We know how much Capetonians love running. They are often seen out and about, through rain or shine, clocking up some miles as they traverse the tarmac or mountain trails.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of the road runs, trail runs, fun runs and walks in and around Cape Town.
Don’t forget to check what’s happening in Cape Town Today
January
Kick start the New Year with a bang! Take a look at some of the hottest races taking place in and around Cape Town in January.
Cape Summer Trail Series
There are four races in the Cape Summer Trail Series which is held from the 14 January 2018 till 25 February 2018.
Complete three out of the four short or long course in order to automatically compete in the Challenge or Championship and receive your medal. Alternatively, take part in any of the races and have fun!
- Distance: Solo (43km), split up (5-9km Challenge, 10-16km Championship, +20km XL)
- Cost: Short course - R110, Long course - R170, All 4 races: Short - R400, Long - R600
- When: 14 Jan 2018 (1/4), 23 Jan (2/4), 7 Feb (3/4), 25 Feb (4/4)
- Where: Lebanon Forest, Elgin Valley (1/4), Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (2/4), Meerendal Wine Estate (3/4), Oak Valley, Elgin Valley (4/4)
- More Info:
February
Take a look at the best running races and events happening in Cape Town in February. We'll keep adding to this list, so stay tuned!
27 for Freedom 2018
All the events start in front of the statue of Nelson Mandela at the beginning of his `walk to freedom‘ and progress through a scenic route that passes the Madiba House. The 27 km route continues through the adjacent wine farms to finish on the sports arena near the entrance. But 27 for Freedom is more than a running event. It is an experience everyone should participate in at least once in their life time.
It is a historic, yet fun-filled, family day of reflection, celebration and nation building for the tens of thousands that will participate from across the sports, social, business and political landscape. It contributes directly to the preservation and promotion of the Nelson Mandela legacy and the historic `right of passage’ that his walk to freedom represent to current and future generations of South Africans and all freedom loving people.
- Distance: 5km, 10km, 27km
- Cost: TBC
- When: 10 Feb, 06:30am
- Where: Victor Verster Prison
- More Info: Website
March
Still trying to fill up your 2018 running calendar? Take a look at what March has on offer.
Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
In its 46 years, the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon has grown into one of the most beautiful sporting events in the world.
Taking place on Easter Saturday every year, it attracts 11 000 runners to the ultra marathon and 16 000 runners to the half marathon.
The entries have already closed for the ultra marathon, however, if you are interested in taking part in the half marathon event, there is a ballot system in place. See the race page if you are interested.
The event also hosts an annual expo which offers a look at at the hottest running trends, apparel and supplements.
- Distance: 56km (ultra) and 21km (half)
- Cost: R460, R195 (prices vary depending on your country of origin)
- When: Easter Sunday, 31 March 2018 @ 06:30
- Where: Outside SA Breweries, Main Road, Newlands
- More Info: Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
SPAR Women’s Challenge
The SPAR Women’s Challenge will see over 21 000 women crossing the finish line in their Cape Town leg on Sunday, 25 March 2018.
Participants can choose between between running or walking the 10km or 5km routes along the scenic Sea Point promenade and Green Point surrounds. If you’re wanting to enter the 2018 event, watch this space for updates.
- Distance: 10km, 5km
- Cost: R100
- When: 25 March 2018
- Where: Bellville Stadium
- More Info: SPAR Women’s Challenge website
Two Oceans Trail Run
Explore the forests above UCT and its stunning vistas with the Old Mutual Two Oceans Trail Run.
The short and long courses begin on UCT grounds and will see runners traversing the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak and the surrounding forests. The race is open to runners of all calibres.
The challenging routes will push runners with technical descents and steep ascents. There is a list of compulsory equipment needed for the trail runs.
Runners will be required to display the compulsory kit listed below at the start.
Compulsory kit for the 12km run:
- Water – Carry at least 1 litre (we recommend a hydration pack)
- Food – Energy Bar/ sandwich/ banana
- A cell phone charged with the organiser’s number in a Ziplock bag. (021 937 0324 – emergencies only)
- Windbreaker and disposable poncho OR waterproof jacket with sealed seams
- Race number, pinned to your shirt
- Your RaceTec timing chip, laced onto one of your shoes. The chip must be registered in your name and not belong to someone else.
