A new publication on Morocco really worth presenting. Chris Scott, author of the Sahara bible Sahara Overland, focused on Morocco this time. The result is a well-written guidebook that fills the English-language gap left by the existing Lonely Planets and Rough Guides. Aimed at the independent traveller, be it in a 4×4, motorcycle or mountain bike, this is a book about preparation, practicalities and, above all: pistes. Clear descriptions of both well-known and less traveled routes, combined with nice photos and Chris’ entertaining writing style make this one a must-have for any traveller with own transport going beyond the berber-tea-fake-touareg-camel-in-the-dunes tours. Know that this post is totally unbiased, despite the fact that I made some contributions to the book.

He engaged some cyclists to contribute to “RIDE – Images from the road”, a book that would “aim to inspire people to travel, to get out there, and to ride…”. 100% of the profits go to charity and I’m happy to be part of the project.

The book is not out yet, but you can have a preview and more information here.

A beautiful collection of 6 books, nearly 2000 pages in total covering the Moroccan pistes in detail with GPS waypoints. Certainly interesting for off-tarmac amateurs but since all content is placed in a historic perspective and beautiful illustrated, this series deserves a place in any Morocco traveler’s library (French).

Focuses on active, individual travel with your own transport, so different from and complementary to the Rough Guide and Routard below. Accurate info, route descriptions and GPS waypoints (German).

Beautiful guidebook with lots of pistes in Tunisia’s south with GPS waypoints. The guide is made around the history of the country and is illustrated with nice old photos and postcards (French).

Focuses on active, individual travel, be it in a 4×4 or on a bicycle, so different from and complementary to the Rough Guide and Routard. Accurate info, route descriptions and GPS waypoints (German).

A typical backpacker’s guide with lots of information on public transport and accommodation but describes also the contexts such as history, books, music etc. Be aware however that timetables and hotel properties can change rapidly so don’t rely too heavy on it.

Comprehensive book about Egypt’s Western Desert. Lots of detailed info, history, GPS waypoints, but is unfortunately not always accurate. One doesn’t have much choice however.

Focuses on active, individual travel with your own transport, so different from and complementary to the Rough Guide. Accurate info and route descriptions (German).

A typical backpacker’s guide with lots of information on public transport and accommodation but describes also the contexts such as history, books, music etc. Good section on the Western Desert. Be aware however that timetables and hotel properties can change rapidly so don’t rely too heavy on it.