ARWS
AFRICA

About ARWS Africa

ARWS racing in Africa currently comprises expedition length, international races which are Qualifiers for the Adventure Racing World Championship, and a series of shorter regional races which form the ARWS Africa Series.

The Qualfiers are 5-7 day, non-stop, races, from 400-500m in length. The winners receive automatic, free entry to the Adventure Racing World Championship and all teams receive points in the ARWS global rankings.  The African Qualifier races are Expedition Africa and The Ratel in South Africa, and Raid Bimbache in Morocco.  (They do not all take place each year.)

The ARWS Africa series is a collection of the best mid-distance adventure races in the region, set to test athletes over 100-250km of non-stop day and night racing in spectacular locations.  (Qualifiers are not part of the regional series.)  All participating teams earn points towards the ARWS Africa rankings, and the Africa Champions are determined by the three best scores from the series over the calendar year.

The Champions (premier mixed team) receive a free place at the next Adventure Racing World Championship. (To qualify at least 2 of the participating team must be from Africa and go to the World Championship.)

Merrelllogo2black is proud to be an integral part of the ARWS Africa series, finding it to be a perfect fit for their belief in sharing the simple power of being outside with everyone. Adventure racing, with its emphasis on being outside and alive, aligns seamlessly with Merrell's commitment to fostering a love for the outdoors.

Follow ARWS Africa on Facebook and Instagram .  You can also subscribe to our ARWS Africa playlist on YouTube.

13
Feb

Expect rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and a true test of teamwork and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure racer or tackling your first challenge, there’s a course for you.

13 Feb - 15 Feb 2026
Distance
200km | 100km | 35km
Course Open
36 hours
Teams
Team of 2, 3 & 4
Limit
200 Racers

13
Mar

World Champs Qualifier

The Drakensberg will host the return of Expedition Africa to South Africa after a short hiatus. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the "Dragon Mountain" is the highest mountain range in South Africa.

13 Mar - 22 Mar 2026
Distance
500 km
Course Open
6 Days
Teams
Team of 4
Limit
60 Teams

10
Apr

"Set in the rugged natural landscapes surrounding Woodridge College near Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa, the Mammoth Woodridge Adventure Race is one of Southern Africa’s most established and accessible adventure racing events. Designed to welcome newcomers while still challenging experienced teams, the race delivers a true navigation-based adventure racing experience across diverse Eastern Cape terrain.

10 Apr - 12 Apr 2026
Distance
120km
Course Open
30 Hours
Teams
Teams of 2 & 4
Limit
200 Teams

22
Aug

ARWS Africa NO FRILLS NO FUSS

"As is customary with NFNF Adventure Races, competitors can expect three distance options, each offering an unrivalled adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned campaigner or tackling your very first adventure race, the challenge is here.

22 Aug - 24 Aug 2026
Distance
150km
Course Open
32hours
Teams
Teams of 2, 3 & 4
Limit
None

19
Sep

"This year, the host venue will be the stunning Stanford Lake College, set in the majestic Magoebaskloof. There truly is a race for everyone, with distances of 25km (2–4 hours), 60km (5–9 hours), and 120km (11–24 hours).

19 Sep - 20 Sep 2026
Distance
120km
Course Open
24 Hours
Teams
Team of 2 & 4
Limit
No limit

23
Oct

ARWS Africa Wild@heart AR

An expedition style adventure race exploring one of the greatest water ways in South Africa the Vanderkloof dam and mighty orange river.

23 Oct - 25 Oct 2026
Distance
200km
Course Open
36hrs
Teams
Team of 2 & 4
Limit
Unlimited

ARWS AFRICA

GLOBAL PARTNERS


Squirt Cycling Products

Visit Website

The Dark Zone

Visit Website

MRS packrafts

Visit Website

International Adventure Racing Association (IARA)

Visit Website

REGIONAL PARTNERS


Squirt Cycling Products

Visit Website

Merrell

Visit Website

The Dark Zone

Visit Website

Bike Box Company

Visit Website

MRS packrafts

Visit Website

SleepMonsters.com

Visit Website