- Sunblock and a hat are recommended.
Compulsory kit for the 24km run:
- Water – Carry at least 2 litres (we recommend a hydration pack)
- Food – Energy Bar/ sandwich/ banana
- A cell phone charged with organiser’s number in Ziplock bag. (021 937 0324 – emergencies only)
- Windbreaker and disposable poncho OR waterproof jacket with sealed seams
- Space blanket and whistle
- Sunblock and hat
- Race number, pinned to your shirt
- Your RaceTec timing chip, laced onto one of your shoes. The chip must be registered in your name and not belong to someone else.
- Distance: 24km, 12km
- Cost: R840, R685
- When: 30 March 2018
- Where: Above UCT
- More Info: Two Oceans Trail Run
Spier Night Trail Run Series
This night trail series consists of 3 runs held over 3 consecutive weeks. Each event will be held on a different route to keep things interesting for those entering the entire series. It's the perfect event for novices on the trail or avid trail runners looking to improve their time.
There are only 300 runners allowed per event, so make sure you get your entries ASAP. You'll get 20% discount if you enter all 3 events, all events offer a 4km and 8km route. There will also be fantastic spot prizes at each event; Spier wine, Hoghouse Craft beer, Extreme Lights head torches and more.
- Distance: 4km & 8km
- Cost: 8km - R100; 4km - R60 for pre-entries. (R20 extra on the day)
- When: Registration at 5:00 pm. Race starts at 6:45pm
- Night Trail #1 - 9 March 2018
- Night Trail #2 - 14 March 2018
- Night Trail #3 - 21 March 2018
- Where: Spier Estate, Stellenbosch
- More info: Website
- Tickets: Here
Daredevil Run Cape Town
Become part of the ballsiest run of the year! The Daredevil Run has become a countrywide phenomenon, and for a good reason.
The race highlights the importance of raising awareness around testicular cancer and the power of collective action through a daring, fun, liberating and unique experience.
Sign up for the 2018 run, get yourself checked and join the ranks of brave men who are helping to run cancer out of town!
All the funds raised from entries will go towards awareness programmes and cancer screening countrywide. The more Daredevils that take to the streets, the bigger the impact will be.
- Distance: 5km
- Cost: R150
- When: 16 March 2018
- Where: Greenpoint Salesian Football Club
- More Info: Daredevil Run
Two Oceans International Friendship Run
Entrants can look forward to a scenic 5.6km run or walk meandering through the City of Cape Town.
Forming part of the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon weekend, the International Friendship Run happens on Good Friday morning.
Pass some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the Sea Point Promenade, Cape Town Stadium, Mouille Point Lighthouse and Green Point Park.
Runners from all corners of the globe come together, united in the marathon spirit, and jog with their countries flags.
- Distance: 5.6km run/walk
- Cost: R35
- When: 09:30 am - 30 March 2018
- Where: Cape Town Stadium, Sea Point Promenade, Green Point Park and Mouille Point Lighthouse
- More Info: Website
April
We've sourced the most popular runs happening in April this year, but keep checking back for updates on this page.
Merrell Night Run Series
The Merrell Night Run Series takes place on the scenic grounds of Groot and Klein Constantia.
It is split into the Merrell Autumn Night Run Series (April) and the Merrell Spring Night Run Series (September).
Merrell Autumn Night Run Series
Runners will be treated to some night time fun amongst the historic vineyards of Groot and Klein Constantia with a warm, festive post-race vibe at Simon’s or Jonkershuis restaurants.
You'll also be treated to a complimentary bottle of Groot Constantia Wine just for finishing the race.
- Distance: 3 run series (8km, 5.5km)
- Cost: 5.5km - R160 ; 8km - R190. Enter for all three and get a 10% discount
- When: 4th, 11th, 18th April 2018. Registration opens at 5:30pm
- Where: Simons Restaurant, Groot Constantia
- More Info: Merrell Night Run series website
May
May it be your best month yet! Take a look at what running events you can get stuck into this May!
FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN
The FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN 2017 was a roaring success. Entries for the 2018 event open in January 2018.
The route will take you from Woodridge Island, Milnerton to the finish line on Bree Street in the Cape Town CBD.
