Cape Town Marathon – Where Coastal Beauty Meets City Energy
Among the best marathons in Africa, the Cape Town Marathon stands out as a race that perfectly blends world-class organization with breathtaking scenery. Held every September, this 42.2 km event is Africa’s only marathon certified as a World Athletics Gold Label Race, putting it in the same league as London, Berlin, and New York.
The course begins near the iconic V&A Waterfront, winding past the city’s vibrant streets, Table Mountain, and the sparkling Atlantic coastline. The atmosphere is electric, thousands of supporters line the route, cheering runners as they experience both modern urban life and natural coastal beauty.
For many athletes, this race represents the perfect introduction to running on African soil. Temperatures hover around 15–20°C, ideal for achieving personal bests. The route is fast, mostly flat, and features wide roads that make pacing easier. It’s also one of the most environmentally conscious marathons, proudly promoting sustainable running through its “Run Green” initiative.
Why you’ll love it:
- Panoramic ocean and mountain views throughout the course
- Excellent crowd support and race logistics
- Certified by World Athletics as a Gold Label event
- Great post-race experiences: beaches, vineyards, and Cape Town’s culinary scene
If you’re planning your first international race, this is a safe bet. The Cape Town Marathon offers a mix of scenic excitement and runner-friendly design that makes it both approachable for beginners and challenging enough for elites. It’s a celebration of endurance, community, and the sheer joy of running in one of Africa’s most beautiful cities.
To make the most of this fast and flat course, check out our guide on how to nail your marathon run pace and learn how to maintain steady speed all the way to the finish line.
Preparing for a race in a new country can feel exciting and a little overwhelming. Our Running Coaching program gives you ongoing support so you can train confidently for any course, from the rolling hills of Rwanda to the flat roads of Cape Town.
With a tailored plan, regular feedback, and smart pacing adjustments, you’ll stay on track no matter where you’re running. Your coach keeps you focused through each training phase and helps you adapt as race day gets closer.
Get the structure and guidance you need to turn your next marathon goal into a rewarding, well-prepared experience.
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Marrakech Marathon – Flat, Fast, and Full of Color
The Marrakech Marathon is a standout event among the Top marathons in Africa. It offers a perfect mix of North African charm, a flat and fast course, and one of the most scenic backdrops on the continent. Taking place each January, it welcomes runners from all over the world to experience Morocco’s warm hospitality and mild winter climate.
The race begins near the historic city center, where palm-lined boulevards lead runners past ancient walls, lush gardens, and glimpses of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The route’s smooth asphalt and gentle profile make it ideal for setting a personal best. Cooler morning temperatures, typically around 10–18°C, help maintain a steady rhythm throughout the 42.2 km distance.
This event is known for its vibrant energy. Crowds gather along the route, clapping and playing local drums as runners move through neighborhoods rich with culture and history. The marathon’s organization is top-tier, with clear signage, frequent aid stations, and wide roads that prevent congestion even in larger fields.
Why you’ll love it:
- Flat, scenic course ideal for first-time international runners
- Mild January temperatures perfect for pacing and endurance
- Beautiful views of palm trees and distant Atlas Mountains
- Easy travel logistics and close proximity to major attractions
Runners often describe the finish line atmosphere as unforgettable. As you cross under the Moroccan sun, surrounded by cheers and traditional music, the sense of accomplishment feels amplified by the city’s magic. For athletes seeking a balance between cultural discovery and racing performance, the Marrakech Marathon delivers a truly world-class experience.
Kilimanjaro Marathon – Run in the Shadow of Africa’s Roof
Few races capture the spirit of adventure like the Kilimanjaro Marathon. Held in Moshi, Tanzania, this event ranks among the best marathons in Africa for runners who crave both challenge and scenery. Every step takes you closer to the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, which looms in the background like a silent guardian.
The marathon usually takes place in late February, offering mild temperatures in the early hours and warm sunshine by midmorning. The 42.2 km course starts and finishes at Moshi Stadium, winding through rural villages, banana plantations, and open roads with striking mountain views. Local spectators line the streets, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and electric.
This race is unique because it combines cultural immersion with natural beauty. You’ll hear school choirs singing, see villagers cheering from their porches, and feel the rhythm of Tanzania as you climb and descend gentle slopes. The elevation gain is moderate, but the heat near the end adds an extra layer of challenge. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits.
