The Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rallye is different. It’s not about typical racing—it’s about resilience, discovery, and making a difference. This unique event takes participants on an epic journey from Germany to The Gambia, crossing continents, cultures, and some of the most challenging terrains on Earth.


A Brief History of the Rally

Logo of the Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Challenge with a blue turbaned figure and off-road vehicle silhouettes.

The Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rally was founded in the early 2000s with a simple yet powerful idea: combine the thrill of overland adventure with humanitarian aid. Inspired by the legendary Paris-Dakar Rallye, the organizers wanted to create an event that was accessible to everyday adventurers while delivering tangible benefits to communities in West Africa.

Unlike the high-budget, competitive nature of traditional rallies, this event focuses on affordability, teamwork, and charity. Participants drive vehicles that will later be auctioned in The Gambia, with proceeds funding local NGO projects such as schools, hospitals, and community development initiatives. Over the years, the rally has grown into a respected movement, attracting teams from across Europe who share a passion for adventure and social impact.


The Route: From Europe to Africa

The rally begins in Dresden, Germany, and winds its way through Europe before crossing into Africa. From there, the real challenge begins: navigating the vast Sahara Desert, tackling rocky tracks, and enduring the heat and dust of the Sahel.

Highlights of the route include:

  • Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar into Morocco
  • Traversing the Atlas Mountains
  • Endless dunes of the Sahara in Mauritania
  • Remote tracks through Senegal
  • Final stretch to Banjul, The Gambia

It’s a test of endurance for woman, man and machine, but also a chance to experience breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures along the way.


Why Team Insanire is joining

For us at Team Insanire, this rallye represents everything we love: off-road adventure, cultural exchange, and giving back. In March 2026, we’ll set off on this incredible expedition, driving thousands of kilometers from Germany to The Gambia. Our red Land Rover Discovery will (hopefully) not only carry us across deserts and mountains—it will eventually help fund projects that improve lives.

As always we’ll share steps of the journey: from preparations and gear checks to the challenges and triumphs on the road. Expect stories of dusty tracks, starry nights in the Sahara, and the unforgettable feeling of reaching Banjul after three weeks of adventure.

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About us - Pooh is a Danish citizen, Viator is German – and together we bring a unique blend of cultures, perspectives, and curiosity to every trip we take.

At the end of June (2025), our journey took us quite literally to the other side of the world: After more than 25 years, we had the chance to visit New Zealand once again.

Hospice Service

Outpatient Children and Youth Hospice Service) at Katharinen Hospiz am Park in Flensburg

Learn more about our participation at Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rallye from the Breitengrad e.V.