Welcome to the Lüneburg Trail Run – Conquer Ncaga Mountain or Cruise the Countryside!

Nestled in the scenic heart of northern KwaZulu-Natal, the Lüneburg Trail Run is more than just a race—it's an experience that blends rugged adventure with family-friendly fun. Whether you're pushing personal limits or just out for a good time in nature, this event has something for everyone.

For the elite and adventurous, prepare to take on the mighty Ncaga Mountain. Our advanced routes are designed to challenge even the fittest runners, with steep ascents, technical singletrack, rocky ridgelines, and fast, demanding descents. The trail up Ncaga isn't for the faint-hearted—it rewards strength, grit, and trail-running skill.

But trail running in Lüneburg is for all ages and abilities. Our fun run offers a gentler route through rolling hills, forest paths, and open farmland. It's the perfect way for beginners, casual runners, and children to enjoy the day, soak in the scenery, and experience the thrill of the trail at their own pace.

So whether you're here to race hard or make memories, the Lüneburg Trail Run invites you to join a day of challenge, camaraderie, and natural beauty in one of KZN's most picturesque trail-running destinations.

Lüneburg Trailrun 2025 – Route Descriptions

All the races start and finish at the race village, the Lüneburg church.

LBT 65

COMPULSORY GEAR & GEAR CHECK (TIME PENALTY for MISSING GEAR)

ABOUT LBT 65

This is a very technical race and consists of cattle trails, rough terrain and some 4x4 tracks or farm roads, with amazing views from start to finish. The first 4 km is a steep climb to the Ncaga mountaintop, where there will be a weather safety check in case of mist. If the weather permits, you will see the iconic Pongola bush on the other side of the Ncaga ridge. From this point, enjoy the next 16 km of rolling hills on jeep track, with minimal elevation. The first checkpoint CP 1 – Koppie Alleen is on this plateau 9km into the race. This checkpoint will provide water, but not enough to refill your bladder and soft flasks.

CP 2 – Paardeplaas is 19 km into the race. Shortly afterward, you’ll cross the first water stream, followed by multiple others, where you can refill your bladder and soft flasks. After CP2, a 12 km climb follows, leading to the highest point of the race at 32 km - CP 3 – Mandlangampisi Towers, offering endless views in all directions. Be sure to fill up your bladder and soft flasks at the stream just before CP 3.

After the highest point, a typical “dragon’s back” descent begins: 8 km of very rocky, technical terrain. Tread cautiously. CP 4 – Skodini at 40 km offers water and a breathtaking view – it lives up to its name: a massive hole in the landscape. From here, follow a 5 km rolling farm road beneath the eMhlongamvula mountain. 

The next 10 km consist of cattle trails and jeep tracks leading to CP 5 – Fantastic Turbine, the last checkpoint. The final 3 km are on what was once a tar road, offering some easy running before you reach the finish line.

PACE CHART

LBT 23

ABOUT LBT 23

The first 4 km is a steep climb to the Ncaga mountaintop, where a weather safety check will be conducted in case of mist. If conditions allow, you’ll enjoy views of the iconic Pongola bush on the far side of the Ncaga ridge.

Your first checkpoint is at 9 km, with water available. From there, you’ll descend on a jeep track to almost the top of Koppie Alleen, marked by a large cross on top.

Continue along the jeep track. At 16 km, you’ll cross a stream with fresh water, ideal for refilling your soft flasks. After a 2 km incline, the descent begins toward the pothole road, which was once a tar road. The final 3 km offer smoother running up to the finish line.

LBT 8

ABOUT LBT 8

The Lüneburg 8km is for the beginner trail runner or hiker who wants to experience the beautiful scenery. The race starts with an ascent up the Ngaca Mountain, but does not go to the top.

LBT 4

ABOUT LBT 4

This is a short fun run for the kids or mommies with little ones. Enjoy the beautiful scenery without the elevation.