Isalo Raid

View on map
Sports & AdventureIsalo
DatesDates TBA · Usually JulyCheck locally before booking
Duration1 dayListed event span
Crowd-Public scale varies
Best forCompetition, enduranceIsalo Raid stands out for its setting: the
LanguageLocal language; English access variesCurrency: MGA
CategorySports & AdventureFestival type
The story

Isalo Raid in Isalo

Isalo Raid is a multi-distance trail running event held in the sandstone canyons of Isalo National Park near Ranohira, Madagascar, organized by Randomada. Courses range from a 3km family route to a demanding 45km ultra, plus a dedicated children's race, drawing runners from across Madagascar and abroad each July into the park's canyon and plateau terrain.

Isalo Raid takes runners into one of Madagascar's most striking landscapes: the sandstone canyons, eroded pinnacles and open plateaus of Isalo National Park, near the town of Ranohira in the south-central Ihorombe region.
Your trip starts here
What is special

The part that makes it specific.

01

The place changes

Isalo Raid stands out for its setting: the race weaves through the eroded sandstone canyons, plateaus and rock formations of Isalo National Park, one of Madagascar's most distinctive landscapes

02

The mystery stays covered

The four adult distances (3km, 15km, 25km, 45km) let both casual walkers and serious trail runners choose a challenge matched to their fitness, while the children's race brings families into the event

03

The city starts moving

The 17th edition in July 2024 attracted 230 competitors from countries including Sweden, France and the United States, showing the race has built an international following despite its remote location far from Madagascar's capital

04

The water draws everyone in

The 2026 edition is scheduled for July 18, continuing an established annual date

Traditions & symbols

The language of the festival.

What moves first

Living ritual

As a relatively young sporting event founded to showcase Isalo's canyon landscape

Water and renewal

Living ritual

the race does not carry old ceremonial traditions

The sacred route

Living ritual

but it has developed its own recurring structure: multiple distance categories run the same day

The local code

Living ritual

a dedicated children's race to involve local families

Tradition 5

Living ritual

and a growing roster of international entrants returning each July

Before you go

Essential information

When to go

Dates TBA · Usually July

Getting around

For route-based days, arrive early and expect normal streets around Isalo to work differently.

What to wear

Trail running gear suited to hot, dry, rocky terrain: moisture-wicking shirt, shorts or trail tights, trail running shoes with good grip, and a hat or cap for sun protection. There is no...

Safety

At Isalo Raid, respect barriers, moving equipment and marshal guidance; photos are never worth stepping into active areas.

Where to stay

Stay near workable transport in Isalo, especially if the event runs late or streets close.

Tickets/cost

Check official or local sources for ticketed areas, paid stands, and same-year access rules.

Language/currency

MGA

Family friendly

unknown

Interactive map22.52 S, 45.36 EOpen in Google Maps

Isalo, Ihorombe, Madagascar

Nearest airportTLE — Toliara
TransportFor route-based days, arrive early and expect normal streets around Isalo to work differently.
Stay areaStay near workable transport in Isalo, especially if the event runs late or streets close.

Your Trip Starts Here

External travel services to turn the plan into a trip — each opens in a new tab.

How to get thereRoutes, times and prices to Isalo via local transport.Search routesFind a place to stayStays near Isalo, close enough for the event-day route.Browse staysFind flightsCompare fares into the nearest practical airport for July.Compare faresFestival gearTrail running gear suited to hot, dry, rocky terrain: moisture-wicking shirt, shorts or trail tights, trail running shoes with good grip, and a hat or cap for sun protection. There is no formal dress code beyond standard trail-race attire.Shop the kitCheck visa requirementsSee whether you need a visa for Madagascar and apply online.Check entry rulesTravel insuranceCover for trip hiccups, gear and health on the road.Get covered

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FAQ

Quick answers.

When is Isalo Raid?

Isalo Raid is listed for Past edition: 18 July 2026. Always re-check the official or local source close to travel.

Where does Isalo Raid take place?

The festival is listed in Isalo, Madagascar. The map coordinate is a planning reference, not a guarantee of a ticket gate or exact venue.

How long should I plan for?

One day is the listed festival span. Add time for arrival, local transport, queues, and any route changes during the event.

Is a source linked?

Official source linked. Eventisimus separates source confidence from travel suggestions, so check final details before booking.

Where exactly is it?

Isalo, Ihorombe, Madagascar

Is it family friendly?

unknown

Sources and editorial review

About this guide

This guide is independently written by Eventisimus using publicly available information, official event and organiser sources where available, local tourism references, and additional editorial research. Eventisimus is not the official organiser of this festival and is not affiliated with it unless explicitly stated.

Festival dates, schedules, ticket conditions, access rules, and local arrangements can change. We aim to present useful and accurate information, but travelers should confirm important details with the official event source before booking transport, accommodation, or tickets.

Found something inaccurate or outdated? Email hello@eventisimus.com with the festival page link and the correction.

Official URLrunraid.fr
Organizer accessAre you the organizer? Claim this listing →
SourceSource link available
Listed datesDates TBA · Usually July
Source statusOfficial source linked
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