A quick summary of all the different MUNGA events, with dates
What started with a single long ride from BFN to Wellington in summer has not exploded into many offsprings. All gateway drugs for the main event. So right at the top you have the 1000+km event at the end of the year. And then the MUNGA GRIT events are typically half the distance in less than half the time, say 50 hours. Then MUNGA SWORD events take it down another notch to 24-hour loop events. The MUNGA SQUAD series is a 1-day event. The MUNGA TOUR is at your own leisure. Andhe MUNGA TRAILS is on foot. And the MINI MUNGAS are training rides. Full explanations and dates for each one below. And more on themunga.com/
THE MUNGA: solo
When is the MUNGA 2026? From 25-30 November 2026… Main of the MUNGA events. 120 hours non-stop A single-stage mountain bike race across the middle of South Africa in the heat of summer Can a bicycle race change your life? The Munga was launched way back in 2014, and at first it seemed like a crazy idea. To race non-stop for 1000km across the arid Karoo in summer, really? But it soon became the go to ultra-endurance mountain bike race in South Africa, and the benchmark by which all other long races are measured. In its short history, the race has become somewhat of an iconic event, and a bucket list race for anyone who has ever been on a mountain bike! When people ask you if you have done the Munga, they are not interested in your time – It’s a yes or no answer!
The Munga EQUIPE: relay
When is the MUNGA EQUIPE? Same dates 25-30 November 2026… Munga Equipe is in essence a relay race. Equipe, French for team, is all about a group of riders splitting up the vast distances of the Munga, and each rider taking on a section. So, rider one would race from the start to RV1, and hand over to rider 2. Rider 2 would race to RV2 and hand over to 3, and so on and so on. Equipe follows the exact race route of the Munga with the same notorious sections. Except in Equipe, you only have to race one of those sections!
What is the MUNGA GRIT series?
Half the distance in less than half the time. Over the course of the Munga’s history, it has become apparent that plenty of riders are motivated and intrigued by our unique race format and want to give it a ‘try’, but the distance is mentally challenging compared to most other South African mountain bike races. Thus, the idea of Munga Grit was born. To offer a crossover or bridge if you will, to the main Munga events.
MUNGA GRIT: Trans Xhariep
When is the MUNGA GRIT Trans Xhariep? From 20-22 March 2026… 50 hours non-stop A single-stage mountain bike race from AN outstretched landscape that lies in the southern tip of the Free State AND stretches out to the Northern Cape. For those afraid of the dragon there is a 24-hour option! We are proud to introduce a 100-Miler Series into the Munga Grit events category. We would like to invite all gravel and mountain bikers to come and race in The Munga 100-Miler Series.
MUNGA GRIT: Le Dur Namibia
When is the MUNGUA GRIT Le Dur in Namibia? From 8-10 May 2026… 50 hours NON-STOP A single-stage mountain bike race through beautiful Namibia. 2026 – Into the Northern Wild For those afraid of the Dragon the 24-hour option We are proud to introduce a 100-Miler Series into the Munga Grit events category. We would like to invite all gravel and mountain bikers to come and race in The Munga 100-Miler Series. (E-Bike Entries are welcome – T & C’s Apply). A Namibian cycling federation sanctioned event. Namibian MUNGA events.
MUNGA GRIT: USA x2
When is the MUNGA GRIT USA? Texas is on 11-12 April 2026; Michigan is in September 2026… 170 miles in 24 hours non-stop. Single-stage challenge takes you on a 173-mile journey with only 6,000ft of elevation. You have 24 hours to conquer it – will you? You have 2 options to try! TEXAS OR MICHIGAN. Munga Grit | Texas Introducing the first Munga Grit Fredericksburg 24hr bike adventure that will be taking place 11-12 April 2026. And for the Munga Grit | Michigan The fourth annual Munga Grit TC 24hr bike adventure will return to Traverse City, Michigan, in September 2026. Offshore MUNGA events.
MUNGA GRIT: Northwest
When is the MUNGA GRIT Northwest? From 28-30 August 2026… 50 hours non-stop A single-stage mountain bike race through the North-West. For those afraid of the Dragon there is a 24-hour option! We are proud to introduce a 100-Miler Series into the Munga Grit events category. We would like to invite all gravel and mountain bikers to come and race in The Munga 100-Miler Series. Local MUNGA events.
