FAQ de la Boucle de l’Étoile

How do I get to Oujda airport?

Oujda is well served by several airlines including Ryanair, Transavia France, Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, TUI Fly Belgium, Jetairfly, Air Arabia Maroc, Saudia, ASL Airlines France, TAP Air Portugal… departing from numerous European cities.
Book your ticket and compare flights with the flight comparators to find the best deal.

We recommend that you arrive on Tuesday evening, November 4, so that you’re well rested before your adventure.

On Wednesday mornings, you can visit the city of Oujda before taking your shuttle to the Bivouac. Departure from the airport at 12:00 or 16:00.

Overnight hotel rates near the airport are very affordable.

Cab fares vary according to distance, but you should expect to pay between 5 and 10 euros (around 50 to 100 Dhs).

What type of suitcase should I bring?

A 50L or 60L backpack is preferable to a wheeled suitcase. You’ll also need a backpack of no more than 10 to 15L to hold your water, food supplies and light equipment for each loop.

What kind of clothes should I bring?

Bring comfortable, light, breathable clothing for the Trek, Trail or Ultra Trail stages (leggings, shorts, sportswear, hiking pants with pockets, breathable T-shirt, hiking boots, cap), warm clothing for the evening (pants, T-shirt, fleece jacket, technical underwear, windproof jacket), clean clothes for the outward and return journey, with a pair of comfortable shoes and flip-flops.

Can I bring my drone to Morocco?

No, drones are prohibited in Morocco unless you have government authorization.

What equipment is required?

• A headlamp with batteries or a spare battery.
• A 10 or 15-liter backpack (available in the La Boucle de l’Étoile store).
• 2 bottles of 800 ml minimum capacity.
• A cap.

Is there a recommended list of equipment or materials?

Yes, we offer specific equipment and materials in our online store at https://laboucledeletoile.com.

What running gear should I bring?

Advice on running gear according to distance and race (Trek, Trail or Ultra Trail) is given on the site so that your run is a real pleasure.

What type of shoes should I bring?

Make sure you have the right shoes for your feet, with no pressure points or rubbing. The terrain will vary (sand, track, rock, pebbles…). If you decide to buy a new pair of running shoes for your trail run, get advice from a specialist retailer, and take the time to try them on and get them right for your feet before the adventure. You can also buy sand gaiters in the La Boucle de l’Étoile store.

What are the average weather conditions and temperatures at Bivouac de La boucle de l’Étoile in November?

Conditions are expected to be cloudless and sunny. Temperatures will range from 17° to 20° during the day and 13° to 15° at night.

Should I bring cash with me?

Yes, you’ll need it to buy drinks and extras at the bivouac. You’ll also be able to do a bit of currency exchange directly on the bivouac. Allow between 100 and 200 euros. Remember to convert your euros into dirham, if possible.

Can I have my participation financed?

Yes, you can have your company finance your participation and benefit from the reduced rate. Your company can also participate in the registration of several employees. In this case, the company’s image and brand will be displayed as part of the Team Building communication plan.

How can I become a sponsor?

Sponsors wishing to support La Boucle de l’Étoile’s sporting and charitable event can contact us at: direction@lbdle.com to benefit from our communication plan and dedicated advantages.

What is Team Building?

It’s an opportunity for a company to finance the participation of its employees, to raise its image and brand even higher on the international stage, thanks to La Boucle de l’Étoile’s Team Building plan. To find out more, contact us at: direction@lbdle.com

How do I get to the race site?

The Boucle de l’Étoile organization will pick you up and take you to and from Oujda/Bivouac airport by our bus and minibus service.

Are flights included in my registration?

No, flights are not included.

Where do we run?

In the Oriental desert in northeastern Morocco between Bouarfa and Tendrara.

When will it be?

The race takes place from Wednesday 05 to Sunday 09 November 2025.

Is it accessible?

Yes, Trek, Trail and Ultra Trail are accessible to everyone. Walkers and runners.

Is it timed?

Pro timekeepers for a serious race! For walkers, relax… No time limit!

Who determined the area and route?

• Qualified mountain guides for a well-thought-out race route.
• A staff of Pro racers and multiple long-distance champions.

Are there services for participants?

• A telephone connection provided by a relay truck.
• Wi-Fi connection.
• Medical and paramedical assistance.
• Cold drinks at the Bivouac (chargeable).
• A solo tent option (extra charge)
• Safe deposit box (fee payable).

What are the different categories of riders?

Ultra Trailers, Trailers and Walkers. The categories of runners and walkers are indicated on the website.

What are the distances and stages?

The Boucle de l’Étoile is a Trek, a Trail and an Ultra Trail of 84, 104 and 126 km over 3 days.

• Trek and Trail of 80 km (1st day 32 km, 2nd day 20 km, 3rd day 32 km).
• Ultra Trail 100 km (1st day 32 km, 2nd day 40 km, 3rd day 32 km).
• Ultra Trail 120 km (1st day 32 km, 2nd day 62 km, 3rd day 32 km).

How difficult is the course?

Difficulties vary according to the distance chosen and your category. The terrain will be varied, so you won’t be running on sand alone.

