Our first proper camping in Morocco almost didn’t happen. It was getting dark, and we still had a few more kilometers to reach the lake where we wanted to camp. By the time we arrived, it was completely dark, making it difficult to see the road where we were supposed to turn right.
While we were looking at the map, a man approached us from a car parked in front of us. He was a policeman and told us that we couldn’t sleep there as it was dangerous and not allowed. He insisted that we go 2 km up the road and sleep at his house.
We were extremely tired, it was pitch dark, and the road ahead had a very steep 2 km hill that we didn’t want to climb. We explained that we were too tired and that cycling in the dark was dangerous. It took some time and a few phone calls to convince him that we were fine and that it wasn’t our first time camping in Morocco.
We began pushing our bikes along the small road, searching for a suitable camping spot. It was difficult to see anything in the darkness. Eventually, we found a flat spot and started setting up our tent when the policeman returned. He told us that he would need to sleep there too.
I felt bad, but I didn’t want to go anywhere. We reassured him that we were really okay, that he didn’t need to worry, and that he could go back to his house. He took photos of our passports and wished us good night.
Tip of the week: Long ride coming up? Here’s my guide to prepping for multi-day cycling trips. 
