Rat Race Adventure Sports Reviews 

The Panama Coast to Coast challenge was exactly what it was billed to be: a very difficult crossing of the isthmus with all the ingredients of extreme adventure. Long days, tough conditions, sucking mud, heat, mountainous terrain, heavy pack and the need for self-sufficiency present more than just a physical challenge; the psychological strain is an additional factor. It’s anyone’s nightmare, but one that we embraced willingly - we wouldn’t have had it any other way! Absolutely great trip, expertly organised and led, and with logistical difficulties handled with experience and aplomb. I’m very honoured to have been part of the 2026 team for the successful crossing. Thoroughly recommended for those who love jungle adventures and camaraderie!

I’ve done Rat Race events from over ten years now. I’ve consistently been impressed and happy with the service. Even when things haven’t gone to plan they seem interested in fixing things and make a big effort.

Recently I took part in their Arctic Circle event.

It was brilliantly organised. It’s a hard thing to do, take a cross section of people and keep it challenging, fun and safe for everyone. And they did exactly that.

I have just come back from the Artic Circle event and this was one of the most challenging, yet rewarding things I have ever done! It was absolutely incredible and something I won't ever forget.
The crew were truley amazing and really supported everyone that took part, it would not have been the same without such a great crew.
I am so so glad to have completed this even, what an experience.

I’ve just come back from the most incredible trip… the Arctic Circle 2026.
The first thing I want to say is how well organised everything was from start to finish. The information provided was spot on, you knew exactly what was happening at every stage. From what kit to bring, to food, accommodation, travel, where to get equipment, discount codes… everything was covered. It made the whole experience feel completely stress-free.
From meeting the crew right through to the finish line, it all ran effortlessly smoothly.
The events themselves, fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe hiking, were absolutely amazing. I won’t lie, it was tough. It really pushed me, and it wasn’t easy by any stretch of the imagination… but that’s exactly what we sign up for. To step out of our comfort zones and see what we’re truly capable of.
And honestly, crossing that finish line makes every bit of it worth it.
The pain and discomfort are temporary, but the memories, the photos, and the experience will stay with you forever. Not to mention the incredible people you meet along the way, this is where real bonds are formed.
For me, it was an unforgettable experience, and one I would absolutely recommend to anyone thinking about it.

Thank you Rat Race ❤️

Absolutely brilliant! Great event, sports and organisation but also a cracking crew and the other participants were so great too. What a blast!

Amazing company. I have done many trips and events with them throughout the UK and abroad. Their attention to detail to support all participants is second to none. They have a knack for coming up with awesome experiences that can be testing but always rewarding and they do it all with a friendly supportive nature.

The Galapagos Ultramarathon is an experience that stays with you. Each morning begins with sea lions resting beside you, and every day brings moments of wonder. Snorkeling with turtles, watching sea lions play, and walking through the peaceful habitat of giant tortoises. A boat trip offers its own magic, witnessing dolphins dance across the water and even glimpsing an orca in the wild.
The course leads you past El Junco’s serene freshwater crater lake, down to the beach, and back up toward the finish. That final climb is emotional, a powerful reminder that every step forward reveals just how much you’re capable of. Anything is possible.

Great Locations + Great Courses + Great Leadership = Great Experience

I have had a long association with taking part in Rat Race events and the words I associate most with them is “slick” and “trust” they do things really well. They are outdoor people providing events for outdoor people, so they get it.

Just back from my first overseas experience with them and was impressed with their diligence and work with local suppliers and organisations to deliver a complex event, gaining permissions, moving people and kit over a fair distance. The often unseen bit is diligence, having crew positioned along the route to be able to respond if necessary. Most people only value / notice this when it’s needed, but it’s smart organisation that places them there and gives them workable comms if worst comes to worst.
Would thoroughly recommend their events.

I took part in Rat Race’s Panama Pirate Test Pilot expedition — a coast-to-coast crossing of Panama by foot, bike, and kayak, following the route taken by Henry Morgan when he sacked Panama City in 1671. The trip forms part of Rat Race’s Project Jungle, raising awareness and funds to purchase a strategic tract of rainforest.

On a personal level, this was also something of a test. I had previously completed a jungle expedition with Rat Race in the Darién region and really struggled with it. Ever since, I’d wondered whether that was down to a lack of specific training, carrying too heavy a pack, poor hydration… or whether there was simply something about the jungle environment that didn’t suit me.

This expedition answered that question and finally put it to bed: the combination of extreme heat and humidity just isn’t for me.

Despite that, I thoroughly enjoyed the Panama Pirate experience, and at all times felt safe in the hands of both Rat Race and the local guides and support crew.

Kayaking the Chagres River and Lake Gatún was a standout — incredible scenery and a completely different view of the jungle from anything I’d experienced before.

