On Sunday, 8 November 2026, the Trail de Rodrigues invites runners to explore the rugged beauty of Rodrigues Island, part of the Republic of Mauritius. This 17th edition offers a range of trail-running distances, from a family-friendly 7K to the grueling 75K Ultra Tour de Rodrigues, traversing coastal paths, grass slopes, rocky ridges, forest tracks, and remote island landscapes.
For trail runners, Trail de Rodrigues is more than a race. It's an island adventure where every route reveals another side of Rodrigues, from secluded bays and dry hills to caves, nature reserves, and sweeping views across the Indian Ocean.
"Trail de Rodrigues is an island adventure where every route reveals another side of Rodrigues."
The Story of Trail de Rodrigues
Rodrigues' Premier Trail-running Event
Trail de Rodrigues is the island’s leading trail-running event, bringing runners through varied terrain distinct from the main island of Mauritius. The courses include diverse landscapes that challenge and delight participants.
The courses include:
- Grass slopes
- Dirt paths
- Rocky terrain
- Coastal tracks
- Beach sections
- Coves
- Rolling hills
- Forest and scrubland
- Island roads
- Nature-reserve trails
The event is organized around semi-self-sufficiency. Runners receive aid and water points but are expected to manage their own hydration, nutrition, and safety between checkpoints.
"The event’s mission is to bring adults, children, and families together around healthy outdoor activity, nature discovery, and environmental responsibility."
Trail de Rodrigues 2026: Date and Venue
Your Calendar for Adventure
The confirmed date for Trail de Rodrigues 2026 is Sunday, 8 November 2026. The main finish zone for every race is at François Leguat Reserve in Anse Quitor, near Plaine Corail on Rodrigues Island.
- Event name: Trail de Rodrigues 2026
- Edition: 17th Trail de Rodrigues
- Date: Sunday, 8 November 2026
- Island: Rodrigues, Mauritius
- Main finish venue: François Leguat Reserve, Anse Quitor
- Organiser: Rod Trail Association
- Race formats: 7K, 16K, 26K, 52K, and 75K
- Registration: Online only through Sport Events
- Early-bird period: 1 January to 30 June 2026
- Late-entry period: 1 July to 30 September 2026
"Trail de Rodrigues traditionally takes place on the first Sunday of November and is the flagship event in the island’s annual trail-running calendar."
Rodrigues Island: A Trail Runner’s Escape
Discover the Untamed Beauty
Rodrigues lies about 560 kilometers east of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. It is smaller, quieter, and less developed than Mauritius, with a distinct Creole culture, open landscapes, and a strong sense of community.
For runners, Rodrigues offers:
- Coastal cliffs
- Dry tropical vegetation
- Rolling highlands
- Lagoon views
- Remote tracks
- Quiet villages
- Limestone caves
- Wildlife areas
- A slower island pace
- Dramatic sunrise and sunset light
Unlike a typical destination race, Trail de Rodrigues asks visitors to explore an island with limited transport, modest accommodation capacity, and fragile natural environments. This makes advance planning and respectful behavior essential.
Trail Hibou: The 75K Ultra Tour de Rodrigues
The Ultimate Challenge
The Trail Hibou is the 75-kilometer Ultra Tour de Rodrigues. It circles the island in a counter-clockwise direction and is the event’s biggest physical challenge.
- Distance: 75 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 1,100 meters
- Start: François Leguat Reserve
- Finish: François Leguat Reserve
- Start time: 2:30 a.m.
- Minimum age: 18
- Format: Solo, semi-self-sufficient ultra trail
The 75K starts in darkness. Runners need strong night-running skills, a reliable headlamp, backup lighting, and the ability to manage fatigue over many hours.
There are two published cut-off points:
- Pointe Matourin, after 59 kilometers: 3:30 p.m.
- Pointe L’Herbe, after 67 kilometers: 5:00 p.m.
- Final finish cut-off for all races: 6:00 p.m.
"The Trail Hibou is suitable only for experienced ultra runners who have trained for long-distance trail terrain, heat, sleep disruption, and self-management."
Trail Perroquet: The 52K Grand Traverse
A Scenic Island Challenge
The Trail Perroquet is the 52-kilometer Grand Traverse of Rodrigues.
- Distance: 52 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 2,000 meters
- Start: Anse Alli
- Finish: François Leguat Reserve
- Start time: 5:00 a.m.
