Our Training Facilities
East Africa’s major training centres for long distance runners such as Iten in Kenya, Sululta outside the capital Addis Ababa in Ethiopia or Kapchorwa in Uganda are all at a high altitude (between 2’000 and 2’700 meters above sea level). Foreign athletes have long used these training centers to prepare for running competitions. With its combination of high altitude, breath-taking tracks and mild climate throughout most of the year, they are a true paradise for runners. While in Kenya and Ethiopia international top-standard training centers such as the Yaya Athletics Village near Addis Ababa or the High Altitude Training Center (HATC) in Iten with state-of-the-art facilities, such as running track, volley ball court, outdoor pool, sauna, steam-bath, massage and other recreational facilities are available, Uganda still offers somewhat simpler guest houses to accomodate foreign runners. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean a less comfortable stay. Every location is unique by itself, and as such, may have its advantages and disadvantages, largely depending on your personal preferences. But rest assured that wherever you will be staying with us, you will find stunning nature, endless trails starting in your immediate surroundings and an overall ideal training environment.
Yaya Athletics Village, Sululta, Ethiopia
The Yaya Africa Athletics Village was founded by legendary Ethiopian long-distance runner Haile Gebreselassie and is the first in its kind in Ethiopia to provide an all-inclusive sports village with an exemplary level of service. Located 11 km from the capital city Addis Ababas at an altitude of 2’700m above sea level, the village comprises 40 well-furnished guest rooms with all amenities. The hotel offers an Olympic standard running track, professional running guides, football and volleyball fields, ground tennis, swimming pool, horseback riding and different indoor games. The distinctively designed, modern and traditional cottage restaurants serve both local and international dishes. Last but not least, the Yaya Health Club includes a state of the art gym with an amazing garden view as well as a spa area with steam bath, sauna and massage that will help you to relax every minute of your time.
High Altitude Training Center (HATC), Iten, Kenya
Iten is a small town along the Elgeyo escarpment at an altitude of 2400 m. / 7900 ft. above sea level, ideal for high altitude training. From recreational runners to elite level athletes, everybody is welcome in the HATC. The training center was founded by multiple world champion Lornah Kiplagat and is equipped with all modern facilities needed for a successful training camp. The gym is fully equipped with a mixture of cardio machines, weight machines, free weights, medicine balls, steps and floor mats. There is a sauna in both the changing rooms to aid recovery. The center runs 3 strength and conditioning sessions per week for both guests and local athletes. Moreover, the HATC sports the only all weather tartan track outside of Nairobi. The track is open and free to use for guests. Finally, there is also a 25m Swimming Pool, which can be used for both, recreation and training. Aqua-jogging belts and floats are also available. The swimimming pool is also free to use for all guests. The High Altitude Training Centre offers stay based on full board which includes 3 meals a day. Costs can vary depending on the length of your stay and the number of people if you come with a group.
Home of Friends Guesthouse, Kapchorwa, Uganda
In the Ugandan running mecca Kapchorwa most runners prefer to stay at the at the Home of Friends Guesthouse. Located on a green hilltop just outside Kapchorwa town, right in the heart of Uganda’s “Land of Running Champions”, the gusthouse is a comfortable and inviting base to explore the untouched beauty of its immediate surroundings. The food is tasty and organic, the rooms are cosy and clean and the garden green and spacious.
Whether you want to explore the famous Sipi Falls or venture off the beaten path with a guided hike to climb Mount Elgon (4’321m), nature is simply stunning here. After a day of adventure or training, you may relax with a soothing massage or sip on a fresh, organic juice while unwinding in one of the hammocks. Since 2017, the Home of Friends Guesthouse is managed by an Ugandan / Dutch team with a strong passion for adventure, hospitality and healthy living. Ugandan hospitality meets international comfort, and many guests fall in love with the friendly atmosphere.