The jungle hammock camping was, as always, both challenging and memorable. A particular highlight was staying in a small riverside village accessible only by boat. We were made to feel genuinely welcome, and were treated to excellent fish and chips in the evening and eggs and bread for breakfast the next morning.

If Rat Race ever turn this into a regular event, I’d definitely recommend it as a more accessible and less intense introduction to the jungle than the Panama Coast to Coast expedition

Wow, the organisation of every element, I felt completely safe and was never alone. I’ve never done anything like this before, I can’t praise Jim & Rick enough. This trip is hard but, with so many physical elements that there’s a really great mix of disciplines. Simply incredible

What a week. Following in the footsteps of a Henry Morgan and his buccaneers.
Sun, rain, storms, mud, streams, rivers, lakes, fallen trees, spiky trees and more mud.
Kayaking, trekking, hammock camping, cycling.
This event had so much to offer, challenging yet achievable. Great people, fantastic leaders, immense local knowledge.
My first jungle experience and hopefully not my last. Train hard, get your admin sorted and you will love this event

Galápagos - a true dream. An epic trip of a lifetime (ultramarathon included) expertly crafted by Rat Race. Couldn’t have asked for a better few days. Packed so much adventure and nature into one epic experience. Loved the crew, loved the team, love the memories. Cannot recommend this event enough. Thank you all and see you for Madagascar 2026!

I had the privilege of taking part in the first-ever Galápagos Ultramarathon, and it was one of the most memorable race experiences I’ve ever had.

🏃‍♂️ The Race

The 70km course took us over undulating terrain with more than 1,700 metres of elevation and a constantly changing mix of road and trail. We passed through five different microclimates, which kept the run both challenging and fascinating. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking — from misty highlands to dramatic coastlines — with standout sections including the loop around El Junco, the island’s iconic freshwater lake, and the stunning halfway point at Puerto Chino beach.

🌋 The Location

The race on San Cristóbal showcased the island at its best. It felt like running through a living wildlife documentary. Every turn offered something new, and the natural beauty of the island was genuinely humbling.

🎽 Organisation

A huge amount of credit goes to Abbi, whose organisation was exceptional. Communication before, during, and after the event was flawless — with regular emails, clear guidance, and even a webinar a month beforehand to answer questions. For a first-time event, it ran more smoothly than many long-established races I’ve done.

There were five well-supported pit stops, all staffed by enthusiastic volunteers who kept everyone fuelled and motivated. Accommodation was comfortable and conveniently located right next to the start, making logistics very easy.

🌊 Extra Experiences

One of the unexpected highlights was the set of pre- and post-race activities arranged for participants. We enjoyed a guided nature walk to a viewpoint on the island, and two incredible snorkelling trips — including one at Kicker Rock, where I saw sea turtles, iguanas, sharks, eagle rays, and a veritable smorgasbord of other marine life. These experiences made the event feel like a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and nature.

☀️ Top Tip

Wear sunscreen — lots of it! Even when the sky looks cloudy, the equatorial sun is extremely strong.

⭐ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Overall

5 stars. A challenging, beautifully organised ultramarathon in one of the most unique environments on Earth. I’d recommend it wholeheartedly and would love to return.

If running or fast walking an ultramarathon in a bucket list destination excites you, then Ratrace is for you. Small groups, personalised attention, included activities to explore the best of the location - this is not a race but a life experience.

Galápagos 70k Ultra. What an amazing adventure. We have been on multiple adventure races and Rat Race deliver time after time. An amazing crew, an amazing group of individuals and an amazing itinerary. If you are looking for a tough event, but with superb support and a well organised crew that delivers a true once in a lifetime activity, then look no further.

A few years ago, someone named Simon took £500 from me as a deposit but never mentioned that the machine he wanted to sell was broken. I didn’t proceed with the purchase, and despite asking several times, he never returned my money.

I truly hope that money never brought you any happiness.

The very best purveyors of ‘Type 2’ fun. The Galapagos Ultra event delivered everything expected and more - which is standard operating practice for the hugely experienced and expert Rat Race team. Many participants were veterans of numerous previous outings, which provides its own testament to the quality and enjoyment these things provide. The teamwork that comes from the joy (and pain) of completing such tough, but eminently-achievable outings is a bonus.
Can’t wait for my next four… (takes me into 2027)… 😂💙

Excellent research in advance of any race to give you the best experience. Calm, knowledgeable, and kind expedition guides. The team camaraderie is second to none.

Making memories with Rat Race again, this time in the Galápagos. Expertly organised and executed. Charming RR crew and local guides guarantee a fabulous adventure. Add a crafty route to test your fitness. Galápagos is a must for any human wanting to see raw nature. 2026 and 2027 RR adventures locked in already.. pay monthly and you won’t notice it!