World’s Toughest Runs – Guide to the Jungle Ultra, Amazon Rainforest, Peru

If you are looking to put your body and mind through an incomprehensible challenge, while being surrounded by virgin Amazon rainforest, the Jungle Ultra marathon might just be for you! Get yourself to Cuzco, Peru and prepare for the 230km, 5 stage race. You will begin at the summit of Cloud Mountain, and slowly descend 10,500ft to the finish line. The descent will be unlike anything you’ve experienced before. You’ll run through the Andes mountain range, through pristine forests, along flowing rivers and through quiet villages. Tackle road, trail and track to navigate your way through the checkpoints. The Jungle Ultra is well supported, but you are required to be self-supported throughout the race. This means you’ll carry your own hammock, sleeping bag and food for the entire race. Runners are required to bring a large water bottle that can be topped up at the checkpoints. The weather in Peru is fickle and the changes across 10,500ft of elevation really take their toll on runners. There will be periods of adjustment to higher altitudes, and periods of intense,100% humidity. In particular, previous competitors have found this challenging, as the body has no way to cool down. You’ll need to keep an eye out on various types of wildlife while you’re on the trail. Anything from cougars to snakes and caimans may cross your path, and it’s encouraged to protect yourself against mosquitoes. There’s a lot to face on this trail that makes it a true test of will. Uphill climbs are muddy and intense, while downhills are tricky to navigate and often hand holds are ridden with biting ants. There have been times such as 2013 when runners had to be evacuated after a torrential storm raised rivers to unsafe levels, preventing the race from continuing. This is a colourful, challenging race, that asks you to dig deep. Not only your running skills are on trial here, so too are your coping skills as you face physical difficulty, unsteady paths and potential attack from local flora and fauna. It’s a thrill, and if you’re up for it, this will be one Ultra that will stick in your mind for years.   About Enertor Advanced Technology Insoles Enertor insoles are designed to prevent a number of common running injuries and provide more comfort. Designed by leading podiatrists to reduce your risk of injury, the unique design features support your foot throughout training. Enertor insoles are enhanced by D3O impact protection technology, which means they can provide more shock absorption than any other insole. Our expertise, combined with the patented D3O shock absorption technology, enables Enertor to deliver the most advanced injury prevention insoles on the market today. Enertor insoles are available online HERE .