The 2027 Dakar Rally is returning to Morocco. After several editions in Saudi Arabia, the rally-raid will exceptionally take place in Portugal and Morocco from 9 to 23 January 2027, according to the announcement made by organiser A.S.O. on 30 October 2026. The 49th edition will start in Loulé–Faro, Portugal, and finish in Marrakech, Morocco.
For fans of the historic Paris–Dakar, this is a significant return to Africa. Here is what we know about the dates, route, Moroccan stages and opportunities to explore the country independently in an adventure camper. A tourist road trip never grants access to closed rally tracks or competitive stages.
Last updated 4 November 2026. The dates and route reflect the organiser’s official announcement and remain subject to relevant motorsport approvals and possible operational changes.
Dakar 2027: dates and key facts
- Scheduled dates: 9–23 January 2027.
- Starting point: Loulé–Faro in Portugal, with the prologue on 9 January and the first stage on 10 January.
- Finish: Marrakech on 23 January 2027.
- Format: one prologue and twelve stages, including eleven stages in Morocco.
- Rest day: Sunday 17 January in Agadir.
- Announced total route: 7,824 km, including 4,341 km of timed special stages.
For updates and spectator arrangements, consult the official Dakar website rather than relying on an unofficial GPS track or social-media post.
Why is the Dakar Rally taking place in Morocco in 2027?
On 25 October 2026, the organiser announced that the 2027 race would not be held in Saudi Arabia as initially planned. A.S.O. then confirmed the exceptional relocation to Portugal and Morocco on 30 October. Saudi Arabia is expected to host the 50th Dakar edition in 2028.
Morocco has longstanding links with the Dakar and international rally-raid competition. Its deserts, mountains and vast distances offer very demanding terrain for professional teams. The name Paris–Dakar recalls the race’s earlier history, but the 2027 event does not start in Paris or finish in Dakar, Senegal.
What is the Morocco Dakar 2027 route?
After the prologue and opening stage in Portugal, competitors are scheduled to cross the Mediterranean to Nador, then transfer to the Moroccan bivouac in Bouarfa. The route runs south towards Zagora and Agadir, then into the far south around Smara and towards the Dakhla region, before heading north to finish in Marrakech.
Bouarfa: the first Moroccan stages
Bouarfa, in eastern Morocco, will be an important early point in the African section. The terrain around the area is very different from an ordinary paved road journey, and competitive routes may be closed or restricted.
Zagora: landscapes at the edge of the Sahara
The route heads south towards Zagora and the Drâa Valley. Travellers can discover palm groves, traditional architecture and striking desert landscapes on public roads. These tourist routes are distinct from the rally’s timed sections.
Agadir: the rest day on 17 January
The rally is scheduled to reach Agadir before its rest day on Sunday 17 January 2027. If you plan to visit during the event, check the organiser’s published public access arrangements and prepare for potential traffic restrictions or higher demand for accommodation.
Smara and the far south
For the second half of the event, competitors will head towards Smara and regions near Dakhla, before returning north. Some southern areas are sensitive or restricted: following a racing route with a rental 4×4 is not an appropriate or lawful travel plan.
Marrakech: the 2027 Dakar finish
The final stages will bring the rally north towards Marrakech, where the finish is scheduled for 23 January 2027. The city makes an appealing base for a separate road trip through the Atlas foothills and the southern valleys.
The organisers may change stage details, access conditions or routes. Follow the official 2027 route before making any event-specific arrangements.
Can you watch the Dakar 2027 in Morocco?
Travellers may be able to experience the atmosphere of the event from designated public areas, but spectator rules and locations must be confirmed by the organiser. Never enter a special stage, competition bivouac, assistance area or closed road without explicit authorisation.
If your goal is to see professional rally-raid teams, look for official spectator information rather than following a GPS route towards the competitors. Do not park on a race course or attempt to approach vehicles at speed.
Plan a Morocco road trip inspired by the Dakar
You can discover many of the landscapes associated with rally-raid adventures without attempting the actual competition course. For a self-drive 4×4 camper road trip in Morocco, consider one of these independent tourist routes, staying on roads and tracks expressly authorised by your rental company.
