Ultra X South Africa 2026

Africa's Toughest Footrace — 330km Through the Cederberg

Ultra X South Africa is billed as Africa's toughest footrace — a 330-kilometre, six-stage ultra marathon set deep in the breathtaking wilderness of the Cederberg Conservancy in South Africa's Western Cape. Organised by Ultra X, this inaugural event is limited to just 70 competitors and takes runners through one of the most remote and spectacular landscapes in South Africa over six gruelling days.

The Cederberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary sandstone rock formations, ancient San rock art, diverse fynbos vegetation and extreme temperature contrasts. The Ultra X route traverses terrain rarely open to the public, from vineyards and orchards in the lowlands through remote mountain gorges and high passes into the wild heart of the Cederberg wilderness.

Race Format

330 km — 6 Stages

The race is divided into six stages of varying distance and difficulty: stages of 50 km, 55 km, 60 km, an 80 km monster stage, and a shorter final stage. Total elevation gain across the six days is substantial, with the route crossing multiple mountain passes and descending into remote valleys. All participants carry live GPS trackers for real-time monitoring.

The event is semi-supported: the organisation provides camping, water at checkpoints and logistical support. Runners carry their food and mandatory equipment during each stage.

Terrain and Conditions

The Cederberg terrain is characterised by dramatic sandstone rock formations, narrow mountain passes, sandy river valleys and exposed ridgelines covered in fynbos vegetation. The sandstone creates spectacular but challenging running surfaces — from smooth rock slabs to loose scree and deep sand in dry riverbeds. October temperatures range from nighttime lows of 10°C to daytime highs reaching 30°C.

Practical Information

• Capacity: strictly limited to 70 runners — sold out in record time
• Price: £2,495 (£400 deposit, balance in 10 instalments of £210)
• Getting there: approximately 3 hours from Cape Town by road
• GPS tracking: all runners carry live GPS trackers throughout the event