A Gruelling Adventure in the Sahara Desert
I have just returned from a very intense 50K Sahara Trekking Challenge with a group of 20 people from both the Corporate Banking and other professional sectors. Over 3 days they trekked in an array of different temperatures and weather conditions and all pushed themselves to their absolute limits.
Embarking on the Desert Journey
The group arrived at Ouarzazate Airport to a cool evening with rain and clouds! After a fantastic night’s sleep at one of our favourite Riads in Ouarzazate, we began the drive through Zagora to the desert gateway town of M’hamid El Ghizlane, where we stopped for lunch. With a gift of turbans to start their journey into the desert, everyone spent a while having turban-tying lessons and helping each other prepare for the Sahara trekking experience ahead.
Trekking Amidst Challenging Conditions
After our off-road drive into the dunes with jeeps speeding alongside each other, listening to traditional desert music in the cars, we met our camels who were ready at the starting point to trek 10K into the camp. After a cloudy morning driving, the sun came out but then the warm wind started and a sand storm looked likely. All wrapped up in orange, yellow and white turbans, we began to trek. With varying trekking speeds in the group, I stayed behind to escort a small group with camels as the sun went down and the darkness came upon us quickly. We followed the lights to the camp and arrived to a celebration of music with the camp fire lit and the dining table set up for a well-deserved dinner.
Nature’s Spectacle and Personal Triumph
That evening, it was not the stars which provided the show for the evening. As we sat at the long dining table outside, the lightning of a storm in the distance produced a spectacular array of white light and thunder as we all watched and hoped it would not come our way.
A Test of Endurance and Achievement
The challenge was finished by everyone on the last day after a full day of extreme heat over the 30K. It became clear over the 3 days that the challenge was for some not just to trek 50K but to endure many extreme weather conditions and push themselves to their personal best. Congratulations to all who finished their challenge, it was a pleasure to spend time with you in the Sahara!
Written by Moroccan Journeys
Rebecca grew up in Africa and has spent her life travelling and working in the UK and around the world in both the corporate and personal development fields. She is co-founder of Moroccan Journeys with Mohamed Elhaoissi and lives in the UK and Morocco. She believes in the conscious management of business and the importance of personal growth. Rebecca is also a Reiki Master Teacher and runs Intensive Reiki Journeys in the Sahara desert. She spends her free time exploring the untouched parts of Morocco to ensure Moroccan Journeys is eclectic and unique in its offering.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highlight is the personal triumph of completing 50K over 3 days, amidst stunning desert scenery and a lightning storm spectacle. Cultural moments like Berber music and camaraderie with fellow trekkers add to this unforgettable Sahara adventure.
The trek is primarily for participants, but spectators can arrange to visit camps with a tour guide. You’ll witness the 50K challenge, enjoy Berber hospitality, and experience the desert, though advance planning is needed for logistics.
Weather varies from cool rainy starts to extreme heat and sandstorms, challenging trekkers over the 50K. A dramatic lightning storm may add spectacle, but preparation with turbans and guidance ensures safety across the 3-day journey.
Expect a drive from Ouarzazate to M’hamid El Ghizlane, a 10K camel trek into the dunes, and turban-tying lessons. You’ll enjoy traditional desert music, face potential sandstorms, and arrive at a camp with a warm fire and Moroccan dinner.
The 50K Sahara Trek is challenging and not ideal for beginners due to its 3-day, 50 km course with extreme weather and sand. It suits experienced trekkers, though guides and camels assist, making it manageable with proper preparation.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a turban to shield from sandstorms, and layers for temperature changes. Sturdy footwear is essential for the 50K trek, and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the intense desert sun during the journey.
The challenge spans 3 days, with a total of 50 km trekked, including a 10K camel trek to camp on the first day. Participants face varying conditions, completing the remaining 40K over the next two days amidst desert heat and sandstorms.
The Sahara Trekking 50K Challenge is a 3-day adventure covering 50 km through the desert, starting from M’hamid El Ghizlane. It tests endurance with camel treks, extreme weather, and cultural stops, offering a rewarding experience for corporate and professional participants.
