Logistical Peace of Mind
We curate the entire week so you don't have to. From the moment you land at King Shaka International to your final game drive, we coordinate your transfers, accommodation, and schedule.
You simply need to show up and run.
SOUTH AFRICA
Comrades Marathon 2026
The Up Run Tour
The Comrades Marathon demands everything you have. Our role is simple: we remove the logistical noise so you can focus entirely on the race.
We act as your sole organiser for the entire trip, from your 4-star upmarket accommodation in uMhlanga to the post-race Safari celebration.
We’ll host you on the entire journey, giving you the clarity and peace of mind you need to tackle The Ultimate Human Race.
Dates
11th – 18th June 2026
Location
KwaZulu-Natal (uMhlanga, Durban and Nambiti Private Game Reserve)
TOUR DETAILS
A Curated Experience for Runners & Supporters
We have designed this tour to balance high-performance support with the opportunity to decompress in the African bush.
Here is how we elevate your Comrades experience:
Premium Race Support
Don't worry about carrying nutrition. We partner with a specialist service (ConSports) so you can pre-submit your personal fuel (gels, electrolytes) for pickup at 3 runner special support stations along the route.
A Shared Adventure
We believe supporters are part of the team. While you run, they enjoy a VIP experience with their own support stations, a Champagne breakfast, a Buffet lunch, and transport. Then, you celebrate together on a luxury Big 5 Safari.
Durban, uMhlanga
Thursday 11th: Touch down at King Shaka International. We settle you into the Protea Hotel uMhlanga before heading to the rooftop for welcome drinks and an authentic South African Braai dinner.
Friday 12th: We visit the Comrades Expo for registration. Then, you'll hand over your personal race fuel to our partner service. Afterwards, we take a partial drive of the course, followed by a Cultural Experience and lunch with a view at the PheZulu.
Saturday 13th: A gentle shake-out run (the uMhlanga Park Run) to settle the nerves. We end the day with an essential pre-race carb-load buffet dinner.
Comrades Race day
We will transport Runners and Supporters separately to Durban in the AM on race day.
Runners Support
Runners are offered three support locations where their pre-packed race nutrition will be handed to them.
Supporters
Supporters will enjoy coffee in Durban first before departing for Supporter Station 1 - a champagne breakfast, then Supporter Station 2 - a buffet lunch and then be transported to the finish line.
Finish Line
All international runners get access to the International Finisher area for themselves +1, where we will all meet after the race.
Transfer back to the Hotel
We want to ensure everyone is looked after until the last runners and supporters arrive back. We will then depart back as a group to Protea Hotel (+/- 1.5 hours drive - subject to traffic).
IF YOU PREFER, WE CAN BOOK A 15-MINUTE TOUR INTRODUCTION VIDEO CALL + Q&A
The Big 5 Safari
Monday 15th: We drive to Nambiti Private Game Reserve, arriving in time for lunch at the Springbok Lodge. We settle in before our first game drive, capping the day with a celebratory post-race Boma party under the stars.
Tuesday 16th - Wednesday 17th: Full days of recovery. Enjoy two game drives daily, relax by the pool, and experience a special mystery surprise.
Thursday 18th: A final breakfast in the bush before the group transfers back to the airport.
Your Big Five Experience
Unwind completely after your race with three nights of comforting, full-board* at the spectacular Springbok Lodge.
It’s your exclusive escape in the malaria-free Nambiti Private Game Reserve.
Springbok Lodge is perfectly situated in Nambiti, a magnificent home to the Big Five, along with cheetah, hippo, and over 30 plains game species.
Rooted in Community
You’ll be staying at Nambiti’s Only Community-Owned Lodge. Springbok Lodge is genuinely rooted in its local community, fostering positive change and opportunity. You get the chance to be part of changing the lives of those less fortunate.
Note: Accommodation includes full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Drinks are not included.
"But beyond the runs, Coach Peru played an integral role in one of the most memorable moments of my life. During the trip in South Africa, he was instrumental in orchestrating a surprise proposal to my now-fiancée. He helped me plan, organise and with his support, I was able to propose in the most magical and unforgettable setting. That’s the kind of coach he is - someone who not only cares about your athletic success but also takes the time to be part of your personal milestones."
Will
Robert Mtshali Medal 2025
Important info
We keep it simple; your experience is covered end-to-end.
Whether you are coming alone or bringing supporters, you'll have a fantastic experience!
Not included
Flights
Please book your flights arriving as per the guidance below.
Race entry
You are responsible for securing your own race entry.
Travel insurance
All runners and supporters must have this in place before arriving and for the duration.
Race Fueling Protocol
All athletes must bring their own gels, electrolytes, and race-day fueling (this will be handed in on Day 2).
Meals not mentioned
Any meals not mentioned in the tour itinerary are excluded and at your own account.
Drinks not mentioned
Any drinks not mentioned in the tour itinerary are excluded and at your own account.
Other activities
Any activities not mentioned in the tour itinerary are excluded and at your own account.
Gratuities/Tips
Our main focus is to source local initiatives and community-led businesses. You're welcome to contribute directly to them.
Personal Expenses
Laundry, pharmacy, souvenirs, etc
Flight Timing for Group Transfers
To ensure inclusion in the complimentary group transfers, clients must adhere to the following strict arrival and departure windows at King Shaka International Airport (DUR).
Arrival (Inbound)
Thursday, 11th June 2026
Between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM
Should you arrive outside this window, you must arrange and pay for your own transport to the hotel.
Departure (Outbound)
Thursday, 18th June 2026
No departure before 4:00 PM
Departure is via a single transport coach from Nambiti after breakfast.
Your hosts
Together, we have a long history with the Comrades, and we love sharing this incredible experience with all keen endurance runners.
Coach Peru
UESCA Coach & Comrades Silver Medalist
Peru grew up with the Comrades—his family has completed nearly 20 medals between three brothers. He designed this package based on decades of experience both running and supporting the race.
Hebert Gouvea
Creative Director & Tour Coordinator
Hebert manages the logistics and creative production in the background. He joins the team to ensure a seamless end-to-end experience for every guest.
SKA FELA MOYA // DON'T GIVE UP
Watch the official Comrades (UP RUN-2026) promo video for a glimpse into the inspiring message, DON'T GIVE UP!
Missed the Comrades Entry? The Dream Isn't Over Yet!
The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) offers a Substitution Window from 16 March to 15 April 2026, giving you a second chance to secure your spot.
How it Works
Athletes who can no longer compete withdraw between 16–30 March. Those entry slots are then released on a first-come, first-served basis from 1–15 April 2026.
Like-for-Like
International athletes can only be substituted by other international athletes, making this a prime opportunity for our global community.
Our Support
We navigate the journey with you. While you wait for the window, we’ll help you stay 'Comrades-ready' so you can pull the trigger the moment a slot opens.
Substitution Process timeline:
Entry slots that have been made available by withdrawing athletes will then be made available on a first come first served basis to individuals wanting to enter the event via the online entry substitution period of 1 – 15 April 2026. The entry fee remains the same for substitution entries.
16 March – 15 April 2026
Substitution Window
16 – 30 March 2026
Withdrawal Phase
1 – 15 April 2026
Substitution Entry Phase
by 4 May 2026
Validation: Athletes must check their entry status on the Comrades website or app
More about the race
Snapshot into Comrades 2025 (Down Run)
STARTERS X FINISHERS
20 974
STARTERS
18 209
FINISHERS
86.82%
FINISHED
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION
4 973
NOVICES - FIRST COMRADES (STARTERS)
2 827
BACK 2 BACK
523
GREEN NUMBERS EARNED - 1 for 50 finishes!