Ghost Miles | 18 Days | 817km
Fri, 6th Nov
Cape Town
Race Information
From the border of the Namibia to the edge of Cape Town, the route carves through coastline, dust, and everything in between.
(-33.8194491, 18.4865663)
THE MOST INSANE RUN YOU WILL EVER DO
ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE - 7 LEFT
From the border of Namibia to the edge of Cape Town. This isn’t just about the distance. It’s about everything that happens in between. The moments when you question why you’re still going, but you do anyway.
There’s a reason we call them "Ghost Miles".
They’re the ones that live in the space between what you thought you could handle and what you actually can.
They aren’t just physical - they’re the miles you run in your mind. They don’t show up on a watch or in your stats. They happen in the silence. The miles no one else sees. The ones that break you, rebuild you, and make you realize you’re capable of so much more than you thought.
This is an open call. Not everyone is meant for this. But if you’ve got that drive to run headfirst into something bigger than yourself, then this is your invitation.
This isn’t for the people looking for comfort. This is for the ones who know that when you step into the unknown, the only way out is through.
_____________________________________________________________________
THE LOGISTICS
Alright, brace yourself - it’s R47,000.
But trust us, this covers basically EVERYTHING, and it’s a total steal compared to trying to organize this whole adventure yourself. We’ve got you covered from start to finish, making this epic run as accessible as possible. Plus, you can break it down into easy monthly payments, so it’s all within reach. Don’t let the price hold you back - everything you need is right below
What's Included?
Transport from Derdesteen Beach Bloubergstrand to Alexander Bay Border Post Start Point in 4x4
1 Night Guest House Accommodation the day before the run starts
All Accommodation During the Run (10 Nights Camping | 7 Nights Guest Houses & Chalets)
Camping/Trekking Mattress & Pillow + a Tent that you can keep afterwards (Score?)
All Food / Nutrition / Water / Hydration – We’ve got every bite and sip covered, fueling you for every mile
6-Person Support Crew – A dream team dedicated to your success, supporting you at every turn.
Content! Content! Content! We will have a media person tag along catching all the shots you could possibly need.
3x 4x4 Cars (2 Fully Equipped & 1 Standard) & all Necessary Petrol
T-Shirt & Cap from Up Active – Show off exclusive swag that’s as legendary as your journey. Wear it with pride!
_____________________________________________________________________
THE ROUTE
The Route is Real. The Rest? Up to You
18 Days. 817 Kilometers. 4892m D+
From the border of the Namibia to the edge of Cape Town, the route carves through coastline, dust, and everything in between.
It starts in Alexander Bay, a quiet border town where the land feels forgotten. Then it rolls south - through coastal settlements, salt-stained roads, dry inland climbs, and empty straights that feel like they go on forever. Some days hit over 60km, others barely touch 40. It’s not consistent. It’s not comfortable. It’s designed to make you ask questions - about pace, purpose, and what happens when the noise runs out.
You’ll move through paved roads, gritty dirt, remote, and wide stretches of nothing. The climbs come when you least want them. The descents don’t always feel like relief.
There are 10 nights of camping, with sand in your socks and stars overhead. The rest are scattered across guesthouses & lodges. Places flick past like names you’ve heard in dreams - Holgat. Koingnaas. Kamiesberg. You might remember them. You might not.
This isn’t about racing.
It’s about holding the line - through heat, wind, silence, and self-doubt - until you hit the beach at Bloubergstrand, and realize everything’s different.
06 NOVEMBER
We meet at Derdesteen Beach, Blouberg - 07:00 sharp. From there, it’s a convoy north: three 4x4s, one long road, and roughly 7 hours of watching the landscape shift from city to silence. Destination: Port Nolloth, where we settle into a guesthouse for the night. Just 90km from Alexander Bay, the start line waits near the border - quiet, remote, and ready.
07 NOVEMBER
Alexander Bay Border Post -> -28.904977, 16.738512
46km | 322m D+ | 235m D- | Majority Paved
Day one starts at the edge - Alexander Bay Border Post, where the country ends and the desert begins. We’ve got 46km ahead, most of it uphill, though the first 15km disguise it well with a steady climb that wears you down without you noticing. Then the trail drops off, sharp and fast, before throwing us into a mix of climbs and descents that don’t let up. By the end, we’re somewhere near Holgat - no signs, no finish arch, just empty land and the sound of our own breathing. We pile into the 4x4s and head back to last night’s guesthouse, already feeling like it was days ago.
