Big Five Marathon

How to get there

AIRPORT

Fly into Johannesburg International Airport (also known as OR Tambo)

23 June 2021 Arrival at Entabeni

Your tour will start and end at Johannesburg International Airport (also known as OR Tambo). All participants will be transferred from the airport to Entabeni Game Reserve. The set transfer departure times from the airport are: 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00. If none of these transfers fit with your arrival, it is possible to book an individual private transfer at an additional cost.

Upon arrival to Entabeni, you will meet you tour leader and be checked in at your respective lodge/camp. Participants arriving on one of the first three transfers (departure from Johannesburg International Airport at 08:30, 10:00 & 12:00) will have the possibility to go on the first of several exciting game drives.

These game drives are the perfect opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in serene surroundings. The Entabeni Game Reserve offers diverse wildlife, open safari vehicles, and relatively few tourists, creating an ideal and natural wilderness atmosphere.

Meals: Dinner

24 June 2021 Entabeni Game Drives

Day two of your stay in Entabeni is dedicated to exploring the game reserve through a game drive and/or a bush walk. We will get accustomed to the park’s geography, and climate, and we can slowly start preparing ourselves for Saturday’s exciting event: The Big Five Marathon.

The game drive is included in the itinerary and will take place either in the early morning or in the late afternoon. A bush walk with an experienced armed ranger is also included on the second day, giving us a chance to get really close to the nature and wildlife. Additional game drives and bush walks can be booked on-site at additional cost if required. Alternatively, some of your free time can also be used for shorter runs outside Entabeni – the tour leader will help organise the runs.

Early morning game drives typically takes place between 06:00 and 09:30. During these early hours we will experience the cool morning, spot spectacular wildlife, and most probably work up an appetite. Once back from the morning safari we will be richly satisfied by the overwhelming breakfast buffet that awaits us at our lodge/camp.
The afternoon game drive begins around 16:00, and arrives back at the lodge in time for dinner around 19:30. Similar to the morning game drive, the afternoon drive provides great wildlife experiences. Moreover, the afternoon drive offers the opportunity to experience a beautiful sunset in ideal settings: enjoying a cold drink on the savannah, while admiring the changing colours of the darkening evening sky. The afternoon drive then turns into a night safari, where we will get the chance to spot the fascinating nocturnal wildlife with a spot light.

PLEASE NOTE: June is winter time in South Africa, and while the temperature often rises to 20-25 degrees Celsius during the day, temperatures can drop below freezing at night time! The large drop from day to night time temperatures makes the evenings and mornings feel extremely cold. It is therefore essential to bring a winter jacket, warm hat and gloves when going on game drives!

During our stay, we will have a number of park rangers allocated: one for approximately every ten participants. The rangers ensure our safety, drive the safari vehicles, provide competent guiding, coordinate the events with the race management, and are at our disposal around the clock. Furthermore a tour leader will be with the group from beginning to end.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

25 June 2021 Route Inspection

After breakfast, all participants will be transported from their respective lodges/camp to the starting point of the marathon. Before we set off for the start line, there will be a short briefing about the route inspection. All safari vehicles follow the route in a convoy, allowing the participants to examine the different running surfaces, note the locations of water stations and assess the overall difficulty of the route. Afterwards, a large buffet lunch will be served for all of the participants. Everyone will be gathered – participants, race officials, medical staff and rangers – for a formal introduction to the event, and a presentation of the practical issues surrounding the marathon. There are no scheduled game drives for this day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

26 June 2021 Race Day

The day we have all been waiting for has arrived! Today you will take part in an unforgettable challenge: The Big Five Marathon. In the morning, all participants will be transported from the different lodges/camps to the starting line in time for final preparations. The marathon is scheduled to start at 09:00, but delays may be expected, as the exact start time will depend on the location of the big five game – if the animals are too close to the route, the start will be postponed.

There are no scheduled game drives this day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

27 June 2021 Celebration Dinner

Today we get some time to relax after running through the African savannah. You will have the option to purchase additional game drives and excursions for the morning. In the afternoon, we will venture out for yet another fantastic game drive followed by our post-marathon party. There will be delightful food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony, a big bonfire, and partying under the starry skies. Please be aware that the party takes place in a traditional South African boma with open roof and large open doorways. It is therefore advisable to dress warm! For the same reason, there will be no dress code and casual clothing is recommended.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

28 June 2021 Entabeni

On the final day at the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, you will have one last game drive either in the morning or in the afternoon. Those interested will also get the opportunity to stretch their legs on one final bush walk.

