Not sure if this is good place for this topic, but due to lack of vacation time and the itch to travel somewhere internationally for a bike trip, I've been scheming possible get-a-ways, specifically Morocco.

If I had 2-3 weeks, would I be biting off too much for the following;
1) Fly to Spain - rent a GSA. (I own a 2009 1200GSA)
2) Travel to Morocco (Ferry)
3) Tour Morocco (Self or with others with local knowledge)
4) Return to Spain
5) Fly back home

I looked at MotoAdventours website as a possibility to rent. I would be traveling alone, so I would most likely try and connect with fellow riders on HUBB (If they'd have me..)

I'd certainly fall into the preference for more dirt track and camping along the way, as I seek out the same here in the western/desert SW States.

Some questions;

Any words of wisdom?
I don't believe I need a carnet since I'm renting, correct?
Is this doable without feeling completely rushed?
Are the logistics of of crossing into Morocco complicated? What is the most popular place to ferry from and to?
Will I be shut out language wise? I only speak English and a bit of Spanish.

I've got a good bit of European travel and SA travel under the belt - just not by moto.

I'm sure I've not thought of all the details and the trip cost will most likely add up - but shipping my bike seems more complex and expensive - and I haven't got much choice to see these destinations with lack of vacation time.

Any thoughts, advice on Moroccan routes (for my timeframe) or the trip in general are much appreciated!

Mike

(Previously posted in Trip Planning - thanks to The Warden for suggesting this spot instead)

Hi Mike,

It's very do-able! The time frame is just right; too many folks try to do it all in a week. Morocco's the kind of place where you need to take your time and soak it all in.

In answer to your questions:-

You don't need a carnet.
You'll get by with English & Spanish.
Getting into Morocco involves filling in a small white card with your personal details on the ferry, presenting this and your passport to the official on board and again at the port. It's a much easier process than most border crossings.

Getting around is easy - the road network is good.
Your mobile phone will work almost everywhere.
Your VISA card will work for drawing out cash and at larger fuel stations.
Hotels/auberges are cheap and plentiful.

Get a copy of Chris Scott's "Morocco Overland" it's all in there.

Hope that helps.

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Atlas Overland - Specialist adventure tour company providing off-road holidays for 4x4 enthusiasts in Europe and North Africa.
Tours to Morocco, Iceland, Arctic Circle, Portugal, Alps, Pyrenees, Eastern Europe, Corsica, and UK weekend tours.

You can also hire a smaller trail bike out of Marrakech, Agadir and some other towns.
loc2roues location motos scooters quads marrakech maroc (Mkch).

If you're really into dirt that get a 650 or less from loc - more fun than a 12 (which they rent too).

No border hassles, less rushing, miss out the less interesting north, more exploring.

And I'd suggest reconsidering camping with all the gear required and enjoy the many southern Moroccan auberges from €15 half board and then ride a largely unloaded bike by day.
By May it could be quite hot down south (Alg border) but just right in the Atlas.

You'll have a great time!

For recommended maps and guidebooks look here

Ch

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Morocco Overland 4 (2025) • Trans Morocco Trail

Thanks JoJo1 and Chris!

Great sounding advice and information on the plan and camping - I hadn't considered flying directly to Marrakech! Both suggestions certainly do simplify things.

Is it fairly typical to go without reservations for hostels/hotels/auberges? Also, after seeing your recommendation for Mk rental, I also found the company called Palm Road - are either of you familiar with this company? (Was just looking to compare a couple...)

I'm definitely going to get Moroccan Overland Chris - thoroughly enjoyed the AMH 5th edition and revisit it regularly

Again, many thanks for the great info and advice...I'll get my nose further into the planning/education process..

Mike

Definitely rent locally and save the need to get back to Spain at the end of your trip. Some other day you'll fly to Spain and enjoy some of the finest riding anywhere, but this is a Morocco trip.

Definitely rent a lighter bike if you're planning to get off the pavement.

I'd suggest you'll be happier if you can learn some bits of French before going, for all the usual reasons. Of course you'll manage without, but things are easier, friendlier and more fun with the basics. Put some effort into it.

I'd also suggest that 3 weeks isn't long enough. It's a bigger country than it appears, and it contains a lot of variety in landscape and people. Of course, you make do with what you've got available, but you're going to have to pare somewhat or you'll spend all your time riding....which is not the idea. Unless, of course, it is.

In case it's not already clear, don't use a credit card to withdraw money: use a debit card, and carry two just in case. Check with your cell provider before using international roaming; cheap sim cards are available if you've got the phone to suit, and cheap phones if you don't.

Great country on a bike!

Mark

Edit to add: Oh, and have a look here: http://www.ukgser.com/forums/showthread.php?p=818831

If you going to learn any language for Morocco learn arabic you'll get a much better response from the locals than speking french