- Distance: 12km
- Cost: TBA
- When: 20 May 2018 (entries open Jan 2018)
- Where: Start - Milnerton , Finish - Bree Street, CBD
- More Info: FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN website
Jonkershoek Mountain Challenge
The Jonkershoek Valley is without a doubt one of the most beautiful mountain scenes in the Western Cape. Massive turrets and cliffs of orange-faced quartzite hold fortress over a collection of rambling mountain streams and waterfalls.
It’s so magnificent that it’s impossible to ignore, the essence of the place seeping under your skin into the fabric of your senses. The Wildrunner team have strung together what is arguably one of the most incredible mountain trail running challenges on the calendar.
- Distance: 38km, 24km, 11km
- Cost: TBC
- When: 19 May 2018
- Where: Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch
- More info: Website
Night Nation Run
The Night Nation Run is the world’s first running music festival. The Cape Town edition of the Night Nation Run 2017 took place on 13 May 2017.
The 5km route is filled with live music, lasers, and lights. The route takes you through an illuminated course, past DJ stages to finish at an electrifying after party at the main stage.
Let the music carry you while walk, run, dance or even skip your way through this vibrant adventure.
- Distance: 5km
- Cost: TBA
- When: May (Dates tbc)
- Where: TBA
- More Info: Night Nation Run website
June
June is looking pretty impressive, especially for avid trail runners looking to test their limits.
Don Lock Memorial Run
The Don Lock Memorial Run took place on 25 June 2017 at the Villager’s Football Club. The Don Lock 8km has been around for over half a century, with it being run for the 60th time this year.
The 15km race is a relatively new event, this year was the fourth year it has been run. Stay tuned for more information about this year’s race!
- Distance: 15km, 8km
- Cost: TBA
- When: June (Dates TBC)
- Where: Villagers Rugby Club, Lansdowne Road, Claremont
- More Info: Don Lock Memorial Run website
The Beast Trail Run
The Beast caters especially towards seasoned, fit trail runners, offering entrants 50km of spectacular scenery within the Table Mountain National Park. This is without a doubt the toughest 50kms in South Africa, hence the name!
The race is also a UTMB qualifier!
- Distance: 50km
- Cost: R595
- When: 07:45 - 10 June 2018
- Where: The Newlands Picnic site
- More info: Website
Salomon Bastille Train Run
This is another one of those races that isn't for the faint-hearted or novice trail runner. Some would even go as far to say that is in in fact a wildrness adventure for which you NEED to be prepared!
This run sells out every year but numbers are limited so get on it ASAP! You are assured of a wild time, wet feet and sore legs.
The Bastille Festival in the Main Street is a vibrant mix of good food and wine, to celebrate with, after your run.
- Distance: 50km
- Cost: (Shirt incl) – R 895; (No shirt) – R 595
- When: 06:30 - 14 June 2018
- Where: 'Old Bells Lodge’ on the edge of the Berg River dam
- More info: Website
July
The start of the second half of the year will be greeted by some of the finest running events Cape Town has to offer. Take your pick.
Cape Town Festival of Running
With the mammoth ultra 100km race, the mini-ultra 50km race and the 5 x 5km relay race, there is something for everyone!
The Cape Town Festival of Running 2017 took place on the 22 and 23 July 2017. 2018 will be the 20th year of the event.
If you’re keen to test your limits in 2018, watch this space for updated race details.
- Distance: 100km, 50km, 21km and 5 x 5km relay
- Cost: TBA
- When: July (Dates TBC)
- Where: TBA
- More Info: Cape Town Festival of Running
Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon
The Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon is a highlight of South Africa’s running calendar. The route is truly scenic with most of the run taking place in the forest.
Whether you decide to complete the full (42km) or the half (21km) marathon, participants are guaranteed stunning views of the Knysna lagoon and Knysna Heads to motivate them as they head towards the finish line.
Last year’s event took place on Saturday, 15 July 2017. The Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon 2018 will take place on 7 July 2018. Stay tuned for more details!
