The Sahara Algeria Treg is a 222 km race through the Sahara Desert that challenges runners to push their limits in a unique and breathtaking setting. Organized by Treg, the race consists of five stages that range from 35 to 56 km each, with participants carrying everything they need to survive – including water, food, and extra layers. The first two editions of the race took place in Timimoun, drawing hundreds of runners from around the world. Last week, the event moved to a new location in Djanet, where around 100 athletes followed a trail past rock formations and sandy plains. The race tests runners’ endurance and strategy with temperatures in the mid-20s during the day and dropping to the late teens at nighttime.
The Sahara Algeria Treg offers runners a chance to see some of the most impressive prehistoric rock carvings in the world. Participants pass by the 12,000-year-old rock engravings of Tassili n’Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the history of climate changes, wildlife migrations, and human evolution on the edge of the Sahara. The biosphere reserve is also known for its unique rock formations and stunning sunset views. With a backdrop of sandstone mountains and golden sand dunes, runners have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich local traditions of the region and enjoy traditional Saharan cuisine like couscous, tagine, and mint tea.
The Sahara Algeria Treg is open to anyone aged 18 and above, or 16 with parental consent. It is recommended that participants have experience running at least one 25 km trail in a mountain environment. Water filling stations are located along the route to ensure the safety and well-being of all runners. The race is a multi-day, multi-distance event where runners must navigate with a GPS through varied terrain, including dunes, oases, plateaus, and mountains. Treg prides itself on its unique and jaw-dropping locations, providing a truly unforgettable experience for those who participate.
Runners on the Sahara Algeria Treg trail will be surrounded by sand dunes, sandstone plateaus, and stunning landscapes that resemble a lunar-like environment. Djanet, the gateway to the Sahara, offers a glimpse into the ancient world with its 12,000-year-old rock carvings and UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The race gives participants a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and experience firsthand the history and culture of the Sahara Desert. With blue skies overhead and temperatures that challenge both the body and mind, runners are sure to be pushed to their limits and emerge with a sense of accomplishment and awe at the wonders of the desert.
The Sahara Algeria Treg is a marathon of a lifetime that invites intrepid travelers and running enthusiasts to embark on a unique and challenging adventure through one of the world’s most iconic deserts. The race offers a blend of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and cultural immersion, providing runners with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with them long after the race is over. Whether you are a seasoned trail runner looking for a new challenge or an adventurous spirit seeking to push your limits, the Sahara Algeria Treg promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Sahara Desert. Consider signing up for the next edition in September 2025 and prepare to embark on an incredible adventure that will test your limits and reward you with memories to last a lifetime.
