”Since 2003, I’ve been organising ultra races in the Arctic. I began with the Yukon Arctic Ultra and added the Lapland Arctic Ultra in 2022.

As for hot climates, I ran the very first 200 km Jungle Marathon in 2003, held near Manaus. In 2004 it moved to the Brazilian state of Pará, and I was contracted as Race Director. I was part of the adventure that year and again in 2005, and ever since then I’ve felt a strong connection to this beautiful part of the world.

The Jungle Marathon ceased to exist several years ago, and that’s when the idea was born to create a new ultra that showcases the jungles of Pará: the Rainforest Ultra.

In 2026, the race will take place in the Reserva Extrativista Tapajós-Arapiuns (RESEX). The following year, we’ll move to the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós. In 2028, we’ll return to the RESEX, and so on.

Participants in the Rainforest Ultra can choose between a 100 km and a 200 km distance. The 100 km race is divided into three stages that take athletes along white sandy beaches and through the region’s jungle terrain. Those opting for the full 200 km will continue with another three stages of a similar layout.

Of course, one of my motivations is simply to organise another exciting ultra in a landscape I find fascinating. But that’s not the main reason. My primary goal is to support the development of eco-friendly tourism in this part of the Amazon basin. If the people living in these protected forests can make a living by welcoming visitors from around the world, it gives them a powerful incentive to preserve their natural surroundings. Everyone I’ve spoken to - politicians, government officials, institutions, and community leaders - is well aware of climate change and the crucial role a healthy rainforest plays for all of us. They want to share the beauty of their land and make a positive impact. The Rainforest Ultra can - and will - help them on that path.

See you in the jungle in 2026!

Robert PollhammerRace Director