Insta360 is proud to return as an official partner of Darkfest for 2026, this time for a major milestone: 10 years of Darkfest and our second year supporting the world's wildest freeride MTB event at the iconic Hellsend Dirt Compound in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
What started as a DIY mission to build the biggest jumps on the planet has become freeride's ultimate proving ground. For the 10th anniversary, Darkfest is going bigger than ever with a heavier rider list, new features, and a course designed to push the limits of what is possible on two wheels. Insta360 will be there to capture every send.
Leveling Up the Partnership
This year, four Insta360 exclusive partners will be on course:
- Sam Reynolds – Darkfest founder, course visionary, and event host.
- Matt Jones – Known for ultra-creative riding and storytelling.
- Matt MacDuff – Freeride icon and long-time progression pusher.
- Bienvenido Aguado – One of the biggest senders in the game.
We began working more closely with Sam Reynolds and Matt MacDuff after last year's event, and 2026 marks the next step in that collaboration. Together with a stacked invited rider list, they will be leading the charge on massive jumps, new lines, and never-before-seen tricks, filmed from every angle.
New for 2026: Insta360 Creative Clip Prize
To celebrate a decade of Darkfest, Insta360 is introducing the Insta360 Creative Clip Prize.
This new award will reward riders who push the boundaries of how the event is filmed, experimenting with fresh mounts, unconventional angles, and new ways to bring fans onto the course. From unique helmet and bike mounts to creative transitions and single-run storytelling, we are encouraging riders to think as creatively about their footage as they do about their tricks.
GO Ultra in the MTB Spotlight
After seeing how many riders wanted a lightweight 4K camera with great video and audio, Insta360 is bringing a new way to unlock more angles: the compact GO Ultra at Darkfest 2026.
While cameras like Insta360 Ace Pro 2 and X5 will still deliver stunning 360 and wide-angle coverage, GO Ultra's ultra-light, ultra-compact form factor makes it ideal for freeride MTB:
- Minimal weight and drag for 100+ ft jumps.
- Easy to mount in tight or unconventional spots on the bike and body.
- Simple, set-and-forget operation so riders can focus on sending.
Throughout the week, riders and filmers will be testing new GO Ultra setups to unlock never-before-seen MTB POVs and lines.
A Decade of Sending It
For the 10th edition, Darkfest is rolling out new and refined features, including plans for the Rocket Falcon Heavy line, updates to the quarter pipe for even bigger amplitude, and the new "Loco Lounge" viewing platform at the step-up in honor of Adolf Silva.
From huge step-ups to legendary 110-foot gaps, this year's build is designed not only to challenge the world's best freeriders, but also to look unreal on camera.
Experience Darkfest 2026 from Every Angle
Fans can catch the action at Hellsend Dirt Compound, Vuurberg Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, with a public open day on March 21, 2026. Riders will be sessioning the course all week, chasing the perfect conditions to land the biggest tricks in Darkfest history.
As the second-year camera partner, @Insta360_bike is excited to help tell the story of Darkfest's 10-year legacy with:
- Immersive 360 content and POV onboards.
- Creative clips powered by GO Ultra, X5 and Insta360 Ace Pro 2.
- Behind-the-scenes footage, build diaries, and rider features.
The countdown to Darkfest 2026 has begun. Stay tuned to Insta360 and Darkfest channels for exclusive content, giveaways, and a front-row seat to a decade-defining year of freeride MTB.
Keen to keep up to date on Insta360 stories? Keep an eye on our blog and sign up for our mailing list. Got a story to share? Email yours to communitystories@insta360.com and win up to US$50.
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