This epic Saharan running trail takes you through the dunes of Djanet

Nothing says adventure like running 222 kilometres through the heart of the Sahara Desert.

The Algeria Treg invites intrepid travellers to take on the marathon of a lifetime. Its first two editions drew hundreds of runners to Timimoun, where they jogged through dunes, oases, plateaus and mountains.

Last week, it returned to a new location – Djanet – where around 100 athletes from around the world followed a trail past thousand-year-old rock formations and across vast sandy plains.

Blue skies and temperatures in the mid-20s – dropping to the late teens at nighttime – put runners’ endurance and strategy to the test during the six-day event.

It will return to Djanet in September 2025 – here’s why you should consider signing up.

What is the Sahara Algeria Treg?

Treg organises trail running and desert marathon holidays across the world. They are multi-day, multi-distance races where the runners must guide themselves with a GPS while carrying everything they need – including water, food and extra layers.

Though the terrain varies from country to country, the company prides itself on its unique and jaw-dropping locations. 

Split into five stages of between 35 and 56 km, the first edition of the Sahara Algeria Treg began in the oasis city of Djanet in southeast Algeria. 

Runners then crossed the Tassili n’Ajjer national park to the guelta of Essendilène before returning by the dunes of the Erg Admer. Water filling stations are located along the route.

The race is open to anyone aged 18 and upwards, or aged 16 with parental consent. It is recommended that participants have previous experience of running at least one 25 km trail in a mountain environment. 

What you’ll see on the Sahara Algeria Treg trail

Surrounded by dunes and sandstone plateaus, Djanet is a gateway to the lunar-like landscapes of the Sahara.

The desert is also home to some of the world’s most impressive prehistoric rock carvings.

Runners on the Sahara Algeria Treg trail pass by the 12,000-year-old rock engravings of Tassili n’Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient artwork testifies to climate changes, wildlife migrations, and the evolution of humankind on the edge of the Sahara.

The biosphere reserve is also known for its orange and black ‘rock forests’ and stunning sunset views.

With an unforgettable backdrop of sandstone mountains and vast expanses of golden sand, participants in the sporting event have the chance to experience the region’s rich local traditions and fuel up on Saharan cuisine like couscous, tagine and mint tea.

Video editor • Joanna Adhem