
15 - 22 September 2024
What makes KAEM Ultra unique?
- Are you ready for the ultimate challenge? The KAEM Ultra is not just a race, it's an adventure of a lifetime! Imagine experiencing the breathtaking Kalahari in its truest form, pushing yourself to the limits and conquering every obstacle in your path. This 5 day, 4 stage 160km desert foot race is the ultimate test of strength, endurance, and mental toughness. But don't worry, this isn't your typical race where you have to carry a heavy pack, we want you to focus on running and enjoying the scenery. So, gear up and get ready to experience something truly special. Join us at KAEM Ultra and become a part of an elite community of runners who have conquered the harsh conditions of the Kalahari. Let's do this!
- Starting and finishing in the Augrabies Falls National Park, the route runs through the Park with beautiful scenes of wildlife and protected areas where the distinctive Quiver Trees stand tall against arid desert landscapes. The route also traverses remote areas and private farmlands where very few people ever set foot on, as well as cultivated vineyards along the Orange River where you can experience the tranquillity of the “Green Kalahari”.
- KAEM is the four-letter word for CAMARADERIE – here lifelong bonds are formed between like-minded trail adventurers from all over the world. Here you become part of a group of friends who become your KAEM family, forever!
What does supported mean?
Participants run with day packs that can carry up to approximately 3 kg, and should contain food and energy supplies for the daily run, survival equipment and a minimum of 1.5L water, either in bottles or a bladder. Participants get goodie bags at registration. All other requirements for the 5 day event (up to a maximum weight of 15kg) are to be packed in the goodie bags which are transported from Start to Camp 1, from Camp to Camp, and to the Finish. Upon arrival at Camp after the stage run each day, participants get their goodie bags and each morning 15 minutes prior to the start of the next stage, bags are to be checked in for transport to the next overnight camp.
Daily Distances
Each year the route is changed slightly. Daily distances are published in July.
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Day 1 - Day 2
Distances for Day 1 to Day 2 vary between 30km to 50km. Participants must reach overnight camps by 19:00.
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Day 3
A rest day by the river.
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Day 4 - Day 5
Approximate distances for Day 4 and Day 5 are 50km and 25km respectively.
160km
Entry Options and Fees
Option 1
ZAR21 000 (All inclusive)
Option 2
ZAR17 000 (Excl. accommodation, meals and transfers)
KAEM Ultra Payment Options
- Deposit payment upon registration: ZAR2 500
- Full (rest of) payment by 31 July 2024
Airport transfer by bus (optional, require booking)
Upington Airport / Augrabies Falls
Return: ZAR760
One-way: ZAR380
- EFT (Electronic funds transfer)
- Monthly debit order for participants with a South African bank account
- International bank transfer
- Banking details will be provided with invoice
Cancellation / Refund
- Up to 1 May – Entry fees paid minus administration fee of ZAR1000
- From 1 May to 31 July – Entry fees paid minus ZAR2 500
- From 31 July to 5 September – Entry fees paid minus ZAR8 000
- Withdrawal from event after start – No Refund
(In case of unforeseen circumstances, a roll-over of the entry can be arranged.)
Discover, challenge, conquer
Enter now by completing and submitting your online registration. Alternatively, you can contact us by sending an email to register@kaem.co.za.