Atlas Mountain Race

The Atlas Mountain Race (AMR) is an unsupported, single-stage bikepacking race across the rugged mountain landscapes of Morocco. Organised by The Mountain Races, it takes riders from the foothills of the Middle Atlas through the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas ranges before finishing on the Atlantic coast.

The 2027 edition introduces a new route starting in Ouzoud and finishing in Essaouira. Covering 1,331 km with 24,688 metres of elevation gain, the course follows remote mountain pistes, rocky tracks, gravel roads and technical singletrack. Riders encounter high mountain passes, exposed plateaus, deep valleys and remote settlements, with sections requiring hike-a-bike.

Unlike conventional stage races, the clock never stops. Participants must manage their own navigation, resupply, sleep and mechanical problems throughout the journey. Outside assistance is not permitted, and the distances between resupply opportunities can be considerable. Three checkpoints provide opportunities to validate progress along the route.

The terrain and remoteness make the Atlas Mountain Race a serious test of mountain-bike handling and self-sufficiency, not simply endurance. Riders should be prepared for demanding climbs, rough surfaces, limited resupply and potentially challenging weather conditions.