In the evening, farewell dinners will be held at the respective lodges.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

29 Jun 2021 Farewell South Africa or Hello Extension

Our time at the Entabeni Game Reserve has come to an end, and it’s time to head back to Johannesburg. As was the case with arrival, all participants will be transferred from Entabeni to Johannesburg International Airport.

Transfer arrival times at the airport are: 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 and 18:00. As on arrival, it is possible, at an additional cost, to book an individual transfer to Johannesburg, if the group transfers don’t coincide with your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional Extension 1 - The Smoke That Thunders - Victoria Falls - 4 days | from £1729 per person

Inclusions

3 nights at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – Waterhole Facing Room with breakfast
Roundtrip flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls
Tour of Victoria Falls
Sundowner Cruise on the Zambezi
Boma Dinner Drum Show (24 June)
Roundtrip transfer between the airport and hotel
Meals – according to itinerary

Extend your trip to Africa, with an unforgettable trip to one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls – Victoria Falls. With a height of 108 metres and a combined width of 1700 metres, not to mention the stunning rainforest backdrop, Victoria Falls is a place like no other, and certainly a great option to finish of a once in a lifetime race experience. In the Bantu language, the falls are called “mosi-oa-tunya,” which means “the smoke that thunders,” and that is a perfect description of the power of the falls- a huge puff of “smoke” accompanied by the thunderous sound of the water.

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

After breakfast, we start our drive to O R Tambo International Airport where we will check in for our 1 hour 40 minute flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

On arrival, and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be transferred to your hotel for the next four days, the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.

Situated on a plateau just 4km from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the award-winning hotel is surrounded by the wilds of Africa and offers an unforgettable experience. The sunset-facing, 72-room Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers a view of the African bush that stretching endlessly toward the horizon, including views of a waterhole frequented by elephants, buffalo, kudus, and other wildlife, as well as a rich variety of birds.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Tour of Victoria Falls & Sunset Cruise

After breakfast, we will take a walking tour around the indescribably beautiful Victoria Falls, which spans as far as the eye can see. During the tour, our guide will explain the history of the area and provide information about its location along the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia.

There is often spray from the waterfall, so it can be a good idea to bring an umbrella or light raincoat.

In the afternoon, we will take a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. From our safe position aboard the boat, we will enjoy a cold drink while on the look-out for crocodiles and hippopotamus.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Optional Activities

Today is set aside for you to experience the many activities that are available around Victoria Falls. We offer an optional safari in Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Or you could enjoy a helicopter flight over the falls, go river rafting on the Zambezi, or perhaps bungee jump over the falls. There is also the opportunity to experience the falls from the Zambia side.

Our local representative will be able to assist in booking activities.

Meals: Breakfast and Boma Dinner Drum show

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Transfer for Johannesburg & Departure

You will have the morning free for any optional activities before your transfer back to Victoria Falls airport, where we will take a flight to Johannesburg, from where you should meet your connecting flight home.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional Extension 2 - Big Five Safari & Panorama Route - Manyeleti Private Game Reserve - 5 days | from £1185 per person

Inclusions

4-night accommodation in Mantobeni Camp
Game drives and bush walks
Meals as per itinerary
Transportation as per itinerary
Zipline adventure
Panorama Route tour

Minimum age on game drives Minimum age allowed on game drives is 6 years old. No exceptions.
Minimum age allowed on bush walks is 12 years old. No exceptions.

Join us for an exciting safari trip which includes game drives, bush walks, and exploration of the area along the famed Panorama Route. During our stay in Mantobeni Camp, we will have the opportunity to visit a local community situated beside the reserve that our camp works closely with. This is a great chance to gain insight into the daily lives of the locals. If you are interested in the local community visit, please let the tour leader know in advance.

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Manyeleti Game Reserve & Zipline Adventure

After breakfast, we will leave Entabeni and start our drive to Mantobeni Camp.

The 7-hour drive will be broken up with an exhilarating zip wire adventure. Glide through a scenic river valley and enjoy astounding views from the treetops while swaying over a gushing waterfall and rushing river. The activity is suitable for everyone (not only for marathon runners) and includes a photo to bring back as a souvenir.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Game drive and/or bush walk

Over the next few days, we will experience morning and afternoon safaris and hiking in the beautiful scenery. There is not much that can compare with the spicy morning scents and the special glow over the savannah in the early morning. It is cool and peaceful, and a quiet lull descends upon the savannah when the night’s hunting is over.