Accommodation: Guest House | Wifi | Hot Showers | Toilets
08 NOVEMBER
-28.904977, 16.738512 -> Port Nolloth
47km | 172m D+ | 272m D- | Majority Paved
Today starts with a familiar rhythm - back into the 4x4s, back to where we left the trail behind. From there, it’s 47km of mostly paved road, the kind that tricks you into thinking it’ll be easy. The first 10km climb steadily, testing your legs early, before the route tilts downward and stretches out - thirty long, gradual kilometers that roll all the way back to the guesthouse you only just left behind.
Accommodation: Guest House | Wifi | Hot Showers | Toilets
09 NOVEMBER
Port Nolloth -> Kleinzee
64km | 456m D+ | 425m D- | Majority Dirt
Today’s a big one - 64km from the comfort of a guesthouse to a campsite in Kleinzee, trading beds for tents and predictability for whatever the trail decides. The first 24km climb hard, no easing in, just up and up until your legs stop arguing. Then the route levels off, stretching into open, shifting terrain as the road slowly crumbles from pavement to dirt. In the final 5km, the land finally gives in - one steep drop into Kleinzee, where the day ends under canvas and open sky.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
10 NOVEMBER
Kleinzee -> -30.017391, 17.180275
40km | 209m D+ | 218m D- | Paved
Today’s route takes us 40km deeper into nowhere, starting with - of course - another steep climb that wastes no time waking up the legs. From there, the trail tips into a long, 13km downhill stretch, fast and quiet, before flattening out into emptiness. We finish where there’s nothing but dust and sky, load into the 4x4s once more, and follow a paved road into Hondeklip Bay - just in time to swap silence for sea air and settle in for the night.
Accommodation: Guest House | Hot Showers | Toilets
11 NOVEMBER
-30.017391, 17.180275 -> Hondeklip Bay
41km | 116m D+ | 130m D- | Equal Dirt & Paved
We return to yesterday’s ending - back to the stillness in the middle of nowhere - before setting off on a 41km stretch that flickers between paved and dirt road. The terrain shifts underfoot, never quite settling, but stays mostly flat, letting you find a rhythm if you’re lucky. It’s a quieter kind of day, the kind that creeps by, until we circle back to Hondeklip Bay, where the ocean waits like it never left.
Accommodation: Guest House | Hot Showers | Toilets
12 NOVEMBER
Hondeklip Bay -> -30.513465, 17.523305
40km | 336m D+ | 212m D- | All Dirt
Another 40km lined up today, pulling out of Hondeklip Bay and heading inland - away from the sea, deeper into the dry heart of nowhere. The road’s all dirt now, loose and shifting beneath rolling hills that climb just a little more than they fall. It’s the kind of terrain that wears you down slowly, without drama. By the time we reach the end - somewhere closer to the N7, somewhere unmarked - we pile into the 4x4s and drive on to camp.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
13 NOVEMBER
-30.513465, 17.523305 -> -30.807061, 17.600414
52km | 292m D+ | 418m D- | All Dirt
We’re back where we started yesterday, with 52km ahead. The first 5km take us straight into a steep drop, all the way down to sea level, before the path flattens out, stretching out ahead like an open invitation. It’s all dirt underfoot, no pavement in sight, just the steady crunch of the earth with every step. A long, quiet push forward.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
14 NOVEMBER
-30.807061, 17.600414 -> -30.754557, 18.087224
58km | 483m D+ | 200m D- | Majority Offroad
58km today, and it's nothing but a steady climb. From sea level, we rise slowly, 300m up, each kilometer feeling like the last, as the world around us shifts with every step. The terrain never lets up, a constant pull upward until we reach the edge of the N7. From there, we load into the 4x4s and head into the small town of Nuwerus for the night, the climb still lingering in our legs as the town draws closer.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
15 NOVEMBER
-30.711236, 18.000893 -> Nuwerus
54km | 577m D+ | 515m D- | All Paved
Today’s 55km takes us back where we left off, driving up the N7 before turning around to run it all the way down. We head back to Nuwerus again, but this time, it’s the climb that dominates. From 10km to 30km, it’s nothing but elevation, a relentless rise that won’t let up, all while the tar road hums beneath your feet, adding its own weight to the struggle. It’s a day of steady gains, both in distance and in altitude.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
16 NOVEMBER
Nuwerus -> Koekenaap
55km | 485m D+ | 822m D- | Majority Dirt
Today’s 55km is all downhill - a steady drop from 450m above sea level all the way to zero, as we descend into the small town of Koekenaap. The path stretches far ahead, a mix of dirt and tar. It’s the kind of run that feels easy until it isn’t, with. We'll roll into town and set up camp once more.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
17 NOVEMBER
Koekenaap -> Doringbaai
44km | 309m D+ | 316m D- | Majority Paved
Today’s 44km takes us out of Koekenaap and back to the sea, finishing in the quiet coastal town of Doringbaai. The route rolls with big, rolling hills - equal parts climb and descent - on a mostly paved road that winds through open country.
