Tomjachu Trail Run: Run the Lowveld, Stay for the Bushveld
A New Fitness Travel Trend is on the Charts for May
There are trail runs. And then there are races that feel like a weekend away.
The Tomjachu Trail Run invites runners to swap traffic and tar for granite hills, bushveld paths and big Lowveld skies. Taking place on 30 May 2026 at Tomjachu Bush Retreat, the event draws runners into a private nature reserve where the scenery does most of the talking.
Think historic wagon trails. Quiet valleys. The rumble of footsteps on gravel roads. Occasionally, a giraffe watching the action from the trees.
Set inside the wilderness of Tomjachu Nature Reserve, this is trail running at its most immersive – raw terrain, dramatic views and a bush retreat waiting at the finish line.
For city runners craving space, the Tomjachu Trail Run is a rare invitation: run the Lowveld, then stay for the bushveld.
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The Route: Granite Hills and Sweeping Valley Views
The terrain here doesn’t mess around. Routes wind through granite outcrops, across open bushveld and down into the dramatic Tomjachu Gorge. Historic wagon paths add a sense of place, while single-track climbs keep the legs honest.
One moment you’re cruising along gravel roads. The next, you’re climbing toward Zebra Heights, where the valley suddenly opens wide beneath you.
And yes – wildlife sightings happen. Giraffe are regular spectators along the route, a reminder that runners are guests inside this wild landscape.
Participants can choose between three distances:
- 6km – an accessible introduction to trail running
- 12km – rolling terrain with technical sections
- 20km – the full Lowveld experience
The event caps entries at 300 runners, which keeps the trails uncrowded and the atmosphere relaxed.
Entries can be secured via
https://racepass.com/za/races/tomjachu-trail-run
Post-Race Lowveld living
The finish line sits at the Homestead, and that’s where the real socialising begins. Runners gather beside the pool. Shoes come off. Stories from the trail start flowing. Coffee first. Then perhaps a craft beer from Sabie Brewing Company or a gin from The Gin Co. Meanwhile, prego rolls sizzle over open flames.
It feels less like a race village and more like a relaxed bush gathering.
Every entry to the Tomjachu Trail Run includes:
- Fully stocked aid stations
- A conservation fee supporting wildlife and habitat protection in the reserve
Turn the Tomjachu Trail Run into a Bush Escape
Many runners come for the race. Then stay for the stillness.
The retreat has introduced a Runners Package that turns the event into a Lowveld weekend away. Accommodation, race entry and meals are included, along with a relaxed braai evening and fireside storytelling after the run.
The next morning starts slowly. Coffee. Crisp bush air. Then a guided nature drive or bush walk led by a local guide who knows the landscape inside out.
Rates begin at R2,200 per person sharing, with reduced pricing for children under 12. No minimum stay applies, though space is limited.
Bookings can be made directly through
https://www.tomjachu.co.za
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About Tomjachu Bush Retreat
Just outside Nelspruit, Tomjachu Bush Retreat spans more than 500 hectares of private wilderness.
The retreat has been in the same family for three generations and moves at a slower rhythm than most bush destinations. There are granite hills, hidden valleys and nearly 300 recorded bird species. Wildlife moves freely across the reserve.
Guests can explore on foot, join guided walks or simply sit beside a fire and listen to the bush settle into evening.
For travellers seeking space, quiet and authentic bushveld landscapes, Tomjachu remains one of the Lowveld’s lesser-known gems.
If you enjoy outdoor adventures, you might also like our exclusive Travel Deals.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 30 May 2026
Venue: Tomjachu Bush Retreat
Start times
Entry fees
Entries are limited to 300 runners.
Enquiries: reservations@tomjachu.com | 082 704 4804
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