The ultimate challenge through the heart of the Swartberg Mountains, featuring technical climbs, jeep tracks, and breathtaking single track sections including the famous Donkey Trail and The Ladder descent.
05:00
2,983m+
16 hours (21:00)
3
Bosch Luys Kloof Lodge
Groenfontein Retreat
Swartberg Mountains, Klein Karoo, South Africa
The ultimate challenge through the heart of the Swartberg Mountains, featuring technical climbs, jeep tracks, and breathtaking single track sections including the famous Donkey Trail and The Ladder descent.
Start line
Gamkaskloof
Gamkaskloof Valley floor
Donkey Trail Camp
Groenfontein Retreat
All 73km participants must complete mandatory gear check during registration (23-24 April).Missing any mandatory item will result in race disqualification. No gear check is available on race day.
Pre-race breakfast provided at Bosch Luys Kloof Lodge with energy-rich options and a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Premium technical race t-shirt with unique 73km Ultra design
Comprehensive nutrition and hydration at 3 well-stocked aid stations
Exclusive ultra runner goodie bag with local Klein Karoo products
Finisher prize
Traditional Klein Karoo feast with local wines and live entertainment
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.
High clearance vehicles are essential for anyone making their own arrangements to Bosch Luys Kloof. Lodge Bosch Luys Kloof Lodge is about 60km from Calitzdorp. Groenfontein Retreat is 15km from Calitzdorp.
Plan ahead to avoid delays and ensure safe travel to the start line.
Entrants can stay at Bosch Luys Kloof Lodge before the race so they are at the start line. This is the most convenient option for 73km participants, eliminating the need for early morning shuttle transport.
Shuttle back to Bosch Luys Kloof Participants needing a shuttle back to Bosch Luys Kloof please indicate during checkout.
Important: Shuttles need to be booked during entry. Ensure timely arrival at designated departure points for a smooth start.
Coordination: All transportation from Calitzdorp to Bosch Luys Kloof will be via shuttles. Departure point will be communicated closer to the time.
Participants may leave a finish line drop bag at Bosch Luys Kloof Lodge, which will be transported to the Groenfontein Retreat (finish area).
Please ensure any drop bags for Fonteinplaas aid station in Gamkaskloof is dropped during registration
Planning Tip: Plan your drop bag strategy in advance. Consider nutrition, weather changes, and gear needs for the remote Die Hel section.
Early Bird
Until 31 October 2025
Regular
1 November - 25 March 2026
Note: Gear check is mandatory
Join the inaugural 73km Black Mountain Ultra and become part of trail running history in one of South Africa's most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage landscapes.
Enter NowLimited spots available • Early bird pricing ends 31 October 2025