About This Race
The 108K at Paraty Brazil by UTMB traces a demanding route through one of Brazil's most biodiverse regions, where the Atlantic Forest meets the Costa Verde coastline. Runners traverse terrain that ranges from sea-level coastal passages to climbs into the Serra da Bocaina range, threading through preserved forest corridors that have earned this area UNESCO World Heritage recognition. The race unfolds in the humid tropical environment characteristic of Rio de Janeiro state's southern coast, where technical footing and sustained humidity challenge pacing and recovery strategies throughout the distance. This route requires substantial ultra experience. Runners face extended time on technical trail surfaces under tropical conditions, where heat management becomes as critical as navigation and fueling. The course showcases the region's ecological complexity, passing through environments that shift from coastal vegetation to montane forest ecosystems. Night running segments may come into play for mid-pack and back-of-pack runners, adding headlamp navigation to the technical demands. The race operates within UTMB World Series standards, offering qualifying points and the organizational infrastructure that comes with the international circuit. Paraty itself, a colonial-era town with cobblestone streets and preserved Portuguese architecture, provides a distinctive pre- and post-race setting that distinguishes this event from other ultra destinations.
The course moves through multiple ecological zones between ocean and mountain environments. Runners encounter the full range of Atlantic Forest terrain: root-laced singletrack, stream crossings, and sections where tropical vegetation creates natural tunnels over the trail. Technical footing persists throughout much of the distance, requiring constant attention to foot placement on surfaces that may be slick from humidity or recent rainfall.
The route utilizes historic trails and paths that have connected coastal and mountain communities for generations. These passages through protected forest areas mean limited crew access at certain points, making self-sufficiency between aid stations a key consideration. The coastal proximity ensures runners remain in warm, humid conditions throughout, with little temperature relief even during night hours.
Location
Practical Info
Warm and humid year-round, with September falling in late winter/early spring. Daytime temperatures typically 70-80°F with high humidity; nighttime cooling minimal. Rain possible any month in this tropical coastal climate.
Paraty offers pousadas (Brazilian guesthouses) and hotels ranging from budget to boutique in the historic center and nearby beaches. Book early, as the town is a popular weekend destination from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The historic center is vehicle-restricted, so confirm luggage transport arrangements with accommodations.
Best For
Notable Features
The race provides access to UNESCO-protected Atlantic Forest corridors that are otherwise difficult to reach, offering runners passage through one of the world's most threatened yet biodiverse ecosystems. The route's movement between coastal and mountain environments creates unusual ecological variety for a single race, with terrain and vegetation that shift noticeably across elevation zones. Paraty's colonial town center, restricted to pedestrian traffic and lined with 18th-century buildings, creates an atmosphere distinct from typical ultra race venues.