Welcome to the oxpecker trail run

Est. 2015

Experience Africa’s favourite trail run

Run around the historic Spioenkop Mountain and along the banks of the powerful Tugela River all with a view of the Drakensberg. It’s a weekend of memorable trails, stiff legged jols and an electric atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re here to chase a PB, soak up the Drakensberg views, or just have an excuse to get out of town, you’re in the right place.

Pick your weekend—Yellow-billed, Red-billed, African or Marathon—and get ready for two epic days of running, glamping, and memories that will last longer than your stiff legs.

The oxpecker

Who:
Anyone from walkers to runners. The trails are created by runners, for runners!


Distances:

Saturday – 21km
Sunday – 15km


When:

The Yellow billed: 1-3 May 2026
The Red Billed: 8-10 May 2026
The African: 15-18 May 2026

Please note there is no difference these events, they take place over three weekends due to demand. African Oxpecker offers prize money.

The oxpecker trail marathon

Who:
Runners looking to step up their game and challenge themselves.
A smaller more intimate event.


Distances:
42km or
21km


When:
18 April 2026

Please note there is no difference these events, they take place over three weekends due to demand. African Oxpecker offers prize money.

What to expect 

Memorable Trails

Trails built by runners, for runners – designed to be the perfect balance between fun and challenging. Trail paths are well-maintained with incredible scenery to help give you an extra boost up the climbs and speed through the descents, ending along the banks of the Tugela River. From the friendly staff to the set-up of the Oxpecker merch. shop, to the unforgettable menu for the weekend, we do everything with YOU in mind.

Africa’s favourite trail run

unbelievable trails, delicious food, pure fun

Birds of a Feather Run Together

The Oxpecker Trail Run is so much more than winding trails and mountain top views. It’s being treated like you’re a long time friend at the arrival gate and meeting up with like minded people (those that love a good challenge followed by a cold beer). We believe that the recipe for an epic weekend lies in the small details.
From the friendly staff to the set-up of the Oxpecker merch. shop, to the unforgettable menu for the weekend, we do everything with YOU in mind.

NUMBER OF meals made

NUMBER OF tents erected

number of shoes donated

The entire event! Attention to detail, facilities, food and shop. Wow from start to finish.

–  Lisa Wiechers

 Loved the vibe, the fact that it was so well organised by a family with vision, great food, great tracks. Just overall wonderful experience

–  Debbie Rohrs

OMG I could write a book on what I loved! Honestly EVERYTHING at Oxpecker is incredible – the trails, the people, the food, the vibes, the race packs – EVERYTHING!

– Semliki Addison

I had heard that the Oxpecker was a “must do” event but now I’ve seen it with my own eyes and it blew me away!

– Michael Mervitz