Are you an avid trail-runner? Better yet, do you love ultra-running? And are you looking for a great way to take this passion on the road to explore some truly amazing routes across the globe? Then we have some pretty incredible trips for you.
Whether you want to head to the remote wilderness of Kyrgyzstan on the Atlas Mountains in Morocco–these trips are sure to take you off the beaten path, get your heart racing and show you a local side few tourists get to see.
So, without further ado-here are some great trail runs you won’t want to miss in 2024.
Trail Run Annapurna
Looking for an inspired trail running adventure that will push you physically and mentally? Look no further than the Annapurna Trail Running Holiday in Nepal, where you'll experience some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet among Himalayan peaks while pushing your limits as a runner.
On this tour, you'll run through remote mountain villages, cross suspension bridges over raging rivers, and climb to high-altitude passes that offer panoramic views of the Himalayas. You'll run alongside Buddhist prayer flags, visit monasteries, and immerse yourself in the culture of the friendly Nepalese people.
But this tour isn't for the faint of heart. You'll tackle steep ascents and descents, run through rocky terrain, and cross streams and rivers. You'll need to be in excellent physical condition and have experience running in challenging mountain environments.
Dates: Nov 2 to Nov 14, 2024
Trail Running Holiday in South Africa
Run through breathtaking landscapes-dramatic cliffs meeting turquoise seas, iconic Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town, soft sandy beaches, lush indigenous forests, vibrant flower fields, endless vineyard-covered hills, and mesmerizing sunsets.
Encounter diverse wildlife: observe sunbathing seals, mingle with penguin colonies, search for migrating whales, interact with playful baboons, and witness majestic elephant herds in renowned game reserves.
And indulge in culinary delights: from Cape Town's culinary scene to traditional braais, experience a fusion of flavors reflecting the region's diverse heritage, including indigenous game meats, flavorful spices, and South Africa's renowned wines and craft beers.
You’ll run an average of 5-10 miles a day on this trip and see some truly spectacular sites on this Trail Running Adventure to South Africa. Not to be missed.
Dates: Oct 4 to Oct 12, 2024
The Namibia Crossing: A Trail Running Adventure
A 200km, five-day foot race from South Africa to Namibia through the ancient arid landscape of the /Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
From the crystal fields of Sendelingsdrif in South Africa to the infamous giant boulders of Tatasberg deep in the /Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park; this unparalleled Namibia Crossing Running Trip then crosses the Orange River into Namibia and the wild lands of the Fish River Canyon. This is the running experience of a lifetime and an escape to true wilderness like no other.
All you have to do is get yourself to Cape Town International Airport and your hosts will take care of the rest.
Dates: June 16 to June 22, 2024
Running Holiday at the Backroads of the Atlas in Morocco
Don't miss this Running Holiday through the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The Atlas Mountains, stretching over 2000km across Northern Africa, form a rugged spine that separates the Mediterranean coast from the Sahara desert. In Morocco, the tallest peaks host a network of ancient paths and dirt roads, linking picturesque valleys where traditional ways of life endure. Here, people live close to the land, measuring time by the seasons, and welcoming visitors with warm smiles and mint tea. Walking remains the primary mode of travel, offering a timeless experience.
As a runner, you'll discover breathtaking high-altitude trails (yielding to mules!), traverse dirt roads above terraced valleys, and race local children through mountainside villages. You can cool your legs in icy rivers fed by snowmelt and immerse yourself in a landscape seemingly frozen in time. By the end of the week, any preconceptions of Morocco as a desert will have vanished, replaced by a mosaic of diverse landscapes.
Each day offers a new route and running experience, with various distances available to suit your preferences. Every detail, from meals featuring local cuisine to accommodations and sightseeing, has been meticulously arranged. One of the best ways to see Morocco.
Dates: Oct 21 to Oct 28, 2024
Draa Running Expedition in Draa, Morocco
Okay so this is not exactly trails, but rather dunes you will be running through. But what an epic challenge!
In the middle of the Sahara desert in the most remote and authentic Morocco. A unique experience running through a magical place , between plains and spectacular dune ergs. Without competition but a true challenge , although very adapted to different levels according to your condition.
Run 4 stages of 42 km or 21 km per stage. This isn't a competition Per Sae, more of a personal challenge. But if you love running and adventure-this is definitely one you won't want to miss.
Dates: Nov 10 to Nov 16, 2024
Extraordinary Albania Trail Run
Albania is without question one of Europe’s hidden wonders. Ancient Roman history rubs shoulders with some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery you can imagine. Waterfalls and ‘Blue Eye’ pools, charming mountain villages, a Mediterranean climate, delicious food, and empty trails await.
Spend four core days running among the mountains and valleys of the alps, traversing the high peaks which run the natural border between Albania and neighboring Montenegro.
You’ll experience running on empty trails as well as lush alpine meadows and waterfalls, with impromptu stops to bathe in natural hot springs. Stay in cozy mountain lodges and enjoy delicious Albanian cuisine and wine along the way on this Extraordinary Albania Trail Run.
Dates: June 22 to June 29, 2024
Trail Run Dolomiti in Italy
Discover the breathtaking Dolomites on this Trail Running Tour, where majestic limestone spires encircle a picturesque landscape of green pastures, winding trails, and alpine lakes. Experience the warmth of Italian hospitality combined with Austrian efficiency in cozy mountain huts, offering hearty flavors that epitomize the best of both worlds. Prepare to be amazed by this iconic and astounding scenery.
Dive into challenging runs and hikes amidst soaring pinnacles, indulge in homestyle trattoria meals, and gourmet ristorante experiences. Stay in warm lodges, boutique hotels, and rustic rifugios, and marvel at glowing pink sunrises and starry nights.
For the trail runner seeking epic climbs, breathtaking views, and unforgettable meals, there's no better destination.
