The Marathon des Sables: The Ultimate Challenge?
There was a time when you only found yourself running through the desert, burning under the relentless sun, desperately battling to stay alive if the rest of your platoon had been wiped out and Rommel was hot on your heels.
Now, however, it’s something adventurers willingly sign up for as part of the infamous Marathon des Sables. Often dubbed one of the toughest races on earth, this gruelling event has become a bucket-list item for thrill-seekers and endurance athletes alike.
And yes, it’s as brutal as it sounds!
Starting on April 6th, this year’s race will once again see around 1,300 brave souls push their physical and mental limits, fully committed to extracting every last drop of energy as they navigate the unforgiving Moroccan desert.
The Challenge
The Marathon des Sables is a 6-day, 159-mile trek across the scorching dunes of southern Morocco. First launched in 1986 by a French concert promoter looking for a change of scenery, the event has since gained a reputation as a legendary endurance challenge. And while the adventure sports world loves to label everything as “the next worst thing to dying,” in this case, they might be right. The Marathon des Sables has claimed the lives of two participants in the past five years, a testament to the race’s extreme conditions.
The Days
Over six punishing days, participants camp out under the stars in shared tents, bunking with seven other competitors who quickly become your family for the week. Bonds formed in this intense environment often last a lifetime. And with only one rest day, you’ll need all the camaraderie you can get—especially for day four, which features a staggering 55-mile run (more than two marathons in a single day) under the blistering 120-degree sun.
Still Want to Do It?
Think you’ve got what it takes? Entry into the Marathon des Sables is fierce, and spots fill up fast. While you might be tempted to worry about keeping pace, don’t—around 90% of participants adopt a run/walk strategy, according to the stats. But let’s be honest, this is no walk in the park.
If this kind of extreme challenge excites you, imagine the kind of bonding and resilience it could inspire within your team. Whether it's the Marathon des Sables or something a little less gruelling, a corporate adventure could be just the thing to push your team to new heights.
Get in touch with us today to start planning your next unforgettable corporate trip. From tailored team-building events to once-in-a-lifetime adventures, we’ve got you covered.