- Minimum age: 18
- Aid support: Four refreshment points and three water points
The 52K has the largest elevation gain of the five races. Its 2,000 meters of climbing make it a serious mountain-style event despite Rodrigues’ modest elevation compared with alpine destinations.
"The Trail Perroquet is ideal for runners who have completed trail marathons or longer mountain races and want an intense, scenic island challenge."
Trail Solitaire: The 26K Route
A Middle-Distance Challenge
The Trail Solitaire offers a strong middle-distance challenge with meaningful elevation.
- Distance: 26 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 910 meters
- Start: Pointe L’Herbe, near Phoenix Beverages depot
- Finish: François Leguat Reserve
- Start time: 7:00 a.m.
- Minimum age: 18
- Aid support: Two refreshment points and two water points
The Solitaire is a suitable choice for experienced trail runners who are not ready for the 52K or 75K. It still requires climbing fitness, careful pacing, and confidence on uneven ground.
Trail Gecko: The 16K Race
A Taste of Rodrigues Terrain
The Trail Gecko is a 16-kilometer route that gives runners a substantial taste of Rodrigues terrain.
- Distance: 16 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 393 meters
- Start: Baie du Nord
- Finish: François Leguat Reserve
- Start time: 8:00 a.m.
- Minimum age: 12
- Aid support: One refreshment point and one water point
The 16K is a good option for intermediate runners, teenagers who meet the age requirement, and traveling companions who want a real trail experience without committing to an ultra-distance race.
"A special 16K Duo format is also part of the 2026 programme."
Trail Tortue: The 7K Family Format
Accessible Fun for Everyone
The Trail Tortue is the event’s most accessible race.
- Distance: 7 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 110 meters
- Start: Stade Jean Paul II, La Ferme
- Finish: François Leguat Reserve
- Start time: 9:30 a.m.
- Minimum age: 4
- Aid support: One water point
This format is ideal for families, beginners, young runners, and visitors who want to be part of the event without taking on a major endurance challenge. Children under 18 require parental authorization, while participants under 12 should be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Trail de Rodrigues 2026 Registration and Pricing
Secure Your Spot Online
Registration is exclusively online through the official Sport Events platform. The registration calendar is:
- Early bird: 1 January to 30 June 2026
- Late entry: 1 July to 30 September 2026
Official 2026 entry prices are not currently displayed in the available public race listing. Participants should check Sport Events directly for their selected distance, residency category, and registration period.
"For context only, the 2025 edition used different pricing for Mauritian, international and Rodriguan participants, with lower rates for local residents."
Before entering, check:
- Your exact race category
- Entry fee
- Age eligibility
- Medical-certificate requirements
- Insurance needs
- Cancellation policy
- Race-pack collection rules
- Required gear
- Transfers to the start
- Cut-off times
- Accommodation options
Race Pack Collection
Prepare in Advance
Race packs must be collected before race day. The confirmed 2026 collection schedule is:
- Friday, 6 November 2026: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Saturday, 7 November 2026: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Collection location: Centre Culturel et des Loisirs, Mon Plaisir, Rodrigues
There is no race-pack collection on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Arrive on Rodrigues by Friday, 6 November if possible. This gives you enough time to collect your pack, confirm transport, inspect your gear, and rest before the event.
Training for Trail de Rodrigues
Prepare for the Challenge
Rodrigues is not flat, and the event includes technical trails, heat, uneven surfaces, and coastal exposure. Train for:
- Hiking and running uphill
- Descending safely
- Heat and humidity
- Uneven, rocky ground
- Long periods on your feet
- Hydration strategy
- Trail nutrition
- Headlamp running for 75K
- Carrying mandatory gear
- Running with a hydration vest
- Weather changes
- Self-sufficiency between aid stations
For the 52K and 75K, practice with the exact shoes, socks, vest, and nutrition you plan to use on race day.
Mandatory Gear and Safety
Equip for Success
The official 2026 regulations should be your final equipment reference. Recommended essentials include:
- Trail-running shoes with strong grip
- Hydration vest or bottles
- Headlamp and spare batteries for 75K
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Nutrition and electrolytes
- Phone
- Emergency whistle
- Basic first-aid supplies
- Reusable cup, if required
- Dry bag
- Identity document
All runners must cross the finish line by 6:00 p.m., regardless of race distance. Do not underestimate the 7K or 16K. Tropical weather and trail terrain can make a short race feel more difficult than the same distance on a road.
