Rat Race Reviews

I've participated in several of Rat Race's Bucket List adventures (Outer Hebrides, Patagonia, Mongolia, Namibia), and I can't recommend them enough. The venues, the teams, and the logistics are all first-rate. While Rat Race is a business, their focus isn't solely on profits; it's really about the thrill of adventure and the bonds formed along the way. For instance, during Week 1 of Glacier to Glacier (Patagonia) in 2021, I was one of just three participants. They could've postponed the event, but they chose to go ahead, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. All the other events I joined were just as fantastic, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next ones.

I'm genuinely impressed with how well these events are organized. It’s clear that a ton of thought and effort goes into them, yet the event directors and teams are quick on their feet, adapting to any surprises that come up.

Don’t pay attention to the negative feedback from some folks; a few just have an unrealistic sense of entitlement and are hard to satisfy.

I’m super excited for my next adventure!

I've been on three major adventures with Rat Race (Namibia, Iceland, and Argentina). I keep coming back because the company provides options for both mild and wild adventures based on your choice. The challenging ones can really push you to your limits. I've never felt unsafe or in danger. Sure, I’ve been tired or too cold/hot, but that’s part of the thrill. A little excitement is what life’s all about—adapting to the ever-changing weather and terrain. Some of my best tales and greatest accomplishments come from these experiences. I've met some incredible folks, including the Rat Race teams. They host a ton of events and constantly challenge what “regular folks” can do. I’m pretty sure that any trip will create more unforgettable memories. I was in week 2 of the Patagonia adventure. We faced weather changes and had to adjust our plans, but we had a blast. A lot of it was beyond RR's control. Here are some tips: Tip 1: Bring your own bike if you’re going somewhere you wouldn’t expect to find a decent rental. Tip 2: If you want an easy ride, go for a package tour. Tip 3: Be ready for surprises. Tip 4: Do all of these adventures—there are extraordinary places to explore away from the daily grind.

I just got back from my second ratrace event. I completed the Iceland Coast to Coast in 2022 and now the Trans Andean in 2023.

Honestly, I think these events are top-notch and truly one-of-a-kind. In both instances, I was able to engage in the sports I adore while exploring some really remote and stunning locations that would be tough to tackle without a company like ratrace.

The logistical challenge of organizing such well-supported events for large groups in these areas is what really distinguishes this company from the rest. They provide tons of assistance and encouragement to help you reach your potential and are there to lift your spirits, even if things don’t go as planned.

My latest adventure in South America was, without a doubt, the most significant experience of my life thus far. The route, the scenery, and the camaraderie were all incredible. There was a genuine sense of support from everyone involved. It felt like we were part of something extraordinary.

Reflecting on it now, the most impressive aspect was how I could concentrate solely on cycling and soaking in the experience. I never had to stress about safety, security, or logistics. Everything just flowed smoothly.

I’ve participated in many similar events at different price ranges, and I’d have to say ratrace stands out as the best at shielding you from the downsides and letting you fully enjoy the upsides. Do things always unfold as expected? Of course not… that’s just the nature of large-scale exploration events. Anyone who claims otherwise probably hasn’t been in the game long enough. So, you really assess the organization by how they handle issues and keep you, the customers, insulated from those problems. We faced a few changes in plans during both of my events due to hazardous weather and such, but in both instances, the on-site organizers (Rob & Abbi) managed it, and I was sipping a beer in safety without a care in the world.

In the end, I’ve postponed buying a house just to fund these trips. And do I regret it? Not a single cent. If you’re looking to invest in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend ratrace to anyone.

I've participated in several Rat Race (RR) events, including the Race to the Wreck in Namibia, and I can wholeheartedly recommend them. The RR team, along with their local partners, has always impressed me with their competence and resourcefulness. That particular event was carried out with military-like precision, ensuring everyone’s well-being was the top priority.

Now, I gotta admit, there were a few hiccups during the recent Glacier to Glacier event, but I don’t think they were caused by Rat Race themselves. Local politics played a big role in that. The entire crew did their utmost to handle a tough situation.

Honestly, when you’re planning and running events like this, it’s pretty much a given that things won’t always go smoothly—ain’t that part of the thrill?

Can’t wait for Run Britannia in June! 🤞🙏

What an unforgettable ‘once in a lifetime’ experience (I’ll be back for sure). The views are simply breathtaking. The challenge is tough but totally doable if you’ve got the right mindset. If you’re looking to make it a bit easier, I’d suggest bringing your own gravel bike as they recommend on the site. The rental bikes are basic mountain models, but honestly, they do the job and are way better than lugging your own bike halfway across the globe. Plus, it adds to the challenge of the event.

The food was top-notch. There’s usually not a ton of options for vegetarians in Argentina, but the two vegetarians on our trip were well taken care of. The steaks are massive, and Seb’s Argentinian beef stew cooked over the campfire was out of this world.

The lodging can be a bit rustic at times, but hey, that’s what you expect when you’re out in the middle of nowhere. The night sky, free from light pollution, is something you’ve got to see.

I’d definitely recommend this trip. The crew at Rat Race is fantastic, and the local Argentinian guides were amazing. I really hope they put together a Chilean Patagonia version soon. Until then, I’ll just have to settle for the Exuma Files trip.