Dates: Sept 9 to Sept 15, 2024
Trail Run Tour in Crete, Greece
The Crete trail run tour offers seven runs over eight days covering up to 110km exploring the western region of Crete, an ancient island known for its mythology, hidden beaches, coves and coastlines, deep gorges, and mountain ranges that soar up from sea level to azure skies.
So, grab your friends, your running shoes and your passport and come join us.
Dates: Sept 3 to Sept 10, 2024
Self-Guided Trail Running Holiday in Slovenia
Discover the allure of Slovenia,on this 8-Day Trail Running Adventure. While it is self-guided, you’ll enjoy 3&4* lodgings with breakfast included as well as all of your land and luggage transferred between destinations. This trip makes it easy to run on your own–with the benefit of having your entire trip organized and taken care of for you.
Beyond its picturesque and top-notch running opportunities, Slovenia boasts a naturally 'healthy' environment. From pristine rivers and crystal-clear alpine lakes to expansive forested areas, the country offers a diverse landscape with quality air and drinkable water around every bend. Runners can indulge in delicious locally produced food, experiencing a culinary variety that's becoming increasingly rare. With a well-established basic infrastructure, even remote areas ensure safe running movement. Welcome to the trail running paradise of Slovenia!
Dates: Flexible Departures throughout the summer
Trail Running Holiday in Croatia
Embark on this Epic Trail Running Odyssey along Croatia's stunning northern Adriatic Coast, exploring hidden gems like Brioni and Kamenjak Nature Park, where turquoise waters beckon for a refreshing break. Unleash your inner adventurer on diverse trails across the Istrian peninsula. Lace up and discover the best of Croatia as you clock roughly 24 km a day.
With a backdrop of Karst stones, olive groves, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Croatia sets the stage for unforgettable runs. Indulge in a Mediterranean feast with top-quality wine and olive oil, showcasing the country's rich culinary heritage. Elevate your running experience amidst Croatia's scenic beauty and gastronomic delights.
Dates: May 25 to June 1, 2024
Trail Running Holiday to Iceland
Embark on an incredible journey to the land of Fire and Ice. This Trail Running Adventure is designed for runners seeking adventure amidst landscapes that are truly awe-inspiring. Encounter rugged volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, colossal glaciers, sprawling lava fields, and bubbling cauldrons of hot spring water at every turn. Along the way, enjoy comfortable guesthouses, rejuvenate in thermal baths, savor a variety of local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the perpetual daylight of summertime. Dive deep into the geological marvels of one of the world's most captivating terrains.
You’ll experience the very best that Iceland has to offer seeing glaciers, waterfalls, and empty trails. What's not to love?
Dates: August 8 to August 15, 2024
Trail Running The East Coast Trail - The Edge of North America in Canada
It's a trail with a "European" feel that's actually closer to Great Britain than it is to Vancouver. The East Coast Trail stretches over 200 miles along the Eastern edge of the island province of Newfoundland in Canada. Relatively short road walks in quaint coastal villages connect the various segments of the trail, and we hand-pick the very best segments for this trip, connecting long point-to-point stretches. The East Coast Trail, the most easterly long-distance trail on the continent, links charming fishing villages with the historic yet cosmopolitan capital city of St. John's.
Along with the scenic natural wonders along the trail, you'll enjoy charming coastal fishing villages each with their own unique character, from the colorful cottages of Quidi Vidi to one of the many active fishing villages like Petty Harbor. You'll spend your evenings in local Bed and Breakfasts along the coast, enjoying homemade dinners with a hearty breakfast each morning. You'll also spend a couple of nights in St. John's, The City of Legends, enjoying evenings out on the town and sampling native Newfoundland cuisine.
This tour is more advanced due to the extremely technical nature of much of the trail tread. There are many challenging and technical aspects of this trail. Runners must be prepared for very steep, rocky and rooty terrain. Running isn't possible on some segments of the trail and you should be prepared to do a bit of power walking. There are also numerous steps to climb and traverse. Practice climbing steps prior to the tour.
Dates: Sept 21 to Sept 27, 2024
Yosemite Trail Running Tour in California
On this Yosemite Trail Running Adventure you will traverse 77 km across 5 days through some of the most amazing wilderness ever. Yosemite National Park and Yosemite Valley present some of the most magnificent terrain on the planet.
This tour navigates the most spectacular trails through this remarkable landscape. As the first federal land to be set aside for any kind of park in 1864 (Yellowstone is known to be the first national park, set aside in 1872), Yosemite is well known for it’s sheer cliffs, waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias and vast wilderness areas. It is one of the most famous scenic areas in the world.
On this tour, you will leave the crowds behind to explore some of the most famous sights in the park and some of the lesser-known nooks and crannies that are just as wondrous. From North Dome and El Capitan to Taft and Glacier Point, we take in all of this beauty while traversing the landscape on two feet in trail running shoes. You'll camp in lovely campsites, soak your tired legs and feet in the cool waters of the Merced and Tuolumne Rivers and enjoy tasty dinners with new running friends around a campfire. Don’t miss this spectacular tour through the wonder that is Yosemite National Park!
Dates: June 17 to June 21, 2024
In the End
Whether you're looking to scale the mountains of Georgia or traverse along the cliffs in South Africa, we have something for you this year. From the iconic trails of the Dolomites to the deserts of Namibia there's no shortage of amazing trail running destinations across the globe.
We've highlighted some of our top picks for trail running trips coming your way in 2024. But there are so many more we have for you-and we are really just scratching the surface.
So, if you're interested in one of these trail running trips or want to check out some others–please get in touch and we’ll be happy to send you further information. And if you are new to trail running, but want to give it a go on one of these trips--be sure to check out 30 of the best running tips of all time.
Happy trails.