The Dakar Rally is a challenging weeks-long off-road race that snakes its way through the shifting landscape of South America. It is also one of the most dangerous sporting events in the world,—dozens of competitors, journalists and spectators have died during the rally. Though the race does offer some prize money to the tune of $50,000, the bigger incentive for the hundreds of competitors is a chance for lucrative sponsorship deal with companies. The race originally took place between Paris, France and Dakar, Senegal, but due to security concerns in the region, it moved to South America ten years ago.
The race route changes from year to year. Photos from the past few years show the sheer variety of landscapes—racers navigate their off-road cars, trucks, and motorcycles through mountains, salt flats, marshes, and dunes. This year, the race is taking place entirely in Peru.