MUNGA GRIT: Tankwa
When is the MUNGA GRIT Tankwa? 2027 Dates to be confirmed… 50 hours non-stop A single-stage mountain bike race through the Tankwa Reserve in the Karoo. For those afraid of the Dragon there is a 24-hour option! We are proud to introduce a 100-Miler Series into the Munga Grit events category. We would like to invite all gravel and mountain bikers to come and race in The Munga 100-Miler Series. Mythical MUNGA events.
SWORD Series: PTA-East
When is the MUNGA SWORD Pretoria-East? From14-15 February 2026… 24-hour loop event A bike race that follows a single loop. riders will have to ride as many laps as they can in 24 hours. The Swords Series is a family-oriented, fun-filled festival of endurance! Riders can access their family and friends as they come in. But be warned… this level of comfort comes with a heavy price. Resolve will melt, determination will fall by the side, and motivations will be questioned as you embrace your loved one and think long and hard if you can set off for one more loop. Quick MUNGA events.
SWORD Series: Waterberg
When is the MUNGA SWORD Waterberg? On 26-27 September 2026… We are excited to announce that we have shifted the old Modimolle route farther west, away from the sand to, a quieter, more intimate location. The Munga Swords 24hr Series Waterberg race is situated in the heart of the Waterberg mountains, just 30mins from Bela Bela (Warmbaths). 24-Hour Loop Event An epic cycling experience in the heart of Waterberg, Limpopo. This 24-hour event follows a single looped route where you get to choose your challenge, ride just one lap or push for ten; it’s completely up to you. Whether you’re in it for fun, endurance, or the vibe, this is your ride, your way. E-bikes welcome.
SQUAD Series: Middelburg
When is the MUNGA SQUAD in Middelburg? On 23 May 2026… 1 day event The ultimate team cycling event for all riders—Roadies, MTBers, Gravel Cyclists, and E-bikers! Race on safe gravel and farm roads in teams of five, with at least four finishing to qualify. Non-technical terrain, open roads, and pure riding enjoyment —teamwork and strategy take the lead. Gather your squad and push the pace! Single day MUNGA events.
MUNGA TOUR: at your own pace
When is the MUNGA TOUR? From 3-9 October 2026… Every South African summer, daring cyclists tackle the Munga, dubbed “the toughest race on Earth.” Spanning 1,000km through the Karoo, riders face brutal winds, grueling roads, and scorching heat to reach Doolhof Wine Farm in Wellington within five days. For some, it’s a race; for others, a pilgrimage. The Munga is a test of survival, revealing the life and person you can become. Yet, the Karoo’s quiet mystery often fades amid exhaustion. What if you could explore the Munga route at your own pace, savoring the Karoo’s beauty without the race’s pressure? Join us for a unique journey where the adventure unfolds without cutoffs or ego. Leisurely MUNGA events.
MUNGA TRAILS: running!
When is the MUNGA TAILS? Running on 29 November 2026… On foot. No cycling here. Which means in my opinion THIS is exactly where the dragons are. 10KM & 25KM ROUTE. Set against the backdrop of The Munga’s annual event, this trail running experience takes place on the stunning trails of Doolhof Wine Estate, near Wellington. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to trail running, this event is the perfect chance to push your limits while surrounded by nature, right next to the finish line of The Munga Ultra Endurance Cycling Challenge from Bloemfontein to Doolhof. Trail running MUNGA events.
MINI-MUNGA: Cradle of Humankind
When is the MINI MUNGA in the Cradle? Coming soon… This 8-12 hour, Free to Ride (FTR) event for ages 18+ offers GPS-navigated routes with a midway waterpoint. No indemnity form, no ride—sign indemnity forms on-site from 05:00 to 05:30 AM before the event. Unsupported, so bring water, snacks, and spares. Wear an ANSI-compliant helmet and obey traffic rules. Riders are responsible for their safety. No littering or doping. Explore the Cradle’s trails! Mini MUNGA events.
MINI-MUNGA: Paarl
When is the MINI MUNGA in Paarl? Coming soon… Ride the Mini Munga in Paarl, Western Cape, on July 26 was our most recent event, our next is October 18, 2025, starting at 6:00 AM. This 8-10 hour, Free to Ride (FTR) event for ages 18+ features GPS-navigated routes with a midway waterpoint. No indemnity form, no ride—sign indemnity forms on-site from 05:00 to 05:30 AM before the event. Unsupported, so pack water, snacks, and spares. Wear an ANSI-compliant helmet and follow traffic rules. Riders are responsible for their safety. No littering or doping. Conquer Paarl’s scenic trails!
Let’s go!
When can we send your bicycle to a MUNGA events? See you there.
