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43km Mountain Marathon

A challenging mountain marathon combining fast-flowing single track with technical terrain, perfect for experienced trail runners seeking the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.

80 spots available for the 43km Mountain Marathon - Register now!

Start Time

08:00

Elevation

1,916m+

Cut-off

10 hours (18:00)

ITRA Points

2

Start

Gamkaskloof

Finish

Groenfontein Retreat

Start Venue Details

Gamkaskloof (Cape Nature Info Centre)

Gamkaskloof Valley, Swartberg Mountains, Klein Karoo

Start Time: 08:00
Expected Temperature: 8-12°C

Important Information

  • • Shuttles operates from Calitzdorp from 03:30 AM on 25th April
  • • Shuttles must be booked during entry
  • • Drive times Calitzdorp: 3.5hrs, Oudtshoorn: 2.5hrs, Prins Albert: 2hrs
  • • High clearance vehicle required for self-drive
  • • Light breakfast provided at the start line
  • • Finish line bag drop possible

Route Information

Powered by Trace de Trail

Route Description

A challenging mountain marathon combining fast-flowing single track with technical terrain, perfect for experienced trail runners seeking the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.

Terrain Breakdown

Single track trails50%
Jeep track36%
Technical rocky sections14%

Key Highlights

Single track paradise
Mountain vistas
Gamkaskloof "Die Hel"
Donkey Trail Descent

Technical Sections - Extra Caution Required

Donkey Trail technical sections
Mountain ridge running
Rocky valley crossings
Loose rocks and erosion

Aid Stations & Support

Gamkaskloof Start

0km

Cape Nature Info Center

WaterElectrolytesEnergy snacksMedical SupportGear CheckToilets

Fonteinplaas

7.4km

Camkaskloof Valley Floor

WaterElectrolytesHot FoodEnergy SnacksMedical SupportShelterToiletsTransport

Donkey Trail Camp

22km

Swartberg Mountains

WaterElectrolytesEnergy SnacksMedical support

Groenfontein Finish

43km

Groenfontein Retreat

Full mealMedical supportCelebration areaMassageShowersDrinksDrop bag collection

Mandatory Gear Requirements

Critical Safety Requirement

All 43km participants must complete mandatory gear check during registration (23-24 April).Missing any mandatory item will result in race disqualification. Limited gear check is available on race day..

Safety Equipment

  • Emergency whistle
  • Space blanket/emergency bivvy
  • Headlamp + spare batteries
  • Mobile phone (emergency contact programmed)
  • Personal first aid kit

Hydration & Nutrition

  • Minimum 1.5L water capacity
  • Electrolyte replacement capability
  • Emergency food (energy bars/gels)

Weather Protection

  • Windproof jacket
  • Thermal layer
  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Buff or beanie

Gear Check Process

  • Bring all mandatory gear to registration
  • Officials will verify each item individually
  • Items must be in working condition

Important Notes

  • Test all electronic equipment before race day
  • Carry spare batteries for headlamp
  • Weather protection must be suitable for mountain conditions
  • Emergency contact must be programmed in mobile phone

What's Included in Your Entry

Race Day Essentials

Breakfast

Light pre-race breakfast with coffee and energy options at the start line.

Technical T-Shirt

Premium technical race t-shirt with 43km Mountain Marathon design

Aid Station Support

Well-stocked nutrition and hydration at 2 strategic aid stations

Finish Line Experience

Goodie Bag

Runner goodie bag with local and sponsored products

Finisher's Prize

finisher prize

Celebration Meal

Traditional Klein Karoo feast with local wines and live entertainment

Key Information for 43km Mountain Marathon

Race Base Location

The main race base for all weekend activities is Groenfontein Retreat. This is where you'll find race headquarters, finish line celebrations, and the main hub for all race activities. Please familiarise yourself with your start and finish location.

IMPORTANT SELF Drive requirements

High clearance vehicles are essential for anyone making their own arrangements to and from Gamkaskloof. Add an additional 30minutes to Google map times.

Plan ahead to avoid delays and ensure safe travel to the start line or finish line.

Accommodation & Pre-Race Stay

Recommended Accommodation

For the 43km Mountain Marathon, we recommend staying at Fonteinplaas or the self catering options available at Boplaas. Both locations are in close proximity to the start. Shuttle services can be offered back to Gamkaskloof or luggage can be driven to the finish line.

Fonteinplaas

Historic farm accommodation near Gamkaskloof start area with traditional Karoo hospitality.

  • • 7.4km from start area
  • • Traditional farm experience
  • • Camping available

Boplaas - Boplaas Cottages - Die Hel Middelande

Self-catering accommodation close to The Ladder and to the 43km start line. Organisers can assist with the arrangement of meals if required.

  • • Self Catering Accommodation
  • • 3.8km from 43km start
  • • True Gamkaskloof experience

Groenfontein Retreat

Race headquarters and finish line location with mountain lodge atmosphere.

  • • Race headquarters location
  • • Finish line celebrations
  • • Post-race amenities

Booking Information

  • Contact accommodation partners as specified
  • Mention "Black Mountain Ultra" when booking
  • Book early - limited availability for race weekend

Please note that shuttle to start and shuttle back to Gamkaskloof need to be specified during registration.

Transport to the Race Start

Shuttle Service from Calitzdorp

Shuttle Schedule

  • Departure: 03:30 AM from Groenfontein Retreat and Calitzdorp
  • Journey time: Approximately 3.5 hours
  • Destination: Gamkaskloof (Cape Nature Info Center)

Recommended: Shuttle transport is available for 43km participants due to the remote start location and early morning departure time.

Self-Drive Requirements

Vehicle Requirements

  • Remote mountain location with limited access
  • Early morning departure required
  • Return transport to vehicle must be arranged

Return Shuttle: Return Shuttle: If driving to the start, you can book a return shuttle back to Gamkaskloof please specify during entry.

Drop Bags & Logistics

Finish Line Drop Bags

Participants may leave a finish line drop bag at Gamkaskloof start area, which will be transported to the Groenfontein Retreat (finish area).

  • Drop bag at start line before race
  • Transported to Groenfontein Retreat finish area
  • Available for collection at finish line
  • Perfect for post-race clothing and gear

Plan your race

Familiarise yourself with aid stations and route profiles to plan your strategy.

  • Comprehensive aid station support provided
  • Manageable distance for carrying personal nutrition
  • Focus on race strategy and pacing

Nutrition Strategy: Plan your nutrition strategy around the aid stations. Carry personal nutrition preferences and emergency supplies as needed.

Entry Fees & Additional Costs

Entry Fees

Early Bird

Until 31 October 2025

R2,200

Regular

1 November - 25 March 2026

R2,600

Additional Charges

Shuttle Transport to startR350
Shuttle back to GamkaskloofR350

Note: Shuttle transport must be specified on entry

Perfect Mountain Marathon Challenge

Experience the ideal balance of challenge and enjoyment with the 43km Mountain Marathon through the spectacular Swartberg Mountains.

Enter Now

Limited spots available • Early bird pricing ends 31 October 2025