11 July 2026 · Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve · 1 100m altitude
The Milky Way Marathon 2026
We are heading to Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve for this year’s Milky Way Marathon. At an altitude of around 1 100m, 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 see the beautiful constellations, stars and galaxies of the southern hemisphere — and marvel at the Milky Way spanning overhead.
Both the start and finish take place at Drie Kuilen, with routes showcasing the vast, rugged landscapes of the reserve — a mix of jeep track and flowing singletrack designed to immerse you fully in this remote Karoo wilderness.
The Experience
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. Approximately 10km will be run in the dark as the sky comes alive above you.
There will be a “Dark Zone” — a fairy-lit stretch where you switch off your headlamp, slow down, and run guided only by the stars.
Enter NowDistances & Prices
Choose Your Distance
Rugged jeep track and flowing singletrack through the Karoo wilderness — finishing under a blanket of stars.
The perfect entry into night trail running — sunset views, star-filled skies, and a welcoming fire at the finish.
Everything you need to know
Race Info
Walkers are welcome on the 21km route. We’ll help with your recommended start time closer to the event.
bookings@driekuilen.co.za | +27 71 388 6735
Also nearby: Huizen cabins and Gecko Rock.
Rain jacket with hood · Beanie · Gloves
Fleece / warm top · Space blanket
Whistle · Water / hydration pack · Charged phone
Recommended: Hiking poles. When the sun sets at Drie Kuilen, it is cold.
Around 10km will be run in complete darkness — headlamps on, sky alive above you. Then the Dark Zone: headlamps off, fairy lights, stars only.
🍷 Wine · ☕ Hot chocolate
Meal options available closer to the event for those staying for a post-race dinner.
Entries close noon on Friday, 26 June 2026. No substitutions after entries close.
42km Route
21km Route