Tangier to Host 18th Africa Eco Race Start in 2027
The 12-stage rally kicks off in Morocco on January 24, 2027, before traversing North and West Africa.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Africa
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Tangier will host the 18th edition of the Africa Eco Race, with the event set to begin with a prologue on the city's municipal beach on January 24, 2027. The rally will span 12 stages across Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal, concluding at Lac Rose on February 6, 2027.
Why it matters
Organizers are utilizing the rally to provide international exposure to Moroccan regions along the route and to support the Atlantic Initiative, which aims to improve ocean access for Sahel nations.
The 18th edition of the Africa Eco Race covers 12 stages across three countries. Established in 2008, the rally features motorcycles, cars, side-by-side vehicles, trucks, and historic vehicles.
The details
The event begins with administrative formalities and vehicle inspections in Tangier from January 21 to 23, followed by a rest day in Dakhla on January 30. Competitors will traverse the route through El Guergarat before entering Mauritania on their way to the finish line.
Timeline
Administrative formalities and vehicle inspections occur from January 21-23, 2027.
The prologue takes place on Tangier's municipal beach on January 24, 2027.
The first full stage of the race starts on January 25, 2027.
A rest day for competitors is scheduled for January 30, 2027, in Dakhla.
The race concludes at Lac Rose on February 6, 2027.
Travel Outlook
The Africa Eco Race follows a well-established seasonal pattern for international desert rallies that utilize North and West African terrain. By aligning its route with the Atlantic Initiative, the event bridges the gap between competitive motorsports and regional development goals.
Travelers should note that the race route passes through El Guergarat and will involve high levels of logistical activity in Tangier during the pre-race inspection period. Visitors planning to be in the region during late January should anticipate increased demand for accommodations near the start site.
The takeaway
Organizers are aiming for record participation for this year's edition of the long-standing desert rally. The event provides significant logistical and cultural visibility to the host nations along the route from Morocco to Senegal.
What happens next
Administrative and inspection events are set for January 21-23, 2027, followed by the prologue on January 24, 2027, and the race conclusion on February 6, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on regional travel and events, visit the Africa section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Morocco World News.
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