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Rhino Peak Challenge 2026 — Conquering the ’Berg for Conservation

Rhino Peak Challenge 2026 — Conquering the ’Berg for Conservation

In the Field

Rhino Peak Challenge 2026 — Conquering the ’Berg for Conservation

By Tammy Baker, EWT donor relations officer

Rhino Peak Challenge 2026 ambassadors climbing in the snow-covered Drakensberg for conservation

In September, 30 trail, mountain and conservation enthusiasts made their way to the Drak Gooderson Hotel in the Underberg in cold, wet and windy weather, all a little unsure of what the weekend would hold.

As was the case last year,  we were again unable to reach the Rhino Peak because of dangerous weather and climbing conditions.

On 18 September we received a pre-race safety briefing from Rhino Peak Challenge Founder and Race Director, Spurgeon Flemington from Running Man Adventures, the driving force behind the event since its inception 11 years ago. As is tradition, Spurgeon headed out early on the morning of the challenge to mark the route and find an alternative, if it proved too dangerous.

When we gathered on Saturday morning, the weather was clearing.  Despite that, Chris Kelly from Wildlife ACT, co-beneficiaries of the event, confirmed at the start line that the river was far too dangerous to cross and that we would be doing an alternative route – one involving a lot of climbing to an alternate peak in the ‘Berg.

The different route gave us a full view of the magnificent Drakensberg and the iconic Rhino Peak covered in snow. It was truly beautiful. After a very challenging and often hairy steep climb, I eventually arrived at our peak. After waiting for other ambassadors to arrive and sharing some laughs, fuel for the body and many photos, we started the long journey back down.

The finish line at RPC is always festive, as supporters welcome and cheer participants in and everyone enjoys some well-deserved refreshments.

At prize giving we were all reminded why we are there. This is not a competitive race. It is much more than that. This is for conservation.

All ambassadors had worked hard to reach their minimum target of R20,000 each, with some far surpassing that. While 2026 was not our biggest year in terms of ambassador numbers, we nonetheless raised R1.2 million for the conservation work of the Bearded Vulture Recovery Programme, Wildlife ACT and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

Thank you to every ambassador, donor, supporter and to Spurgeon, Wildife ACT, Ford Wildlife Foundation, Kula bars (for providing fuel for our ambassadors) for another unforgettable weekend.

The 2027 date has been set for 18 September. If you would like to join this incredible and meaningful, life-changing weekend, contact TammyB@ewt.org.za.

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A Running Chance for Wildlife

A Running Chance for Wildlife

A Running Chance for Wildlife

 

Rhino Peak Challenge participants running in Drakensberg mountains

On 19 September 2026, 48 Endangered Wildlife Trust and Wildlife ACT ambassadors will be taking on the 11th Rhino Peak Challenge in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site to raise money for conservation.

This bold group of conservationists, running and climbing enthusiasts, have joined an annual event that is dedicated to make a difference in nature and the environment.  Participants take on the 21 km challenge to reach the top of the 3,056 m Rhino Peak in the name of raising money for specific conservation projects to conserve cranes, rhinos and vultures.

With the race fast approaching, the EWT’ s team, led by Tammy Baker,  is inviting those who love the outdoors and believe that individuals can make a difference in our natural world, to join us for the adventure.   There are still several spots available for those feeling up to the challenge.  If not this year, then consider next year.

In three weeks Tammy will be taking on the Rhino Peak Challenge for the 8th year in a row. The EWT’ s team includes an intrepid collection of “desk jockeys” (the finance team), conservationists (the Midlife Crisis), friends and dedicated supporters of our conservation ethic.

The Rhino Peak Challenge (RPC)  conservation fundraiser raises funds for the EWT, Wildlife ACT and the Bearded Vulture Recovery Programme.    In the past decade more than R10 million has been raised through the RPC.

Tammy says beyond the physical test, the Rhino Peak Challenge offers an unforgettable weekend of adventure, camaraderie, and purpose. To secure one of these exclusive ambassador places, you have the privilege of raising a minimum of R20,000 in support of conservation. In return, you’ll enjoy a fully hosted weekend experience and the chance to be part of one of Southern Africa’s most inspiring conservation fundraising events.

Participation is deliberately limited to create a truly special experience for those involved, bringing together like-minded people who are passionate about protecting Africa’s natural heritage while making a tangible impact for conservation.

If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, we’d love to hear from you.

To find out more, please contact Tammy at the Endangered Wildlife Trust at tammyb@ewt.org

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