Aral Ultra 2026
Text and photos by Leena Bahtiyarova
Race day in Karakalpakstan
Shortly past 3am on the 3rd October 2026, 30 runners stepped out of a series of mini-vans to find themselves atop the Ustyurt Plateau, in the dark, windy night. Despite the long, bumpy drive and minimal sleep across the group, spirits were high as runners prepared to embrace the incredible challenge ahead of them.
These brave athletes would be the first to attempt the Aral Ultra, a 100km trail spanning across soaring limestone cliffs, through the dry Aralkum desert, and finally, finishing at the shoreline of the Aral Sea.
Together, we counted down to the 4am start, cheering as the runners took their first strides over the sandy, rocky terrain. For over two hours, it was almost pitch-black, with only the stars and the runners’ headlamps lighting up their path.
The sunrise over the Ustyurt Plateau was soft, and steadily brought the daylight that would carry runners through the rest of the day. This included the waves of runners completing 50km, 25km and 15km distances, who shared the same trail and the elements that came with it, including light rains, cold temperatures and strong headwinds.
Just before 2pm, history was made as the first 100km finisher, Nurziyad Begaliyev, reached the shoreline of the Aral Sea. Not only did Nurziyad win the first Aral Ultra, he also won the first 100km ultramarathon held in Uzbekistan, with a time of 9:54:20. One hour later, Irina Masanova reached the sea with a time of 10:57:18, setting the first place finisher's record for the women’s category (5th place overall).
Each of the 300+ runners that crossed the finish line on this day have their own stories, and their own connections to the region. With most of the runners being from Uzbekistan, many grew up with the knowledge that the Aral Sea was under threat, and witnessed its rapid decline over recent years, whether through media, or through their own eyes. But experiencing the region so closely is different.
Multiple runners described the event as “the most unique race” they had completed, sharing their awe at the beauty of the region, as well as feelings of confrontation as they ran over a landscape that was once, only recently, covered in water.
The hopeful future of the Aral Ultra
The Aral Ultra is a project by the Uzbekistan Arts and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF), the same organisers behind the Samarkand Marathon Series, hosting numerous major running events across Uzbekistan.
Through the race, the ACDF aims to bring a new, international awareness to the Aral Sea’s history, and the future of tourism in Karakalpakstan. The shifting finish line at the receding shore of the Aral Sea is a stark reminder of the region’s ecological history, inspiring conversation and meaningful action toward a better future. The race also promotes sustainable eco-tourism to the region, directly supporting and benefitting local communities, who have faced significant hardship in their ever-changing environment. The ACDF itself donates a percentage of race entry fees directly to social charity causes, focusing on creating opportunities for communities by constructing inclusive sports centres, playgrounds and increasing accessibility across existing projects.
Tourists are increasingly visiting Karalpakstan to witness its vast, beautiful landscapes. What better way to experience the region than to run through it?
Planning to Run the Aral Ultra?
Here’s some information you may find useful.
Where is the race held?
The Aral Ultra takes place in Karakalpakstan, beginning across the Ustyurt Plateau. Runners stay in Nukus, the capital of Karakalpakstan. Opening events, race pack pick-ups, and transfers to and from the longer running routes all take place in Nukus.
How do I get to Nukus?
Nukus is most easily reached by flight from Tashkent (~2h). Seasonal flights from other cities outside of Uzbekistan (e.g. Almaty) may be available during peak travel seasons. You can also travel to Nukus via train from cities such as Samarkand or Bukhara, or by car/shared taxi, though the travel time is significantly longer.
What distances can I run?
Participants can choose to run 100km, 50km, 25km or 15km, all of which finish at the shoreline of the Aral Sea. A shorter, 2km, inclusive event takes place in Nukus, as well as various kids race distances (60m - 1km).
What can I expect on the trail?
For those running a longer distance, frequent aid stations, with food and water and set up across the trail. Runners can expect a variable terrain, with sand and rock underfoot. Trail shoes are recommended! The weather is cool to cold in the desert this time of year, so runners should be prepared to dress appropriately. While we found we were freezing in the harsh wind, a few runners described this to be the “perfect running weather!”
When will the event take place?
The Aral Ultra is expected to return to Karakalpakstan at a similar time in 2027 (early October). The next marathon by ACDF/the Samarkand Marathon Series will be the Samarkand Marathon itself, taking place from 7-8th November.
Where can I find more information?
More information about the Aral Ultra is available through their instagram (@aralultra), or via the Samarkand Marathon Series website https://events.samarkandmarathon.uz/event/AralUltra2026/.
Will you brave the Aral Ultra in 2027?