Why you’ll love it:
- Run beneath the world-famous Mount Kilimanjaro
- Experience authentic Tanzanian culture along the route
- Moderate elevation gain, suitable for most trained runners
- Organized half marathon and fun run options for beginners
The Kilimanjaro Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a journey that tests both endurance and spirit. You’ll finish surrounded by music, food, and celebratio. Rreminders that running here is as much about community as competition. If you’re looking for a marathon that connects you deeply with Africa’s landscape and people, this one stands tall.
If you’d like to build the strength to tackle those hills confidently, check out our guide to hill workouts for marathon training and improve your muscle power and endurance.
Lewa Safari Marathon – Where Wildlife Meets Endurance
The Lewa Safari Marathon is one of the most unique and unforgettable events among the best marathons in Africa. Hosted inside Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this marathon offers something no city race can: the chance to run alongside zebras, giraffes, and gazelles while surrounded by unspoiled savannah. It’s equal parts endurance test and safari adventure.
The event is typically held in late June, timed perfectly to avoid extreme heat. The 42.2 km course winds through dirt trails and grassy plains within the protected conservancy. While the terrain is rugged and hilly, every view rewards the effort. You’ll spot wildlife grazing nearby, safely monitored by rangers and helicopters to ensure runner safety.
This marathon isn’t just about athletic performance; it’s also about conservation. Proceeds from the event directly support wildlife protection, local education, and community development across northern Kenya. Many runners choose it not only for the adventure but also to contribute to a greater cause.
Why you’ll love it:
- Run through a UNESCO World Heritage-level wildlife conservancy
- Chance to see elephants, rhinos, and zebras up close
- Funds raised support conservation and local schools
- Unparalleled scenery and atmosphere unlike any city marathon
While the Lewa Safari Marathon can be demanding due to its uneven terrain and altitude, the sense of accomplishment is extraordinary. The combination of nature, purpose, and community transforms this race into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For runners seeking both adventure and meaning, Lewa stands as one of Africa’s most inspiring marathons.
If you’re also curious about scenic races beyond Africa, check out our guide to the best marathons in Norway and discover how running feels under the midnight sun.
Thinking about taking on one of Africa’s incredible marathons? Preparation is everything. Our Marathon Running Training Plan helps you build endurance, develop pacing skills, and stay strong from the first kilometre to the finish line.
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Two Oceans Marathon – The World’s Most Beautiful Race
The Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town is often described as “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon,” and it fully deserves its place among our list of marathons in Africa. Set between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, this race delivers sweeping coastal views, rolling hills, and a lively South African crowd that fuels your motivation from start to finish.
Held every Easter weekend, the event features two main distances: a 56 km ultramarathon and a 21.1 km half marathon. While the ultra is the star attraction, the half marathon offers an equally breathtaking experience for runners of all levels. Both routes highlight Cape Town’s natural beauty, stretching past Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, and Constantia Nek, where mountain and ocean merge in perfect harmony.
Weather conditions are typically mild, averaging 12–18°C, making it ideal for endurance running. The rolling elevation profile challenges your strength without overwhelming you, and the race’s organization is world-class, with over 14,000 participants and seamless logistics each year.
Why you’ll love it:
- Scenic coastal route with ocean and mountain views
- Option to run the 56 km ultra or 21.1 km half marathon
- Impeccable organization and community support
- Ideal race for combining endurance with sightseeing
More than just a race, the Two Oceans Marathon is a celebration of South African running culture. Its energy, inclusivity, and postcard-perfect scenery make it an event you’ll want to experience at least once in your lifetime. For runners who crave both challenge and beauty, it remains a true African classic.
Great Ethiopian Run – The Heartbeat of African Running
The Great Ethiopian Run may technically be a 10 km event, but its influence on running in Africa earns it a place alongside the best marathons in Africa. Held annually in Addis Ababa, this race captures the true spirit of the continent’s running culture. It’s a celebration of community, passion, and national pride that attracts more than 40,000 participants every year.
Founded in 2001 by Olympic legend Haile Gebrselassie, the event has become a symbol of Ethiopian endurance. The high-altitude setting of Addis Ababa (at roughly 2,400 meters above sea level) makes the experience both physically challenging and uniquely rewarding. The streets overflow with color as runners wear bright green and yellow shirts, while traditional music fills the air.
