Now in its third edition, the event has evolved from an ambitious sporting initiative into an internationally recognised rendezvous for trail runners, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. The 2026 edition attracted participants from 14 countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, all drawn to Seychelles’ rare combination of technical trails and breathtaking scenery.

Seychelles’ Minister for Tourism, Amanda Bernstein, welcomed the overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants and highlighted the event’s growing international appeal.

“I am delighted by the feedback we continue to receive from runners. The Seychelles Nature Trail offers a rare combination of technical challenge and exceptional natural beauty. Participants are leaving with unforgettable memories and are already expressing their desire to return next year. It is inspiring to see runners from around the world discovering Seychelles through this unique adventure,” said Minister Bernstein.

Far more than a race, the 22-kilometre course offers an immersive journey through the wild beauty of Seychelles. Runners traverse the dense forests of Morne Seychellois National Park, rugged mountain paths, dramatic granite formations, and spectacular coastal viewpoints before descending into Grand Anse. The route passes through Port Glaud, Cap Ternay, Anse Major, Mare aux Cochons, Cassedent, and Tomassin, delivering over 1,200 metres of elevation gain alongside sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.

International athletes praised both the challenge and uniqueness of the course. French trail-running icon Sylvaine Cussot, who finished second in the women’s category, described the race as one of the most remarkable trail experiences she has encountered. UK participant Charly Pauly also highlighted the exceptional diversity of terrain and scenery.

Pakistan’s Wiqar Ahmad Nasir successfully defended his title for the second consecutive year, crossing the finish line in 2:11:39. South Africa’s Daniël Classen secured second place in 2:13:00, while Jonathan Quatre claimed third place, becoming the first Seychellois athlete to complete the race.

In the women’s category, South Africa’s Emily Djock claimed victory in 2:55:05, followed by Sylvaine Cussot in 3:02:05 and Seychellois athlete Aisha Radwan in 3:14:05.

What distinguishes the Seychelles Nature Trail is not only the course itself, but the destination experience surrounding it. Unlike many large-scale international races, Seychelles offers participants an intimate connection with nature, culture, and community, where warm Creole hospitality, pristine landscapes, and sustainability remain central to the experience.

The growing popularity of the event also reflects Seychelles’ evolving tourism identity. Long celebrated for its idyllic beaches and luxury resorts, the destination is increasingly gaining recognition for adventure, wellness, and experiential travel. Through the Seychelles Nature Trail, Tourism Seychelles continues to showcase the islands’ exceptional biodiversity and growing potential as a leading nature and sports tourism destination.

As demand for authentic outdoor experiences continues to grow worldwide, the Seychelles Nature Trail is positioning the islands as a rising destination for adventure and wellness tourism, offering participants not just a race, but an unforgettable immersion into nature, culture, and community.

From tropical forest trails to sweeping Indian Ocean vistas, the event continues to showcase Seychelles as a place where adventure meets paradise.

About Tourism Seychelles

Tourism Seychelles is the official destination marketing organisation for the Seychelles Islands. Committed to showcasing the islands’ unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences, Tourism Seychelles plays a pivotal role in promoting Seychelles as a premier travel destination worldwide.

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Johannesburg, South Africa: The third edition of the Seychelles Nature Challenge returns on Saturday,16 May 2026, with all-inclusive packages now available for professional and novice trail runners alike.

The 22 km technical course winds its way through Morne Seychellois National Park – the archipelago’s largest and most biodiverse protected area. With a 1,200 m elevation gain, runners traverse dense indigenous rainforest, rocky mountain paths, and pristine coastal trails on the island of Mahé, in what is becoming one of the most spectacular and sought-after races on the global trail running calendar.

A once-in-a-lifetime trail experience awaits. For seasoned trail runner, Paul Ingpen, the 2025 edition inspired new awe and wonder:

“Even after 40 years of travelling to run, ride and paddle my way through the world’s most remote wildernesses, I have never seen plants as tall, leaves as big, or shapes as varied as in this forest,” said Ingpen. “It may be the first time that I’ve run a race wishing time would slow down and the distance would extend.”

An unparalleled way to discover the island. For Stellenbosch-based trail runner, Shaundre Jacobs, who finished third in the ladies’ race in August 2025, it was the best way to experience Seychelles for the very first time:

“If you like the outdoors and exploring a new place, I suggest putting this race at the top of your list,” says Jacobs. “It’s the best way to explore the island, by foot. In this way, you take it all in through feeling and experiencing nature first-hand. Whether you are a beginner or expert trail runner, this race is for you. It will be the experience of a lifetime. Seychelles is not just a place; it is a feeling.”

Accessible to runners of all levels. Jacobs, who describes the event as “well-organised”, “well-marked” and “magically surreal”, believes anyone can enjoy the challenge – with a little preparation.

“If you are considering it, try and train in warm conditions and get some time in a sauna. The humidity is quite high and can catch you off guard,” explains Jacobs. “Hydrate well before, during and after the race, with water and electrolytes. Also, do lots of vertical training where you focus on power hiking. This will help prepare you for the vertical kilometres in the race – and reward you with astounding views.”

RACE DETAILS

The Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge 2026 takes place on 16 May 2026, starting at the Constance Ephelia Resort at Port Launay before heading into Mahé’s national park trails and finishing at Grand Anse Mahé.

The race entry fee includes a race bib and timing chip, race pack (including a t-shirt and other surprises), a finisher’s medal, refreshments and aid stations along the route and post-race recovery area and refreshments.

ALL-INCLUSIVE RACE PACKAGES

Comprehensive travel packages for South African runners are available through Ace Sport Travel, making it easy to experience this bucket-list event. Packages start from R49,990 per person, including 5 nights’ accommodation, breakfast and dinner daily, flights and transfers and race entry. Rates depend on accommodation selected (Constance Ephelia or Avani+ Barbarons), and single supplements apply. 

Price excludes the Seychelles Tourism Environmental Sustainability Levy, which amounts to approximately R121.00 per person per night, payable at the hotel upon check out.

For booking enquiries, please contact nadine@acetravel.co.za.

BOOK YOUR SPOT TODAY

Online entries are open, please visit https://racepass.com/za/tours/the-seychelles-nature-trail for more information.

For Christine Vel, Market Manager for Seychelles Tourism, it is a highlight on the organisation’s calendar:

“The 2025 event attracted 169 entrants from around the world, including 52 international athletes and 10 participants from South Africa alone,” says Vel.  “For 2026, we’re expecting an even larger field and are excited to cement Seychelles’ position as a premier destination for both luxury and adventure tourism, showcasing Seychelles’ extraordinary natural beauty to a globalaudience of outdoor enthusiasts.”

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For more information, please contact Roland Müller on roland@bigambitions.co.za

About Tourism Seychelles 

Tourism Seychelles is the official destination marketing organisation for the Seychelles Islands. Committed to showcasing the islands’ unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences, Tourism Seychelles plays a pivotal role in promoting Seychelles as a premier travel destination worldwide.