Marathon des Sables

Our list of the most famous festivals in Morocco, of course, cannot overlook a very outstanding representative, Marathon des Sables.

The famed Marathon des Sables, often known as the Toughest Footrace on Earth, is a six-day multi-stage race over the harsh landscapes of the Sahara Desert. Every year, over 1,200 athletes from 30 countries compete, with finishers covering a total distance of 250 kilometers/156 miles. Participants must be self-sufficient, bringing their own food and equipment and sleeping in community tents set up along the route.

With temperatures routinely topping 50oC, those courageous (daft) enough to take park will run, stumble, burn, stink, blister, hallucinate, weep, and bleed the entire distance while carrying all of their racing gear and sustenance. Have you ever dropped a gel and lost it in the sand? On the course, there is no gel station or friendly supporter with jelly babies.

Every night, runners must treat their injuries, eat whatever they've rationed for the day, and then'sleep' in communal tents. Because of the tremendous demand, runners must sign up two years in advance for this complete event and pay roughly £4250 for the privilege.

Where: Sahara Desert

When: Usually in April, check online for confirmed dates.