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Cape Town Marathon 2026

Cape_Town_Marathon_Logo_on_white

For the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (Cape Town Marathon) or any of its other races, we offer you a trip at the heart of South African culture. Whether you prefer short or long distances, on road or trail in the middle of nature, there is something for everyone.
To make sure Cape Town and its region hold no more secrets for you, we have put together a superb tour in addition to your sporting event. Over the course of 13 days, you will discover its nature, culture, history, the city itself, and its beauty.

Still in the running to join the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2026, Cape Town is well on its way to becoming the 8th Major. In order not to penalize runners and the marathon organizers following the cancellation of the 2025 edition, if the race succeeds in joining the Majors in 2026, all participants of that same edition will be able to add a new star to their record.
It is therefore a fantastic opportunity to take part in it ahead of time.

The advantages of this stay:

No time difference between the mainland and Cape Town, a hotel close to the race starts, a welcome reception and another to celebrate after the race.

Marathon
  • Departure 6h10
  • Distance 42,195 km
  • Time limit 6h30
10K
  • Departure 7h00
  • Distance 10 km
  • Time limit 2h30
5K
  • Departure 8h00
  • Distance 5 km
  • Time limit 1h30
Trail 43K
  • Departure 6h00
  • Distance 43 km
  • Time limit 10h
Trail 22K
  • Departure 6h45
  • Distance 22 km
  • Time limit 5h
Trail 11K
  • Departure 7h45
  • Distance 11 km
  • Time limit 4h

Marathon Overview

Enjoy a unique stay in South Africa to discover the wonders of this city and run one of the superb races (Cape Town Marathon on Sunday or another on Saturday). The event organizers offer you a weekend entirely dedicated to sport. Everyone will find an event suited to their interests. This is why the organizers of the marathon and other races count nearly 20,000 road and trail runners.

We’ll kick off on Saturday with the 5km and 10km road races. The courses take place in the city center, starting and finishing in the Green Point neighborhood. These two races are designed to be open to as many people as possible, with particularly comfortable time limits.

On the same day, you also have the option to run one of the three trails: 11 km, 22 km, or 43 km. You will enjoy, effort aside 😉, every kilometer spent in the famous Table Mountain National Park, with panoramic views over the entire city and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a treat for runners who love wide open spaces and nature. Many species of flora and fauna observed along this trail cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. For the 43 km route, a total elevation gain of 1,895 m awaits you. Runners will depart from Cape Town Stadium above the city, passing through unique flora and fauna, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. For the 22 km route, the elevation gain is 830 m, and for the 11 km route, it is 390 m. Once your effort is complete, you will return to the Green Point area to cross the finish line.

Sunday will be dedicated to the marathon, with the course planned through the city center of Cape Town. It is the largest marathon on the African continent. You will enjoy the warm sporting hospitality of this country. The 42.2 km Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is a prestigious global city race, open to a wide range of running enthusiasts. Throughout the course, you will discover Cape Town’s famous natural mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, as well as numerous city attractions from the street art to the Madiba statue at City Hall, and the lively atmosphere of Woodstock. The different neighborhoods of the city will hold no secrets for you.

Logistically, you’ll need to pick up your race number directly at the marathon expo and the other races on Friday and Saturday. It’s located at the Cape Town Stadium. Refreshments will be provided along the course. Details will be announced later. You’ll receive a T-shirt and a finisher’s medal at the end of your athletic challenge.

We offer two packages: one with a simple stay in Cape Town, and another including a full tour so that this amazing country will hold no more secrets for you.
You’ll have the opportunity to discover the city of Cape Town, its peninsula with its unique wildlife and flora, learn about the country’s history and Nelson Mandela’s legacy, enjoy musical and culinary cultural experiences, and even meet iconic African animals during a safari.
In short, we’re offering you a trip you’ll never forget.
Discover our full program now!

 

Cape Town marathon map

Marathon course

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2026 rates

Our hotels

StayEasy Cape Town City Bowl hotel or equivalent

StayEasy Cape Town City Bowl hotel or equivalent

StayEasy Cape Town City Bowl is a modern and comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city center, close to Long Street and the V&A Waterfront. Its varied buffet breakfast is perfect for starting the day off right. The rooms are bright, well-equipped, and offer excellent comfort for the price. Its strategic location provides easy access to the main tourist attractions. Cape Town Stadium is just 2 km away: you can walk there in about 20 minutes or reach it in a few minutes by MyCiTi bus or taxi.

Nkambeni Safari Camp à Kruger or similar

Nkambeni Safari Camp à Kruger or similar

Nkambeni Safari Camp offers an authentic immersion in the heart of Kruger National Park, with comfortable tents seamlessly integrated into nature. You’ll enjoy direct access to safaris to observe wildlife from dawn onward.
The camp combines African charm, environmental respect, and unforgettable experiences — an ideal setting to experience the very essence of South African adventure.

Mount Sheba à Sabie or similar

Mount Sheba à Sabie or similar

Mount Sheba welcomes you into a warm atmosphere in the heart of Mpumalanga’s misty forests.
You will discover enchanting landscapes, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
Located near Sabie, the region’s waterfalls and scenic viewpoints are must-see attractions.
It is an ideal place to combine nature, charm, and exploration of the most beautiful sites of the Highveld.

Misty Hills à Johannesburg or similar

Misty Hills à Johannesburg or similar

Misty Hills is a lush haven on the outskirts of Johannesburg, blending African charm with modern comfort.
Its large outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by luxuriant gardens, offers the perfect place to relax after your trip or excursions.
An ideal spot to end your stay in South Africa in complete serenity.

Did you know?

Best times

Men -   2h08m15s
Abdisa Tola Adera (Ethiopian, 2024)
Female -   2h22m22s
Glenrose Xaba (Sud-Africaine, 2024)
Reserve your place
Reservations are not open for this event.
You can find the sales conditions for this trip here.