WHAT IS MPA DAY?

33 Kilometres. One Protected Ocean. One Global Celebration.

Join Wild Alliance Africa, the Mission Blue Aliwal Shoal Hope Spot team, conservationists, scientists, runners, walkers, hikers, schools, clubs, businesses and ocean advocates for an unforgettable MPA Day experience along one of South Africa’s most iconic marine protected coastlines.

To celebrate MPA Day 2026, we invite you to take part in the Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge!

A unique coastal expedition traversing the full length of the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area and Mission Blue Hope Spot.

Beginning at the Mzimayi River near Happy Wanderers, the southern boundary of the MPA, participants will journey north along approximately 33 kilometres of spectacular KwaZulu-Natal coastline to the Illovo River, the northern boundary of the protected area.

Whether you choose to walk, hike, jog or run, you’ll be part of a powerful celebration of Marine Protected Areas while contributing to conservation awareness, citizen science and the long-term protection of the Aliwal Shoal ecosystem.

More Than a Challenge

This is not just a walk.

This is not just a run.

It is a conservation expedition, a community challenge and a celebration of our shared ocean heritage.

While the Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge is not a competitive race, participants are welcome to walk, hike, jog or run the route at their own pace. The focus is on celebrating Marine Protected Areas, supporting conservation and experiencing the coastline in a meaningful way.

Citizen Science in Action

Throughout the route, participants will be encouraged to record sightings, observations and content.

This may include:

• Marine wildlife sightings
• Birdlife and coastal species
• Strandings or unusual observations
• Plastic pollution and debris
• River mouth conditions
• Erosion, dune and beach observations
• Photos, videos and location-based notes

These contributions will help Wild Alliance Africa build a richer picture of the Aliwal Shoal MPA coastline and support future conservation, education and research efforts.

Every participant becomes part of the science.

Every observation matters.

Why MPA Day Matters

Marine Protected Areas safeguard biodiversity, protect vulnerable species, support sustainable fisheries and strengthen ecosystem resilience in a changing world.

MPA Day is an international celebration of these special ocean spaces and the communities that support them.

By participating in the Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge, you become part of a growing movement dedicated to protecting South Africa’s marine heritage for future generations.

Participation Options

Full MPA Challenge

Distance: Approximately 33km

Complete the full Aliwal Shoal MPA traverse from south to north.

Suitable for walkers, hikers, joggers and runners looking for a memorable conservation endurance challenge.

Half MPA Challenge

Distance: Approximately 15km

A shorter but still meaningful coastal experience for participants wanting to be part of the event without completing the full route.

Community Coastal Experience

Distance: Approximately 5km

Ideal for families, schools, community groups, clubs and casual participants.

Citizen Science Team

Join dedicated conservation teams assisting with environmental observations, biodiversity monitoring, data collection and storytelling along the route.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026

Location: Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Start Point: Happy Wanderers Resort, near the Mzimayi River

Finish Point: Illovo River

Distance: Approximately 33km

Start Time: First light

Format: Walk, hike, jog or run

Support: Water, snacks, safety check-ins and designated resupply points

Route Support

Participants will be supported throughout the day by Wild Alliance Africa volunteers and support crews.

Regular resupply stations will provide:

• Drinking water refill stations
• Energy snacks
• First aid support
• Equipment and clothing drop points
• Participant check-ins and safety monitoring

Participants are encouraged to travel light and carry only essentials such as water, sun protection, a mobile phone and personal medication.

Teams Welcome

Businesses, schools, universities, clubs, dive operators, running groups, paddling groups, conservation organisations and community teams are encouraged to get involved.

The Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge is a unique opportunity for team-building, environmental stewardship, community engagement and meaningful conservation impact.

Fundraising for Conservation

Participation in the Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge helps support the ongoing conservation, education and research initiatives of Wild Alliance Africa.

Participants are encouraged to make a voluntary donation during registration or raise sponsorship in support of marine conservation.

Every contribution helps protect and celebrate South Africa’s ocean heritage.

Finisher Recognition

Participants who complete the full 33km Aliwal Shoal MPA Challenge will receive official recognition as an MPA Day 2026 Finisher.

Join the Movement

Walk it.

Run it.

Study it.

Protect it.

Celebrate it.

Be part of one of South Africa’s most inspiring MPA Day events and help showcase the importance of the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area to the world.

Register Now

Support Marine Conservation

Learn More

Contact the Wild Alliance Africa team for more information.