- Distance: 42km, 21km
- Cost: TBA
- When: 7 July 2018
- Where: Knysna
- More Info: Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon website
Cape Winter Trail Series
The first race of the Cape Winter Trail Series takes place on the beautiful trails at Paul Cluver Wine Estate which are normally open only to mountain bikers. The route will take runners through a river valley scattered with wooden bridges and climbs revealing the stunning views of the Elgin Valley.
The second race is set to be the toughest route in the Series. Runners will head to the top of the Tygerberg Nature Reserve by way of a gradual climb from the start. Expect magnificent views of Table Mountain before descending steeply to the finish. This event will start from the Platteklip side of Tygerberg Nature Reserve.
The third race will see runners climbing steps and running over large boulders at Paarl Rock to the summit of Paarl Mountain before descending their way to the finish.
The final race of the Series combines the mountains and stunning views of the ocean. Runners will take a rocky single track along the shore which leads into an intense climb up the mountain and a technical descent to the finish line. This is definitely the most technical of the four.
- Distance: Solo (43km), split up (5-9km Challenge, 10-16km Championship, +20km XL)
- Cost: Short course - R110, Long course - R140, All 4 races: Short - R400, Long - R600
- When: 23 July 2017 (1/4), 30 July (2/4), 6 Aug (3/4), 12 Aug (4/4)
- Where: Paul Cluver Estate (1/4), Tygerberg Nature Reserve (2/4), Taal Monument & Paarl mountain (3/4), Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve (4/4)
- More Info: Cape Winter Trail Series
Hout Bay Trail Challenge
The Hout Bay Trail Challenge is one of the toughest trail runs South Africa has to offer. Prepare to have your endurance, fitness, strength and technique tested right up until the finish line.
Enter individually or as a team of three with each member doing one leg. The route circumnavigates the mountains around Hout Bay. The trail is roughly 40km with an excess of 2500m climbing. This trail demands to be taken seriously.
There are only 250 entries available for the race. If you are unsuccessful entering the 2017 event you can put your name on the waiting list.
- Distance: +- 40km (can be divided into 3 sections)
- Cost: TBC
- When: Saturday, 28 July 2018
- Where: Hout Bay
- More Info: Hout Bay Trail Challenge website
The Featherbed Trail Run
The Featherbed Trail Run forms part of the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival.
It was nicknamed the “Phoenix Run 2017” in light of the devastating fires which ravaged the Eden region, causing many inhabitants of Knysna to lose their homes and belongings.
There are three runs to choose from on the day. The recently added Great White (21km), the Coelacanth (15km) and the Seahorse (11km).
- Distance: Great White (21km), Coelacanth (15km), Seahorse Trail Run (11km)
- Cost: TBA
- When: July (Dates TBC)
- Where: Start - Buffalo Bay Main Beach, Finish - Cruise Cafe, Knysna
- More Info: Website
August
From fun runs to intense trail races, August is looking pretty good! Take a look at what's on the cards.
Totalsports Women’s Day 10km
The Totalsports Women’s Race aims to raise awareness around the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
In celebration of National Women’s Day this August, push your limits against top runners or set your own pace and show everyone what can be achieved through sheer determination.
Choose between the 10km or 5km races and join other South African women in raising awareness around breast cancer. Entries include an exclusive NIKE t-shirt to all entrants, a finisher’s bracelet and a timing chip.
- Distance: 10km
- Cost: R120 - licensed runner, R150 - unlicensed runner
- When: 9 August 2018
- Where: Cape Town, Grand Parade
- More Info: Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town
McKenna & Scott Pinelands Athletics Club Race
The McKenna & Scott Pinelands 10km takes places around the first weekend of August every year.
The route is flat and meanders through the streets of Pinelands and the surrounding areas. It is the ideal race to push for a personal best. Walkers are welcome to join but there is a time limit of 1.5 hours.
- Distance: 10km, 5km
- Cost: R50 (licensed) / R80 (unlicensed), R25
- When: August (Dates TBC)
- Where: Lower oval (off Forest Drive)
- More Info: Website
Merrell Whale of the Trail
One day a year South Africa’s iconic 5 day Whale Trail hiking route offers runners the challenge to tackle the 53km trail with its 1900m elevation.
Expect endless breathtaking views, technical rocky ridges, mountain fynbos and sandy stretches of beach. Please note that no deviations from the hiking trail will be allowed. There will be two water tables and various checkpoints on the route.
Entry includes:
- Permit and unique opportunity to run this trail
- CapeNature fee for De Hoop Reserve and the trail
- Paramedic support with 4×4 vehicles (excludes helicopter evacuation, or any hospitalization transport, which will be at the athlete’s cost)
- Tog bag
- Transfers to and from race venue to start and finish points
- Water tables with food on the route
- Friday night briefing dinner
- Saturday night prize giving dinner
- Meal at finish
- Complimentary leg massage at finish
- Finisher’s medal
- Distance: 53km
- Cost: R3200
- When: 18 August, 2018
- Where: Potberg Nature Reserve to Koppie Alleen in De Hoop Nature Reserve
- More Info: Merrell Whale of the Trail
Blisters for Bread
The PSFA is hosting their 50th annual Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk. The entry cost for this fundraising event will help feed 20 underprivileged hungry school children for an entire day.
The event will start at Green Point Cricket Club and consists of two routes which follow the Sea Point Promenade, a 5km and 10km walk. All entrants will receive a medal.
X Factor winners FOUR will be there to bring the walkers home as they cross the finish line at Green Point Cricket Stadium. Stalls will be selling food and refreshments on the day.
Race entries are limited to 13 000 participants. There will be navy blue t-shirts on sale for R80 for walkers.
- Distance: 10km, 5km
- Cost: TBC
- When: August 2017 (Date TBC)
- Where: Greenpoint Cricket Club
- More Info: Blisters for Bread
September
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and shack off that winter cold. Take your pick of running events happening around Cape Town this September.
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
The first Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was run in 2007 with a small group of competitors. It has since grown into a prestigious event attracting running enthusiasts ranging from running elites to social runners.
The route offers the chance to take in the spectacular natural beauty of Cape Town’s mountains and sea as well as the city’s other superb attractions.
The 42.2km route is wheelchair-friendly, with the 6.5 hour cut-off time accommodating the social runner. The marathon sees 10 000 runners pushing their limits.
- Distance: 42.2km (marathon) and 10km peace run/walk
- Cost: R255 (licensed) / R320 (unlicensed)
- When: 23 September 2018
- Where: V&A Waterfront
- More Info: Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Table Mountain Challenge
The Table Mountain Challenge is one of the most popular and sought after races on the trail running calendar.
Choose between doing the full 43km solo or being a part of a duo. There are different categories you can enter which will affect the distance and price of your race.
Running categories:
- Solo: 44km – R595
- Lite: Leg 2 (22km) – R395
- Duo Team (2) – R790
- Athlete 1: Leg 1 (21km)
- Athlete 2: Leg 2 (22km)
Don’t be fooled by the fact the racing ground neighbours the city of Cape Town. There is a list of compulsory equipment needed by all runners in order to take part in the race. Please make sure you have all of the equipment otherwise you will not be allowed to race.
Compulsory equipment:
- Water – Carry at least 1.5L
- Food – Energy Bar/ Sandwich/ Banana.
- Fully charged cellphone (072 924 2371 – emergencies only)
- Windbreaker is compulsory. Waterproof jacket is compulsory if rain is expected. NO EXCUSES!
- Space Blanket
- Distance: 21km - 55km (depends on category)
- Cost: R395 - R790 (depends on category)
- When: 2 September 2018
- Where: Jan van Riebeek Sports Field, De Hoop Avenue, Cape Town
- More Info: Table Mountain Challenge
Merrell Spring Night Run Series
Expect the same and more from the Merrell Spring Night Run Series 2018. The dates for the three runs are: 8, 12 and 19 September 2018. Entries will open in May so stay tuned for more race details.
The entry includes a complimentary bottle of Groot Constantia Wine at the finish. Entries are limited to 300 entries per night.
- Distance: 3 run series (8km, 5.5km)
- Cost: TBC
- When: 8, 12, 19 September 2018
- Where: Jonkershuis Restaurant, Groot Constantia, Cape Town
- More Info: Merrell Night Run Series website
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Peace Trail Run
The 22km and 12km Peace Trail Runs combine the sights of Cape Town’s vibrant urban environment with the superb surrounding natural beauty of the trails of Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.
Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from Lion’s Head before descending to the finish at Green Point Stadium.
Entries for the 22km and 12km Peace Trail Runs have closed except for voucher entries.
- Distance: 22km, 12km
- Cost: R485, R295 (includes entry to SANParks)
- When: Saturday, 22 September 2018
- Where: Green Point
- More Info: Website
La Capra Goat Fun 5km
Taking place on the scenic Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate, the La Capra Goat Run offers routes of 5km, 8km, 15km and 28km. The 5km run is suitable for the less serious runner and walkers.
The route welcomes moms and prams but dogs are not allowed to join. This year’s event will benefit Boland Autism, Sunfield Home, Paarl Hospice and Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.
- Distance: 5km
- Cost: TBC
- When: September (Date TBC)
- Where: Fairview Wine and Cheese, Paarl, Western Cape
- More Info: Website
La Capra Goat Run
The 8km, 15km and 28km La Capra Goat Run routes negotiate the slopes and top regions of Paarl Mountain, with rewarding views guaranteed.
The 28km caters for the serious and fast runner. Only 100 entries are available for the 28km race. The 15km and 8km events are limited to 750 runners in total.
This year’s event will benefit Boland Autism, Sunfield Home, Paarl Hospice and Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.
- Distance: 8km, 15km & 28km
- Cost: TBC
- When: September (Dates TBC)
- Where: Fairview Wine and Cheese, Paarl, Western Cape
- More Info: Website
October
October is a firm favourite on the annual running calendar! Take a look at the events below to see what all the fuss is about.
12th Annual Capegate Clicks Charity Run
This event usually welcomes in the long summer days after a long cold Cape Town winter. And with the warmer mornings and longer days, we see more and more runners, walkers and strollers out and about enjoying the sun.
Unleash your outdoor spirit with friends and family in October at the 13th Annual Capegate Clicks Charity Run in aid of The Clicks Helping Hand Trust. With a 5km, 10km and newly added 21km, there really is no excuse to miss this one.
Join over 3,000 runners and walkers for a fun morning for a great cause. Pets, prams and large groups are welcome to enter the 5km fun run and walkers are also invited to complete the 10km event.
Goodie bags and medals will be given to the first 3,000 people to cross the finish line, and for those wanting to really stand out from the crowd, prizes for Best Dressed will also be on offer!
- Distance: 5km, 10km, 21km
- Cost: TBC
- When: October (Dates TBC)
- Where: Capegate Shopping Centre, Cape Town
- More Info: Website
The Cederberg Traverse
You will run, stumble and crawl through all the iconic Cederberg highlights and visit remote valleys and kloofs that few have ever seen.
You need to be able to look after yourself – Bear Grylls gnawing on scorpions!The 100km non-stop Traverse! Cape Nature have confirmed that a significant portion of trails along the Cederberg route remains closed.
Cape Nature have confirmed that a significant portion of trails along the Cederberg route remains closed. Wolfberg to Crystal Pools is not available.
The price of an entry ticket includes:
- Camping at Sanddrif
- Sunday brunch feast
- Nature conservation fees
- Race Garments
- Race Buff
- Race snacks and water at CP, Sneeuberg Hut.
- Distance:100km (30hours to complete) 44km (14hours to complete)
- Cost: TBC
- When: 13 October 2018, 100km - 5am, 44km - 6pm
- Where: Cederberg (from Algeria to Sandrift via Sneeuberg Hut)
- More Info: The Cederberg Traverse
The Otter African Trail
The Otter Trail is one of South Africa’s most popular and beautiful trails.
It is a 5 day hiking trail that follows the pristine coast along the Garden Route between Storms River and Natures Valley.
Once a year Magnetic South hosts a race worthy of a spot on your bucket list where South Africa’s running elite and a few international competitors race the 42km technically challenging route. This race is definitely something to aspire to doing and is split into two events.
The Otter Run, which has an 8 hour cut-off, and the Otter Challenge which has a cut-off of 11 hours. There are 3 cut off points en route where participants failing to arrive on time will be removed from the course.
- Distance: 42km
- Cost: R4600 - Otter Challenge, R4900 - Otter Run
- When: 17 & 18 October - Otter Challenge, 19 & 20 October - Otter Run
- Where: The Otter Trail, Garden Route
- More Info: The Otter African Trail website
The Dassie and RockRat
Meet the shorter, faster but still technical and tough, 10km Dassie and 6km Dassie RockRat trails.
Run through riverbeds, up steep climbs and over pebbles, rocks and roots. It'll prove to be worth every step as you race your way through pristine indigenous forests and past stunning views of the ocean and river mouth.
This run is perfect if you're not quite ready for the Otter, if you didn't manage to get an Otter entry or you just love the trails!
- Distance: Dassie 10km, RockRat 6km
- Cost: Dassie - R220, RockRat - R180
- When: 20 October 2018
- Where: Natures Valley
- More info: The Otter African Trail website
OUTsurance KFM Gun Run
The OUTsurance KFM Gun Run 2018 is back for their 26th year. We advise that you secure your entry early so you don’t miss out!
There are also 21.1km and 10km routes if you’re looking to push your yourself.
The 5km start is 500m further along Beach Road than the start for the 21km and 10km.
- Distance: 5km, 10km, 21km
- Cost: TBC
- When: October (Date TBC)
- Where: Beach Road, Mouille Point
- More Info: Website
November
As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to complete those resolutions to you back in January - go on, do a Three Peaks Challenge why don't you?
Three Peaks Challenge
The Three Peaks Challenge is a popular run so there is a long waiting list for entries. The run is limited to 150 people.
The challenge, first completed in 1897, starts from 108 Long Street with runners ascending Devil’s Peak, Table Mountain (via Platteklip to Maclear’s Beacon) and Lion’s Head. Runners need to return to Greenmarket Square after each peak.
- Distance: +- 50km
- Cost: TBC
- When: 3 November 2018
- Where: 108 Long Street, Cape Town
- More Info: Three Peaks Challenge website
Color Run Cape Town
Founded in 2011, the Color Run is the world’s first 5km colour run. Since its inception it has become one of the world’s largest running series. This year sees The Superhero Tour well on its way!
Your ticket gets you:
- Retro 80s headband
- 2017 Superhero Tour official runners t-shirt
- R150 coupon for Takealot.com
- Bag of colour powder
- Temporary happy tattoo x 2
- Entry to the Finish Festival
Due to an issue with date confirmation, the organisers are awaiting for a new date from the Cape Town City Council. We recommend you sign up as a VIP in order to get all the info first.
- Distance: 5km
- Cost: TBA
- When: November (Dates TBC)
- Where: TBA
- More Info: Color Run Cape Town website
December
We're on the look out for big running events taking place in December 2018. So stay tuned if you're looking to make this festive season an active one!
Other Popular Event Resources
Dirtopia
Dirtopia is an outdoor, off-road event & trail construction company. The HQ is based at Dirtopia Trail Centre on Delvera farm 10km from Stellenbosch where we sell permits for the marked trails. They host regular events around Cape Town - some of the best if you ask us.
Take a look at their events here: Website
Wildrunner
Wildrunner is a specialist in trail running sports management & marketing, with particular strengths in wilderness event operations. They strive to be the best at what we do whilst maintaining fair, consistent and honest communications along every step of the way.
Take a look at the events listed here: Website
Parkrun Cape Town
Parkruns are free weekly timed 5km events. They are a great way to help you train and beat your personal best. There are no prizes, it’s just you against the clock.
Here are some parkrun locations:
- Greenpoint parkrun page
- Constantia Greenbelt parkrun page
- Century City parkrun page
- Bellville parkrun page
- Big Bay parkrun page
- Rondebosch Common parkrun page
- Stellenbosch parkrun page
- Franschhoek parkrun page
- Somerset West parkrun page
- Fish Hoek parkrun page
- Durbanville parkrun page
There are many more locations. If you're looking for a parkrun in your area. Have a look at their website.
Cape Town is a haven of awesome routes to run. Whether you’re novice or a trail beaten pro, a road runner or an avid trail lover, enter one of the races near you and join in the community spirit as you encourage, push and race your way to the finish line.
Our vision at Vibescout is to provide the most relevant, current, and comprehensive information.
If you feel we've missed something amazing or have any suggestions regarding our system, we would love to hear from you! Contact: info (at) vibescout.com