Merrell Whale of Trail | 2024

Whale of Trail – 53km Ultra Trail Run | De Hoop Nature Reserve

The Whale of Trail is one of South Africa’s most iconic ultra trail running events, taking place on Saturday, 15 August 2026 in the spectacular De Hoop Nature Reserve in the Western Cape. This premier 53km ultra trail race challenges runners to conquer approximately 1900m of elevation gain along the renowned five-day Whale Trail hiking route, completed in a single, unforgettable effort.

Starting at Potberg Nature Reserve and finishing at Koppie Alleen, the route takes athletes through some of the most breathtaking coastal wilderness in South Africa. Runners will traverse flowing mountain fynbos trails, rugged coastal ridges, deep sandy beaches, and undulating shoreline paths, creating a diverse and technically demanding trail running experience.

Located entirely within the protected De Hoop Reserve, the course offers extraordinary wildlife encounters. Participants may spot southern right whales along the coast, as well as eland, bontebok, zebra, vultures, dolphins, and signs of otters, caracal, and even leopard. The combination of raw nature, challenging terrain, and pristine coastline makes this event one of the most unique trail races in the country.

The race features four well-stocked water stations, paramedic support, shuttle transfers between the race village and start/finish points, and a vibrant race atmosphere at De Hoop Collection, including a pre-race briefing dinner and post-race prize-giving dinner. Finishing the Whale of Trail is a demanding accomplishment, rewarding runners with a finisher’s medal, hot meal at the finish, and complimentary recovery services.

With a R6,200 entry fee, the event includes permits, reserve access, race support, meals, transfers, drop bag services, and a unique opportunity to run one of South Africa’s most exclusive trail routes, normally closed to the public.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, 15 August 2026

Start Time: 07:00

Distance: 53km

Elevation Gain: ±1900m

Start Venue: Potberg Nature Reserve

Finish Venue: Koppie Alleen, De Hoop Nature Reserve

Race Village: De Hoop Collection

Entry Fee: R6,200

Whale of Trail – 35km Ultra Trail Run | De Hoop Nature Reserve

The Whale of Trail is one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal trail running events, taking place on Saturday, 15 August 2026 in the breathtaking De Hoop Nature Reserve in the Western Cape. This spectacular 35km ultra trail race follows sections of the world-famous Whale Trail hiking route, delivering a challenging and unforgettable day of trail running through pristine coastal wilderness.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 15 August 2026

Start Time: 09h00

Distance: 35km

Registration:

14 August 2026 – 16h00–19h00

at De Hoop Collection

Briefing Dinner:

14 August 2026 – 18h30–20h00

at De Hoop Collection

Prize Giving Dinner:

15 August 2026 – 17h30–20h00

at De Hoop Collection

Cut-Off Times:

22km – 6h00

29km – 7h30

Entry Fee:

R5,200

Race Venue:

De Hoop Collection, De Hoop Nature Reserve

Race Start:

Potberg Nature Reserve

Race Finish:

Koppie Alleen, De Hoop Nature Reserve

The Whale of Trail attracts elite athletes and passionate trail runners looking for a true wilderness challenge. With dramatic coastal scenery, technical terrain, and a strong sense of community among runners, this event offers a once-in-a-lifetime ultra trail running experience on South Africa’s famous Whale Trail.

Entries open: 13 October.