International multi-stage race organiser GlobalLimits has announced the launch of a major new ultra-distance trail race in Eswatini, with the inaugural Swazi Highland Trail set to take place from 5–13 September 2027.
The new event will see endurance runners from around the world take on approximately 230km across six challenging stages, showcasing some of Eswatini’s most spectacular highland landscapes along the way. International interest has already been strong following the launch, with 30 participants registered for the inaugural event.
Starting at Mlilwane Game Sanctuary, the route will take runners deep into Eswatini’s mountainous interior, crossing rugged trails, technical ridgelines, river crossings, valleys and suspension bridges before ultimately reaching Sibebe Rock, one of the country’s best-known natural landmarks.
With a total elevation gain of approximately 9,500 metres, the Swazi Highland Trail has been designed as a demanding multi-day challenge for experienced endurance runners. Each stage will introduce participants to a different part of the country, combining challenging terrain with the scenery, communities and history of Eswatini’s highlands.
The six racing stages will take place between 7 and 12 September, with individual stages ranging from approximately 16km to 60km. The route will include areas around Malolotja Nature Reserve, Bulembu and Piggs Peak, before the final stage concludes at Sibebe.
As well as providing a substantial sporting challenge, the event offers an opportunity to introduce an international audience to parts of Eswatini that sit well beyond the country’s main visitor routes. Runners will pass through rural communities, mountain landscapes and conservation areas during the week-long race, while overnight stops at locations along the course will further connect participants with the places through which they are travelling.
The event is being organised by GlobalLimits, an international race organiser specialising in multi-stage endurance events in distinctive destinations around the world. Established in 2012, GlobalLimits currently operates races in destinations including São Tomé, Cambodia, Uzbekistan and the Balkans, with Eswatini becoming the latest addition to its international race calendar.
GlobalLimits places sustainability, social commitment and sporting exchange at the centre of its events, working with local service providers and communities in its host destinations. The organisation also operates a programme designed to give local running talent opportunities to participate alongside international endurance athletes.
The Swazi Highland Trail is being managed locally by trails expert Anna McGinn, working with GlobalLimits to coordinate the event within Eswatini and support its international promotion. Once leader of her own trails company in Eswatini, nobody knows the Swati terrain better than Anna.
The race has been designed as a supported event, allowing competitors to race with only their essential day equipment while GlobalLimits transports up to 10kg of personal supplies between overnight camps. Accommodation throughout the route will vary between camps, local facilities and hotels, adding another element to the multi-stage experience.
With almost a year remaining before the first runners arrive in Eswatini, the early international registrations demonstrate the potential for the event to attract a new niche of adventure and endurance travellers to the country.
The inaugural GlobalLimits Eswatini – The Swazi Highland Trail will begin on 5 September 2027, with the first racing stage taking place on 7 September and the final stage finishing at Sibebe on 12 September.
