Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara: running THe world’s most famous desert
Lace up and take on the diverse landscapes of Morocco on foot. From bustling Marrakech markets to towering Sahara dunes, this 10-day running adventure combines breathtaking trails, immersive culture experiences, and more than a few unforgettable moments.
Request A Run Morocco BROCHURE
Get all the details, highlights, and itinerary info from both our Run Morocco tours - sent straight to you!
Upcoming Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara Trips
2024 Trips
2025 Trips
Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara: Trip Highlights for our popular morocco running tour
“This was a trip of a lifetime!!! From the amazing hospitality and organization to the fun-filled, running exploration and sights through the eyes of our wise guides and locals, to the incredible food and group experiences, every single day was INCREDIBLE!!! Kara and Alain were so welcoming, supportive, kind and informative throughout the entire trip and we met Gabe too! I was especially grateful when they took care of me after experiencing an unexpected motorcycle burn…it did not deter from the rest of the trip!! We’re looking forward to another Rogue adventure in the future!!”
In Morocco, ancient traditions blend with breathtaking landscapes, the perfect backdrop for a running adventure that engages all your senses.
Grab a pair of shoes (that you’re not afraid to get a little dusty) and join us as we run through a land where snow-capped mountains give way to vast deserts, where narrow gorges open into lush oases, and where every step tells a story of Morocco's history and culture.
Atlas Mountain Odyssey - Challenge yourself on runs through the foothills and valleys of the High Atlas mountains, where traditional Berber villages dot the dramatic landscape.
Ancient Kasbah Exploration - Become a part of history at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-preserved kasbah that has served as the backdrop for countless films.
Martian Landscapes - Experience an otherworldly run over the Mars-like terrain near the Dades Valley, passing nomad camps and enjoying surreal vistas.
Gorges & Canyons Adventure - Challenge yourself in the dramatic Todra Gorge, running along canyon floors as towering walls rise around you.
Sahara Desert Expedition - Venture into the iconic Sahara for a run across rolling dunes, followed by a sunset camel trek and a night under the stars in a luxurious desert camp.
Oasis of Tranquility - Discover the lush Draa Valley, one of the world's largest date palm oases, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding arid landscape and a glimpse into traditional oasis life.
Culinary Journey Through Morocco - Savor the flavors of Morocco, from the spice markets in Marrakech to traditional tajines and couscous, enjoying meals from rooftop riads to desert campfires.
Ready? Yalla! (Let’s go!)
A Few Moments From OUR Most recent Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara TOURS
I want to run Morocco this year!
Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara - morocco running ITINERARY
Our 10-day Moroccan running tour begins in the streets of Marrakech, where the air is thick with the scent of spices and the sound of bustling souks.
From here, we'll head into the High Atlas Mountains, our runs taking us through sleepy villages and along ancient paths.
As we descend the southern slopes, the landscape transforms. You'll find yourself running through the Mars-like terrain of the Dades Valley, and along the rim of the Todra Gorge. Each step will take you further from the familiar and deeper into Morocco's wild heart.
The trip ends with an unforgettable Sahara experience. Here, you'll test your mettle against the endless dunes, before watching the sunset from atop a camel and spending a night under a canopy of stars.
But this adventure isn't just about the miles we'll cover. It's about the mint tea shared with local Berbers, the laughter around campfires, and the silence of the desert dawn.
It's about discovering a land where ancient traditions and stunning landscapes come together, allowing us a place unlike any other to run and explore.
Click the days below to get all the details.
Please note that the itinerary is subject to adjustments due to weather, logistical considerations, etc.
-
Those who choose the early arrival package will arrive in Marrakech, where we will pick you up at the airport and take you to our beautiful riad (traditional courtyard house). That evening we’ll enjoy a relaxed rooftop dinner together before turning for a good night of sleep - tomorrow is a full day!
No organized run
Meals: D (dinner) -
Those who arrived early will enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading out for the day with our local partner for a walking tour of Marrakech, exploring the palaces, the history and the famous maze-like souks (markets). Meanwhile, we will pick up the others at the airport and take you to our beautiful riad (traditional courtyard house). That evening we will all get to know each other over a delicious welcome dinner right at the riad, and afterward those who manage to hold off the jet lag can go experience the Djemaa El-fna (the central square of the old city): sample local treats, bargain for scarves, charm a cobra, jump into a drum circle or simply wander around and take it all in!
No organized run
Meals: BLD (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for early arrivals; D for regular arrivals -
Depart from Marrakech towards first run in the northern foothills of the High Atlas mountains. Just an hour from bustling Marrakech your run will take you through sleepy villages and through scenes of traditional agriculture, all with the beautiful backdrop of the mountains. At the finish line of the run we will have a fresh picnic prepared by our cook team, then we'll drive up and over the mountains towards the village of Ait Ben Haddou - our destination for the night. Spend the evening relaxing around the pool and taking in a spectacular desert sunset from our kasbah!
