Mont-Aux Sources Ultra Trail 2026

The Mont-Aux Sources Ultra Trail is one of South Africa's oldest and most iconic mountain races. Over the past 34 years, Monties has given runners the opportunity to challenge and immerse themselves in what is considered the crown jewel of the Drakensberg - Royal Natal National Park and the Amphitheatre. The race offers both a 50km and 20km option inviting a wide range of runners to this incredible place. 50km: The 50km route is both a challenging and rewarding one for runners. Starting at the race village in Mahai campsite, the route takes the runners up through the Mahai valley to Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge. From there they head along technical jeep track to Sentinel car park. A mix of paved and rugged single track guides them towards the memorable chain ladders and then onto the escarpment. The route then heads to the top of Tugela Falls, down the gully and then rejoins the original route which takes runners back down to the finish line and race village. 20KM: The 20km route which was run for the first time in 2023, is a beautiful contouring route which in its own right encompasses the nature of the Drakensberg Valley in all its beauty. One will truly feel like they are a part of the Drakensberg mountains without having to endure the gruelling climb. Runners leave Mahai and navigate the existing trails which will take them past the base of Tugela Falls, Gudu Bush, Sunday Falls, Fairy Glen and back around to Mahai. Prologue Going into it's second year, the Mont-Aux Sources Ultra Trail prologue is a short sharp 6km, short and sharp circular route which will take runners from Mahai Campsite through the first 4km of the race route. The final 2km will have you running down the Mahai Valley through the wooden paths along the river and back into the Mahai Campsite, giving our runners a quick taste of what lies ahead on race day. While this prologue is not intended for seeding purposes, our intention is to give our participants the opportunity to shakeout their legs after the long travel as well as give them a chance to witness the spectacular sunset against the Drakensberg skies. Spectators are also invited (for a small fee) to take part in the prologue to enjoy the beautiful trails surrounding the race village and to take notes of spectator points for the main races on Saturday.