The Milky Way Marathon 2026 — An Experience Under The Stars
We are heading to Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve for this year's Milky Way Marathon on 11 July 2026. At an altitude of around 1100m, 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 be able to see the beautiful constellations, stars and galaxies of the southern hemisphere, and marvel at the Milky Way spanning overhead.
Unline last year, both the start and finish will 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.
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.
The run has a scattered start once the sun has warmed the crisp Karoo air. Different groups set off depending on your estimated marathon pace. The aim is for all runners to witness the sunset as you move through the mountains and valleys of Drie Kuilen, before transitioning into night running under the Milky Way. Approximately 10km will be run in the dark as the sky comes alive above you.
There will be a “Dark Zone” where you switch off your headlamp, follow glow sticks, and run guided only by the stars.
Race Details
Marathon: Scattered start from 13:00 to 15:00. Your start time is determined by your marathon pace — faster runners start last.
Half Marathon: Group start at 16:00. A later start batch at 17:00 is available for faster runners who want to maximise time under the night sky. We also cater for walkers on the half marathon, if you prefer a slightly earlier start.
The goal is to finish by 20:00, so if you’re planning to take it easy, just start earlier.
What’s the Scattered Start?
This is the best part of the race — you choose when you start. Cut-offs are flexible as long as you start early enough. Walkers are welcome on the 21km route. We’ll help with your recommended start time closer to the event once you know your own fitness and pace.
You will be welcomed back at the finish line with a cosy fire and a glass of wine (or hot chocolate). Meal options will be available closer to the event for those staying for a post-race dinner.
Entries close at noon on Friday, 26 June 2026. No substitutions or changes will be allowed after entries close.
Accommodation
Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve is the primary accommodation option this year, with cottages and campsites available. Book now for a 10% discount:
📧 bookings@driekuilen.co.za | 📞 +27 71 388 6735 (WhatsApp)
For something more premium, secure one of the spectacular Huizen cabins — limited availability, so book early.
Also nearby: Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve offers cabins and camping just down the road.
Compulsory Kit
- Headlamp (strip headlamps not allowed — these have proven unreliable at night events)
- Rain jacket (with hood)
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Fleece / warm top
- Space blanket
- Whistle
- Water / hydration pack
- Charged phone
Recommended: Hiking poles (helpful on technical sections). Extra warm kit — when the sun sets, it’s COLD. Come prepared.
Included with entry: Medal · Headwear
Route Maps
42km Route
21km Route
