🌌 The Milky Way Marathon 2026

We are heading to Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve for this year's Milky Way Marathon on 11 July 2026. At an altitude of around 1100m, Drie Kuilen offers an extraordinary view of the night sky that is nearly free from light pollution. From this vantage point at 33°S latitude, you will be able to see the beautiful constellations, stars and galaxies of the southern hemisphere, and marvel at the Milky Way spanning overhead.

Unlike last year, both the start and finish will take place at Drie Kuilen, with routes showcasing the vast, rugged landscapes of the reserve. Expect a mix of jeep track and flowing singletrack, designed to immerse you fully in this remote Karoo wilderness.

🤔 Why this race?

In our rushed lives we just don't slow down enough to enjoy our surroundings. We are too busy for sunset drinks. We don't stop for a sunrise — segments, meetings, phone calls all chasing us to keep BUSY.

The Milky Way Marathon will slow you down. It will force you to turn off your headlamp and look UP at the night sky.

The race starts in the afternoon, so you'll run with the sun setting in the distance and finish under a blanket of stars… an experience you won't forget.

The run has a scattered start during the afternoon, once the sun has warmed the crisp Karoo air. Different groups set off depending on your estimated pace. The aim is for all runners to witness the sunset as you move through the mountains and valleys of Drie Kuilen, before transitioning into night running under the Milky Way. Approximately 10km will be run in the dark as the sky comes alive above you.

There will be a "Dark Zone" where you switch off your headlamp, follow glow sticks, and run guided only by the stars.

🏅 Included with entry:

• Medal
• Headwear

🏃 Race Details

Marathon (42km):
Scattered start from 13:00 to 15:00. Your start time is determined by your marathon pace — faster runners start last.

Half Marathon (21km):
Group start at 16:00. A later batch at 17:00 is available for faster runners who want to maximise time under the night sky.

The goal is to finish by 20:00 — if you're planning to take it easy, just start earlier.

⭐ What's the Scattered Start?

This is the best part of the race — you choose when you start. Cut-offs are not strict, as long as you start early enough. Walkers are welcome on the 21km route. We'll help with your recommended start time closer to the event, once you know your own fitness and pace.

🏕️ Accommodation

Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve — the primary option this year, with cottages and campsites available. Book now for a 10% discount:
📧 [email protected]  |  📞 +27 71 388 6735 (WhatsApp)

Huizen Cabins — for something more premium. Limited availability, so book early.

Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve — cabins and camping just down the road.

🎒 Compulsory Kit:

• Headlamp
• Rain jacket (with hood)
• Beanie or buff
• Gloves
• Fleece / warm top
• Space blanket
• Whistle
• Water / hydration pack
• Charged phone

❌ Not allowed: Strip headlamps — these have proven unreliable at night events.

💡 Recommended: Hiking poles (helpful on technical sections). Extra warm kit — when the sun sets, it's COLD. Come prepared.

🍷 Post-race meal options will be available for those staying for dinner.

⏰ Entries close at noon on Friday, 26 June 2026.
No substitutions or changes will be allowed after entries close.

More info: www.runventures.co.za