The Jungle Marathon

This week we have brought you five of the toughest races in the world on differing types of terrain. The final race of the week takes us to the Amazon rainforest and an ultramarathon in the jungle. Like a queue for the toilet at a concert, it is long and difficult, but should be immensely satisfying when you finish.

By Declan Whooley

The Jungle Ultra Marathon, Peru

As the name suggests, this ultra marathon is in the unique setting of a jungle trail, from the Andes to the Amazon. This 230km slog over five stages features 70 river crossings, over 9,000 feet of climbing, humidity of 100 per cent and temperatures of up to 38°. Like a blind man at an orgy, you really do have to feel your way around.

Cuzco the Inca capital is the start and end point of the race, sitting pretty at 11,500 feet. No pampering for athletes here, with hammocks doubling up as beds for the five days at the different campsites. A mosquito net and rain fly sheet at night are essential if you hope to complete the jungle excursion.

For those who are unsure if they could handle that distance there is also a shorter course which is 100km. From an economic standpoint it is not as good value for money as the registration fee is the same price as the full course.

The race is divided into five stages though some like to keep going to finish it as quickly as possible. Logical sense, but it will take two days to complete non-stop.

See up close and personal footage of the 2012 event.

Facts and figures

Our Celtic cousins were dominant in the 2011 race. Scottish athlete Daniel Dillon was the victor with his fellow country-men Bobby Murdoch and Tom van Kalken taking second and third.

Course rules

This is a self-sufficient run, but there is water at check-points. Participants must carry water bottles that have a capacity of at least 2.5L.

2011 winning time

49 hours, 58 minutes.

Fee

£2,100