Written By: Jamie Sparks

Ultra X South Africa – Trail Running’s Ultimate Challenge

Ultra X South Africa launches in the Western Cape. 330km of brutal trails through the Cederberg Conservancy. Africa’s toughest ultramarathon begins here.

Ultra X South Africa – Trail Running’s Ultimate Challenge
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Ultra X South Africa – Trail Running’s Ultimate Challenge

Ultra X is thrilled to announce its newest and most formidable challenge yet: Ultra X South Africa a 330km, 6-stage ultra marathon through the awe-inspiring wilderness of the Cederberg Conservancy in the Western Cape. Set against rugged sandstone cliffs, remote mountain passes and wild fynbos landscapes, this is not just another multi-stage race, it’s Africa’s toughest!

South Africa’s Most Extreme Trail Race

Covering 330km over 6 gruelling stages, Ultra X South Africa will push the limits of endurance athletes from around the globe. With daily stages varying in distance and elevation, runners will experience everything from technical climbs to fast-flowing single track.

Each night, the capped group of 70 competitors will sleep under canvas in the wild a true adventure in remote Africa. This race will embody the spirit of ultra running in South Africa: wild, untamed and breathtaking.

Ultra X South Africa Itinerary – 6-Stage Ultra Marathon

Saturday: arrive at the race hotel in Cape Town for (those who wish to book a room). Participants are free to organise their own accommodation should they wish.

Sunday: welcome briefing and kit checks at the race hotel in Cape Town

11am: Transfers by bus to camp 1 and the start of Stage 1.

Monday Stage 1: 50km

Tuesday Stage 2: 55km (new camp)

Wednesday Stage 3: 60km (new camp)

Thursday Stage 4: 80km (new camp)

Friday Stage 5: 55km (new camp)

Saturday Stage 6: 30km (new camp)

Sunday: transfer back to Cape Town for return flights or the start of your holiday!

Why Run an Ultramarathon in South Africa?

South Africa has long been a mecca for endurance events, home to world-famous races such as the Comrades Ultra Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon. Ultra X South Africa aims to top them all, offering an immersive, multi-day challenge through one of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Western Cape. What’s more, Cape Town is highly accessible from airports in the UK and all over Europe. The time difference too, is minimal. These factors alone make South Africa the perfect destination for Ultra X’s longest and toughest event.

Is Ultra X South Africa Right for You?

For those who have already completed a full distance Ultra X (in Jordan, Nevada, Tanzania, Wales, Sri Lanka or Mexico), you may now be looking for something bigger and tougher…

Ultra X South Africa is also for those wanting to take on the adventure of a lifetime. This event will test the very toughest of individuals. But as always, with the right training and preparation we believe anyone is capable of taking on and completing this race.

Join the Ultimate Trail Running Challenge in Africa

Join 70 daring runners as they traverse rugged trails, sleep under African skies, and forge unforgettable memories. The Cederberg Conservancy awaits and with it, a race destined to become legend.

Welcome to Ultra X South Africa – Africa’s toughest footrace.

If you’d like to know when registrations are about to open please register your interest below.

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a cannabis derived oil – but don’t let that put you off, using it will not make you high as you run off into the hills!

It is a non-intoxicating oil and contains only trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, making its use more accepted (and legal) as a pain killer for athletes.