Outdoor Adventures BW will on September 27th host the 5th edition of the Annual Salt Pans Ultra Marathon in Mosu village.
Hosted in the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, for the Ultra Salt Pans Marathon remains one of Africa’s most unique endurance challenges. This icon desert race features 50 km and 100 km distances catergories across the surreal expanse of Sua Pan, one of the flattest and most visually striking landscapes on earth.
Race Director, Stefan Ortwein has told Times Sport that the event has grown into a globally recognised fixture on the ultramarathon calendar, drawing athletes from over 20 countries. He stressed that the event recently earned international recognition with its inclusion in Ultra – The World Atlas of Ultramarathons, placing Botswana alongside iconic races such as Comrades and the Marathon des Sables.
According to Ortwein, more than 150 runners will take part this year, representing nations from Botswana and South Africa to Germany, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
‘‘Many extend their stay to explore Botswana’s natural wonders, including the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. They come for the challenge but stay after for the community and the wild beauty of Botswana,” said Ortwein.
He noted that beyond the finish line, the Salt Pans Ultra contributes to Botswana’s economic vision by engaging local suppliers, attracting international tourism, and promoting the country’s unique natural heritage.
Ortwin further highlighted that the marathon’s weekend opens with the Mosu Village School Fun Run, where local schoolchildren join international athletes in a spirited community race. He said that this has become a highlight of the event, celebrating youth, health, and cross-cultural exchange.
“The Salt Pans Ultra is more than an endurance event, it is a platform for economic participation and tourism development. By engaging local service providers, attracting international visitors, and spotlighting Botswana’s natural wonders, the race aligns with and supports the Government of Botswana’s goal to diversify the national economy with tourism as a key growth sector,” he said.
He appreciated key partners in this year’s event, which include Desert & Delta Safaris, HATAB, Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO), Spar Tsetseng, Senn Foods, Vita24, Namedsport, Skiphire Francistown, De Vre Trans, Southern Business Solutions and Choppies.