Unlike other races that focus on scenery or luxury, this one is about connection. Every step reminds you why Ethiopia is known as the cradle of distance running. The energy is unmatched, with locals singing, dancing, and encouraging every runner as if they were family. For many international runners, it’s less about setting a record and more about soaking up the electric atmosphere of Africa’s running capital.
Why you’ll love it:
- Run alongside thousands of passionate Ethiopian runners
- High-altitude course that boosts endurance and fitness
- Cultural immersion with music, dance, and local hospitality
- Founded by Olympic legend Haile Gebrselassie
Even though it’s shorter than a marathon, the Great Ethiopian Run embodies the essence of African running. It’s a must-do event for anyone who wants to understand why this region produces some of the fastest and most inspiring athletes in the world.
Victoria Falls Marathon – Where Nature Roars Beside You
The Victoria Falls Marathon is a must-run event for anyone exploring the African marathons. Set in Zimbabwe, this race offers one of the most breathtaking natural backdrops in the world. the mighty Victoria Falls, known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders.” Every stride brings the sound of rushing water and the sight of mist rising from the gorge.
The marathon typically takes place in early July, during the cool, dry season. Starting in the town of Victoria Falls, the course crosses the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge into Zambia before looping back through local villages and game areas. Runners often spot wildlife such as baboons and impalas along the route, creating an atmosphere unlike any other road race on the planet.
The event offers three distances: a full marathon (42.2 km), half marathon (21.1 km), and a 7.5 km fun run. The moderate elevation and smooth tarmac roads make it accessible for runners of all levels. With average race-day temperatures between 12–22°C, it’s one of the most comfortable climates for distance running in Africa.
Why you’ll love it:
- Run across the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia
- Unforgettable views of the Victoria Falls and Zambezi River
- Excellent organization with enthusiastic local support
- Ideal weather and flat terrain perfect for first-time marathoners
Post-race, many participants celebrate with a safari in nearby national parks or a sunset cruise on the Zambezi. The Victoria Falls Marathon isn’t just a race, it’s a full adventure experience that blends sport, nature, and travel into one unforgettable journey.
Training for an African marathon means facing unique challenges, from heat and elevation to long stretches of open road. Our professional Running Training Plans are built to help you handle every aspect of race preparation, so you arrive confident, strong, and ready to enjoy the experience.
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Kigali Peace Marathon – Running for Unity and Hope
The Kigali Peace Marathon is one of the most meaningful events among the marathons in Africa. Held annually in Rwanda’s capital, this marathon symbolizes peace, progress, and the strength of the human spirit. Established in 2005, it promotes unity and reconciliation while offering runners a scenic, hilly route through one of Africa’s cleanest and most welcoming cities.
The event usually takes place in June, during Rwanda’s dry season, when temperatures range from 15–25°C. The 42.2 km course begins at Amahoro Stadium and winds through Kigali’s tree-lined streets, past government landmarks, bustling markets, and residential neighborhoods. Runners experience constant elevation changes and the city’s nickname, “Land of a Thousand Hills,” becomes clear with every step.
Although challenging, the course rewards you with panoramic views of Kigali’s skyline and surrounding hills. Crowds gather along the roads, waving flags and cheering in true Rwandan spirit. The atmosphere feels more like a celebration than a competition, reflecting the nation’s remarkable journey toward unity after its difficult past.
Why you’ll love it:
- Symbolic event promoting peace and national unity
- Scenic, hilly course through one of Africa’s cleanest cities
- Warm community support and festive race-day atmosphere
- Well-organized event featuring full, half, and relay categories
The Kigali Peace Marathon isn’t just about endurance, it’s about connection. You run for more than yourself; you run as part of a story that celebrates resilience and togetherness. For runners seeking purpose beyond the finish line, this marathon offers an unforgettable blend of challenge, culture, and meaning.
If you want to train smart for hilly terrain and build strength for climbs like these, check out our guide to hill workouts for marathon training to help you conquer the elevation with confidence.
Marathon du Médoc of Africa – The Swakopmund Marathon Experience
The Swakopmund Marathon in Namibia is one of the most striking events among the African marathon calendar. Few races in the world can match its surreal setting, running between the towering dunes of the Namib Desert on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. It’s a course that challenges your legs while soothing your senses with vast horizons and cool coastal winds.
Held every February, the marathon starts and finishes in the seaside town of Swakopmund, known for its German colonial charm and relaxed beach-town vibe. The route is mostly flat and follows paved coastal roads, making it ideal for those seeking a personal best or simply a beautiful, less-crowded marathon experience. The morning fog rolling in from the ocean adds a cinematic touch to the early miles, and by mid-morning, the desert sun begins to break through, lighting up the sand dunes in gold.
