Zingela Trail Run 2026
22 May - 24 May SAST (+02:00)
Zingela Safari and River Company
Details
About the Trail
Set along the majestic Tugela River, the Zingela Trail Run invites you to explore one of South Africa’s most breathtaking and unspoiled landscapes. Winding through valley thornveld and along ancient game paths, this is more than a run — it’s an immersive bushveld adventure.
From cliff-top trails to serene riverbanks, every step offers a new perspective and a fresh sense of discovery. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner chasing a new challenge or simply looking to experience the wild on foot, our routes are designed to inspire runners of all levels.
Expect crystal-clear days and cool, refreshing mornings — the kind of weather that makes you want to move. Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed, with giraffe, kudu, nyala, wildebeest, warthog, and even ostrich making appearances along the way.
The terrain is rugged but rewarding: rolling, rocky single tracks woven between towering aloes and thorny acacias, with views that make you pause (even if just to catch your breath). It’s the perfect blend of challenge and awe, set during the most magical time of year in the African bush.
An exciting new dimension to the Zingela Trail Run is a fun paddle across the Tugela River to explore new trails on the other side.
Come for the run — leave with a memory that lasts long after the dust settles.
The Hippo Run – A Wild Trail Adventure for Kids!
Distance: 4km Start time: 8:00am
While the adults are out tackling the trails, the little ones can have an unforgettable morning of their own with the Hippo Run — a fun, safe, and exciting 4km trail run designed especially for kids aged 5 and up.
This playful route loops around the iconic "Hippo" koppie, offering just enough challenge to feel like a real adventure, without being too tough for little legs. Along the way, kids will enjoy scenic bushveld paths and
Parents can hit the trails worry-free, knowing their kids are in good hands. The Hippo Run is supervised, and your youngsters will be kept active, entertained, and outdoors right up until lunchtime.
It’s the perfect way to share the spirit of trail running with the next generation — and give them a morning they’ll be talking about all weekend.
Information
Action packed weekend for the whole family
Organiser
Zingela Trail Run
ALL EVENTS BY THIS ORGANISERInformation
Action packed weekend for the whole family
Organiser
Zingela Trail Run
ALL EVENTS BY THIS ORGANISERInfo
About the Trail
Set along the majestic Tugela River, the Zingela Trail Run invites you to explore one of South Africa’s most breathtaking and unspoiled landscapes. Winding through valley thornveld and along ancient game paths, this is more than a run — it’s an immersive bushveld adventure.
From cliff-top trails to serene riverbanks, every step offers a new perspective and a fresh sense of discovery. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner chasing a new challenge or simply looking to experience the wild on foot, our routes are designed to inspire runners of all levels.
Expect crystal-clear days and cool, refreshing mornings — the kind of weather that makes you want to move. Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed, with giraffe, kudu, nyala, wildebeest, warthog, and even ostrich making appearances along the way.
The terrain is rugged but rewarding: rolling, rocky single tracks woven between towering aloes and thorny acacias, with views that make you pause (even if just to catch your breath). It’s the perfect blend of challenge and awe, set during the most magical time of year in the African bush.
An exciting new dimension to the Zingela Trail Run is a fun paddle across the Tugela River to explore new trails on the other side.
Come for the run — leave with a memory that lasts long after the dust settles.
The Hippo Run – A Wild Trail Adventure for Kids!
Distance: 4km Start time: 8:00am
While the adults are out tackling the trails, the little ones can have an unforgettable morning of their own with the Hippo Run — a fun, safe, and exciting 4km trail run designed especially for kids aged 5 and up.
This playful route loops around the iconic "Hippo" koppie, offering just enough challenge to feel like a real adventure, without being too tough for little legs. Along the way, kids will enjoy scenic bushveld paths and
Parents can hit the trails worry-free, knowing their kids are in good hands. The Hippo Run is supervised, and your youngsters will be kept active, entertained, and outdoors right up until lunchtime.
It’s the perfect way to share the spirit of trail running with the next generation — and give them a morning they’ll be talking about all weekend.