History and Legacy
The Roof of Africa was born from a wild idea in 1967. Local engineer Bob Phillips, fresh off building a notorious new road, approached motorsport organizers and challenged them to race the “worst road in the world” he’d just created. That first race spanned the roof of Lesotho, inspiring the name. By 1969 motorcycles joined the competitors (alongside cars), and the event split into separate categories. Through the 1970s and ’80s it became a national legend – sponsored by South Africa’s The Star newspaper – and even ran cross-country stages with overnight camps in South Africa (Matatiele/Sani Pass) until 1982. In 1982 the rally was contained entirely within Lesotho’s borders.
Competitors get help from locals to make it up a steep section of Lesotho’s mountains. The Roof of Africa’s three-stage course features relentless climbs and treacherous obstacles.
By the 2000s, the rally’s scope had narrowed to motorcycles as modern off-road cars faded out due to cost and complexity. Bikes took center stage, and extreme enduro became a global trend. The Roof embraced this hardline off-road ethos, earning its title as the “Mother of Hard Enduro.” Legendary riders like Alfie Cox (an early British multi-time champion) cemented its status. Cars briefly returned as an adventure class in the mid-2000s, but the modern Roof is all about pure two-wheeled grit.
Over its history the Roof has become a bucket-list event on par with South Africa’s great endurance races. Organizers (the Lesotho Off Road Association, or LORA) emphasize that “no participant is left behind”, with live tracking, big screens for spectator updates, and helicopter rescue teams on standby. The race is owned by the people of Lesotho and run by local firm Live Lesotho, reflecting deep national pride. Through the years it has even injected roughly 100 million Maloti into the local economy each event, becoming a major tourism driver and supporting local communities. It’s attended by Lesotho dignitaries and seen as a positive showcase of the country’s rugged beauty and Basotho culture.
Race Format and Categories
Today’s Roof of Africa is a three-day enduro marathon. Each morning riders set off from the Matsieng area (near Maseru) into the mountains and return by evening. The total distance over three days is typically 250–350 km, depending on the route. There are multiple classes based on age and bike size:
- Gold Class: Open to riders 18+ on any capacity bike (the premier category).
- Silver Class: Open to 18+ (any bike) and 16+ on restricted machines (125–250cc).
- Bronze/Iron Classes: Youth and invitation-only categories for teenage riders, with smaller bike restrictions.
- Women's Class: Top female riders compete for honors, often in Bronze/Iron categories.
Anyone 16 or older can enter (14–15 year olds must meet extra criteria). Overall, the event attracts top pros and eager local riders alike. Entrants must be prepared: GPS trackers are mandatory for live safety monitoring, and each rider needs a personal service crew for refueling and repairs.
Each day includes a time-trial “Round the Houses” stage (through a local village) and mountain stages. In total the Gold-class course can reach 400+ km by final day, with Silver and Bronze slightly shorter. Despite the distances, the toughest tests are the naturally rough, boulder-strewn trails and killer climbs. (In 2024 the course was a 350 km gauntlet, including new “virgin” sections never raced before.) Riders often face searing heat one day and blustery, even snowy, conditions the next.
Key facts to know:
- Classes & Eligibility: Categories (Gold/Silver/Bronze/Iron) cater to different ages and skill levels. Riders 14+ can enter Bronze/Iron (with restrictions); 16+ can enter Silver/Gold; 18+ any class.
- Equipment & Crew: GPS trackers are compulsory for safety. Each rider must have at least one support crew member to carry spare fuel and gear.
- Race Support: Organizers use live satellite tracking for all riders, and stages are raced with helicopter medevac on standby. Information screens and team radios keep everyone informed.
Extreme Terrain and Conditions
What really makes the Roof legendary is the terrain. Lesotho is often called “the Kingdom in the Sky” because even its lowest elevations are high. The race course spans from about 1,400 meters in the lowlands to over 3,000 meters at the highest passes. Riders fight for breath as they climb narrow, rocky tracks. Trails cut into the mountain slopes are known locally as “donkey tracks” – steep, twisted ruts through gravel and solid rock. At times the course weaves through river beds and over cliff-like outcrops. Under a thin alpine sun riders wear layers against cold air, but by midday the temperature can soar. In 2017, for instance, racers saw a blazing hot day followed by an unusual heavy snowfall in the mountains. Such swings make planning and endurance a huge part of success.
Climbing the Mountain: An enduro rider struggles up a steep rocky chute in the Maloti Mountains. The Roof of Africa’s course is famed for such technical sections.
