There's something special about a community coming together for a greater cause. On a crisp morning at the foot of the iconic Diremogolo Hill, that's exactly what happened as the Sylast Foundation hosted its highly anticipated 2026 Up Diremogolo Challenge at the beautiful Makati-Brown Farm.
A Day That Had Something for Everyone
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or someone who just wanted to soak in the atmosphere, this year's event had something for everybody. From the buzz of the entertainment and stalls to the thrill of conquering Diremogolo Hill, the energy on the day was nothing short of electric.
Attendees could browse through a variety of stalls while enjoying live entertainment, making it as much a community festival as it was a hiking event. Families, friends, and colleagues all came together to share in the experience, creating memories that will last well beyond the day itself.
Leading From the Front
This year's event saw some remarkable chief hikers stepping up to lead the charge. The Managing Director of Okavango Diamond Company and the head of Agora Finance both laced up their boots and took on the challenge alongside hundreds of fellow participants. It's always inspiring to see leaders from some of Botswana's most prominent organizations show up not just in the boardroom, but out on the trail too. Their participation sent a powerful message - that giving back to the community transcends industry and title.
Choose Your Challenge
One of the things that makes the Up Diremogolo Challenge so accessible and exciting is the variety of hiking options available. Whether you were looking for a gentle introduction to hiking or a serious physical test, there was a route for you:
3km Route
Perfect for families, beginners, or those looking for a relaxed morning out in nature.
10km Route
A solid middle ground for those looking to push themselves without going all out.
15km Route
For the serious hikers who came ready to put in the work.
Up Diremogolo Hill
The crown jewel of the event. Taking on the hill itself is a true test of grit and determination, and those who reached the top earned every bit of that view.
All routes started and concluded at Makati-Brown Farm, nestled right at the foot of Diremogolo Hill, making it the perfect base for the day's activities.
More Than Just a Hike
At its core, the Up Diremogolo Challenge is about so much more than hiking. It's about community, it's about pushing personal boundaries, and it's about rallying behind the meaningful work that the Sylast Foundation continues to do. Every step taken on those trails represents a commitment to something bigger than ourselves.
As the 2026 edition comes to a close, one thing is clear - the Up Diremogolo Challenge continues to grow in both scale and spirit. If you missed it this year, make sure you mark your calendar for 2027. Trust us, you won't want to sit this one out again.
A huge congratulations to the Sylast Foundation for putting together yet another incredible event, and to every single participant who showed up and gave it their all. Until next year, Diremogolo awaits.
