The culmination of the training challenges is the Main 21km Challenge.

On the 19th September 2026 more than 100 ranger teams spanning the diverse and varied terrains of Africa’s protected areas competed in a coordinated 21km race across their respective landscapes carrying 22kg of kit (men) and 10kg (women). This is a true test of fitness, teamwork, grit, determination and solidarity.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge expanded the regional ‘WRC Hub’ events this year, enabling more ranger teams to compete in person within their own countries—especially important as most rangers do not hold passports. While most teams still participated remotely from their protected areas, Hub events took place in South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya.

Last year, the Kenyan event coincided with the African Ranger Congress, which saw over 100 rangers from across Africa taking part in a series of field visits and conference events in the two days before they all competed the challenge.

Rangers were joined by supporters from around the globe, running in solidarity #ForWildlifeRangers. If you’d like to be part of the event next year, please contact info@wildliferangerchallenge.org.

Follow the campaign on social media with #ForWildlifeRangers.

You can also donate directly to our ranger fund, helping us secure a thriving future for the ranger profession and the wildlife it protects.

2026 Race Day Results

RANGER TEAM 21KM CHALLENGE

Ranger Training

Wildlife rangers are required to stay at the top of their physical and mental game. Their vital work takes them into challenging environments and conditions. For their safety and wellbeing rangers train to keep in peak physical shape.

Ahead of race day, ranger teams spanning the African continent competed in a series of mental and physical challenges, preparing for their 21km half marathon which took place on on 19th September 2026.

Why not take on the Training Challenges yourself and see how you match up?

Media enquiries

For media enquiries, please email: press@tusk.org