E-biking has revolutionised how bikers explore diverse landscapes. One of the most thrilling and unique destinations for e-biking is the Moroccan desert. With its vast, rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery, the Moroccan desert offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure on two wheels.
The Moroccan desert, part of the expansive Sahara, is a land of striking contrasts. From the towering sand dunes of Erg Chebbi to the rocky, lunar landscapes of the Hamada, the desert provides a varied and challenging environment for e-bikers. The region is steeped in history, with ancient caravan routes, Berber villages, and remnants of the trans-Saharan trade offering glimpses into a rich cultural past.
The allure of the Moroccan desert
In the past, I’ve explored the High Atlas Mountains accessible from Marrakech. The Low Atlas, on the other hand, is located towards Algeria and hosts one of the toughest stage races in the world: the Škoda Titan Desert Morocco. This race is infamous for its difficulty, requiring participants to ride in extremely high temperatures.
The landscape here isn’t as steep as in the High Atlas and is interspersed with trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. With a Spanish crew, we filmed stunning locations, which I am excited to share with We Love Cycling readers.

E-MTB access by ferry only
You can fly to Morocco and rent a bike at a local rental shop or you can book a ferry from a port in Spain. The advantage of the ferry is that you can bring your own electric bike, which airlines typically don’t allow due to battery restrictions. The ferry from Alicante to Morocco costs about four hundred euros for a whole car. Travelling with a campervan in Morocco is comfortable and safe, with rest areas in the oases offering drinking water and electricity. The region where the Titan Desert race takes place is linguistically equipped, as residents commonly speak Arabic, Berber dialects, French, Spanish, and English, making it a tourist-friendly environment.
The journey begins
A typical e-biking adventure in the Moroccan desert starts in gateway towns such as Merzouga or M’Hamid. These towns are well-equipped to serve as launch points for desert expeditions, offering various services including bike rentals, guided tours, and accommodations.
Merzouga: The gateway to Erg Chebbi
Merzouga, located near the Algerian border, is famous for the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of which reach heights of over 150 meters. E-bikers can embark on guided tours that take them through this mesmerising sea of sand. The journey often begins with a ride through the edge of the desert where the terrain is firm and flat, gradually leading to the towering dunes. The sensation of riding up and down these massive sand formations is exhilarating and the panoramic views from the top are unforgettable.
Riding the dunes: Lessons from the Dakar Rally drivers
I rode the Mondraker Dune, an excellent e-bike for the Moroccan terrain. Despite having plenty of suspension and extra electric power from its Bosch SX Performance Line engine, the bike is lightweight, making it a perfect choice for riding the Saharan dunes. However, it’s not as easy as it looks. During my stay, I had the chance to test ride in the desert with a team that regularly participates in the Dakar Rally. The professional drivers gave me some useful advice that I’ll share with you.
The windward side of the dune, identifiable by gentle waves, is firmer than the leeward side where soft sand can swallow your front wheel and cause you to flip over the handlebars. Always find the harder surface on the windward side. Choosing the right time to ride is also crucial. Early morning conditions are more favourable because the sand is hardened after the cold night and doesn’t sink under your wheels. Additionally, the low sun casts shadows on the ground, helping you read the terrain. At midday, when the sun is high up and the light becomes direct, it’s harder to navigate, and you might miss bumps or holes.
Mind the right lube and tyre pressure
Sand is very hostile to the moving parts of your bike, so I recommend trying several types of chain lube before heading to Morocco. Choose a lube that the sand doesn’t stick to, preventing drivetrain failures. Another trick is to under-inflate the tyres before riding in the dunes. Tyres with lower pressure don’t sink as much in the sand and provide better traction. Bring spare parts for your bike and your own charger, as you can find a 220V socket anywhere but not a charging station.
An experience like no other
E-biking in the Moroccan desert is more than just a ride; it’s an immersive experience that connects you with the landscape and its people. As you traverse the undulating dunes and rocky outcrops, you’ll encounter Berber nomads tending to their herds, ancient kasbahs made entirely of mud standing as testaments to a bygone era, and a tranquillity that only the desert can offer.
The thrill of riding an e-bike through such vast and varied terrain, coupled with rich cultural encounters and stunning natural beauty, makes e-biking in the Moroccan desert an adventure like no other. Whether you’re an experienced biker or a novice looking for a unique escapade, the Moroccan desert awaits with its endless horizons and timeless allure.