Trails in Mauritius: The 2024 calendar for all mountain runners

Features
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Published on 2024-03-27 at 06:10
Are you passionate about trail running? Check out the must-attend races happening in Mauritius throughout 2024!

May 

Royal Raid

The Standard Bank Royal Raid, Mauritius' inaugural trail race since 2006, invites participants to explore the captivating landscapes of southwest Mauritius. This year's program features three simultaneous events: a 65 km, a 30 km, and a 12 km race. Mark your calendars for May 11!

June 

Mauritius by UTMB

Taking place on June 22 and 23, the Mauritius by UTMB 2024 starts from Bel Ombre in the island's south. Offering four diverse routes, from pristine lagoons to rugged peaks, the flagship event is the Black River Peak, a challenging ultra 135 km race with 6100 m of elevation gain. The route explores the island's mountainous interior and the Ebony Forest Reserve. Additionally, there's the 97 km Chamarel route with remarkable panoramic views, the 55 km Bel Ombre route traversing various landscapes, and the Le Morne route, a 22 km journey boasting stunning vistas of the island's southern coast ending at a picturesque sandy beach.

July 

Dodo Trail 

On July 13, the Dodo Trail, one of Mauritius's iconic races, offers four race formats. At the forefront is the Xtreme, a technical 50 km trail with 3500 m elevation gain through the island's southwest, starting from Morne Brabant and concluding at the Riverland sports center in Tamarin. The Squad category allows participants to compete in relay teams of four. For shorter distances, there's the Trooper with a 25 km course, the Venture with 10 km, and the Rookie, a beginner-friendly 5 km race.

Beachcomber Trail

Scheduled for July 27 and 28, the Beachcomber Trail is a significant event in Mauritius's trail calendar, showcasing the wild and authentic landscapes of the island's south through three distinct courses. The Trail du Sud Sauvage, a 60 km route with 2,200 meters of elevation gain, promises an immersive journey through mountains, forests, savannahs, cliffs, and beaches. The Trail du Nautile spans 25 km with 300 meters of ascent, while the Trail du Souffleur, a 10 km discovery trail, caters to a broader audience.

August

La Ferme Trail

On August 31, the La Ferme Trail offers a unique experience around the La Ferme reservoir in the West. Participants can choose between two routes: a 12 km race for beginners and a 22 km race for seasoned runners.

September

Ferney Trail

Trail enthusiasts will gather on September 24 for the Ciel Ferney Trail, nestled in the Vallée de Ferney, a sanctuary of Mauritian biodiversity. With four different courses catering to all levels, including a 35 km trail, an 18 km route, a 10 km course, and a 5 km fun run, there's something for everyone.

October

Moka Trail

On October 5, Mauritius hosts the Moka Trail, featuring four events suitable for various participants. From the demanding Grand Pouce with its 30 km and 1,500 m of elevation gain to the accessible 5 km Fun Jog, there's a challenge for every level of runner.

November

Trail de Rodrigues

On November 3, Rodrigues will host the Trail de Rodrigues, the main trail race in this small island in the Mascarene archipelago. With five distinct events ranging from the challenging Trail Hibou to the beginner-friendly Trail Tortue, participants will immerse themselves in Rodrigues's breathtaking landscapes, including coastal scenery, rocky coasts, picturesque coves, grassy slopes, and rocky trails.