Ultra X Tanzania 2026
Ultra X Tanzania 2026: 220km, 5-stage ultra marathon through northern Tanzania around Kilimanjaro. Feb 23-27, UTMB indexed. £1,075.
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Formats
Description
220km Multi-Stage Ultra Around Kilimanjaro
Ultra X Tanzania is an epic multi-stage ultra marathon covering 220 kilometres over five days through the stunning backcountry of northern Tanzania, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. Organised by Ultra X, this UTMB-indexed event takes runners through an extraordinary diversity of African landscapes — from savannah grasslands to mountain forests, volcanic terrain to wildlife-rich lakeshores — in one of the most scenically spectacular stage races on the planet.
The race traverses the seldom-visited backcountry surrounding Africa's highest mountain, offering a running experience that combines genuine physical challenge with extraordinary natural beauty and cultural immersion. Runners camp at designated sites each night, creating a community atmosphere as they share the journey through Tanzania's northern highlands.
Race Format
220 km — 5 Stages
The race is divided into five stages of varying distance and difficulty:
- Stage 1: 31 km, 150m D+ — a relatively gentle introduction through savannah terrain
- Stage 2: 47 km, 1,050m D+ — building in distance and climbing
- Stage 3: 58 km, 1,200m D+ — the longest and most demanding stage
- Stage 4: 48 km, 2,100m D+ — the most vertically challenging stage, climbing Kilimanjaro's lower slopes
- Stage 5: 38 km, 950m D+ — the final stage bringing runners to the finish
Total elevation gain across the five stages exceeds 5,400 metres. The course takes runners part way up Mount Kilimanjaro, through forest, across savannah and around lakes populated with wildlife.
Terrain and Conditions
The terrain is extraordinarily varied across the five stages. Runners experience open African savannah, dense montane forest on Kilimanjaro's slopes, volcanic rocky terrain, lake shorelines and traditional Maasai pasturelands. The altitude varies from approximately 1,000 metres to well above 3,000 metres on the Kilimanjaro stages, adding physiological stress to the physical demands.
February is the short dry season in northern Tanzania — daytime temperatures at lower altitudes can reach 30°C, while the higher mountain stages are significantly cooler. Wildlife encounters are possible throughout the course.
Practical Information
- Entry fee: £1,075 GBP including camping, water at checkpoints, and logistical support
- Getting there: fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), with transfers provided by the organisation
- Visa: most nationalities require a Tanzanian visa, available on arrival or as an e-visa
- UTMB Index: the event is UTMB indexed
How high does Ultra X Tanzania go on Kilimanjaro?
Stage 4 climbs part of Mount Kilimanjaro's lower slopes, reaching above 3,000 metres with 2,100 metres of elevation gain in a single stage. This is not a summit attempt — the course traverses Kilimanjaro's forest and moorland zones rather than reaching the alpine desert zone above 4,000 metres.
Is Ultra X Tanzania a self-supported race?
It is semi-supported. The organisation provides camping accommodation, water at checkpoints, and logistical support (transport of bags between camps). Runners need to carry their own food and mandatory equipment during each stage. The entry fee of £1,075 covers all logistics, camping and event support.
Will I see wildlife during the race?
Yes, wildlife encounters are part of the Ultra X Tanzania experience. The course passes through areas inhabited by a variety of African wildlife including giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and numerous bird species. The lakeside sections are particularly rich in birdlife. Safety measures are in place throughout the course.
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