Bwindi 85k Ultra: route is set!
The route for the first edition of the Bwindi 85k Ultra has been defined! Uganda’s toughest run, which will only become tougher each year will start with a distance of 85.2 kilometers, clearing 1’965 meters of elevation. Find the route on Strava using this link
Landmarks & waypoints:
Kilometer 0: near the shore of lake Mutanda and the Virunga volcanoes in the distance, we will start in the outskirts of Kisoro, the district capital city at 06:00 AM
Kilometer 5: With Kisoro in our rear mirror, the run will be relatively flat for the first couple of kilometers, navigating between lakes Mutanda and Mulehe on the left and on the right. Behind us, we will have the Virunga volcano chain and the DR Congolese border behind us, allowing for truly stunning views!
Kilometer 10-30: We have made it to our activity hotspot area, near Bwindi! Grassroots Glasses operates in Kanungu district, and more specifically in and around Rubuguri village, which we will reach at kilometer 25.
Kilometer 30-50: We will make it through a section of actual rain forest, with our trail only a couple hundred meters away from the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park entrance. In the valley, it is not uncommon to see Shoebill in the swampy areas. Being the section with the most elevation, we will have Bwindi rain forest on our left for the most of the time and make it through the vast majority of the villages we serve!
Kilometer 50-60: Having reached the peak at more than 2’360 meters, there will be a change of surface as we switch from gravel & dirt to asphalt and slope down to the lowest point of the race at 1’950 meters. This is where we reach Muko and lake Bunyonyi!
Kilometer 60-85: the last half marathon will remain flat for the first couple of kilometers and allow perfect views of lake Bunyonyi just meters away. After a while, though, we will make it to the local radiotower, pass Kyarujumba and be back at ~2’260 meters, it is time to prepare for the last push. Slowing down through rock mine sections, we will make it through Kyoora and Butare, the last checkpoints before reaching Kabale, where the run concludes.
Terrain & scenery:
The route traverses natural features, such as bamboo & rain forest, lakes, hills, providing a truly diverse running experience while also covering a broad section of the areas our service covers
The descent after kilometer 30 down to Mukto offers scenic views of the area
Route complexity:
Although run on tarmac, the run is quite demanding due to its elevation profile, 10 hour cut-off and climate. We expect a highly predictable climate profile with temperatures below 10 °C at the start up to 25 °C in the early afternoon, when rainfall is also expected
Safety & amenities:
Considering the route’s distance and elevation, it is advisable to plan for adequate hydration, nutrition. Since the road is not blocked off during the run, always watch out for cars, trucks, and cars. Towns along the way may offer rest stops, local eateries and medical assistance, if needed.
Why?
Why do we do this? We raise awareness for better vision in rural Uganda. Have you ever realized how good vision can transform your life? Well, I have. I am privileged in that I was able to get access to vision aids and testing of all kinds. However, the vast minority of people in Uganda has. Therefore, our mission is to do eye exams, provide affordable glasses, promote eye health, and refer those in need to specialized centers in the region. Additionally, we want to support the local area economically by eventually crafting our own glasses