For Rangers Ultra 2026

230 Kilometres Through Kenya's Wildlife Conservancies

The For Rangers Ultra is one of Africa's most extraordinary ultra-marathon experiences — a 230-kilometre, five-stage self-supported race through the wildlife conservancies of Laikipia, in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Organised by Beyond the Ultimate in partnership with Save the Rhino International, this epic race takes runners through five diverse conservancies, each with its own unique terrain, from lush grasslands to dense montane forests, surrounded by Africa's iconic wildlife.

More than just a race, the For Rangers Ultra is a conservation fundraising event that directly supports the rangers who protect Africa's endangered species. All funds raised provide rangers with quality equipment, improved welfare and better working conditions. Since its inception, the event has raised significant sums for ranger welfare across East Africa.

Race Format

230 km — 5 Stages

The race covers 230 kilometres over five days through five wildlife conservancies in the Laikipia region. Participants carry everything they need — food, safety gear and at least 2.5 litres of water (refillable at checkpoints). The route traverses the foothills of Mount Kenya and the diverse landscapes of the Laikipia plateau, passing through conservancies that are home to rhinos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions and hundreds of other species.

Each stage offers different terrain and wildlife encounters, from open grassland running to trails through dense forest and river crossings. The route is supervised by armed rangers for participant safety, and wildlife encounters are a regular and extraordinary part of the experience.

Terrain and Conditions

The Laikipia conservancies sit at approximately 1,800-2,200 metres above sea level, providing moderate altitude that can affect runners arriving from sea level. The terrain is varied: open savannah grassland, acacia woodland, dense riverine forest, rocky volcanic outcrops and river crossings. The ground varies from soft grassland to hard-packed earth and rocky trails.

Temperatures are comfortable for running — typically 15-25°C during the day with cool nights. The equatorial sun is intense and sun protection is essential. Afternoon rain is possible depending on the season.

Conservation Impact

The For Rangers Ultra directly funds the ForRangers initiative, which equips and supports wildlife rangers across Kenya's conservancies. Rangers are the frontline defenders of Africa's endangered wildlife, often working in dangerous and poorly resourced conditions. Participants raise funds through sponsorship, and the race provides a visceral connection between runners and the landscapes and communities they are supporting.

Practical Information

• Self-supported: carry all food and mandatory equipment — water available at checkpoints
• Wildlife safety: armed rangers accompany runners throughout every stage
• Getting there: fly into Nairobi (NBO), with transfers to Laikipia provided by the organisation
• Fundraising: participants commit to raising funds for Save the Rhino International