The CIEL Ferney Trail 2026 promises an unparalleled trail-running experience on Saturday, 12 September 2026 in Ferney, Grand Port, Mauritius. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this event offers four distinct races: 35K, 18K, 10K, and a 5K Fun Run, each weaving through the lush forests, rugged ridges, and stunning coastal vistas of La Vallée de Ferney.
As one of Mauritius' most beloved trail events, the Ferney Trail attracts over 4,500 participants annually, blending competitive mountain running with a vibrant community atmosphere. It's a must for seasoned trail athletes, budding runners, families, and visitors eager to explore the island's wilder side.
"The Ferney Trail is not just a race; it's a journey through Mauritius' soul, revealing its untamed beauty and challenging every runner's spirit."
The Story of CIEL Ferney Trail
Mauritius' Premier Trail-Running Event
CIEL Ferney Trail stands as one of Mauritius' oldest and most celebrated trail-running events. It takes participants beyond the island's famed beaches, into the heart of La Vallée de Ferney's green and rugged terrain.
The race is renowned for its diverse landscape, featuring:
- Forest tracks
- Rocky and uneven trails
- Steep climbs
- Rolling ridges
- Open viewpoints
- Tropical foliage
- Valleys
- Coastal lagoon views
- Technical descents
- Natural paths through the Ferney estate
Even the shorter courses demand careful attention to footing, heat management, and hill fitness. The 35K race, with its 1,500 meters of elevation gain, presents a formidable endurance challenge.
The Ferney Valley Experience
Nature's Sanctuary in Southeast Mauritius
La Vallée de Ferney, nestled in the southeast of Mauritius, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity. Recognized for its sustainable development and conservation efforts, Ferney is a tropical agrihood combining agriculture, recreation, and community activity.
Running in this area provides a different Mauritius experience, with participants traversing mountain slopes, dense forests, and open valleys. Expect to encounter:
- Native and endemic plants
- Dense green foliage
- Dry forest sections
- Rugged rock
- Wide lagoon vistas
- Distant mountain views
- Birdlife
- Farmland and estate landscapes
- Humid tropical conditions
The scenery is a major draw, but the technical trails demand respect. Training for hills, uneven ground, and hot-weather exertion is essential.
The Race Distances
Options for Every Runner
CIEL Ferney Trail 2026 offers four race options, catering to a wide range of abilities and interests:
C-Care 35K
The 35K is the ultimate endurance challenge, featuring:
- Distance: 35 kilometres
- Start time: 6:00 a.m.
- Elevation gain: 1,500 metres
- Minimum age: 18
- Maximum participants: 250
- Maximum race time: 6 hours
This route is designed for experienced trail runners, with steep, uneven terrain and significant climbs. A medical certificate is required for participation.
Bank One 18K
The 18K offers a technical mid-distance challenge:
- Distance: 18 kilometres
- Start time: 6:30 a.m.
- Elevation gain: 600 metres
- Minimum age: 16
- Maximum participants: 600
- Maximum race time: 4 hours
This course is perfect for those seeking a serious trail experience without the full 35K commitment.
CIEL 10K
The 10K presents a shorter yet challenging option:
- Distance: 10 kilometres
- Start time: 8:00 a.m.
- Elevation gain: 400 metres
- Minimum age: 12
- Maximum participants: 1,500
- Maximum race time: 2 hours 30 minutes
This race is ideal for runners comfortable with hills but not ready for longer distances.
Sunlife 5K Fun Run
The 5K Fun Run is a family-friendly introduction to trail running:
- Distance: 5 kilometres
- Start time: 9:30 a.m.
- Minimum age: 6
- Maximum participants: 600
- Maximum race time: 1 hour 30 minutes
This event is suitable for families, new runners, and visitors wanting to enjoy the Ferney Valley without a major endurance commitment.
Registration and Fees
Secure Your Spot
Registration for the 2026 edition opened on 4 May 2026 and will close on 12 August 2026, subject to availability.
Public registration fees are:
- 35K: MUR 1,550
- 18K: MUR 1,350
- 10K: MUR 1,000
- 5K Fun Run: MUR 600
The fee includes race entry, but participants should verify if it covers additional items like race bibs, timing chips, and hydration support. The cancellation policy is:
- Before 1 August 2026: 80% refund may be available
- From 1 August 2026 onward: No refund
The 35K and 18K are part of the Association Rando Trail et Nature League Trail “long” series.
Training for the Ferney Trail
Prepare for the Challenge
The 35K race is a demanding trail adventure requiring focused preparation. Key training elements include:
- Long trail runs
- Hill repeats
- Hiking on steep gradients
- Downhill conditioning
- Ankle and hip strength
- Core stability
- Technical-footwork drills
- Race nutrition
- Hydration practice
- Heat adaptation
- Trail-shoe testing
- Running with a hydration vest
The 18K also requires serious preparation due to its 600-meter elevation gain. Visitors from cooler climates should arrive early to acclimate to the warm and humid conditions.
Mandatory Safety and Medical Requirements
Essential Rules for Participants
Adherence to the official 2026 regulations is crucial. Important rules include:
- 35K runners must be at least 18 years old and provide a medical certificate.
- 18K runners must be at least 16 years old.
- 10K runners must be at least 12 years old.
- 5K participants must be at least 6 years old.