While the scenery is unforgettable, the conditions can shift quickly. Cool sea air can turn into dry desert heat in minutes, testing your hydration strategy. Fortunately, the organizers ensure excellent support, with frequent water stations and clear signage throughout the course. The event also offers half marathon and 10 km options, welcoming runners of all levels.
Why you’ll love it:
- Unmatched contrast of desert and ocean landscapes
- Flat, fast course perfect for personal records
- Cool morning temperatures averaging 15–22°C
- Small, friendly event with excellent local organization
The Swakopmund Marathon might not have the crowds of larger city races, but that’s part of its charm. It’s peaceful, scenic, and deeply rewarding. A race where the vast African coast becomes both your challenge and your inspiration.
Compare the Best Marathons in Africa
Choosing among the list of marathons in Africa can feel overwhelming, each offers its own mix of scenery, culture, and challenge. To help you plan your next running adventure, here’s a detailed overview of some of the continent’s top events. Use this table to compare course type, weather, and atmosphere so you can find the marathon that suits your goals and personality.
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| Marathon Name | Location | Date / Season | Course Type | Ideal For | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Town Marathon | Cape Town, South Africa | September (Spring) | Flat, city and coastal roads | Beginners and PR-focused runners | 15°C – 20°C |
| Marrakech Marathon | Marrakech, Morocco | January (Winter) | Flat, city route | Runners seeking cultural and scenic races | 10°C – 18°C |
| Kilimanjaro Marathon | Moshi, Tanzania | February (Late Summer) | Rolling road course with mild climbs | Intermediate runners and adventure seekers | 14°C – 24°C |
| Lewa Safari Marathon | Lewa Conservancy, Kenya | June (Dry Season) | Off-road trail through wildlife reserve | Trail enthusiasts and charity-driven runners | 12°C – 25°C |
| Two Oceans Marathon | Cape Town, South Africa | April (Autumn) | Hilly coastal road | Experienced runners seeking iconic views | 12°C – 18°C |
| Great Ethiopian Run | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | November (Late Spring) | Short city route (10K, high altitude) | Cultural runners and high-altitude trainers | 12°C – 20°C |
| Victoria Falls Marathon | Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe | July (Cool Dry Season) | Flat road course near Zambezi River | Wildlife and travel-loving runners | 12°C – 22°C |
| Kigali Peace Marathon | Kigali, Rwanda | June (Dry Season) | Hilly city roads | Runners seeking purpose and scenic routes | 15°C – 25°C |
| Swakopmund Marathon | Swakopmund, Namibia | February (Late Summer) | Flat coastal route between desert and ocean | Fast runners and scenic explorers | 15°C – 22°C |
Before choosing where to race, it’s worth understanding the full financial picture — from entry fees to travel and accommodation. Our detailed guide on how much a marathon really costs can help you plan your budget wisely before committing to your next big adventure.
This overview shows how diverse Africa’s marathon scene truly is. From fast city courses and mountain challenges to runs through wildlife reserves and coastal deserts. Whatever your running goals, there’s a race on this continent that can inspire your next great finish.
Conclusion – Find Your Perfect African Marathon
From the golden dunes of Namibia to the green hills of Rwanda, the best marathons in Africa offer something for every type of runner. Each event delivers its own mix of challenge, beauty, and cultural discovery. Whether you’re chasing a personal best on a flat city course or craving an off-road adventure through the savannah, there’s a race that matches your pace and passion.
For beginners, city marathons like Cape Town or Marrakech provide smooth organization and scenic urban landscapes. Those looking for a deeper connection with nature will love the Kilimanjaro and Lewa Safari Marathons, while cultural enthusiasts can experience Africa’s heartbeat in the Great Ethiopian Run or Kigali Peace Marathon. And if you dream of something truly iconic, the Victoria Falls Marathon delivers a finish line you’ll never forget.
Whichever you choose, running in Africa isn’t just about distance, it’s about discovery. Every step tells a story of resilience, beauty, and community. Lace up your shoes, pick your destination, and start planning your next unforgettable marathon adventure.
If you’re inspired to explore more destinations, take a look at our guide to the best marathons in Australia and see how races down under compare to Africa’s most scenic runs.