Running: Up to 11 miles, pavement
Meals: BLD -
After a big breakfast we have a short drive to our morning run along the Ounila Valley. There is a big contrast in the landscape as now we are on the southern side of the mountains, so expect an arid brown landscape etched with the green gardens of the Ounila Valley. This is a stunning run along the canyon walls with great views throughout. After another picnic lunch at the finish line we will make a pitstop at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-preserved kasbah that has served as the set for Gladiator, Game of Thrones and many other films. Pictures taken, we’ll head to the fertile Dades Valley where you’ll have the evening to explore the gardens or simply relax and enjoy the view from our cliffside guesthouse.
Running: Up to 10 miles, pavement
Meals: BLD -
After a light breakfast we’ll begin a rolling trail run near the Dades Valley over a surreal, Mars-like landscape dotted with Berber nomad camps and views of the High Atlas, eventually finishing with an outdoor brunch in a small village. This one is always one of the favorite runs! After that, our destination is the Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon that offers prime rock climbing - and running! - opportunities. There will be some optional afternoon activities, or you can just kick back and rest your legs by the pool.
Running: up to 12 miles, rocky/dirt road
Meals: BLD -
After a relaxed breakfast at our riad we will drive out to our start line at top of the Todra Gorge. This run is great for kicking into cruise mode (net downhill!) and enjoying the spectacular gorge which gets more and more dramatic as you run. You’ll be winding along the bottom of the canyon and the walls will seem to grow and grow as you run! Lunch is at the finish line back at our hotel: an afternoon of refueling and relaxing by the pool awaits, as well as some downtime for those looking to explore the gorge a little more.
Running: up to 12 miles, pavement
Meals: BLD -
Rest day! Enjoy a sleep-in, a relaxed morning, a big breakfast and then a day of travel as we head south towards the Draa Valley, one of the biggest date palm oases in the world - an awesome sight! With less focus on running today we will have more time for taking in the traditional Berber culture in this area of Southeast Morocco. We'll visit a local pottery cooperative and then spend the night in Zagora at a beautiful guesthouse hidden in magical gardens.
No scheduled run (morning or evening shakeout optional)
Meals: BLD -
Today we head over the Anti-Atlas mountains to the village of M'Hamid, where we'll share snacks (and a lot of mint tea!) at the family home of one of our Moroccan team members. Afterward, it's time for the Sahara! After leaving the pavement far behind, the run will begin over rolling, rocky terrain and head towards the sand dunes, getting softer and softer as you go. Finish with lunch at our private camp set among towering sand dunes, then go explore and get ready for a sunset camel trek. Later on, it’s time for a huge feast, traditional music around the campfire and more stars than you've ever seen before. Sleep comfortably in traditional nomad tents, complete with real beds, rugs and solar lights - this is where "glamping" began!
Running: Up to 10 miles, jeep track and some sand
Meals: BLD -
Wake up early to catch a Sahara sunrise, then enjoy a relaxed breakfast. We'll depart the camp mid-morning and take a short drive to Lake Iriki where our run will begin. This lake no longer has any water, but it does have mirages galore - though pancake flat, this is a challenging and very memorable run! Finish with another big picnic then continue to Foum Z'guide, a town located on the edge of the desert. Enjoy the pool, a nice shower and the bar!
Running: Up to 10 mi, hard-packed dirt
Meals: BLD -
If you're still craving a few more miles, then get up early for a low-key sunrise shakeout from the hotel. Otherwise, get some much-deserved rest! We'll embark on the long (but very scenic) journey back to Marrakech after breakfast with plenty of breaks along the way. After we arrive you'll have time to get out and explore the city before a big farewell dinner.
Running: up to 8 miles, pavement
Meals: BLD -
This is it! Enjoy a final breakfast and then we will get you to the airport in plenty of time to catch your flight.
No scheduled run
Meals: B
run morocco | gorges & Sahara: 2024 trips
RUN MOROCCO | GORGES & SAHARA: 2025 TRIPS
TRIP REVIEWS for our morocco run tour
Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara: PRICING & LOGISTICS
UPCOMING 2024 DATES
Trip 1: November 1-10, 2024
Trip 2: November 14-23, 2024
UPCOMING 2025 DATES
Trip 1: February 8-17, 2025
Trip 2: February 20 - March 1, 2025
COST
A $600 deposit secures your spot, and the total cost depends upon signup date:
2024 Standard Price: $3995
2025 Standard Price: $4095
Balances are due three months prior to departure. Please refer to the FAQs for our cancellation & refund policy.
