Six Iconic Moments

What defines the Paris Dakar Challenge?

The Paris Dakar Challenge isn’t just a journey — it’s a collection of unforgettable milestones that link our adventure to the spirit of the original rally. Here are the six iconic moments that make this trip truly special.

A Note for Off-Road Novices

The Paris Dakar Challenge includes iconic off-road sections, but these are designed to be achievable for determined novices. This is not an off-road rally — it’s an overland adventure. If you’d rather avoid sand or pistes, there are always tarmac alternatives that get you to the same destination. Many riders tackle their first real desert miles with us, discovering that the routes are challenging but manageable, with the support of the group and backup vehicle never far away. Whether you ride every piste or stick mainly to the road, the adventure, camaraderie, and iconic journey is the same.

 1. Paris – Eiffel Tower photo

We begin where legends set out: the heart of Paris. Capturing that all-important shot with your bike beneath the Eiffel Tower connects you directly to the origins of the Dakar and sets the tone for everything to come.

2. Crossing the Atlas off-road at 2,000m+

Climbing into the Atlas Mountains on rugged trails is a highlight of the trip. These high passes deliver breathtaking scenery and the thrill of true off-road adventure — a test of rider and machine with epic rewards at the top.

3. The “52 Days to Timbuktu” Zagora sign

No overland journey into the Sahara is complete without a stop in Zagora. The famous sign reading “Tombouctou 52 jours” has become a rite of passage for desert travellers — and a photo you’ll keep forever.

4. Plage Blanche – the classic Dakar section

The vast Atlantic beach at Plage Blanche is pure Dakar heritage. Riding here, with the ocean on one side and endless dunes on the other, is one of the most exhilarating experiences of the whole journey.  Note: due to the risk of the support 4×4 bogging down, it cannot travel this section with you — you will be on your own as a group of riders, just as the Dakar competitors once were. It’s a stretch that demands focus, teamwork, and respect for the terrain. 

5. Mauritania desert crossing & beach ride

Following the old pre-road Dakar piste across Mauritania is the definition of wild adventure: hundreds of miles of open desert, followed by the unforgettable moment when tyres hit the Atlantic shoreline for a long, glorious beach ride.

6. Dakar – Lac Rose photo

Nothing compares to rolling up to Lac Rose, Dakar — the historic finish line of the Paris–Dakar Rally. Standing with your bike here, after three weeks and 4,000 miles, is the ultimate reward and the perfect closing chapter to your challenge.

Trip Highlights

• The group photo taken in Paris, before starting your marathon 4000 mile adventure across Europe and North Africa, en route to Dakar.
• Getting used to the dirt during off-road practice in Morocco.
• Remote Atlas trails in Morocco and getting well off the beaten track.
• Exploring the colourful markets and meeting the locals in Fez.
• Practicing your sand techniques as you enter the Sahara for the first time.
• Riding vast Saharan plains for 2 days during the desert crossing in Mauritania.
• Chatting around the fire about the day’s adventures when camping out in the African bush.
• Getting the sand out of your hair with a much needed cold beer in the cultured colonial town of St Louis, Senegal.
• Cruising into Dakar on the last stage of your unforgettable adventure – amazed at what it is you have just achieved.

Your Typical Day

Each morning starts with a hearty breakfast and a full briefing covering the day’s route, terrain, and key details like meals, destination and what to do if you need assistance. You’ll ride independently or in small groups — this isn’t a convoy. Except on remote sections, you set your own pace, with the support crew following if needed.

Riding typically runs from 8:30am to late afternoon, with stops to rest, refuel, and take it all in.  With over 4,000 miles to cover some days will inevitably be long with significant miles to cover – especially in Europe. We balance those with shorter days in the best locations, however with a long way to go you will need to be ready to get those miles done when needed.

Nights are spent in hotels or at campsites — sometimes wild camping under the stars. Wherever you are, the support vehicle ensures comfort, hot meals, and a place to unwind, whether that’s around a fire or in a bustling town.

Is this trip for me?

If you are as inspired by the thought of undertaking such an adventure as we are, but have concerns about how suitable you may be, simply have a look at our “Is this for me?” page to decide if this kind of adventure is for you – you may just surprise yourself!

We pride ourselves on striving to make these amazing adventures accessible to as many people as possible, irrespective of background or experience.