Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series launched

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Athletics Kenya (AK) have officially unveiled the Magical Kenya Mountain & Trail Series Calendar for 2025, a groundbreaking initiative that positions Kenya as a global hub for mountain and trail running.

The series will comprise of six editions spread across the country, starting with the Tinderet Barngetuny Mountain Run Edition on January 18 in Nandi County, a region renowned for its lush landscapes and producing global athletics stars.

The event, which now boasts of World Ranking status, will also serve as the selection ground for Kenya’s provisional team to the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (WMTRC), set for September 25–28, 2025, in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain.

Speaking at the launch, Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei underscored the significance of the series in maintaining Kenya’s dominance in mountain running.

“We will use the Tinderet  event to select a strong team for the World Championships. Over the last three years, Kenya has consistently excelled at the World Cup and World Championships in mountain running,” he said.

KTB CEO June Chepkemei highlighted the initiative’s impact on tourism and community empowerment.

“This is a pioneering initiative combining sports, adventure, and culture to drive sustainable tourism and empower local communities. It showcases Kenya as a premier destination for champions and adventure seekers,” said Chepkemei.

Francis Gichaba, Chairman of the KTB Board, emphasized the global reach of the series. “We’re taking this trail to Berlin next year to promote Kenya and attract more tourists. The Magical Kenya Mountain & Trail Series is one of the many feathers KTB is using to make Kenya a top destination,” he said.

The Principal Secretary at the State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa, lauded the partnership between KTB and Athletics Kenya, describing it as a new frontier for tourism.

“This partnership diversifies Kenya’s offerings and taps into our mountains to create new opportunities for local and international visitors. One of the key drivers is to make Kenya a 365-day destination,” he remarked.

The series will also spotlight four iconic national parks: Mt. Kenya National Park, Aberdares National Park, Mt. Elgon National Park, and Mt. Longonot National Park.

Gladys Kosgei, Director of Marketing at Kenya Wildlife Service, noted the unique opportunity for participants to explore Kenya’s biodiversity.

“Trail runs in the parks will enhance visibility for these destinations while allowing participants to connect with nature in a unique way,” she said.

The series builds on the success of the Mt. Longonot Trail Challenge, which saw Ruth Gitonga claim victory in the women’s race and Timothy Kibet shine in the men’s.

Top athletes, including World Cup Champion Joyce Muthoni, 2024 Valsir Mountain Running World Cup winner Patrick Kipngeno, silver medallist Philemon Ombogo Kiriago, and are expected to participate in the series.

The Magical Kenya Mountain & Trail Series Calendar

Tinderet Barngetuny Mountain Run Edition – January 18, 2025

Nyamira Great Run Edition – May 1, 2025

Mt. Kenya Mountain Run Edition – June 8, 2025

Aberdares Trail Run Edition – August 24, 2025

Mt. Longonot Edition – November 16, 2025

Mt. Elgon Mountain Run Edition – December 7, 2025