The 36th edition of the world-famous Dakar endurance rally is taking place right now. Racers are currently in Stage 4, battling not only time but geography and fatigue as well.

The rally began on January 5 in the city of Rosario in central Argentina. According to sources, a large crowd of spectators showed up at the start line to watch the various motorcycle, quad, car and truck competitors depart on their epic journey. 

This year’s rally is divided into 13 stages and although the motorcycle and quad racers are following a completely different route than the car and truck teams, every kind of driving is required to complete nearly 5,000 kilometres. 

They will cross three countries, Argentina, Bolivia and Chile, and be faced with a variety of challenging terrain changes—from sand dunes and salt flats to steep mountains and winding coastline. Only the toughest racers will cross the finish line on January 18 in the Chilean city of Valparaiso. The total length of the Dakar Rally is over 8,000 kilometres. 

To track their progress and catch live results of the Dakar 2014, visit the website.