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If you couldn’t imagine anything better than muddy trail shoes, spectacular scenery, great live music, and that typical KZN vibe, then we have a brand-new event you don’t want to miss.
The WESSA Ultra Trail Festival debuts on Saturday, 24 October 2026, transforming the WESSA uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve near Howick into a trail running mecca.
But don't let the word ‘ultra’ fool you.
While elite runners can tackle a gruelling 100km adventure, there are distances for every fitness level. This outdoor festival is a space where anyone can enjoy a day out in one of KZN’s most beautiful spots.
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Run through the scenic KZN Midlands
Hosted across 900 hectares of indigenous forest, grasslands, river crossings and dramatic escarpments, the festival celebrates 100 years of WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) and its long-standing commitment to conservation.
Runners can choose from seven distances:
- 6km Short Course
- Medium Course
- Long Course
- Extended Course
- 50km Ultra
- 75km Ultra
- 100km Ultra
Even if you're not planning to hit the trails, there's plenty happening throughout the day.
The organisers are creating a festival atmosphere that celebrates everything people love about the Midlands, from local flavours to live entertainment.
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What you can expect
- Seven trail-running distances for all fitness levels
- Live music throughout the day
- Delicious local food and craft beverages
- A curated Midlands artisan market
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Spectacular views across the uMngeni Valley
- A celebration of WESSA's 100-year conservation legacy
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What you need to know
- Date: Saturday, 24 October 2026
- Venue: WESSA uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve, Howick
- Race format: Loop courses
- Entry fees: Short Course – R140 | Medium Course – R200 | Long Course – R300 | Extended Course – R450 | 50km Ultra – R750 | 75km Ultra – R1 250 | 100km Ultra – R1 750
- Race entries: KZN Trail Running
- Festival entry: Tickets available at the gate for spectators.
The inaugural WESSA Ultra Trail Festival promises to be one of KwaZulu-Natal's standout outdoor events this spring. Don’t miss out!
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