Accommodation: Guest House | Hot Showers | Toilets | Wifi
18 NOVEMBER
Doringbaai -> Lamberts Bay
37km | 181m D+ | 185m D- | Majority Dirt
Today eases off - 37km with barely any elevation change, giving tired legs a bit of breathing room. The road is mostly dirt, stretching from Doringbaai to Lambert’s Bay - a town that might finally ring a bell. It’s the kind of day that moves gently, where the scenery shifts slowly and the miles pass almost without notice. Almost.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
19 NOVEMBER
Lamberts Bay -> Elands Bay
27km | 77m D+ | 78m D- | Majority Dirt
Today, we ease off even more - just 27km from Lambert’s Bay to Elands Bay, another name that might finally start to feel familiar. The road is mostly dirt, with gentle, rolling hills that rise and fall slowly. It’s the kind of route that lets you settle in, legs turning over without too much protest.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
20 NOVEMBER
Elands Bay -> Dwarskersbos
53km | 138m D+ | 142m D- | Majority Paved
Another ultra on the cards - 53km to the coastal town of Dwarskersbos. The route stays mostly flat, with gentle rolling hills that come and go without much fuss. It’s almost entirely dirt underfoot, the kind that kicks up behind you and clings to everything.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
21 NOVEMBER
Dwarskersbos -> Vredenburg
35km | 87m D+ | 52m D- | Majority Dirt
Today brings a bit of relief - 35km with barely any elevation to speak of, as we make our way from Dwarskersbos to Vredenburg. The road shifts to mostly tar now, smoother beneath our feet, as signs of civilisation start creeping back in.
Accommodation: Guest House | Hot Showers | Toilets
22 NOVEMBER
Vredenburg -> Yzerfontein
48km | 406m D+ | 318m D- | Majority Paved
It’s 48km to Yzerfontein today - a well-known West Coast holiday town, but it doesn’t come easy. The first 30km lull you in with flat ground, a gentle mix of tar and dirt. Then the climb begins - gradual at first, then relentless, dragging all the way to the finish.
Accommodation: Guest House | Hot Showers | Toilets
23 NOVEMBER
Yzerfontein -> Silwerstroom
46km | 191m D+ | 293m D- | Majority Paved
46km with more descent than ascent, mostly on paved roads, pushing you forward with a steady rhythm. The terrain lets you cruise as you make your way to Silwerstroomstrand, where the camp awaits for a well-earned rest. The second-to-last day - feel the anticipation build as the journey nears its end.
Accommodation: Camping | Hot Showers | Toilets
24 NOVEMBER
Silwerstroom -> Derdesteen
30km | 55m D+ | 72m D- | Majority Paved
The final stretch - 30km of flat, paved road from Silwerstroomstrand to Derdesteen Beach in Blouberg. Supporters join in, energy is high, and every step brings you closer to the finish. After all the miles, climbs, and grit, this is the victory lap - feet on the pavement, ocean in sight, and the journey nearly complete.
_____________________________________________________________________
YOUR PACK LIST
To take part in this epic journey, every single item listed below is absolutely mandatory - no exceptions, no compromises. This isn’t your average run. It’s wild, remote, and demands respect. The gear requirements aren’t just about ticking boxes - they’re about your safety, your performance, and your ability to thrive out there.
