The Dakar in this city
Saharan rally base · 18–22.01.2027- 18 January
Stage 7 arrives from Agadir.
- 19–20 January
Stage 8 to Refuge, then return to Smara on stage 9.
- 21 January
Loop stage 10: an announced 470 km special.
- 22 January
Stage 11 departs for Marrakech.
The announced schedule may change. A named stop does not establish public access to the bivouac or an authorised viewing point.
View all stages ↗Get to know the city
An inland Saharan town, Smara calls for a stay organised around distances and services you have actually confirmed. A walk in the centre and a café stop offer a glimpse of everyday life. Keep room in the schedule and ask locally about trips outside town, keeping tourism separate from following rally tracks.
Hotels and places to stay
Hôtel Jawharat Sahara
Rue Lahbib Old Alblal, Es-Smara
Hotel near the souk, advertising air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms on its own website.
Restaurants and cafés
La Casa Del Pollo
Smara
Restaurant named in the local directory. Confirm its exact address, menu and hours before travelling there.
Café Ain Jarf
Rue Sed Idriss I, Smara
Café listed in Smara using OpenStreetMap data. A possible stop to verify locally.
Starting points for your own research, with no ranking or partnership implied. Links lead to the sources checked; confirm availability, prices, opening hours, parking and access for non-residents directly before booking.
Plan local travel
Confirm accommodation, meals and supplies before arrival. The 19 January departure for Refuge does not make that bivouac a visitor destination: this guide does not establish its public location or access. Plan your own road journey rather than trying to replicate the race route.
Spectator guide ↗Questions before you travel
Can I access the bivouac or watch the vehicles?
This guide does not establish public access. Use only zones and times published by Dakar and follow local instructions. Never enter a special stage using an unauthorised track.
Is accommodation available during the Dakar?
We do not display live availability. Contact the property with your dates, group size and parking needs. Check cancellation terms and late arrival arrangements.
Sources & checks
Checked 2 November 2026. The announced schedule may change. A named stop does not establish public access to the bivouac or an authorised viewing point.