Go to AFRICAN
24–31 October · 6 stages · Morocco
Are you passionate about off-road, sand, challenges and breathtaking landscapes? Then the III African Desert Maroc 2026 is your destination. The Atlas and Morocco's desert will be the setting for one of the most authentic events in the 4x4 world. But what do you really need to participate? We'll tell you everything here.
The essentials
You don't need a competition vehicle or a Dakar entry fee, but the sensations will be the same: tracks, GPS track, roadbook and sand. African Desert is not a race: it's an adventure raid, not a speed event — ideal for those who want to live the experience without the pressure of the stopwatch.
You can participate with any 4x4 off-roader or SUV. Basic vehicle requirements:
You don't need to be an expert, but you do need a sense of orientation and basic knowledge of navigation apps. With a Lowrance GPS you need nothing more; otherwise we recommend:
To enter Morocco and participate you need:
What to bring for yourself:
Money and mobile:
Above all, you need an adventurous attitude, team spirit and a strong desire to have a great time. African Desert is not just a raid: it's a human experience, a community and a unique way to discover Morocco behind the wheel. Do you dare to cross the desert?
Your 4x4 ready
But remember… you're not going to Dakar! Good preparation doesn't mean overdoing it: it means knowing what really matters.
When you face an experience like this, nerves and well-meant advice can overwhelm you. Relax — here's the essentials.
Reliability above all. Carry out a full service:
The terrain is demanding. If you can fit better suspension, go for it; if not, make sure the current one is in good shape.
Prevention is better than repair. Rocks are unforgiving:
Your contact with the ground — look after it. Both All-Terrain (50/50) and Mud-Terrain (80/20) tyres work well.
We're not going to Dakar, but we are going to feel a real adventure. With these basic checks you can tackle every stage with confidence.
See you in the sand!
The team
Your mission is clear: drive safely and efficiently. You are responsible for your own safety, the car and your co-driver. Stay calm when faced with obstacles and know your limits and those of your vehicle. Going faster doesn't mean arriving earlier (it does make problems more likely). You're in charge of the vehicle: cleaning, filters, checks at the finish… and don't forget to fill up every night.
You are the team's guide, the one who sets the course. You'll make mistakes — that's fine: analysing the situation and continuing is part of the game. Your responsibility is the tech side: tablet, phone, GPS and STELLA. Everything must work 100% and be charged every morning. Make sure all apps are installed and you can use them fluently: in the desert there'll be no time to rehearse.
The key is teamwork. Important decisions are made together. Always remember that you're here to enjoy yourselves, live a unique experience and overcome challenges. Problems will come on their own — no need to go looking for them!
Navigation
We're in the digital age: high-end smartphones, ruggedised tablets, millimetre-precision GPS… But what do you really need to live the adventure safely?
With us, YOU WILL NEVER BE ALONE IN MOROCCO!
Luggage
Take only what you need… but what exactly is that? Everything required to carry out a repair on the go and continue to the next town. Remember: less weight = better performance.
Relax: the organisation usually brings everything, and there will be Moroccan mechanics to help. In every town we pass through, you can find what you need. You will never feel alone.
Before setting off
If you're going to embark on an adventure with your 4x4, keep these basic tips in mind — they'll make the difference between a great experience and a mechanical nightmare:
Reading the terrain is key to avoiding breakdowns. Weight is the vehicle's greatest enemy: travel light and take only the essentials.
Bring off-road tyres in good condition, one or more spares, and an optimised list of essential kit. More weight = more problems.
Keep your distance from the vehicle ahead (100–150 m) and position yourself on the windward side for better visibility.
Lower tyre pressure if needed, use 4x4 and low range, and keep engine revs up. If you get stuck, don't brake or force it: let the car stop on its own.
Always head-on, never diagonally. If you see you're not going to make it up, steer to come back down before you lose power. Before cresting, check what's on the other side. Better to stop than to roll!
On sand the car works harder. If it overheats, find firm ground and wait for it to cool. Use the air conditioning sensibly.
Even if they look dry, they can fill with water very suddenly. Sleeping in hotels is safer and more comfortable.
Always carry health assistance and repatriation insurance. At police checkpoints, be polite and follow instructions.
Carry spare jerry cans: on sand fuel consumption soars and any unforeseen event can leave you stranded.
Children, bikes, unlit motorbikes or donkeys can cross your path. Slow down, especially in southern villages.
Moroccan police don't warn you with signs like in Spain. Watch your speed!
Feel the adventure with AFRICAN · 24–31 October 2026 · Morocco