter is great for desert tours, cooler temperatures make riding comfortable.
Summer is hot in the desert but pleasant high up in the mountains; generally, less popular for desert riding due to heat.
Safety considerations when traveling in Morocco
Morocco is a wonderfully safe and welcoming country, especially for travellers who show respect for local customs and culture. Despite some of the scary headlines in international media, Morocco is generally much safer than many big cities in Europe or the United States. It’s an Islamic country, but one known for its gentle hospitality, open markets, and friendly people.
That said, being mindful and considerate goes a long way. Alcohol is available in many hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, though public drinking outside of licensed places is generally discouraged or prohibited. It’s wise to be discreet and respectful about alcohol consumption.
For women, modest dressing is recommended to avoid unwanted attention—this means avoiding clothes that show too much skin, especially outside major cities and tourist areas. However, you can comfortably wear casual clothing, and many visitors do without issue. Respect and awareness of local traditions will help you blend in and enjoy your stay without problems.
As with any travel destination, basic common-sense safety applies: watch your belongings in busy areas, be polite and patient, and trust your instincts. Moroccan people are proud of their culture and often happy to share it with visitors who show genuine interest and respect.
Best regions to ride in Morocco
Dades Valley and High Atlas Mountains
This area features stunning mountain terrain and rich cultural immersion. The High Atlas Mountains primarily offer small, twisty asphalt roads, perfect for riders who enjoy scenic road riding with breathtaking views. If you prefer paved roads with dramatic switchbacks and cultural stops along the way, this is your spot.
Sahara Desert Region
Famous for its vast open spaces and iconic highest dunes near Merzouga, the Sahara is the classic desert adventure. This region is ideal for those who want to experience off-road riding on sand, gravel, and desert tracks. It’s a playground for enduro-style riding and exploring remote, rugged landscapes.
Jbel Saghro Massif
Located south of the Atlas Mountains, the Jbel Saghro offers remote, rocky, and challenging terrain for the more adventurous rider. This area is perfect if you’re looking for true enduro riding away from the crowds, with wild landscapes and rough trails that test your skills and sense of adventure.
Northern Morocco
If you’re interested in an adventure bike tour mainly on paved roads and want to explore Morocco’s rich history, the north offers fantastic options. Cities like Marrakesh, Fez, and Rabat provide cultural gems, ancient medinas, and vibrant markets. The rides between these cities take place on larger asphalt roads with more traffic, so it’s best suited for confident riders comfortable with faster speeds and urban riding conditions.
For those seeking a mix of cultural city visits and road touring, the north is perfect. But if you want quiet, winding mountain roads or off-road adventures, the southern regions offer more solitude and varied terrain.
Get in touch
If you fancy giving it a go and trying something a little different, get in contact with Martine and the Desert Rats directly using the below links.
- Website: desertrats.tours
- Email: info@desertrats.tours
- Instagram: @desert_rats_tours
About the author
Martine Goldenbeld was born and raised in the tourism world, quite literally, on a charter sailing ship in the Netherlands. She fell in love with Morocco for its landscapes and culture. There she met John Griffiths, who introduced her to the idea of Desert Rats Tours. Martine had never ridden a motorcycle before, making her the perfect person to test whether total beginners could enjoy the adventure too. Today, she runs Desert Rats largely on her own, maintaining the website, planning the tours, handling customer contact, guiding tours, driving support, and making sure every guest has an unforgettable experience.
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Are you planning a motorcycle trip in Morocco? Do you have any questions, tips or suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.
Great little read. Adding this to my list of things to do lol! CHEERS
Glad to hear you liked the article!
Andy