From 14 to 17 August 2026, Run Larapinta invites runners to tackle four consecutive stages through the rugged and breathtaking MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs. The two course options—Malbunka (long) and Namatjira (short)—feature daily stages ranging roughly from 20–45 km (long) or 13–30 km (short), passing iconic terrain such as Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits, and Ellery Creek. The event includes full logistical support: transfers, baggage handling, aid stations, marked trails, medical services, and timing. There is a field limit (≈ 200 for full 4-stage runners) to preserve the quality of the experience, and entries open mid-October preceding the race year. The environment is remote and spectacular, and the race emphasizes camaraderie, endurance, and immersion in Australia’s Red Centre.
Races
34 km
27 km
22 km
20 km
20 km
14 km
Race Date:
17 August, 2026
The Stage 4 Malbunka is the finale of Run Larapinta 2026, on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting at 8:00 AM at the Ochre Pits and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. This 34 km stage closes the event with desert landscapes and has a 7-hour cut-off.
Race Date:
17 August, 2026
The Stage 4 Namatjira concludes Run Larapinta 2026 on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Counts Point turn-off and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. The 27 km route delivers a memorable finish with desert scenery and has a 7-hour cut-off.
Race Date:
16 August, 2026
The Stage 3 Namatjira is held on Sunday, 16 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Birthday Waterhole turn-off and finishing at Standley Chasm. Covering 22 km of mixed ridge and valley trails, this stage has a 6-hour cut-off.
Race Date:
15 August, 2026
On Saturday, 15 August 2026, the Stage 2 Namatjira is organized by Rapid Ascent, starting at 7:30 AM from Standley Chasm. This 20 km loop course offers a shorter but still challenging trail experience, with a 6-hour cut-off.
Race Date:
14 August, 2026
The Stage 1 Malbunka of Run Larapinta 2026 is organized by Rapid Ascent on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting at 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs, and finishing at the Mercure Hotel. This 19.5 km twilight run has ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
Race Date:
14 August, 2026
The Stage 1 Namatjira of Run Larapinta 2026, organized by Rapid Ascent, will be held on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs. This 13.5 km opener runs into the evening with ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
How long is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
Where does the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
The Stage 4 Malbunka is the finale of Run Larapinta 2026, on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting at 8:00 AM at the Ochre Pits and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. This 34 km stage closes the event with desert landscapes and has a 7-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 is 34km long.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 elevation gain is 1000 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
The Stage 4 Malbunka is the finale of Run Larapinta 2026, on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting at 8:00 AM at the Ochre Pits and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. This 34 km stage closes the event with desert landscapes and has a 7-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 is 34km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 take place?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4 elevation gain is 1000 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 4?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
The Stage 4 Namatjira concludes Run Larapinta 2026 on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Counts Point turn-off and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. The 27 km route delivers a memorable finish with desert scenery and has a 7-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 is 27km long.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 elevation gain is 730 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
The Stage 4 Namatjira concludes Run Larapinta 2026 on Monday, 17 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Counts Point turn-off and finishing at Ellery Creek Waterhole. The 27 km route delivers a memorable finish with desert scenery and has a 7-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 is 27km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 take place?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4 elevation gain is 730 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 4?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
The Stage 3 Namatjira is held on Sunday, 16 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Birthday Waterhole turn-off and finishing at Standley Chasm. Covering 22 km of mixed ridge and valley trails, this stage has a 6-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 is 22km long.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 elevation gain is 740 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
The Stage 3 Namatjira is held on Sunday, 16 August 2026, starting 8:00 AM at the Birthday Waterhole turn-off and finishing at Standley Chasm. Covering 22 km of mixed ridge and valley trails, this stage has a 6-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 is 22km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 take place?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3 elevation gain is 740 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 3?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
On Saturday, 15 August 2026, the Stage 2 Namatjira is organized by Rapid Ascent, starting at 7:30 AM from Standley Chasm. This 20 km loop course offers a shorter but still challenging trail experience, with a 6-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 is 20km long.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 elevation gain is 997 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
On Saturday, 15 August 2026, the Stage 2 Namatjira is organized by Rapid Ascent, starting at 7:30 AM from Standley Chasm. This 20 km loop course offers a shorter but still challenging trail experience, with a 6-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 is 20km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 take place?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2 elevation gain is 997 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 2?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
How long is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
Where does the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
The Stage 1 Malbunka of Run Larapinta 2026 is organized by Rapid Ascent on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting at 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs, and finishing at the Mercure Hotel. This 19.5 km twilight run has ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 is 19km long.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 elevation gain is 220 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
The Stage 1 Malbunka of Run Larapinta 2026 is organized by Rapid Ascent on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting at 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs, and finishing at the Mercure Hotel. This 19.5 km twilight run has ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 is 19km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 take place?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
The Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1 elevation gain is 220 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Malbunka Stage 1?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
The Stage 1 Namatjira of Run Larapinta 2026, organized by Rapid Ascent, will be held on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs. This 13.5 km opener runs into the evening with ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 is 13km long.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 elevation gain is 158 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
The Stage 1 Namatjira of Run Larapinta 2026, organized by Rapid Ascent, will be held on Friday, 14 August 2026, starting 7:00 PM from the Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs. This 13.5 km opener runs into the evening with ~220 m ascent/descent and a 4-hour cut-off.
How long is the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 is 13km long.
Where does the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 take place?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 takes place in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia.
What is the elevation gain of the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
The Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1 elevation gain is 158 meters, which Runna classifies as a Moderate race.
How can I prepare for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Run Larapinta Namatjira Stage 1?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
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Sport:
Running
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Nature
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Run Larapinta or Rapid Ascent. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Run Larapinta website.