Cape Town Marathon 2025

• Scenic Route: Highlights include the Atlantic coastline, Cape Town Stadium, and Table Mountain.
• IAAF Gold Label: Ensures top-tier organization and competitive standards.
• Fast Course: Flat and quick, ideal for personal bests and marathon qualification.
• Cultural Experience: Diverse local communities offer vibrant support.
• Key Logistics: Early start, well-supported course, and pre-race expo attendance required.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon stands out as Africa's premier marathon event, being the only World Athletics Gold Label marathon on the continent, and is on the verge of becoming Africa's first Abbott World Marathon Majors event. The course kicks off at the scenic Beach Road, offering runners breathtaking views of Cape Town's natural surroundings, including its majestic mountains and expansive sea vistas. Participants will navigate through Cape Town’s iconic landmarks, culminating at the vibrant Cape Town Stadium. This route not only supports fast finishes but also serves as an excellent choice for first-time marathon entrants.

A unique aspect of this marathon is its blend of natural splendor with cultural richness, providing a comprehensive experience that speaks to Cape Town's diverse heritage. The marathon weekend also features a variety of other runs, including 10km and 5km Peace Runs, as well as challenging trail run options of 46km, 22km, and 11km around Table Mountain, catering to runners of all skill levels.

Safety participation is paramount, with age eligibility set at 20 years and over for marathoners, coupled with stringent time limits; runners must adhere to specific cut-off times at various checkpoints throughout the course to ensure completion within 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Finishers are duly rewarded with an exclusive medal, an ASICS shirt, and a goodie bag—testaments to the event's high standards and organizational excellence, which attract both elite and amateur runners globally. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is in the final assessment stage for inclusion in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, with the 2025 event playing a key role in achieving this milestone.

The marathon's success is supported by partnerships with Sanlam, adidas, and the City of Cape Town, along with strategic backing from Infront, a leading sports marketing entity. With its exceptional attention to detail, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon offers a compelling challenge and a unique opportunity for runners around the world to immerse themselves in a marathon that excels both in athleticism and cultural celebration.

Expect temperatures between 54-72°F (12-22°C) during the Cape Town Marathon in mid-October. While mornings can bring moderate to strong winds, the month is typically dry, with occasional light rain showers. Prepare for mild temperatures and consider dressing in layers to accommodate changing conditions.

The Cape Town Marathon offers a captivating 42.2-kilometer (26.2-mile) journey through the heart of the city, weaving together stunning landscapes and rich history. Starting just outside the iconic DHL Stadium in Green Point, runners are treated to a flat, welcoming beginning. However, the course soon reveals its complexities with a mix of gentle and sharp climbs, particularly around the fifth and sixth kilometers.

As the route unfolds, participants traverse through the historic neighborhoods of Woodstock and Observatory, experiencing a blend of gentle descents and manageable climbs. The mid-course challenges continue with a steeper descent at the 11th kilometer and another climb in Claremont at the 14th kilometer. Later, runners face a formidable descent at the 23rd kilometer, leading to the highest point at the 33-kilometer mark. The final stretch features a nearly level path from Salt River, culminating in a U-turn at Sea Point with a slight descent toward the finish.

Throughout the race, breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean serve as a backdrop, while the route's passage through District Six offers a poignant reminder of the area's complex apartheid history. The vibrant atmosphere of Woodstock and Long Street, alongside the scenic loop in Sea Point, adds to the marathon's unique appeal.

The Cape Town Marathon is renowned for its varied terrain, challenging climbs, and the infamous "Loop of Death" in the final kilometers, where wind resistance tests even the most seasoned runners. This event is a memorable blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and athletic challenge, making it a must-experience for marathon enthusiasts.

Cape Town, perched at the southern tip of Africa, is a vibrant city that beckons runners and travelers alike. Beyond the Cape Town Marathon, this scenic destination offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. In the spring month of September, the city greets visitors with mild and pleasant weather, perfect for both running and exploring.

Start your journey by visiting the iconic Table Mountain, where a cable car ride reveals breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape of Good Hope, with its dramatic landscapes and wildlife, promises a memorable day trip. History buffs shouldn't miss Robben Island, where a guided tour delves into Nelson Mandela's imprisonment and South Africa's past. For a lively atmosphere, head to the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and harbor views, or relax among the African penguins at Boulders Beach.

Immerse yourself in Cape Town's rich culture with a visit to the District Six Museum and the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, renowned for its Cape Malay heritage. Explore local markets like the Neighbourgoods Market to savor regional cuisine and crafts. Don't forget to venture into the Cape Winelands for a day of wine tasting in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek.

Whether you're hiking Table Mountain, diving with sharks in Gansbaai, or simply soaking in the city's vibrant energy, Cape Town offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Enjoy your stay and all the remarkable experiences this city has to offer.