EXTRAS
Early Arrival Package: $350 / $500 (single/double)
Arrive a day early for extra time to sleep off the jet lag and explore Marrakech! Includes private airport pickup, dinner, accommodation and then breakfast, lunch and a walking tour of the medina (incl the Bahia Palace, spice shop visit and souk tour) with a professional local guide the following morning. Those choosing the single option will keep a single room for their first two nights in Marrakech.
COST INCLUDES
Pre-trip guidance + communication
Transfers to/from Marrakech airport on arrival and departure day
Transportation: well-maintained 4×4 vehicles, fuel and professional drivers
Eight nights in comfortable, unique three and four-star hotels or riads (double occupancy)
One night in our private Sahara camp (fully equipped with traditional tents, real beds and a bathhouse - this is where glamping got its start!)
Seven organized, vehicle-supported runs
Access to all routes and navigation tools via an app
Experienced Moroccan logistics team
Experienced Rogue Expeditions trip leaders
All meals + snacks
All drinking water + coffee/tea/juice with breakfast
Rogue Expeditions swag
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
Flight
Alcohol or beverages other than water (though coffee, tea and juice are included with breakfasts)
Travel Insurance
Personal purchases/souvenirs or extra activities
Tips
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
*Please do not book flights until you receive confirmation from us that the group size minimum has been met
Participants will need a passport with at least 6 months of validity left. No visas are required for US, UK, Canadian or EU citizens in Morocco; travelers from other countries should check with their consulate for details.
For this trip you will need to arrive in Marrakech (RAK) no later than 4pm on the first day and depart the same place (any time is fine!) on the final day. We will be there to meet you at the airport, and we will take you back there at the end of the trip. Please note that If you book flight times outside of these parameters you will be responsible for arranging your own airport transfers.
Please note that travel insurance is strongly recommended. Although we hope you never need it, we've seen enough to know that it can be a lifesaver in the event of a medical emergency, flight delays that cause you to miss the start of the trip, lost baggage or cancellation on your part (broke your leg two weeks before departure? Insurance could cover the entire cost of your trip!).
Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara: TOUR DETAILS
RUNNING REQUIREMENTS
This Morocco run tour is suitable for most ability levels, with distance options from 3-12 miles available each day. The terrain will vary, but the footing is mostly dirt road and pavement (plus some sand in the Sahara!); this is a great choice for those who prefer road running. There will be some runs done in mountainous areas (expect hills!), and others in the desert (as flat as it gets).
Every day will immerse you in brand-new landscapes, so boredom is never a factor!
GROUP SIZE
There will be a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 14 runners. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early deposits are recommended!
FAQs | RUN MOROCCO
What is the typical daily running distance and terrain like?
Daily runs vary from 8 to 12 miles (13 to 19 km), with varied elevation profiles. Terrain includes pavement, dirt roads, rocky trails, and even some sand running in the Sahara. This diversity offers a unique running experience through mountain foothills, dramatic gorges, Mars-like landscapes, and vast desert expanses.
What level of running experience is required for this tour?
While we don't have a set requirement, for the best experience we recommend that you arrive comfortable with logging 3-4 runs per week of 4-6 miles (6-10km) each and a long run of 8-10 miles (13-16km). However, our vehicle support is available at all times and every route can be shortened as needed. We welcome runners of all paces - there's never any rush to reach the finish line!
What type of accommodation can I expect during this Morocco running tour?
You'll stay in a mix of comfortable three and four-star hotels or riads (traditional courtyard houses), and spend one night in a private Sahara camp. All accommodations are chosen to immerse you in the local environment while ensuring comfort.
Are meals included, and what type of food can I expect?
All meals are included. Expect a range of delicious Moroccan cuisine, from traditional tajines and couscous to fresh fruit and locally-sourced produce. You'll enjoy meals in diverse settings, from rooftop riads to picnic lunches in scenic locations and even a feast under the stars in the Sahara.
Besides running, what other activities are included in the tour?
You'll have opportunities to explore Marrakech's markets, visit ancient kasbahs, learn about Berber culture, take a sunset camel trek in the Sahara, and potentially visit local artisan cooperatives. There's also time for relaxation and enjoying the unique accommodations.
Additional Run Morocco FAQs
You can find them here.
Other Questions?
Michael at michael@roguexpeditions.com
Sign Up For YOUR Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara Tour Here
2024 TOURS
2025 TOURS
CUSTOMIZE YOUR Run MOROCCO | Gorges & Sahara ADVENTURE: Self-Guided & Private Tours
Self-Guided Run Tours
Love the idea of running the Sahara in Morocco, but want to tackle Run Morocco | Gorges & Sahara on your schedule? Send us a message about pricing for our Self-Guided Run Morocco itineraries
Private Run Tours
Want to Run Morocco | Gorges & Sahara with your crew? Get in touch about reserving your private version of our popular Morocco running tours.