The total elevation gain over three days can exceed 10,000 meters, and many stages are single-track and extremely narrow. Riders describe sections so steep and loose it feels like “uphill surfing”. This isn’t a spectator-friendly motocross arena – it’s real wilderness. Getting lost is easy, so organizers equip every rider with satellite GPS and track them in real time. If you’re curious about the challenge: imagine 3 days of non-stop, near-vertical climbs, as you navigate rocky slopes and cross icy streams high above sea level!
Champions and Records
Over more than 50 editions, a hall of champions has emerged. The race is famed for repeat winners. South African rider Wade Young has dominated in recent years: his 2024 victory was his ninth Roof of Africa win, tying the all-time record with British legend Alfie Cox. Remarkably, Young first won in 2012 at just 16 years old – the youngest-ever champion. In fact, one youth champion tradition continues: many top riders (including Young and Travis Teasdale) got their start in Lesotho as teenagers.
British extreme racer Graham Jarvis is another icon. A four-time champion, Jarvis has consistently battled younger stars on Lesotho’s hills. Other top winners include Sherco-mounted Ryan Young (Wade’s brother) and multi-time Rally legend Toby Price, who took the title in 2016. In 2017 Wade Young led a South African 1–2–3 with Travis Teasdale and Jarvis, highlighting how the race blends local and global talent.
Women riders have also made history. In 2017 Spanish rider Sandra Gómez became the highest-placing woman ever (finishing 30th overall). Each year a small field of women compete, often on the same grueling course as the men.
Notable Facts and Local Impact
- “Mother of Hard Enduro”: The Roof’s nickname reflects its status and difficulty. When Wade Young won the 50th edition in 2017, media called it the “Mother of Hard Enduro”. It’s seen as a rite of passage for extreme enduro riders.
- Annual Tradition: Held every November or December, the race is part of Lesotho’s motorsport calendar. (In 2025 it became a finale for the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, underscoring its global prestige.)
- Massive Participation: Nearly 400 competitors enter each year, from South Africa, Europe, Asia and beyond. Top riders in the world and regional stars alike tackle the Roof.
- Local Pride & Economy: Lesotho treats the event as a national highlight. It injects about 100 million Maloti into the economy every year. Small villages host start/finish stages (like the traditional “Round the Houses” street race) and local businesses thrive during race week. Officials say the Roof showcases Lesotho’s landscapes and Basotho culture to the world.
- Safety & Support: Despite the extreme challenge, organizers emphasize camaraderie and safety. All riders are tracked; rescue helicopters patrol the course. The mantra is that “no rider is left behind.” This spirit is often noted by competitors: even in 2024, champion Wade Young praised the camaraderie and home crowd support that kept him going.
Finish Line Glory: A triumphant finish arch in Lesotho (note the fuel sponsor banners). Rally veterans often celebrate under this tent after 3 days. The Roof of Africa’s home crowd and local officials line the track to cheer the heroes, making it a special atmosphere.
Preparing for the Roof
For riders and fans, “everything you need to know” includes gearing up for remoteness and difficulty. If you plan to watch or compete, Maseru (Lesotho’s capital) serves as the logistics hub. Accommodations in the Maseru district are recommended, as the race base (Matsieng) is about 45 minutes away. Entry is open to international riders without a qualification requirement (unlike some European events), but expect to show your experience for certain classes. You must be fit and technically capable: recommended bikes are typically 250–300cc enduros, which balance power and agility on Lesotho’s rocks.
Spectators are drawn by the authenticity. Fans line village streets, and children often cheer riders in isolated valleys. Local guides and jeep services offer transport to remote spectator points. Remember that facilities are basic out in the hills, so pack for self-sufficiency. Also note the weather: even in high summer, mountain nights can be cold; bring layers and sun protection. Finally, be respectful of local culture – the Basotho people are warm hosts, but the terrain is sacred land.
Why It’s Special
The Roof of Africa enduro endures because it offers unmatched adventure and history. Unlike staged motocross or rallycross, this race feels like an expedition. You’re literally climbing Africa’s roof, testing mind and body. Its legacy – from 1967 pioneers to modern Xtreme champions – makes every start line moment feel important. As one veteran racer summed it up: “Winning here is like standing on Mount Everest of enduro, with the whole country watching.”.
Whether you’re an enduro enthusiast dreaming of a challenge, or a curious traveler seeking an unforgettable experience, the Roof of Africa represents the ultimate test of off-road endurance. It combines rugged sport, breathtaking landscapes, and a community spirit that few races can match. Every year it adds another chapter to its legend – from its humble origin on a “worst road in the world” to crowning modern-day off-road heroes.
Sources: Official Roof of Africa materials and media coverage. All information is factual and verified with the latest reports from 2024–2025.