Getting to Rodrigues
Plan Your Journey
Rodrigues is reached by air from Mauritius. Flights depart from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport near Mahébourg and arrive at Plaine Corail Airport on Rodrigues.
Travel tips:
- Book flights early.
- Arrive on Rodrigues by 6 November 2026.
- Confirm baggage rules for trail poles and gear.
- Arrange airport-to-accommodation transport.
- Check whether your hotel offers race transfers.
- Reserve return flights after the event, allowing recovery time.
- Be prepared for weather-related delays.
Rodrigues has limited accommodation and transport compared with Mauritius. Book guesthouses, small hotels, and car hire as soon as you register.
Where to Stay
Find Your Perfect Base
- Port Mathurin: Best for restaurants, shops, and local services.
- Plaine Corail: Best for proximity to François Leguat Reserve and the airport.
- Anse Quitor: Best for finish-area convenience.
- Baie du Nord: Best for Gecko runners and north-island scenery.
- La Ferme: Best for Trail Tortue participants and central-island access.
- Pointe L’Herbe: Best for Solitaire runners with pre-arranged transfer plans.
The 2026 race listing provides an accommodation contact through Aline Fong Kye. Confirm availability, rates, and transport directly through official event channels.
Explore Rodrigues After the Race
Discover the Island's Treasures
François Leguat Reserve
The finish location is one of Rodrigues’ best-known nature attractions. It is associated with giant tortoises, caves, and conservation work.
Port Mathurin Market
Visit Port Mathurin Market for local produce, crafts, spices, and a more everyday island experience.
Caverne Patate
Caverne Patate is a limestone cave attraction on Rodrigues. It can be a good post-race outing once your legs have recovered.
Anse Bouteille and Trou d’Argent
These scenic coastal areas are known for beaches, coves, and walking routes. Respect local nature and avoid strenuous hikes immediately after a long race.
Lagoon Excursions
Rodrigues’ lagoon is ideal for boat trips and snorkeling. Choose licensed operators and avoid touching coral or marine life.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Things People Always Want to Know
When is Trail de Rodrigues 2026?
Trail de Rodrigues 2026 takes place on Sunday, 8 November 2026.
Where does Trail de Rodrigues finish?
All five race formats finish at François Leguat Reserve in Anse Quitor, Rodrigues.
What distances are available?
The event offers 7K, 16K, 26K, 52K, and 75K races.
What is the longest race at Trail de Rodrigues?
The Trail Hibou is the 75-kilometer Ultra Tour de Rodrigues, with 1,100 meters of elevation gain and a 2:30 a.m. start.
Is there a family-friendly race?
Yes. Trail Tortue is a 7K event open to participants from age 4, with children under 12 requiring an adult accompaniment.
When do registrations close?
Early-bird registration runs through 30 June 2026, while late entry runs from 1 July to 30 September 2026.
Can I collect my race pack on race day?
No. Race-pack collection takes place on Friday, 6 November and Saturday, 7 November 2026 only.
Verified Information at a Glance
- Event name: Trail de Rodrigues 2026
- Edition: 17th Trail de Rodrigues
- Event category: Trail running, ultra trail and nature endurance event
- Confirmed date: Sunday, 8 November 2026
- Location: Rodrigues Island, Mauritius
- Main finish venue: François Leguat Reserve, Anse Quitor
- Organiser: Rod Trail Association
- Trail Hibou: 75K, 1,100 meters elevation gain, starts 2:30 a.m.
- Trail Perroquet: 52K, 2,000 meters elevation gain, starts 5:00 a.m.
- Trail Solitaire: 26K, 910 meters elevation gain, starts 7:00 a.m.
- Trail Gecko: 16K, 393 meters elevation gain, starts 8:00 a.m.
- Trail Tortue: 7K, 110 meters elevation gain, starts 9:30 a.m.
- Registration periods: Early bird from 1 January to 30 June; late entry from 1 July to 30 September 2026
- Race pack collection: 6 and 7 November 2026 at Centre Culturel et des Loisirs, Mon Plaisir
- Race-day pack collection: Not available
- Finish cut-off: 6:00 p.m. for all races
- Best for: Ultra runners, trail athletes, active families, nature lovers, and travelers seeking an authentic Rodrigues adventure
Make 8 November 2026 your chance to run Rodrigues from coast to ridge, share the trail with the island community, and finish at François Leguat Reserve with a deeper connection to one of the Indian Ocean’s most distinctive landscapes.
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