Just shy of 24km in distance, this mountain run is known to be one of the toughest challenges for trail runners in South Africa. Even experienced runners will find it challenging, and for rookies, it may well be one of the hardest things they have ever done.

The circular route is self-supported and self-navigational, making it a good entry-level navigation for those looking for a more challenging run. However, it is always important to remember that this is not a trail run, but a mountain run, and the route is not for the faint-hearted.

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The climb to the first checkpoint at the top of the first peak, The Pyramid, is no easy task. The first few kilometers involve a run and a climb to over 2000m to the Pyramid, which can be quite challenging.

From the first checkpoint at the top of the Pyramid, it is an 8.1-km tough trek to the next peak, High Rise. This is approximately halfway through the race and a good spot to take a break and enjoy the view. However, it's important to keep nourished throughout the race as it only gets tougher heading to checkpoint 3, which is regarded as the toughest part of the race due to the steep climb to the highest point on the route, the infamous Sikonyela's Hat.

It is a steep climb to the 2278-m high peak, and it literally one meter forward and one meter up. Tired bodies won't make matters any easier.

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Great news for all the runners at this point! The finish line from Sikonyela's Hat is just 6.9 km away. Although the descent down to the 20km mark is a bit tricky, it's a good stretch to up the pace and improve your time. From the 20km mark to the finish line, it's fairly flat with a slight incline towards the end. Once you cross the finish line, you can proudly call yourself a mountain runner!