Sahara Desert Trail Morocco

Morocco flag Merzouga, Drâa-Tafilalet, Morocco

82 days left

Sahara Desert Trail Morocco www.finishers.com
Date 23 Jan – 30 Jan, 2027
Races 1 distance
Entry fee $2041.20
Runner rating Be the first to rate
Sahara Desert Trail Morocco

About the event

Embark on an epic journey through Morocco’s vast Saharan landscapes with the Sahara Desert Trail Morocco. This week-long adventure takes runners across diverse terrains, from towering dunes to serene oases and traditional villages nestled along ancient trade routes.
Starting near Merzouga in the southeastern Drâa-Tafilalet region—a gateway to Algeria—the trail spans over 130 kilometers across five days of grueling yet rewarding runs. The course winds through lunar-like desertscapes, rocky outcrops, and dry wadis, offering a breathtaking backdrop for endurance runners.
Each day presents new challenges as you cover an average distance of 27 kilometers. While the first and last stages are relatively manageable at 20 to 22 kilometers, the fourth stage demands peak fitness with its daunting 34-kilometer stretch. Despite these rigorous distances, technical difficulties remain minimal thanks to well-marked routes.
At nightfall, runners can unwind in comfortable accommodations, enjoying hot showers and restful nights that prepare them for the next day’s adventure. The event culminates at Erfoud, where finishers are celebrated with rewards and a festive closing ceremony marking the end of an unforgettable week.
Participants have the option to extend their stay after the race to explore nearby attractions such as Rissani, known for its bustling souks and historic mausoleum. Alternatively, cross into Algeria to experience more desert landscapes, ancient ruins like Timgad, and natural wonders including the Djurdjura National Park.
Whether you seek solitude or camaraderie on this mythical trail, prepare yourself for a transformative journey through some of Morocco’s most awe-inspiring terrain. Don’t forget your shovel and rake—though not essential, they might come in handy for building sandcastles amidst the dunes.
This event offers runners an unparalleled opportunity to test their limits while immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Morocco's Sahara Desert.

Races offered

23Jan

Trail 132 km

Running

Distance
132K
Countdown
82 days
Entry fee
$2041.20

Weather history

3-year monthly averages for January in Merzouga.

Temperature4.5° / 18.5°
Feels like0.5° / 14.0°
Sunshine hours9h 38m
Rainfall—
Snowfall—
Wind9.1 km/h (Light breeze)
Humidity38.8%
Max UV indexLow (2.0)
Sweat lossLow
Course conditionsFirm and slightly soft
Sunrise08:13
Sunset18:36

About Merzouga

Learn more about the host city, Merzouga.

Scenic view of

Merzouga is a village in the Sahara Desert in Morocco, on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a 50-km long and 5-km wide set of sand dunes that reach up to 350 m above the plain and 808 m above sea level.

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Hotels & places to stay

Things to do nearby

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Video

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