Running the Rift is more than a marathon, it’s an adventurer’s paradise in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in Africa.
Join us for a week of exploring, trekking, swimming and safaris. Relaxing in the sun and drinking cold beers with new friends. Making a difference where it’s really needed and, of course, taking on the challenge of a hot, hilly, 10k, half or full marathon in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, along the edge of Africa’s Great Rift Valley!
The RiftMaz is a small, inclusive event with a very happy atmosphere. Solo travellers, couples, groups and families looking for the experience of a lifetime – this is for you.
Created by runners who fell in love with this part of Uganda and the people in it (you’ll soon see why!), Running the Rift is entirely not for profit, with all proceeds going to the Kyaninga Child Development Centre.
Your seven days in rural Uganda will be the most unique of your life. And in the most beautiful setting imaginable. We’ve put together a few experiences we don’t want you to miss – think safaris, time with the charity and…oh, the most challenging race you’ve ever run – alongside lots of time to take in the incredible Marathon HQ, Kyaninga Lodge, and all the fun and fancy facilities it offers up.
Running the Rift marathon and half marathon are race courses so beautiful you won’t believe your eyes, so friendly you won’t stop smiling and so challenging you’ll have to dig very very deep.
They are races at altitude on the equator, temperatures can be hot, downpours sudden and heavy, and the hills just keep on giving. We take your safety very seriously and have a team of well equipped medics from Europe out on the race course at all times. The courses are marked, marshaled and have regular bottled-water stations. This race will not be easy, but if it was everybody would do it right? Make memories you’ll never ever forget and be prepared for the endorphin rush of your life when you cross that finish line.
Every year we count ourselves the luckiest event because of the amazing people we have taking part. Get ready to meet and mingle with some like-minded beauties who are as adventurous as you!
“The most amazing run I might ever do! Physically I was broken, having to walk the last 4km. An attempt to run to the finish line led to cramping! The photos can never do this course justice. I stopped dead in my tracks when I got to the top of the hill and the trees cleared out to show me the view of the valley. I did not expect to fall in love with this country but how could I not!” George J – 2017
LESS
Brutally beautiful course in Uganda.
Running the Rift celebrated its 5th year in 2018. The event has close ties to the Kyaninga Child Development Center with race entry proceeds going to the local community. The … MORE
Running the Rift celebrated its 5th year in 2018. The event has close ties to the Kyaninga Child Development Center with race entry proceeds going to the local community. The course starts at the Kyaninga Lodge. The out of and back (half marathon) course will take you to many villages, with views of the local area and of course the amazing Rift Valley. The course is completely on trails and dirt roads. Throughout the course you will finds many challenging hills. I did not find ample water stops and found no electrolyte drinks on the course. With high temps, plan on carrying your own hydration and nutrition. There is a terrific BBQ at the finish followed by a fantastic pig roast celebration dinner later that evening. It is small race with only about 20 international runners (this included the marathon and half marathon). The local children will likely join you with their smiles and run with you as you pass thru their village. This is a destination race. You should expect to add 30-45 minutes to your normal finish time (50 – 70 minutes for the marathon). The heat and hills will affect your time. Be sure to integrate hills into your training. I would suggest staying at the Kyaninga Lodge. They do offer camping, glamping and ensuite cottages. For the convenience and quality experience, the lodge cabins are the best choice. Book early as there is limited space (9 cabins, 3 ensuite cottages, and 4 glamping tents. Only the truly adventurous should consider camping. The evenings did get cold and there is potential for rain. Travelling to Uganda requires a yellow fever vaccination with recommendations for malaria meds. You can secure your Uganda visa online quite easily. Give me a call at 617-242-7845 for additional info.