Quick answer
The Marathon des Sables, a legendary ultra-trail, returns to the Moroccan Sahara in April 2027. Over roughly 250 km in six stages, competitors run in food self-sufficiency, carrying their gear and sleeping in bivouacs, in one of the world’s most famous endurance challenges.
- When
- 2027 — April 2027 (dates to confirm)
- Where
- Southern Moroccan desert (mobile bivouacs, Ouarzazate/Errachidia region) · Ouarzazate (Sahara)
- Type
- Sport · Ultra-trailers and seasoned runners; self-sufficient race
- Pricing
- Paid entry (package including logistics) via the official organisation
- Getting there
- Flights to Ouarzazate or Errachidia (via Casablanca); organised transfers to the bivouac
- Official site
- www.marathondessables.com
* Official dates to confirm.
About the event
Created in 1986, the Marathon des Sables (MDS) is regarded as one of the toughest foot races on the planet. Heat, dunes, self-sufficiency and the legendary long stage make it a dream for ultra-trailers worldwide.
The race takes place in southern Morocco, usually starting from Ouarzazate or Errachidia, gateways to the desert. The demanding registration is done via the official organisation, several months ahead, with supervised logistics.
Where to stay during the event
Check availability· Booking.com
Good to know
- Register well in advance via the official organisation: places are limited.
- Train specifically (heat, pack, self-sufficiency) several months ahead.
- Arrive a few days early to acclimatise in the Ouarzazate region.
- Check the exact dates each year: they vary and several formats exist (MDS, MDS Ultra).
