Mines & Dunes

Mines & Dunes – Tangier, Morocco

• Date: October 3, 2026
• Location: Tangier to Boudnib, Morocco
• Distances: Piste Route (1,150 km or 969 km), Road Route (1,530 km)
• Event Type: Bikepacking

The Mines & Dunes offers a profound bikepacking adventure in Morocco, beginning in the coastal city of Tangier. This self-supported journey unfolds across the varied and often demanding landscapes of the country, presenting a deep challenge for solo riders and pairs. With a choice between two distinct routes, participants can tailor their experience to their style of riding, whether they are drawn to the ruggedness of the piste or the rhythm of paved roads.

The event presents two distinct navigational challenges. The Piste route, offered in a full 1,150 km version or a shorter 969 km alternative, promises a true off-road experience. This path is designed for those who seek the texture of the trail and the solitude of Morocco’s quieter corners. In contrast, the Road route stretches over 1,530 km, offering a journey through the country’s dramatic scenery on sealed surfaces, a different kind of endurance test defined by elevation and distance.

This bikepacking adventure in Morocco starts with a pre-ride briefing and registration in Tangier on the evening of October 2nd, 2026. Riders will depart the following morning, on October 3rd. The finish line is in Boudnib, a destination that marks the end of a long and rewarding journey across the country. The route is an unmarked course, requiring self-navigation and resilience from start to finish.

The landscape is the central character of the Mines & Dunes. From the northern coast, the route travels south, taking riders through a tapestry of environments that define this part of North Africa. One can anticipate the vastness of desert expanses, the stark beauty of ancient geological formations, and the challenge of significant elevation gain, with the Piste route accumulating over 20,000 metres of climbing. The experience is one of immersion in the environment, a true test of a rider's connection with their machine and the land.

As a self-supported event, riders are responsible for their own logistics, including food, water, and accommodation. This format fosters a sense of independence and resourcefulness, hallmarks of the classic bikepacking ethos. The journey is not just about the distance but about the management of effort and resources over many days. Exploring the routes of other other gravel events in Morocco can offer a sense of the diverse riding available in this country.

The event culminates in a finisher party on October 9th, providing a space for riders to share stories and experiences from their long journey. It’s a chance to connect with the community of fellow adventurers who have undertaken this significant bikepacking adventure in Morocco. For complete information and registration details, please refer to the official event website.