Deep in the vast expanse of the Namib Desert, forty runners are preparing to begin the adventure of a lifetime. On November 17th, the 2025 Desert Ultra gets underway.
You can follow all of our race content on our Social Media Channels and get daily video updates on our YouTube Channel.
To follow their progress live via our tracking map, click here! Or scroll down for the live leaderboard.
The live position leaderboard and race tracking will appear here once the race has begun.
Fancy it next year? Entries are open for the 2026 Desert Ultra. Click here to download the racepack, or click here to book in a call with the Race Director to discuss your entry.
The Desert Ultra consists of five distinct stages, each bringing its own unique challenges. Read on for a full race breakdown!
SPITZKOPPE SADDLE
STAGE ONE
ASCENT 170M
DISTANCE 50KM
DESCENT 530M
Starting at the base of Spitzkoppe Mountain, nicknamed the Namibian Matterhorn, this 120 million-year-old granite tower dominates Base Camp. It serves as the monumental starting point for your adventure. Over the next 50km you’ll traverse a diverse mix of desert terrain from dry scrubland and rocky trails to sandy plains.
Stage One commences with a 13km run through flat scrubland, navigating coarse grasses and dry shrubs.
This leads you to a gap in The Saddle, flanked by two lower granite formations. Then, you’ll follow a rarely used 4×4 trail through diverse desert landscapes to the finish line. The stage concludes in a dry river bed, following a brief yet demanding stretch of sandy trail.
This stage is a profound lesson in adapting to the intense desert heat and environment. Crewed checkpoints along the marked route will provide an unlimited supply of water. This leg presents a thrilling introduction to the challenges and beauty of the Namib Desert.
BRANDBERG
STAGE TWO
ASCENT 310M
DISTANCE 50KM
DESCENT 210M
Starting at sunrise in the river bed sand of the campsite, you’ll be directed northwest towards Namibia’s highest point, Brandberg Mountain. Towering 1,800m above the desert floor, it has earned itself the nickname “Fire Mountain” due to vibrant sunset hues on its granite face.
The first 25km of the 50km stage entails a steady ascent on compacted 4×4 trails through rocky terrain. Expect varied conditions underfoot, but consistent awe-inspiring views where you’ll witness remnants of life attempting to flourish in this harsh environment.
As you progress, you’ll transition from rocky plains and scrubland down to the dusty, sandy trails, leading to the dry Ugab River bed, a crucial lifeline in this region. This stage offers a glimpse into the desert’s unforgiving nature and the determination needed to thrive here. The challenging terrain and stunning vistas define this leg of the race against the backdrop of Namibia’s iconic landscape.
WHITE LADY MARATHON
STAGE THREE
ASCENT 90M
DISTANCE 42KM
DESCENT 430M
As the sun rises over Brandberg, you’ll start your marathon day with a 15km trail in the sandy Ugab riverbed. Despite the shorter distance, the unrelenting 50-degree heat offers no respite. A long, gradual ascent from the midway point is mentally and physically draining. The reward is an equally long descent to the finish.
Stage three’s camp is a desert runner’s favourite. Mountains grace the western horizon and the camp is surrounded by striking rock formations and huge boulders. If energy permits, explore and capture photos amid the spectacular terrain. As you search, look for elephant tracks and, with luck, signs of lions, zebras, and giraffes.
This stage, though shorter, presents its own unique challenges and rewards in the
Namibian desert.
DAMARA DASH
STAGE FOUR
DISTANCE 22KM
ASCENT 240M
DESCENT 20M
Prepare for a scorching half-marathon in Stage Four, covering 22km to recover and
prepare for the final day’s challenge. If you’re fortunate during your race briefing, you might spot feeding elephants along the riverbed’s vegetation.
Starting at midday, this segment is a gradual uphill ascent, featuring the demanding red jersey stage, motivating runners to earn the title of King or Queen of the Desert. The course to checkpoint one involves challenging sandy terrain, slowing progress. After checkpoint two, the ground is rockier, allowing for faster pace minimising your exposure in the sun.
Enjoy a rest in camp, then rise before dawn for the 92km final stage, the last hurdle before claiming your well-deserved medal. This half-marathon prepares you for the ultimate test.
THE GRIND
STAGE FIVE
ASCENT 400M
DISTANCE 92KM
DESCENT 870M
Stage Five, spanning over 90km, is the most demanding of them all. Mental and physical stamina will be crucial in order to finish but you’ll witness the very best of what the desert has to offer.
Starting at 4am, you’ll first conquer a challenging 5km sand dune before sunrise. From then on, you’ll traverse a variety of desert terrains, from wide-ranging plains to rugged mountain passes, protected wildlife areas, and volcanic craters.
Checkpoint Seven, Hyena Rock, stands out in the desolate landscape.
A signal fire guides runners in darkness. For the 70km short course, this marks the finish. The final stretch descends a striking rocky valley, flanked by towering rock formations. The race concludes at a remote rhino conservation outpost, where you’ll celebrate your incredible achievement with fellow runners and the crew.
“THE TOUGHEST DESERT RACE OUT THERE BUT ALSO THE BEST. THE BEAUTY OF THE NAMIB DESERT IS BREATHTAKING.” KRISTINA MADSEN – DESERT ULTRA WINNER