After breakfast, we will either go for a game drive or bush walk. In the afternoon after lunch, we set off for another game drive or bush walk and spend the afternoon exploring the bush.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Panorama Route, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon (subject to weather)

After breakfast we will drive from the camp to the province of Mpumalanga, which means “place where the sun rises.” The Panorama Route is true to its name, with magnificent vistas and a stop at the scenic vantage point known as “God’s Window,” with panoramic views of the lowveld savannah that lies 1,000m below the plateau.

The route also takes us to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a rocky landscape where water has carved deep cylindrical holes into the bare rock. Finally, we stop at Blyde River Canyon, which is the world’s third largest canyon. We expect to be back in Mantobeni in the late afternoon, giving you some time to relax before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Game drive and/or bush walk

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy another day of game drives (morning and afternoon) and experience the bush. There will either be two game drives today or one game drive and a bush walk. All meals will be enjoyed at the camp.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

After breakfast, we’ll head back to Johannesburg. The journey will take approximately 7 hours by bus. We’ll stop for lunch and be back in Johannesburg at around 3pm. Lunch is not included in the price.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional Extension 3 - Cape Town 5 days | from £1185 per person

Inclusions

4-night accommodation in Cape Town
Domestic flight to Cape Town
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Tour to Cape Point
Winelands tour and tasting
Guided city walk

Whether you’re enthused by glorious waterfronts, towering mountainscapes, rich culture, or flavorful cuisine, you will be captivated by this South African gem of a city. In the shadow of the world famous Table Mountain lie the blue, frothy waters of the Atlantic and the Indian ocean. South Africa’s southern cape marks their oceanic convergence, and during this tour, we pay a visit to one of the most famous of the meeting points – Cape Point at The Cape of Good Hope.

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Cape Town

After breakfast, we will leave Entabeni and start our drive to O R Tambo International Airport where we will check in for our 2-hour flight to Cape Town. In Cape Town, we will be taken to our hotel, Southern Sun Waterfront.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Cape Point Tour & Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Today, we travel along the Atlantic Seaboard via Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay to Hout Bay, a quaint village and fishing harbour with magnificent mountain views and beach.

Then we will continue via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point, which is perceived to be the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. We also visit historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base and a large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat and there is also a new information centre.

We’ll end the day with a visit to the well-known Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. The gardens include five of South Africa’s six different biomes and is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape Flora it displays, as well as for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Cape Town at your leisure

Today, everyone’s free to explore this fabulous city at their own pace. The tour leader will also host a city walk that everyone is welcome to join.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Tour of the Cape Winelands (tastings included!)

This morning, we depart for the famous Winelands of the Western Cape, where we will visit several well-known wineries for tours and tastings while we bask in the beauty of the surroundings. We will also visit Stellenbrau Brewery for craft beer tasting.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

Depending on your time of departure, you have the morning or day at your leisure for one last chance to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Cape Town.

Taxis to the airport are available from the hotel (departure transfer not provided). Please note check-out time is 11 am.

Meals: Breakfast

New for 2021! Big Five Marathon 2021

Inclusions

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Tour of Victoria Falls & Sunset Cruise

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Optional Activities

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Transfer for Johannesburg & Departure

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Manyeleti Game Reserve & Zipline Adventure

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Game drive and/or bush walk

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Panorama Route, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon (subject to weather)

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Game drive and/or bush walk

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

Inclusions

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Cape Town

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Cape Point Tour & Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Cape Town at your leisure

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Tour of the Cape Winelands (tastings included!)

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

How to get there

AIRPORT

23 June 2021 Arrival at Entabeni

24 June 2021 Entabeni Game Drives

25 June 2021 Route Inspection

26 June 2021 Race Day

27 June 2021 Celebration Dinner

28 June 2021 Entabeni

29 Jun 2021 Farewell South Africa or Hello Extension

Optional Extension 1 - The Smoke That Thunders - Victoria Falls - 4 days | from £1729 per person

Inclusions

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Tour of Victoria Falls & Sunset Cruise

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Optional Activities

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Transfer for Johannesburg & Departure

Optional Extension 2 - Big Five Safari & Panorama Route - Manyeleti Private Game Reserve - 5 days | from £1185 per person

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Manyeleti Game Reserve & Zipline Adventure

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Game drive and/or bush walk

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Panorama Route, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon (subject to weather)

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Game drive and/or bush walk

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

Optional Extension 3 - Cape Town 5 days | from £1185 per person

Inclusions

Day 1 – 29 Jun: Arrive in Cape Town

Day 2 – 30 Jun: Cape Point Tour & Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Day 3 – 1 Jul: Cape Town at your leisure

Day 4 – 2 Jul: Tour of the Cape Winelands (tastings included!)

Day 5 – 3 Jul: Departure Day

OTHER EVENTS & TRAINING