Umko - Trail run, accommodation and food bookings

History of the Umko

In 5^th April 1952 Ian Player (the first person to paddle the Dusi in 1951) and Fred Schmidt paddled their home made canoes from Josephine Bridge to the little sea village of Umkomaas on the South Coast. Since then, hundreds more intrepid souls have paddled on this stretch of water which is commonly known at the UMKO.

The organisers have recently introduced a trail run catering for all fitness levels and there is also a 4km kids run. The inclusion of the trail run has made the weekend more appealing to families who have an array of outdoor activities to choose from including rafting down the river too. Runners are treated to grand views of the Umkomaas Valley while running through grassland, natural bush and along side the pristine river. Stihl has been the title sponsor of the race for the last 15 years. The race village is held at Nyala Pans, on the banks of the Umko river.

Whether you choose to camp or stay at Nyala Pans accommodation you will be treated to a fantastic weekend in the raw and untouched Umko Valley. Book your tickets today.