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Ultra X Kenya: The Ultimate 220km Multi-Stage Ultramarathon in Africa

Thinking of taking on Ultra X Kenya, one of Africa’s most spectacular ultramarathons and multi-stage races?

Set in the vast and wild landscapes of Laikipia, Ultra X Kenya is a 5-day, 220km adventure through remote conservancies, open savannah, and some of the most breathtaking terrain on earth. This is not just a race. It is a true African experience.

Whether you are chasing a new challenge or looking for something completely different, this guide covers everything you need to know about Ultra X Kenya.

Quick Facts: Ultra X Kenya

• Distance: 220km (Full) or 110km (Kenya Challenge)
• Duration: 5 days
• Location: Laikipia, Kenya
• Terrain: Savannah, 4×4 tracks, grassland
• Temperature: Up to 30°C during the day
• Entry fee: From £2,595
• Places available: Limited to 100

What is Ultra X Kenya?

Ultra X Kenya is a multi-stage ultramarathon that takes runners deep into the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.

Over five days, competitors traverse vast open landscapes, remote conservancies, and wildlife-rich terrain rarely experienced on foot. Expect huge skies, raw nature, and a sense of space and silence that is unlike anywhere else in the Ultra X series.

Each day finishes in a fully supported camp where athletes recover, refuel, and share the experience with fellow competitors.

Race Overview

Ultra X Kenya offers two race options:

• Full Distance: 220km over 5 stages
• Kenya Challenge: 110km shorter format

The event takes place in May, when temperatures are warm but manageable, and the landscapes are at their most striking.

With checkpoints approximately every 10km and a generous cut-off pace of 4km/h, this is an event that can be completed by both runners and hikers.

Entry, Cost and What’s Included

There are two entry options:

• Standard Entry: £2,595 (includes £250 fundraising commitment for Rhino Ark)
• Charity Entry: £2,845 (fundraising included in entry fee)

Your entry includes:

• Accommodation from May 9th to May 14th
• Transfers between Nairobi and the race start/finish
• Fully supported camps with showers and electricity
• Drinking water at checkpoints and hot water in camp
• Medical support from TrailMed
• Sports therapy throughout the event
• Marked course and GPX routes
• Finishers medal and celebration meal
• Bottomless soft drinks, tea, coffee and cold beer in camp

Travel and Logistics

Arrival

Competitors should arrive into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) no later than Saturday 8th May.

You will have the option to stay in the official race hotel that evening. The official race hotel will be confirmed to registered competitors in due course.

Transfers

• Transfers from the race hotel to the start line are included
• Return transfers are also included
• Airport transfers can be booked in advance to the event hotel

Course and Terrain

The Ultra X Kenya course is designed to showcase the very best of the region.

Expect:

• Rolling savannah landscapes
• 4×4 tracks and runnable trails
• Sections of sand and grassland
• Occasional climbs with expansive views

Ultra X Kenya will be hot, and temperatures could reach as high as 30ºC. This will make running feel harder than many competitors will be used to at home. However, with checkpoints approximately every 10km, friendly cut-off pace of 4km/h and full medical cover, you can run or walk this event. The terrain is very runnable, and competitors can expect less elevation than Ultra X Tanzania across the week making the difficulty akin to Ultra X Jordan with less soft sand. Not ready to take on the Full Distance? The Kenya Challenge (110km) is a great alternative.  

Climate

In May, conditions are typically:

• Daytime temperatures: up to 30°C
• Evenings: cooler, around 15°C
• Low likelihood of rain, but preparation is essential

Wildlife and Safety

One of the defining features of Ultra X Kenya is the wildlife.

This is effectively a five-day safari on foot, with runners moving through conservancies rich in iconic African wildlife.

Safety is a top priority:

• Routes are cleared in advance by local security teams
• Close collaboration with conservancies ensures safe passage
• Wildlife is observed from a safe distance
• Full medical coverage is provided throughout

Mandatory Kit and Race Format

As with all Ultra X events, this is a semi self-supported race.

You will carry:

• Mandatory kit
• Your nutrition for each stage

Your main bag (up to 20kg) is transported between camps.

Course marking

• Flags, ribbons and markers every 50–200m
• GPX files required on your watch or phone

Drop-back-in policy

• Miss a stage and you may continue (subject to medical approval)
• You will not receive an overall ranking or medal
• Missing two stages results in withdrawal

Friends and Family

Ultra X Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you can share it.

A dedicated Friends and Family Package will allow supporters to follow the race while experiencing Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.

Details will be released soon.

Charity Partner: Rhino Ark

Ultra X Kenya proudly supports Rhino Ark, a conservation charity protecting both wildlife and local communities.

Their impact includes:

• Nearly 1,000km of electric fencing built
• Protection for 85,000+ households
• Conservation of over 570,000 hectares
• Education programmes across 184 schools

Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Most travellers will need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Check your country’s requirements before travelling.

Do I need vaccinations?

Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria prevention is strongly advised.

How difficult is Ultra X Kenya?

The heat will be a key challenge. However, the terrain is relatively runnable and the structure of the event makes it accessible for a wide range of abilities.

What happens if I cannot finish?

You may continue to the next stage if medically approved, or drop down to the Kenya Challenge distance.

How many places are available?

Places are strictly limited to 100 competitors in 2027.

What Makes Ultra X Kenya Unique?

Ultra X Kenya is more than a race; it is a true African adventure. 

Runners will traverse vast savannahs, remote conservancies, and dramatic landscapes rarely seen by tourists. The sense of space, silence, and scale is unlike anywhere else in the Ultra X series. 

Each morning begins slowly: step out of your tent, sip fresh coffee by the campfire, and prepare for a day of unforgettable running or hiking. 

At the finish line each day, athletes are welcomed with cold towels, drinks, and a vibrant camp atmosphere. Recovery is supported by experienced physios and sports therapists. 

Ultra X Kenya is not just a race. It is an experience of endurance, culture, and connection, and a defining chapter of #theultraxperience. 

Register interest for 2027 here.