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The aQuellé Midmar Mile is all set to take place from 7 to 8 February 2026 in the beautiful KZN Midlands.
This iconic swim is the world’s largest open water swimming event and one of those bucket-list experiences that locals swear by and visitors never forget.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer, a first-timer, or someone who just loves the buzz of a big sporting weekend, Midmar has a way of pulling everyone in.
Held at Midmar Dam, just outside Howick, the Midmar Mile is a 1.6km open water swim with various events – depending on your preference – running across the two days.
Thousands of swimmers compete as families, teams, individual athletes, charity challengers or social swimmers.
History of the Midmar Mile
The first Midmar Mile was swum in 1974, and in 2009 it made global headlines when 13,755 swimmers crossed the finish line, earning it a Guinness World Record as the largest open water swim on the planet.
Not bad for a dam in the Midlands...
Midmar Mile details
Where: Midmar Dam, KZN Midlands
When: 7 to 8 February 2026
Distance: 1 Mile (1.6km)
Who can enter: Everyone – kids, adults, teams, para-swimmers, veterans, families, colleagues, and elites
How it works: Multiple races over two days, with seeded starts based on qualifying times
Sign up here
Things to Do in the KZN Midlands
Even if you’re not swimming that weekend, it’s always well worth a trip out to the KZN Midlands, as you can:
- Explore charming farm stalls and cafés
- Visit craft breweries and cheese farms
- Take a scenic drive through rolling countryside
- Enjoy trail runs, hikes, and mountain biking
- Stay over at cosy country lodges or family-friendly farms
Whether you’re swimming, supporting, or just soaking up the atmosphere, the Midmar Mile weekend is well worth the trip.
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