If it’s on the list, it’s there for a reason. Every runner will be checked before we kick off. If you’re missing anything, you stay behind. Full stop.
This is a serious adventure - and we’re showing up seriously prepared.
______________
18 days worth of clothing for running and casual wear, plus 5 extra sets of running clothes for those sweaty, muddy, multiple-outfit days.
5 towels including one quick-dry option – because let’s face it, wet gear is the worst.
A hydration pack or vest with minimum 2L water capacity in the form of a bladder or soft flasks – hydration is life out there.
Minimum one pair of your go-to running shoes plus an extra pair or two if you need – trust us, your feet will thank you. A mix of trail and road shoes is ideal.
A powerbank – because dead batteries don’t vibe with epic content or safety check-ins.
A second powerbank – your watch and phone deserve backup too.
Minimum 2 headlamps with spare batteries or USB rechargeable
One lightweight waterproof running jacket – because weather doesn’t care about your plans.
One warm mid-layer or fleece – it gets cold, even in the desert.
Technical and anti-blister running socks – trail-specific performance socks are your best friend out here.
A spare running cap or visor – you’ll be given one, but you need backup.
A buff or neck gaiter – multifunctional, lightweight, and essential.
A wool beanie – warm heads = happy hearts on cold mornings.
Sunglasses (preferably polarised - but not mandatory) – because squinting is not a vibe.
Thin, windproof running gloves – tiny but mighty.
Plastic cup or mug, plate, bowl, and utensils (with your plastered on it somehow) – no glass allowed.
A GPS watch with at least 15 hours of battery life on GPS mode – and each GPX file provided preloaded in - yes, we will check.
Your phone in a waterproof pouch – content, comms, and emergency contact, all in one.
A compact first aid kit with plasters, self-adhesive bandage, blister care, and painkillers.
A Sleeping Bag + Extra Blanket & Pillow (Just in case obvs)
An emergency whistle – we hope you never use it, but you’ll be glad it’s there.
Salt and magnesium tablets – keep cramps and fatigue in check.
A space blanket – lightweight, lifesaving, and required.
A microfibre cloth – small, handy, and endlessly useful.
Anti-chafe balm or cream – because 800km of running is not the time to be brave.
Dry bags – keep your clean gear fresh and your dirty gear contained.
ID/passport and medical aid card (only if you have)– your lifeline if anything goes sideways.
At least R1000 cash on hand – all expenses are covered, but in an emergency, you’ll be glad you brought it.
_____________________________________________________________________
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Before we hit the road and head into the wild, there are a few essential things you’ll need to lock in.
This isn’t about red tape or being strict for the sake of it - this is about making sure you’re ready, your body is prepped, and you’re cleared to take on the adventure of a lifetime. This is no ordinary run. It’s 18 days of pushing your limits. So, to make sure everyone heading up to the border is fully ready - mentally, physically, and medically - there are a few final documents we’ll need from you.
These must be submitted one week before the event, and printed copies need to be brought along when we meet in person at the start. If you forget, you don’t run - it’s as simple (and serious) as that. But don’t stress - we’ll remind you!
A clearance letter from a physio, chiropractor, or biokineticist confirming that you’re physically capable of completing this multi-day ultra (obtained a maximum of 3 weeks prior to the run) Your joints, muscles, and movement all need to be in top form.
A medical clearance from your GP confirming you’re healthy and able to participate (obtained a maximum of 3 weeks prior to the run). This helps us ensure that we’re all showing up safe and sound, with no underlying risks.
Proof of Experience - this event isn't for first-timers. To join, you'll need to show that you've either:
Completed any marathon in under 5 hours
OR finished any 50km + Ultra Marathon
OR taken part in one of our official long-distance training runs (50km+), signed off by one of our crew leaders
We know this might feel like a lot, but it’s all part of showing up with intention and readiness. You’ve trained hard, committed to something bold, and now it’s time to take that final step toward the start line.
Get those docs in, get fired up, and let’s make this thing legendary.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS WHAT SO EVER, PLEASE WHATSAPP DANI ON 078 905 4471