For the last decade now, our friends at Fuel Motorcycles have been hosting the annual Scram Africa. To this day, the Scram remains one of the headiest adventures in the two-wheeled world — a 2500-km ride across Morocco, ranging from rugged mountains to vast deserts, and restricted only to two classes of bikes: production scramblers and customs.
The journey usually lasts 8-10 days, depending on the annual route, with epic landscapes and a grueling terrain of dunes, trails, river crossings, dust, rain, and more. As you might expect, most of the route is off-road, passing through small villages and outposts that few tourists would ever experience.
Chase vehicles and a medical team keep the riders safe, but the Scram Africa is no ride in the park — it draws experienced riders, and the challenges and camaraderie go hand in hand.
It’s a taste of the early days of the Paris Dakar Rally, on machines not too dissimilar from those piloted by legends like Hubert Auriol and Cyril Neveu. We’ve featured several purpose-built Scram Africa bikes over the years.
Recently, we heard from Fuel Motorcycles about the running of the 2023 event. This year’s Scram Africa was especially meaningful. Not only was it the 10th anniversary of the ride, but Morocco suffered a devastating earthquake last month.
“For more than a decade, Morocco has graciously opened its arms to us, offering unforgettable memories and seeking little in return. Now, in their time of need, we are compelled to reciprocate their kindness and generosity.”
We’re told that Fuel Motorcycles, their local medical team, and the Scram Africa participants have contributed aid to the people who impacted by the quake, and they encourage others to do what they can. Below, they give us the whole stage-by-stage rundown of the event, with gorgeous photos courtesy of Jake Baggaley (@jakebaggaley.photographer).
A Decade of Desert Dreams: Scram Africa 2023
(As told by the Fuel Motorcycles team.)
With great pride, we unveil the 10th Edition of Scram Africa. A journey that embarked on its adventurous path a decade ago, fueled by the unbreakable spirit of exploration and friendship.
Against the backdrop of Morocco’s awe-inspiring landscapes, a fellowship of fearless souls gathered in Nador, poised to script an unforgettable chapter in their life’s narrative.
What lay ahead was nothing short of a breathtaking 8-day, 2,485-kilometer odyssey, navigating through the unforgiving terrains of dunes, rivers, and perilous mountain trails in the rugged Atlas Mountains. Their ultimate destination? The mythical Sahara—the world’s largest and most unforgiving hot desert.
This year, Scram Africa took on a profound meaning that transcended mere adventure, as we embarked on our journey in Morocco. A devastating earthquake shook the region, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming lives. For more than a decade, Morocco has graciously opened its arms to us, offering unforgettable memories and seeking little in return. Now, in their time of need, we are compelled to reciprocate their kindness and generosity.
In the spirit of solidarity, we stand as a beacon of support for the Moroccan people. Together with our dedicated local medical team, Fuel Motorcycles, and our fellow participants, we have made significant contributions to aid those impacted by the disaster.
We strongly encourage everyone to contribute to the relief efforts led by our healthcare hero, Aznag, who tirelessly serves the most affected and remote communities. With profound respect and empathy, this edition of Scram Africa has evolved into more than just a challenging adventure; it’s a journey with a profound purpose.
Stage 1 | Nador – Rekkam Camp
As the sun dipped below the horizon, our intrepid adventurers found themselves surrounded by the remote Rekkam Camp — a breathtaking expanse that epitomizes the magnificence of nature. Here, they kindled the very essence of Scram Africa — camaraderie around crackling campfires, stories that danced with the flames, and a sense of awe for the world’s untouched beauty. As the stars filled the sky, they lay under the vast celestial canopy, an experience that brought them closer to the universe and each other.
Stage 2 | Rekkam Camp – Erfoud
The second stage unfolded as a relentless test of grit and endurance, as riders encountered the arid deserts and grueling dunes with unwavering determination. For many, it was their maiden voyage into the intricate world of desert dunes. Each climb and descent through the majestic dunes created memories that left an indelible mark, forging an inseparable bond between man and machine. Dusty trails gave way to panoramic vistas, and every twist and turn was a revelation.
Stage 3 | Erfoud – Erg Chebbi
In the early hours of a fateful morning, a rescue mission was launched to retrieve riders trapped in the midst of a village flood. The relentless rain had left them marooned, but the kindness of the local villagers served as a beacon of hope.
They were welcomed with open arms, provided shelter, and shared a hot meal — a reminder that even in the harshest conditions, humanity shines brightly. Nature’s unexpected fury altered the off-road route, diverting motorcycles to the finish line via paved roads. Despite the adversity, the indomitable spirit of Scram Africa prevailed, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.
Stage 4 | Erg Chebbi – Marabout
Set against the stunning backdrop of Erg Chebbi’s dunes, this stage ushered in another day of thrilling adventure. While some riders opted to surf the dunes, others embarked on a day-long journey through the captivating terrain.
The vast desert stretched out like an endless canvas, inviting them to explore its every contour. Each rise and fall of the dunes was an invitation to discover new horizons, and as the day unfurled, they were greeted by the breathtaking grandeur of Marabout.
Stage 6 | Dades – Afourer
Leaving the desert behind, our adventurers ventured into the formidable Atlas Mountains — a rugged expanse that divides the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts from the Sahara Desert. With temperatures plummeting to 9°C and altitudes scaling beyond 3,000 meters, they braved ferocious winds and thunderstorms, all while traversing roads that tantalized every motorcycle enthusiast.
The winding roads, dramatic landscapes, and the thrill of every twist and turn captivated their senses. At midday, they converged at a quaint bar, reveling in the joy of a cold refreshment after hours of exhilarating riding. Amidst breathtaking scenery, the bonds between riders grew stronger, forged by shared challenges and the spirit of adventure.
Stage 7 | Afourer – Assilah
The final stage symbolized the nearing end of this remarkable odyssey, leading participants to the coastal town of Assilah. It was here that riders experienced the exhilaration of a beach run — an exultant climax to their awe-inspiring journey.
As they reached the hotel, the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean beckoned, inviting them to celebrate the conclusion of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the sand, and the beach run turned into a glorious sunset spectacle.
As the adventure concludes in Barcelona, after ten days of camaraderie, kilometers, laughter, shared challenges, unforgettable stories, and countless refills of gasoline, we invite you to be part of the next chapter — Scram Africa 2024. With more motorcycles, more cars, more adventure, and more untamed terrain than ever before, are you prepared to embark on this thrilling expedition?
Follow the Team
Fuel Motorcycles: fuelmotorcycles.eu | @FuelMotorcycles | @FuelBespoke
Photographer: Jake Baggaley (@jakebaggaley.photographer)
This was always my kind of riding since when I began at 15 years old ,, but never got to experience these BIG rides.. I will take any advice on how to participate …