The Otter African Trail run which is fast becoming considered South Africa’s Everest of endurance events is a race in which trail runners from all over the world get the opportunity to traverse South Africa’s premium National Park and hiking trail. Host of the event, SANParks, who for 363 days of the year reserve this pristine wilderness trail exclusively for the enjoyment of hiking groups of 12 people, close the trail down once a year to give a group of 300 elite trail runners the chance to attempt what is now considered the Grail of Trail. Run in accordance with a strict environmental protocol, the Otter Run is in its 3rd year and according to Dr Nomvuselelo Songelwa, General Manger of South African National Park, the Event is here to stay. “This event contravenes none of our environmental principles and affords our guests the opportunity to experience this magnificent wilderness in a different way.”
Dr. Songelwa admits to initially being very sceptical about hosting the event but after all the environmental impact studies were done they allowed organisers Magnetic South a once of chance to stage the event in accordance with the standards agreed upon. SANParks was very satisfied with the first two events on the trail and now supports the idea to keep the race as an annual fixture on the international trail running calendar.