Durban City Marathon 2025

• Comrades Qualifier: Approved for Comrades Marathon seeding with a 42.2 km course.
• Fast, Flat Route: Beachfront course with no major hills; starts and ends at Kings Park Athletics Stadium.
• Ample Recovery: Nine weeks to recover before the Comrades Marathon.
• Entry Details: Online and hand-delivered entries available; late entries accepted with cash at number collection.
• Race Logistics: Cut-off at 2 hours 45 minutes halfway; water every 3 km; prize giving post-drug test clearance.

The Durban City Marathon offers a vibrant race experience in Durban, well-known for its beautiful coastal sceneries and lively atmosphere. Starting and finishing at the iconic Kings Park Athletics Stadium, this marathon invites runners to participate in 42.2km, 21.1km, and 10km races, providing an inclusive environment for both seasoned marathoners and beginners. Esteemed for its adherence to ASA and KZNA rules, the event is recognized for its professional management, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. The early start times, 05:30 for the marathon and half-marathon, allow runners to take advantage of the cooler morning weather, complemented by the city's breathtaking sunrise views. Whether you're sprinting towards a personal best or soaking in the energetic support from spectators, the Durban City Marathon promises an unforgettable running journey through one of South Africa's most scenic urban landscapes.

For the Durban City Marathon in late March, expect daytime temperatures between 79-82°F (26-28°C) and high humidity. With the possibility of moderate rainfall, runners should be ready for warm, sunny conditions interspersed with showers. Light, breathable clothing and a rain jacket are recommended.

The Durban City Marathon offers a vibrant and scenic running experience with its fast, flat course—perfect for those chasing a Comrades Marathon qualifying time.

Course Highlights:

• Start and Initial Stretch: Runners launch their journey on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, right across from the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium. The route takes you through a series of turns and straightaways, leading past the Kingfisher Canoe Club and beneath the M4 highway to the picturesque River Estuary path.

• Promenade and Landmarks: The course then unfolds along the lively promenade, passing by local favorites like Bike and Bean, Suncoast, and the Durban Surf Lifesaving Club. The route continues past the marine marvels of uShaka Marine World, infusing the run with coastal energy and urban charm.

• Loop and Return: After a loop through notable roads such as Signal and Mahatma Gandhi, runners navigate back toward the bustling areas around uShaka. The path weaves through Lamp Road and Camperdown, offering glimpses of the vibrant city life.

• Finish Line: For the 21km course, the finish is a left turn into the stadium, while the 42km runners circle back along Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, revisiting the scenic promenade before concluding their marathon journey.

Memorable Features:

• Terrain: With minimal elevation changes, the course is designed for speed, catering to both competitive and leisure runners.
• Scenery: The run presents a striking blend of ocean views and urban landmarks, ensuring a visually rewarding experience.
• Atmosphere: The vibrant city backdrop and coastal breeze create an invigorating atmosphere, making the marathon not just a race, but a memorable adventure.

The Durban City Marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of speed and scenery, where runners can enjoy the best of Durban’s coastal and urban landscapes.

Visiting Durban for the Durban City Marathon offers a vibrant mix of athletic excitement and cultural exploration. Beyond the race, the city invites you to stroll along the Golden Mile, a four-mile beachfront promenade ideal for walking, jogging, or simply soaking up the sun. For a splash of adventure, uShaka Marine World combines marine life exhibits with thrilling water rides, perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

Immerse yourself in Durban's rich cultural tapestry at the Victoria Street Market, where you can savor Indian-inspired cuisine and shop for unique crafts. For a deeper cultural dive, explore the bustling Warwick Triangle, known for its African and Indian marketplaces. The city’s architectural heritage shines at the historic Durban City Hall, a must-visit for history buffs.

Durban's culinary scene is a delight, with local specialties like bunny chow—a curry-filled bread bowl—offering a taste of the city’s Indian influence. As the sun sets, Durban's nightlife comes alive with live jazz at The Chairman and craft beers at Robsons Real Beer. Whether you're bodyboarding at North Beach or exploring Morningside's vibrant bars and clubs, Durban promises an enriching experience. With its superb weather and welcoming atmosphere, this coastal city is a fantastic post-marathon destination.