Where do we ride?
NEW For 2026
Migration Gravel Race is excited to have a brand new course for 2026! Participants will have the option to choose between two courses. For those looking for an extra challenge, arrive before and race at the UCI Gravel Qualifier Safari Gravel Race. All MGR participants are offered a special registration price.
The Leopard Course is the traditional race course 650KM, 8000m+
The Zebra Course rides the same breathtaking course, but with less climbing and kilometers 475KM, 4000m+
The ZEBRA COURSE will be a non-competitive event and there will be no standings or prizes awarded.
Don’t be fooled, both courses will challenge you, wow you, and ultimately leave you a different person.
Stage 1 - Flat, Windy, Shamba Land
This 150 km stage for both routes begins on the vast, flat plains, with 600 meters of climbing. Riders will weave through fences and follow cattle and wildlife tracks as they navigate through shamba areas. Wildlife sightings are common at the start and finish. As the day progresses, the famed headwinds on the open plains—nicknamed "the Dutch Mountains"—will intensify, especially for those on the longer Wildebeest route. The Zebra riders will take shorter paths but still face key sections of rugged type 4 to 5 gravel. Hydration and endurance are key, especially as the heat and winds pick up in the afternoon.
Leopard 150km - 600m
Zebra 120 KM - 500m
Stage 2 - Mountain stage / Queen’s Stage
Known as the Queen’s Stage, remains a monumental challenge, with 2200 meters of climbing over 170 km. This year’s new route adds a longer approach to the iconic Mlima wa Shetani climb and skips the detour to the Tanzanian border, instead directing riders back to the wild camp. Despite the changes, the stage retains its intensity, pushing riders to their physical and mental limits.
The stage begins with an extended flat section, offering riders a longer warm-up before reaching the punishing Mlima wa Shetani ascent. After scaling this iconic climb, riders will enjoy the technical and thrilling Lachy’s Delight single-track descent, which tests handling skills on rough terrain.
Following the descent, participants will navigate through the Savage Garden of the Loita Forest, where winding single-track trails add an element of adventure. After exiting the forest, the route leads back to camp, avoiding the Tanzanian border.
Riders will also pass through wildlife areas and remote Maasai villages. It's not uncommon to encounter elephants along the route, requiring coordination with rangers to ensure the path is clear and safe. The relentless climbs and unpredictable weather—especially rain, which can transform parts of the track into thick black clay—can turn this stage into a true test of endurance.
The final 70 km feature a mix of climbing and technical descents, pushing even the most seasoned riders to their limits. With the stage taking the entire day for most participants, proper hydration, nutrition, and preparation are critical for survival on this epic journey.
Leopard 170km - 2200m
Zebra 100 KM - 1500m
Stage 3: Wide Savannah and Fast Gravel
Stage 3 of the Migration Gravel Race spans 140 km with 1600 meters of climbing, offering a faster-paced ride compared to the grueling climbs of the previous stage. This section of the race is a reward for riders who have endured the brutal ascents of Stage 2, providing a relatively smoother and more flowing course. The day begins with hard-packed black gravel that allows riders to pick up speed as they traverse the vast open savannah.
The wide-open plains are home to wildlife, and riders are likely to encounter wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and other plains animals. However, caution is needed, as bridge crossings can be tricky. These are often located at the base of fast descents and can have hidden dips or holes that aren't visible until the last moment, making careful descending a must.
Although the stage is faster, the 1600 meters of climbing will still challenge riders, especially in the afternoon heat. With wide-open terrain and little shelter, riders need to stay hydrated and focused to complete this stage in good time. This day offers a respite from the more technical and grueling sections of the race, but it's far from easy.
Leopard 140km - 1600m
Zebra 100 KM - 900m
Stage 4: The Final Push
Stage 4 of the Migration Gravel Race covers 150 km with 1100 meters of climbing, making it the grand finale of this epic adventure. The route starts by heading back into the Loita Hills, offering one last challenging climb before riders descend back toward the expansive Mara plains. This stage is a mix of hard climbs and fast, flowing descents, providing a final test of endurance and skill.
After the descent from the Loita Hills, the route heads back across the open plains, where riders will experience the wide savannah one last time before returning to the wild camp. With wildlife ever-present and the scenery as breathtaking as it is challenging, this stage provides a fitting close to the race.
Though less intense and far less rocky than earlier edition of the MGR Stage 4 it is still demands focus and stamina, especially in the heat of the Mara. The climbs may be less punishing than day 2, but the distance and exposure to the elements will push riders to their limits. Hydration and pacing will be crucial to completing this final leg
Leopard 150km - 1100m
Zebra 100km - 750m
Mandatory Equipment
GPS Mapping Device (we recommend non-touch screens like the Wahoo Roam)
Tracking/timing device (to be provided as rental from MGR organization)
Capacity to carry 3 liters of water. Feel free to use extra bottle cages and/or camelbacks (temperatures can reach up to 30+ degrees Celsius).
Mobile phone with local SIM card or roaming capacity (there is 3G coverage for most of the race)
Helmet and gloves (gloves are really necessary)
Bike repair tools and spares (you are responsible for your own maintenance on the road)
Travel insurance
Waterproof rain jacket
Basic emergency kit with band-aids, paracetamol, gauze, etc.
Sleeping bag
Lion spray (joking)