Participants should carry equipment suitable for mountain and tropical trail running, such as:
- Hydration vest or bottles
- Trail shoes with good grip
- Race nutrition
- Cap or visor
- Sunscreen
- Light rain layer
- Personal medication
- Phone, if required by regulations
- Emergency whistle
- Small first-aid essentials
- Dry socks and change of clothing for after the race
Weather in Mauritius can be unpredictable, so prepare for varying conditions.
A Responsible Race in a Natural Sanctuary
Protecting Mauritius' Natural Beauty
CIEL Ferney Trail takes place in a landscape celebrated for its nature and biodiversity. Runners are encouraged to follow these principles:
- Stay on marked trails.
- Never cut switchbacks.
- Carry all wrappers to the finish.
- Do not pick plants or disturb wildlife.
- Use designated toilets and bins.
- Avoid loud music on the trail.
- Respect staff and volunteers.
- Use reusable bottles where possible.
- Do not litter at aid stations.
- Treat local communities and land managers with respect.
Leave the course as beautiful as you found it.
Getting to Ferney, Grand Port
Traveling to the Trail
Ferney is located in southeast Mauritius, near Vieux Grand Port and Mahébourg. Travel times vary with traffic:
- From Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport: Around 20 to 30 minutes
- From Mahébourg: Around 15 to 25 minutes
- From Belle Mare: Around 45 to 60 minutes
- From Port Louis: Around 60 to 90 minutes
- From Grand Baie: Around 90 minutes or more
For early race starts, consider staying in southeast Mauritius. Nearby bases include:
- Mahébourg
- Blue Bay
- Pointe d’Esny
- Vieux Grand Port
- Beau Vallon
- Anahita area
- Belle Mare
Book accommodations early for proximity to the venue.
Extend Your Mauritius Trail Weekend
Explore More of Southeast Mauritius
A trip to the Ferney Trail can be the start of a broader adventure in southeast Mauritius. Discover:
Mahébourg
Experience the historic coastal town of Mahébourg, with its market, waterfront, and local restaurants.
Blue Bay Marine Park
Known for clear waters and snorkeling, Blue Bay offers a refreshing post-race retreat.
Île aux Aigrettes
Visit the Île aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve for a guided exploration of Mauritian conservation efforts.
Grand Port Bay
Explore Grand Port Bay's rich history and natural beauty, with its maritime heritage and mountain views.
Belle Mare
Relax at Belle Mare's beautiful east-coast beach, though be mindful of September winds.
Race-Weekend Itinerary
Plan Your Perfect Trail Adventure
Friday, 11 September 2026
- Arrive in southeast Mauritius.
- Collect your bib if early distribution is available.
- Prepare your trail gear.
- Enjoy a balanced dinner.
- Hydrate and rest early.
Saturday, 12 September 2026
- 35K runners start at 6:00 a.m.
- 18K runners start at 6:30 a.m.
- 10K runners start at 8:00 a.m.
- 5K Fun Run begins at 9:30 a.m.
After the race:
- Rehydrate gradually.
- Enjoy a balanced meal with carbohydrates and protein.
- Change into dry clothes.
- Stretch gently.
- Avoid intense activities immediately after the 35K or 18K.
Sunday, 13 September 2026
- Relax with a leisurely breakfast.
- Visit Mahébourg or Blue Bay.
- Opt for gentle movement, like a beach walk.
- Indulge in a recovery meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Things People Always Want to Know
When is CIEL Ferney Trail 2026?
CIEL Ferney Trail 2026 takes place on Saturday, 12 September 2026 in Ferney, Grand Port, Mauritius.
Is the Ferney Trail a marathon?
While often dubbed the Ferney Trail Marathon, the longest official race is a 35K trail run, not a standard marathon.
What distances are available at Ferney Trail 2026?
The event offers 35K, 18K, 10K, and a 5K Fun Run.
How much does CIEL Ferney Trail 2026 cost?
Entry fees are MUR 1,550 for 35K, MUR 1,350 for 18K, MUR 1,000 for 10K, and MUR 600 for the 5K Fun Run.
Do I need a medical certificate for Ferney Trail?
Yes, a medical certificate confirming fitness to run is required for 35K participants.
Is the Ferney Trail suitable for beginners?
The 5K Fun Run is beginner-friendly. The 10K, with its 400 meters of elevation gain, and the 18K and 35K are more suited to experienced runners.
When do registrations close?
Registrations close on 12 August 2026, but places may sell out sooner.
Verified Information at a Glance
- Event Name: CIEL Ferney Trail 2026
- Common Search Term: Ferney Trail Marathon 2026
- Event Category: Trail running, endurance sport, and nature event
- Confirmed Date: Saturday, 12 September 2026
- Location: Ferney, Grand Port District, Mauritius
- Venue Area: La Vallée de Ferney
- Main Races: 35K, 18K, 10K, and 5K Fun Run
- 35K Start: 6:00 a.m., 1,500 meters elevation gain, minimum age 18
- 18K Start: 6:30 a.m., 600 meters elevation gain, minimum age 16
- 10K Start: 8:00 a.m., 400 meters elevation gain, minimum age 12
- 5K Start: 9:30 a.m., minimum age 6
- 35K Price: MUR 1,550
- 18K Price: MUR 1,350
- 10K Price: MUR 1,000
- 5K Fun Run Price: MUR 600
- Registration Closing Date: 12 August 2026
- Medical Certificate: Required for 35K runners
- Best For: Trail runners, endurance athletes, active families, nature lovers, and visitors seeking a wild Mauritius experience
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