Option 1: Marrakech, Ouarzazate and Zagora
Start in Marrakech, explore accessible Atlas roads and continue through Ouarzazate towards the Drâa Valley and Zagora. Take time for villages, local food and historic architecture. Winter conditions can affect mountain roads, so check access and avoid packing too many long drives into one day.
Option 2: Agadir, Tafraoute and the Anti-Atlas
Combine the Atlantic coast with the rock formations and villages of the Anti-Atlas. This can be a rewarding trip in an equipped 4×4, with time for photography and short walks. Use designated accommodation and camping areas where overnight stays are permitted.
Option 3: Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes
Visit Merzouga via normal public roads to enjoy the surrounding dunes. Driving into deep sand is a separate activity requiring appropriate expertise, authorisation and often professional local guiding. Rental insurance may exclude dune driving and difficult off-road tracks.
A two-week itinerary can combine the coast, mountains and Sahara, but January brings cold desert nights and possible winter mountain conditions. Always check current road and weather information.
Which 4×4 camper can you rent in Morocco?
On Pampa Cruz, travellers can find adventure vehicles including Suzuki Jimny 4x4s, Nissan Navara campers and Mitsubishi Pajero campers with pop-up roofs. Your best choice depends on sleeping arrangements, group size, collection point, road conditions and the specific rental agreement.
Mitsubishi Pajero with pop-up roof
A Mitsubishi Pajero with a pop-up roof is listed in Casablanca. It can be an option for travellers who prefer an integrated camping layout. Confirm the sleeping capacity, included equipment, insurance terms, security deposit and authorised routes for the exact listing.
Suzuki Jimny and Nissan Navara campers
A Suzuki Jimny may suit travellers looking for a compact 4×4, while a Nissan Navara camper may provide a different balance of sleeping space and comfort. Listings vary by vehicle, and availability must be confirmed for your dates.
Important: these are tourist rental vehicles, not vehicles supplied to participate in the Dakar or to access closed race stages. A 4WD drivetrain does not override restrictions in the rental contract or local regulations.
Browse 4×4 campers available to rent in Morocco on Pampa Cruz. Sending a booking request is free and carries no obligation: the rental partner confirms availability and conditions before payment.
Dakar 2027 vs Africa Eco Race 2027
These are two distinct competitions. The Dakar 2027, organised by A.S.O., is scheduled for 9–23 January 2027, starting in Portugal and finishing in Marrakech. The separately organised Africa Eco Race 2027 is scheduled from 24 January to 6 February 2027, with an announced route through Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal and a finish near Dakar. Check the Africa Eco Race website for its programme.
FAQ: Dakar Rally 2027 in Morocco
Where will the 2027 Dakar Rally be held?
In Portugal and Morocco, according to the route announced on 30 October 2026.
What are the Dakar 2027 dates?
The planned dates are 9 to 23 January 2027, subject to final approvals and changes announced by organisers.
Will the Dakar 2027 visit Agadir?
Yes. A rest day is planned in Agadir on Sunday 17 January 2027.
Where does Dakar 2027 finish?
The rally is scheduled to finish in Marrakech, not in Dakar, Senegal.
Can I follow the race in a rental 4×4?
Do not attempt to follow competitors on closed tracks. You can plan an independent tourist road trip on open and authorised roads, subject to the rental agreement and local restrictions.
What rental vehicles are available in Morocco?
Pampa Cruz lists several types of equipped 4×4, including Suzuki Jimny, Nissan Navara campers and Mitsubishi Pajero pop-up-roof campers. Check current listing details for availability and equipment.
Plan your own Moroccan adventure: explore 4×4 campers available in Morocco and send a free, no-obligation booking request.
Official sources checked on 4 November 2026: A.S.O. announcement, 30 October 2026; official Dakar route; FIA announcement.
For independent tourist routes rather than rally tracks, read our guides to Morocco’s Sahara desert and the Atlas Mountains by 4×4.
Choose a camper: Compare Mitsubishi Pajero pop-top camper rental or Suzuki Jimny rental in Marrakech to find a layout suited to your trip. Review each vehicle’s equipment, pickup location and permitted routes before submitting a free, no-obligation request.
Looking beyond the rally? Plan a tourist road trip with our 14-day Morocco 4×4 itinerary.