GREAT ADVENTURES WITH GREAT PEOPLE
The Real Way to Dakar by Intercontinental Rally is adventure in its purest form. Navigating remote deserts and ultimately reaching the shores of Lac Rose in Dakar is a journey defined by challenge, determination and discovery.
Success does not come by chance. It requires preparation, skill, teamwork and reliable equipment. While training and planning can prepare you for what lies ahead, once the rally begins, the outcome is in your hands. Out on the stages, you rely on your navigation, your team and your ability to adapt to whatever Africa throws at you. Every decision matters, and every kilometre must be earned.
Yet the rally is about far more than reaching the finish line. It is about the people you meet along the way – fellow competitors, service crews and the welcoming local communities that make this journey so unique. The friendships, experiences and challenges shared on the road create memories that last a lifetime.
These adventures inspire us to keep improving and evolving, ensuring that each edition of the rally delivers an even greater experience for the competitors who choose to take on the challenge.
The Story Behind
After the famous Dakar Rally moved outside of the African continent in 2009, the founder of Intercontinental Rally, Jiri Vasatko, decided to organize his own rally. The vision was to create an event where participants from all backgrounds could experience the challenge, adventure and camaraderie of long-distance rallying across Africa, while enjoying an authentic rally experience.
Today, Intercontinental Rally – now The Real Way to Dakar – is an annual off-road competition and adventure rally for motor enthusiasts. Since its inception, the rally has welcomed competitors from around the world and established itself as a unique African rally adventure. While remaining true to its original spirit, the event continues to evolve for a new generation of participants. Yet we remain committed to our founding philosophy: making it possible for ordinary competitors to experience the adventure of crossing Africa and reaching Dakar through rally competition.
OWNER AND RALLY DIRECTOR
Petur Gotfredsson is the Owner and Rally Director of The Real Way to Dakar.
Having served in the Danish Armed Forces for more than a decade, he gained extensive experience in mission planning, leadership and operational execution. His background includes a wide range of expedition and adventure projects, from 4WD expeditions to solo ocean sailing, providing valuable experience in logistics, risk management and operating in remote environments.
In addition to his expedition background, Petur has spent many years working with leadership development, outdoor education and project management. Through both professional and personal projects, he has developed extensive experience in organizing teams, managing logistics and leading people in demanding conditions.
As Owner and Rally Director, Petur is responsible for the overall planning, management and execution of The Real Way to Dakar. From route design and logistics to safety management and participant experience, he ensures that every aspect of the rally is professionally organized while maintaining the spirit of adventure and exploration that has always been at the heart of the event.
Having assumed ownership of the rally in 2025, Petur continues the work carried out by Jacob Ilskov and Kasper van Deurs from 2019 to 2025, while remaining committed to the original vision of providing ordinary adventurers with an authentic and accessible journey to Dakar.
The Real Way to Dakar
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