Cycling the Western Sahara
Photo: Alexander Leisser, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Western Sahara cycle route runs from Guelmim in Morocco via Mauritania to Saint-Louis in Senegal. It is 2100 km through the Western Sahara, crossing the westernmost part of the Sahara (bordering the sea) while avoiding disputed territories controlled by the SADR (Saharan Arab Democratic Republic).
UnderstandThe route is asphalted from Morocco to Senegal. Only a few kilometers along the Moroccan-Mauritanian border are soft slopes (as of 2006).
PrepareThe situation can change dramatically along the route. Settlements can change, roads can become impassable through wandering dikes.
Get inGuelmim is the last place before the desert and starting point of the bike tour; check its page for information how to get there.
GoGuelmim (Arabic: كلميم, also Goulimine or Guelmin) is a provincial capital of about 12,000 inhabitants in the Guelmim-Oued Noun. The place Bir Anzarane is the center of the city.
RespectMorocco is a Muslim country and faith is much more deeply rooted in everyday life than in Europe. The religious customs are observed. However, non-Muslims are treated with respect as different believers in Morocco.
Stay safeThe area of the Western Sahara, disputed between the SADR (Saharan Arab Democratic Republic), Mauritania and Algeria under international law, is always subject to tensions.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Cycling the Western Sahara" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Alexander Leisser, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons