Organiser
Ossewa Trail
WELCOME TO OUR TWO-DAY TRAIL RUNNING EVENT, CRAFTED WITH PASSION AND FUELLED BY ADVENTURE!
Centrally located between Durban and Joburg is a special spot named Buffalo Hills Private Game Reserve, and this is where you will find Ossewa trail.
Imagine spending a fun weekend away here, not just chilling, but running up some very scenic trails: A mini adventure getaway where you can push your limits during the day and kick back and relax with friends and family in the evening.
Ossewa trail creates an environment where runners of all levels feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to push their boundaries. From spirited race-day festivities to post-run celebrations filled with laughter and stories, our event is as much about the journey as it is about the finish line.
So, whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or a novice eager to embrace adventure, join us as we take on an epic two-day journey through nature’s playground. Together, let’s make memories, conquer trails, and celebrate the joy of running in its purest form!
Trust us, it’s the kind of weekend that leaves you with a grin from ear to ear!
ENTRIES
We have the following options available:
1. Full Package = R 3500.00
Includes: Run + Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment
2. Partner Package = R 3350.00 (per person)
Includes: Run + Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment
3. Outside Stay/Campervan = R 3020.00
Includes: Run + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment
4. Partner Package Glamping = R 6500.00 (per person)
Includes: Run + Glamping Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment
5. Supporter Package = R 2800.00
Includes: All Meals + Tent + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Live Entertainment *DOES NOT INCLUDE RUN* - BOOK VIA OSSEWA WEBSITE
DETAILS:
Scenic Trails: Well established trail running routes with breathtaking views of the Kerkenberg mountains and surrounds. Enjoy sharing the space with Eland herds, roaming free at the top of the historic mountain range.
Tents: We will set up tents with mattresses (2.1m x 2.1m). You are welcome to share tents should you wish (only full/partner/supporter packages).
Glamping: Each 5m Luxurious Glamping Tent includes: 2x single beds, 2x fitted sheet, 2x duvet cover, 2x mattresses, 2x pillows, 2x floor mats, 2x scatter cushions, 2x towels, 1x floor rug, 2x throws, 2x bedside tables, 2x lights, 1x storage chest, 1x coat hanger, 1x power bank, 2x chairs.
All Meals: Your package includes all meals from supper on Friday to lunch on Sunday. Remember to bring cash for the bar!
Water Points: We will have several water points set up along the running trails. They will be stocked with water and healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Showers & Toilets: We offers warm showers and flushing toilets.
Medics: We will have medics on-site for the duration of the event.
Game Drives: Enjoy beautiful game drives through our private game reserve and spot some of our magnificent wildlife, including Buffalo, Roan’s, and Waterbuck.
History Talk: Our Saturday evening history talk offers an exciting journey through time, where stories come to life and the echoes of bygone eras resonate. Enjoy sundowners while listening to the tales of the past.
Race Village: Our festive village has a bar, food stalls, live entertainment, chill zone, and charging stations.
PLEASE NOTE: Please don’t forget to bring your own towel, pillow, and a warm sleeping bag. Evenings get very cold! Warm clothing and bedding is essential!
REGISTRATION
Registration will be held at Buffalo Hills Private Game Reserve.
Registration will be on Friday, 11th April 2025 from 15:00 until 20:00.
Dinner will be available to all runners after registration.
If you are coming up early on Saturday morning, you can then register at 6:00am.
TRAIL ROUTES
This trail run is unlike anything you've ever experienced. Making your way up an insane ascent that's testing every ounce of your endurance, when you reach the summit, you're not just greeted by breath taking views. You are also sharing the space with Eland herds, roaming free at the top of the historic Kerkenberg mountain. You can almost hear the echoes of the Voortrekkers' footsteps as they trekked for miles with their "Ossewaens," carving out a path through this rugged terrain. And it's not just about the trekboers either – there's a whole other layer to this landscape. Traces of the bushmen, seeking shelter among the ancient sandstone rocks, whispering tales of their lives in the wild. And when you finally reach that summit, gazing out over the vast grasslands below, you can't help but feel like you're a part of something truly extraordinary.
Day One | Distance: 21km / 12km
Starting from the race village on the polo field! You'll kick things off by running on the gravel road, giving everyone a chance to spread out before hitting the tough Kerkenberg climb. Then it's all about navigating around the escarpment, checking out those cool waterfalls, and being extra careful on those steep downhill stretches where you might spot some ancient Bushman paintings. It's all about the thrill of the downhill single tracks from the waterfall weaving through the lush Ouhout forests, you'll pop out at the Boat House. It's going to be filled with awesome views and memorable moments!
Day Two | Distance: 15km
Day 2 of the trail running event kicks off as runners depart from the polo field along a district road, providing an opportunity for runners to establish their dominance before entering the Buffalo Camp. Participants will make way through diverse landscapes, ascending the mountains towards the plateau. The ascent promises breathtaking views and a test of endurance as runners push themselves to reach the summit. From the plateau, it's time to unleash speed and agility as runners run the single track, descending towards the finish line. Day 2 offers a perfect ending to what promises to be a wonderful weekend, leaving participants with unforgettable memories of their journey through the wilderness.
Please support the Winterton Educational Development Fund with a R55 donation.
More information: www.ossewatrail.co.za
This event supports team entries for certain classes, but teams must consist of 2 participants per team.
Classes and pricing
Available classes for the event
| Class | Distance | Price (pp) | 2 person team (pp) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ossewa Trail 2025 | Outside Lodging/Campervan Package
This entry includes: Run + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment |
Day One: 21km/12km | Day Two: 15km | R 3,020.00 | - |
|
Ossewa Trail 2025 | Full Package
Entry includes: Run + Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment |
Day One: 21km/12km | Day Two: 15km | R 3,500.00 | - |
|
Ossewa Trail 2025 | Partner Package
This entry includes: Run + Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment |
Day One: 21km/12km | Day Two: 15km | - | R 3,350.00 |
|
Ossewa Trail 2025 | Partner Package Glamping
This entry includes: Run + Glamping Tent + All Meals + Medics + Game Drives + History Talk + Goodie Bag + Live Entertainment |
Day One: 21km/12km | Day Two: 15km | - | R 6,500.00 |
Event location
Buffalo Hills Private Game Reserve, Harrismith
| Coordinates | -28.4740269, 29.1424195 |
| Address | S796 Bezuidenhouts Pass Sterkfontein Dam District Harrismith, 9880, South Africa |
| City | Harrismith |
| Province | Free State |
Registration Number: 2015/141112/07