Tankwa Karoo Trail Run
The Tankwa Karoo Trail Run was more than just a race—it was an experience that combined the beauty of a remote desert, the joy of community, and the spirit of adventure.
We, who will hereafter always be known as “The Vibe Tribe,” (thank you Shirley!) took on this challenge in the heart of the Karoo, where we found ourselves running not just for running but for the sheer joy of being part of something extraordinary.
We chose the “Easy-Peasy” version of the event, with a focus on having fun and tapering for the upcoming Cape Town Marathon. But even in the “easy” category, this run tested our limits while treating us to breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
The Tankwa Karoo: A Unique Landscape
The Tankwa Karoo, part of the broader Karoo region, is a semi-desert landscape that stretches out in a raw, almost otherworldly beauty.
It’s known for its vast open spaces, rugged terrain, and sparse vegetation. In this region, the land feels untouched, with an ancient quality that makes it the perfect backdrop for an adventure like this multi-day trail running event.
What sets the Tankwa part of the Karoo apart is its stark beauty, where the silence is almost deafening, and the horizon seems endless.
Running through this landscape is like stepping into a painting where the colours are muted yet striking, and every turn reveals a new angle of this desert wilderness.
Day 1: The Missed Night Run
We were late to the starting line and missed the much-anticipated night run.
But instead of letting it get us down, we embraced the mishap as a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere at the Tankwa Tented campsite.
It set the tone for a weekend that wasn’t just about running but also about enjoying the moments in between.
Day 2: The 13 km Run Through 'Area 51'
Day 2 was all about exploring “Area 51,” where remnants of AfrikaBurn artwork stand like monuments to creativity in the desert.
Running through this space was surreal, like moving through a living art installation where each piece told a story of its own.
Despite the heat, the vibe was electric, with fellow runners cheering each other on and pushing through the challenge.
Day 3: The 15 km Finale
On the final day, we took on a 15 km course that tested our endurance and spirit.
Of 140 entries, only 80 made it to the start line on the morning of Day 3. Tell me you partied hard without telling me you partied hard Saturday night!
I blame The Beer Run!
The sun was half-asleep this early in the morning, and I found myself slowing down, stopping, taking mind pictures, wanting to prolong the last few kilometres, reluctant for the weekend to end.
However, like all good things, it had to come to an end.
Everyone crossed the finish line with smiles that said it all—this wasn’t just a run, it was a celebration of our shared love for the outdoors.
AfrikaBurn: Art in the Desert
AfrikaBurn is the South African version of Burning Man, where artists gather to create and display massive artworks, sculptures, and installations in the Tankwa desert.
The pieces are often temporary, designed to be burned or dismantled after the event, but some remnants remain in the desert long after the festival has ended.
Running past these installations during the trail run added a layer of magic to the experience. It was like discovering hidden treasures, each one a reminder of the creativity and spirit that AfrikaBurn embodies.
These artworks transform the desert into a gallery, a place where nature and human expression collide.
Supporting Elandsvlei Primary School
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Tankwa Karoo Trail Run was its connection to Elandsvlei Primary School.
Abandoned by the Western Cape Department of Education, this school has been kept alive by the local farmers who saw its importance to their community. The medals we received were hand-painted stones, each one unique, crafted by the children of Elandsvlei Primary. It was a simple yet powerful gesture that highlighted the impact of this event beyond just the run itself.
Supporting the school felt like a way to give back to the Tankwa community, helping sustain education in a place where resources are scarce. Knowing that our participation contributed to something so meaningful added an extra layer of significance to every kilometre we ran.
If you would like to make a cash donation, please use the bank details below:
Laerskool Elandsvlei
Standard Bank Acc Number: 082994056
Branch Code: 051001
Alternatively contact Riana (072 797 9450 ) or Nicolette (072 476 0437) to donate stationery, books, non-perishable food, clothes etc
Tankwa Trail Runs: Dryland vs. Nyati-X
I’ve done both Tankwa trail runs this year—one organized by Dryland and this one by Nyati-X.
Hands down, Nyati-X was the winner for me. The vibe was less competitive and more about the shared experience. It felt like a weekend away with extended family rather than a race, with everyone from seasoned runners to beginners cheering each other on.
The Dryland run was well-organized, but Nyati-X had this laid-back, welcoming energy that made all the difference.
We laughed, we sweated, and we bonded under the blazing Karoo sun, knowing that the true victory was just being out there, together.
The Vibe Tribe: Running with Family in the Desert
More important than the running itself, we made new friends, deepened connections with old ones, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
The atmosphere was incredibly chilled yet supportive, with runners of all levels coming together for the love of the sport and the challenge of the desert.
We met all kinds of people out there, from the “tra-la-la” runners tackling the 42 km route to the incredible “Jo,” who ran 82 km in the desert heat.
That’s what I loved about this weekend—it wasn’t just about distances or times; it was about people pushing their limits in a place that demanded respect and endurance.
The Adventure of the Gravel Road
There is a tyre shop at The Tankwa Tented Camp. This is because the 110 km gravel road from Touwsrivier to the camp chows tyres!
Getting to the Tankwa Tented campsite was an adventure in itself.
The gravel road between Ceres and Calvinia was rough, bumpy, and unforgettable. It set the stage for a weekend that was all about embracing the journey, not just the destination.
The remote location of the base camp added to the feeling of being truly away from it all, surrounded by nature and good company.
A Memorable Weekend
Looking back, the Tankwa Karoo Trail Run wasn’t just an event; it was an experience that brought out the best in everyone who took part. The heat, the dust, the laughter, and the sweat—it all came together to create something magical.
We didn’t just run; we connected, celebrated, and felt alive in the vastness of the Tankwa.
Cape Town Marathon and Beyond
As we taper for the Cape Town Marathon, the Tankwa run feels like the perfect preparation—both physically and mentally.
It reminded us why we love to run, not just for the races but for the journey, the community, and the joy of pushing ourselves beyond our limits.
If you’re thinking about joining a trail run, make sure to keep Nyati-X’s Tankwa Trail on your radar—it’s more than just a run; it’s a celebration of life, art, and the human spirit.
Thanks
A heartfelt thank you to the Nyati-X team of Bill, Shirley, Vanessa, Deon and Danie for putting together an incredible event.
Photo creds:
Shirley from Nyati-X
Cido
Basheera
Nicky
Anne
Rachel
Josh
Bruce