The first-ever Ratel Expedition Adventure Race will take place in the Richtersveld, the ‘holy grail’ of adventure destinations in Africa. The race takes place from June 4-15th and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore one of the natural wonders of the world.

Hauntingly beautiful and seared by a blistering sun, the lava mountains and sandy plains form southern Africa’s largest Mountain Desert Park.

Though surrealistically harsh, the rugged Richtersveld side of the Park nurtures some 30% of all South Africa’s succulent plant species and is home to leopards, lizards and adventurers.”

Participants will journey through the stark beauty of the Richtersveld, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the north western part of the South Africa, the region is known for its extreme environments, where the horizon is interrupted only by jagged mountain ranges and a mix of vibrant vegetation that thrives in the harsh conditions.

The Richtersveld is raw and wild, characterised by the dramatic contrast between the dryness of the plains and the life-giving waters of the Orange River. This world-renowned river, South Africa’s longest, is a lifeline in an otherwise unforgiving landscape, snaking its way through the heart of the Richtersveld and providing a striking contrast to the towering, orange cliffs along its banks.

Competitors in The Ratel Expedition will navigate a 450km course, combining hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking, with a special focus on conquering the challenges posed by the river, the dry terrain, and steep mountain paths which are trodden by very few. The race’s name, The Ratel, refers to the honey badger – an animal renowned for its fierce determination and endurance, qualities that are essential for this gruelling adventure.

“We’re excited to bring athletes from all over the world to the Richtersveld, an area that has remained relatively untouched and offers some of the most majestic landscapes on earth,” said Robert Le Brun, Race Director for the Ratel Expedition. “The combination of the remote wilderness, the raw power of the Orange River, and the towering peaks makes this an unforgettable challenge. It’s an opportunity for adventure racers to be tested in one of Africa’s most beautiful and rugged environments.”

The race has an exceptional race HQ at the Norotshama River Resort, which is set on the banks of the Orange River on the border of Namibia and South Africa and situated in the green oasis of the Aussenkehr Grape Valley. The race offers transfers and travel packages from Cape Town and international visitors can take the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful and iconic cities in the world, or add trips into the Northern Cape or Namibia.

With an unforgettable adventure ahead the excitement is brewing for all of the teams already entered. This new event follows in the footsteps of Heidi and Stephan Muller, whose legacy of Expedition Africa races has inspired countless adventurers over the past decade.

“Expedition racing in South Africa is now moving into a new era,” said Heidi Muller, CEO of the Adventure Racing World Series, “and I know it’s in safe hands with The Ratel. Robert and the No Frills.No Fuss organising team have been organising first class races for many years, and it was time for his dream race in the Richtersveld.

“No race has touched this area since 2007 and this may be the only opportunity to hold an expedition race there. Robert has an in-depth knowledge of the area and will put together a very special course, one which will take racers on a spiritual journey and an extraordinary expedition. As an experienced racer, competing with Team Terra Mater, Robert will craft a world class course, and I’m sure The Ratel will be one of the most talked about races of the year, and perhaps for many years to come.”

For more information see https://www.nfnf.co.za/the-ratel
Entries close the 4th of April 2025.