When will I know the route of the Boucle?

The route is kept secret until you arrive at the finish. You will receive the route and road book for your category in the welcome pack. Each loop is marked, secured and supervised by race staff, medical and paramedical staff and safety staff.

Do I need a tent and sleeping bag for bivouacs?

The La boucle de l’Étoile organization provides the tents, comfortable mattress, sleeping bag and inner sheet. You can bring your own comforter and blanket if you wish.

You will be accommodated in a SOLO tent (for those who take the option) or in a DUO tent.

NOTE: If you do not choose the “SOLO tent” option, you will be accommodated in a DUO tent with another participant of the same sex, at random.

Teams will be housed in traditional Caïdales tents (4 to 6 members).

For those arriving the day before the event in Oujda (recommended), overnight hotel rates are very affordable.

Are there any facilities on the bivouac for daily hygiene?

Yes, based on 100 runners, we plan to provide 12 comfortable, eco-responsible toilet and shower units at the bivouac. The hygiene units will have a women’s side and a men’s side.

Are all meals included during La Boucle de l’Étoile?

Yes, breakfasts, lunches, except lunches on Day 1 and 5 (on request and for a fee) and dinners. You will have the choice of taking a lunch box or a snack for lunch depending on your race. Water and snack refreshment points are also provided throughout the route.

Are there suitable meals for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes, we offer suitable dishes. We will ask you about your dietary restrictions in your runner’s area. A restaurant tent is available for breakfasts and dinners. Lunches will be either snacks or Lunch Boxes to suit the race.

Is the food healthy, fresh and controlled?

Yes, that’s one of the points where the organization of La Boucle de l’Étoile doesn’t mess around! Our food is controlled, fresh and in season. Our cold chain is managed and controlled to avoid any health risks. Our catering team of 2 chefs and 2 sous-chefs have been trained and seasoned in catering large-scale races and sporting events for over 20 years. Good food is the key to a good adventure and a successful race.

Will there be medical coverage during the race?

Yes, a full medical team of emergency specialists and specialists in major outdoor events, with osteopaths and physiotherapists just for you!

Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Morocco?

No vaccinations are required.

PPS (Health Prevention Path)

Your PPS (Health Prevention Plan) must be valid 3 months before the event).

Should I pack a medical kit in my backpack?

A detailed list will be sent to you when you register in your runner’s area. This list is recommended for your personal care, as the items will be checked by the medical team on site during medical checks.

Will we be able to refuel during the race?

Yes, there will be plenty of checkpoints and food and water supplies.

Will there be enough water?

Yes, La Boucle de l’Étoile will provide you with plenty of mineral water during your stay. You will receive bottles of mineral water on arrival. To obtain a new bottle, you’ll just need to bring back the empty one and be vigilant for general eco-responsibility.

Can I call my loved ones?

Yes, a telephone connection will be provided by a relay truck to boost the signal in the desert. A Wi-Fi connection will also be available.

What security measures are in place?

A team of qualified mountain guides and assistant guides will ensure the safety of the race. A dedicated security team will secure the bivouac and the course 24 hours a day. In addition to our team of emergency doctors and paramedics, who are specialists in outdoor events, our rescue teams have all the resources needed for intervention and, if necessary, repatriation, according to the emergency protocols set up for the event.

Are there any special rules?

Yes, don’t light fires and respect our environment with responsible, caring driving.

Can I bring a companion?

No, no accompanying persons are allowed for the duration of the La Boucle de l’Étoile event.

What causes does the event support?

La Boucle de l’Étoile supports actions in favor of education, the environment, local economic development and access to the Trek for cancer patients in remission.

How can I get involved in the causes supported by La Boucle de l’Étoile?

Part of your registration fee will be donated to foundations and associations that have been selected and verified by the management of La Boucle de l’Étoile for their actions and reliability. You walk, you run and you do a good deed!

How can I get photos of the race?

Photos of the race will be available on https://laboucledeletoile.com in the Media area during and after the event.

Does the organization have authorization for photos and videos?

Yes, at the time of registration, so that we can proceed with the broadcasting of all media within the regulatory framework. This authorization is necessary to keep the race alive, publicize it and support our human and charitable actions;

Can I share my adventure on social networks?

Yes, of course! You can relay your adventure and share it with your friends and family unconditionally.

How do you prepare for the race?

• 80-km trek: Alternate fast walking and slow endurance hiking. Be prepared for stages of 20 to 30 km with little change in altitude, but with unstable terrain.
• 80 km Trail: Increase the volume of split training, get used to running with a backpack and plan recovery sessions for legs and back.
• Ultra-trails of 100 and 120 km: Complete long outings of over 5 hours, work on resistance to extreme fatigue with a series of training days, and incorporate stretching and relaxation exercises for rapid recovery.

Where can I find advice on sports and mental preparation?

We’ll give you some basic tips to get you started on the site.

Are there any preparatory courses for Trails and Ultra Trails?

Yes, we organize physical preparation courses in Casablanca with our technical director and team trainer. Details are on the website:

How can I contact you if I have any questions?

If you have any further questions, please contact La Boucle de l’Étoile at : direction@lbdle.com