The Nyungwe forest marathon experience
The Nyungwe Marathon is unlike other marathons. There are no trophies for first place and not even bib numbers or timing chips. They keep things simple and focus on the running, the people, and the forest. These are what make this event special.
Come race through Nyungwe National Park, one of the oldest protected rainforests in central Africa and enjoy the fun with the sunny outdoors community.
Nyungwe Forest is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe is rich in biodiversity and spectacularly beautiful. This mountainous region is teaming with wildlife, including a small population of chimpanzees as well as 12 other species of primate, including the L’Hoest’s monkey endemic to the Albertine Rift.
With 15 trails, some of which are detailed, along with various other activities like the spectacular canopy walk.
The Experience
Run between Nyungwe’s tall green trees and beneath its true blue sky.
You will enjoy a post-run brochette and beer in the tea plantations, spend a little time exploring Nyungwe national park and meet the entrepreneurs that employ local community members at the expo.
You will continue at an afterparty for those who want to celebrate Nyungwe with a little music and dance.
All the while centered and camping at the beautiful picturesque Kitabi eco centre in the middle of the park and at Ishara beach resort, Lake Kivu on the second night.
The Marathon
"THE DOUBLE DOUBLE”
Starting-line: West Gate (Kamembe side entrance)
Finish-line: 400m after exiting the western side of the park (Kamembe side) on main road near the RDB visitor centre.
Length: 66 miles / 106km
Estimated time: 14 hours
Race Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1KNcnCtGIp1hwJ-zD0Pp3qPi6HdyFMao&ll=-2.484305000001143%2C29.25890499999689&z=12
“THE FULL” MARATHON
Starting-line: East Gate (Kigali side Entrance)
Finish-line: 400m after exiting the western side of the park (Kamembe side) on main road near the RDB visitor centre.
Length: 33 miles / 53km
Estimated time: 6 hours
Race Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1KNcnCtGIp1hwJ-zD0Pp3qPi6HdyFMao&ll=-2.484305000001143%2C29.25890499999689&z=12
“THE HALF” MARATHON
Starting-line: Intersection with Road South to Burundi (Km Marker 84)
Finish-line: 400m after exiting the western side of the park (Kamembe side) on main road near the RDB visitor centre.
Length: 14 miles / 22km
Estimated time: 3 hours
Race Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1KNcnCtGIp1hwJ-zD0Pp3qPi6HdyFMao&ll=-2.484305000001143%2C29.25890499999689&z=12
“THE HALF HALF” MARATHON
Starting-line: Bird Lookout Platform, just after Kamironzovu Trail (Km Marker 96.3)
Finish-line: 400m after exiting the western side of the park (Kamembe side) on main road near the RDB visitor centre.
Length: 7 miles / 11km
Estimated time: 1.5 hours
Racemap: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1KNcnCtGIp1hwJ-zD0Pp3qPi6HdyFMao&ll=-2.484305000001143%2C29.25890499999689&z=12
Packing List:
All your 3 days travel essentials
Personal camping essentials including a sleeping bag.
Running shoes and clothes
Sun protection(Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses)
Snacks, water and some cash
Cost:
Ugx 1,290,000
Incl: Transportation by road to and fro, all meals, camping and camping facilities, marathon fees and the experience.
Payment and bookings:
Follow link https://sunny-outdoors.com/products/the-nyungwe-marathon?_pos=1&_psq=nyungwe%20mara&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Contact: +256702590664
What note:
It is an event for all ages. Not a must to run.
Individuals can opt for air travel.(Arrangements are in place)
Individuals can opt for alternative accommodation( facilities available)
Other activities available include cycling and the decathlon. All details can be found here https://www.nyungwemarathon.com/marathon-details/