Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Join us on a thrilling overland expedition in your own 4x4 vehicle, following the historic routes of the Paris Dakar Rally. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will take you from Paris through the Sahara desert to Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal. Embark on a journey that combines the thrill of off-roading with the exploration of diverse countries and cultures.
Highlights of Your Paris Dakar Expedition
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Follow the Old Routes of the Paris Dakar Rally: Trace the footsteps of rally legends as you navigate through the ancient tracks of the Paris Dakar Rally. Although this is not a race against the clock, you'll experience the same sense of adventure and discovery.
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Off-Roading Along the Choum Iron Ore Railroad Track: Challenge yourself as you drive off-road along the Choum Iron Ore railroad track. This unique experience will test your skills and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
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Learn Dune Driving in Morocco and Mauritania: Master the art of dune driving as you traverse the sandy terrains of southern Morocco and Mauritania. Our experienced guides will teach you the techniques needed to conquer the majestic sand dunes.
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Explore the Largest Monolith in Africa: Encounter the largest monolith in Africa, Ben Amera, as you journey through Mauritania. This natural wonder is a sight to behold and offers a glimpse into the region's rich geological history.
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Visit the UNESCO City of Saint Louis: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Saint Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its charming streets, admire its colonial architecture, and engage with the friendly locals.
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Swim in the Oasis of Terjit: Take a refreshing dip in the oasis of Terjit, a hidden gem nestled in the desert. The crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush palm trees create a tranquil oasis in the midst of the arid landscape.
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Celebrate Christmas and New Year in the Sahara: Experience the magic of celebrating Christmas and New Year in the heart of the Sahara desert. Create unforgettable memories as you gather around a campfire under the starry sky and exchange stories with fellow adventurers.
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Experience "Dakar by Night": Conclude your expedition with a memorable evening in Dakar, where you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife and cultural scene of this bustling city.
Trip Details
- Start Point: Paris, France
- End Point: Dakar, Senegal
- Ferry Crossing: Sete, France - Nador, Morocco
- Route: France, Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal
- Type of Trip: Self-drive overland expedition (not a rally)
- Road Conditions: Desert tracks, sand dunes, and asphalt
- Total Distance: Approximately 7000km (6000km in Africa)
- Group Size: Minimum 5, maximum 7 vehicles
- Accommodations: Wild camping, campgrounds, and hotels
Safety, Time, and Companionship
Our guided overland expedition offers the safety and camaraderie of traveling in a compact group while driving your own 4x4 vehicle from Paris to Dakar. By traveling with like-minded adventurers, we maintain a discreet presence, providing ample opportunities for socializing or enjoying solitude as desired.
A Journey, Not a Race
While the Paris Dakar Rally is known for its competitive nature, our expedition is focused on embracing the countries we traverse, their people, and their cultures. We take the time to truly immerse ourselves in the destinations, allowing for rest days to recharge and explore. If any vehicle maintenance is required, we provide the necessary time and space to address it.
A Desert Journey to the Heart of the Sahara
Before reaching Dakar, you'll embark on an unforgettable exploration of the magical desert landscapes of Morocco and Mauritania. With your 4x4 vehicle as your trusty companion, you'll discover the diverse faces of the Sahara and encounter thrilling off-road challenges.
From traversing towering sand dunes to navigating rocky tracks, you'll experience the purest form of the Sahara. As you venture into Mauritania, North Africa seamlessly transitions into Sub-Saharan Africa, revealing traces of ancient trade routes, rich cultures, and timeless traditions.
Itinerary and Dates
The exact route and details of this overland expedition are currently being prepared. We will keep you informed and updated on the progress. The expedition is scheduled to take place from December 16, 2024, to January 19, 2025.
Your 4x4 Expedition Vehicle
For this overland expedition, you'll need a reliable and capable 4x4 vehicle. While there is no specific brand requirement, it is essential that your vehicle is mechanically sound, equipped with low-range gearing, fitted with suitable tires (31" all-terrain), and has a fuel capacity of at least 150 liters.
Upon registration, we will provide you with a comprehensive checklist to ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for the journey. We encourage open communication within the group to avoid duplicating tools and equipment, optimizing weight distribution, and maximizing efficiency.
Experience and Skill Level
Some experience and understanding of off-road driving are recommended for this expedition. While we will cover significant distances on paved roads in France and Western Sahara, the majority of the route will consist of desert tracks and secondary roads. You'll encounter challenging sections, including loose sand and dunes, where teamwork and support within the group, under our careful guidance, will be essential.
Join Us with a Rental 4x4 Vehicle
If you don't have your own 4x4 vehicle but still want to embark on this adventure, we can arrange a rental 4x4 vehicle equipped with camping gear for you. Feel free to inquire about the available options.
Pricing and Booking
The pricing details for the expedition will be announced soon. We guarantee secure booking through our affiliation with STO Garant, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the process.
Conclusion
Embark on a 4x4 expedition via the old Paris Dakar routes and unlock the wonders of the Sahara. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions of Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal. This overland adventure promises unforgettable experiences, camaraderie, and the thrill of off-roading. Join us on this extraordinary journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Note: The content provided above is a comprehensive summary of the 4x4 expedition via the old Paris Dakar routes. It aims to provide detailed information and engage readers interested in embarking on this unique adventure.