My husband and his buddies took a trip to Patagonia with Rat Race. It cost a pretty penny, but our family was all in since it was supposed to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Sadly, it turned into a nightmare and a really tough time for him, me, and our kids. His safety was compromised because the organizers sent them the wrong way, provided faulty GPS gear, and gave them trackers that didn’t function. I got a link to track his journey, and when I checked it with my kids, it showed he was in Africa—totally not even close! He forked out a ridiculous amount to rent a bike for two days, only to receive one with flat tires, bad brakes, and gears that were shot. They were all pushed to tackle an 80km bike ride in crazy winds on bikes that hadn’t been serviced. To top it off, Rat Race didn’t even have the proper permits for the event; I’ve seen the signed notice that proves the whole thing was illegal. My husband and his friends tried to voice their complaints to Jim, the company’s founder, but he wouldn’t engage unless they called him by his full title of Managing Director. The arrogance is unbelievable! It’s only now that they’ve gotten lawyers involved that there’s any communication happening. As a wife and mother who’s seen her husband struggle with anxiety since he got back—a man who’s never had mental health issues before—I really urge folks to think hard about my experience before booking anything with this company. The toll this event and Rat Race’s handling of it has taken on our family has left me in tears more times than I can count.

I just got back from an incredible adventure to the Galápagos Islands. The whole trip was put together and managed by Rat Race, and let me tell ya, they did a stellar job. Everything from the travel arrangements to the care and health of everyone involved was top-notch. I can't wait to hit the road again with them soon!

Earlier this year, I took part in the Svalbard Test Pilot. Normally, I don’t bother with reviews, but this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip, going from one coast to the other in Svalbard. I've dreamed of this since I was just a kid, and it absolutely lived up to my expectations! We got there just in time to catch the sunset for the final time until September, then hopped on snowmobiles before ski touring with pulks across the island. A week later, we wrapped up our adventure beneath a stunning glacier. The planning was top-notch, and everyone felt really well cared for. Even though it was a bit bleak and we had to keep an eye out for polar bears, we all felt super safe the whole time. The mix of thrill and safety was spot on. Big thanks to Rat Race; I’ll definitely be back for more!

This company is a real piece of work, showing zero concern for folks facing tough times. My husband got laid off, and we’re really struggling, both financially and emotionally. Does this company show any compassion? Nope. They'll probably just respond to this review by deflecting responsibility to the refund service, which was just as unhelpful. Seriously, think long and hard before you spend a dime here.

I just wrapped up my time at the Race To The Wreck in Namibia - what a wild and amazing journey! If you’re not a fan of scorching heat and sand, this might not be your cup of tea, but trust me, the payoff for dealing with those challenges is getting to explore one of the most remote and breathtaking spots on Earth! The organization was top-notch, from the moment I arrived to the briefings and the safety measures in place. The crew, both from the UK and local Namibians, were absolutely fantastic - the food, camps, medical assistance, pit stops, motivation, and snacks were all on point. This was my first Rat Race event and my first big adventure. It definitely won’t be the last! RTTW really pushed me beyond my comfort zone and challenged me like never before. But the encouragement from the team, fellow racers, and the ups and downs made it an unforgettable experience.

I participated in the Source to City event back in September 2022, and let me tell ya, it was amazing! The communication leading up to it was super clear, so I knew exactly where and when to meet for the pickup the day before we kicked off the adventure.

On the first day, we encountered a bit of a challenge with the weather up Mount Mercy. But they handled it in a really professional and safe manner, ensuring everyone was taken care of.

Each day included briefings, which made us all feel well-supported. The meals in the evenings were delicious, and the vibe among the participants and the crew was just fantastic.

All the gear I had reserved, like the kayak and bike, was there as promised.

It was a brilliant and tough challenge, and I’d definitely recommend it!

Just finished the Crossing, it was tough riding but the views were amazing and the company was fantastic. The crew was awesome, and the pit stops were lovely; they really went the extra mile for us gluten-free folks. From the moment we got there until we crossed the finish line at Scarborough, we were well taken care of. There was full mechanical support from a skilled mechanic who handled broken spokes and damaged hubs. Our bikes and bodies really took a beating on this one. I highly recommend Rat Race if you're after an adventure. I enjoyed it so much that I've already signed up for Patagonia and the Hebrides.

Iceland from one end to the other! WOW, what a challenging journey, but the stunning views all around make it totally worthwhile! Honestly, I’ve never seen a more beautiful path away from the crowds; it was amazing to experience Iceland in its true form while traveling through the heart of the country—so refreshing. This is an epic journey that everyone ought to put on their bucket list. The Rat Race team ran it expertly, and I can’t recommend them enough. I’m already looking forward to more adventures with them since I’m totally hooked after my first trip!

The event might look awesome for those who got to go. But for the rest of us down here (who’ve shared our thoughts and have been on Trustpilot for ages) who missed out and were denied any refund when we inquired…it’s just shameful.

I just wrapped up the Sea to Summit Spain challenge, and let me tell ya, it was an epic weekend! The trail was fantastic, an awesome trek to the top of Mulhacen. Everything went off without a hitch, and my buddy and I felt super well taken care of. I’m already looking at Greece for September! Totally recommend it for a one-of-a-kind adventure!