Nairobi City Marathon 2025

• Expressway route: All races run through the expressway, offering a unique experience and finisher's medal.
• Experienced pacers: Available for the 42km race to help achieve target finish times.
• Air quality monitoring: Sensors track air quality for athletes' safety.
• Bib and gear logistics: Collect bibs at Nyayo National Stadium; luggage storage and changing rooms available.
• Certified courses and prizes: World Athletics-certified courses with substantial prizes for top finishers.

The Nairobi City Marathon is a significant running event in Kenya, known for its unique course that takes runners through the magnificent Nairobi Expressway. The marathon course is set along the Nairobi Expressway, offering runners a unique and scenic experience. The expressway provides a flat and fast route, ideal for both professional athletes and amateur runners. The marathon allows participants to experience the beauty of Nairobi, often referred to as the 'Green City in the Sun.' The event combines the thrill of running with the opportunity to explore Kenya's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. The marathon offers various distances to cater to different levels of runners, including a full marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km Expressway Run, and a 6 km Fun Run. This variety makes the event inclusive and appealing to a wide range of participants. The marathon awards prize money to top performers in the 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and corporate challenge races, for both men’s and women’s categories. Running in Nairobi offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Participants can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and explore nearby attractions such as the Nairobi National Park and the Nairobi National Museum. The marathon website provides tips and advice for runners, including training plans, nutrition guidelines, and recovery strategies. This support helps participants prepare effectively for the event and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. Registration details and fees are available on the official website. It is essential to check the website for the most current information and to secure a spot in the race.

The Nairobi City Marathon unfolds primarily along the Nairobi Expressway, presenting runners with a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. Starting and finishing at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium, this course offers a mostly flat terrain with gentle inclines that are unlikely to hinder performance. The expressway's wide, well-paved route is perfect for both elite athletes and enthusiastic amateurs.

Runners will traverse key city roads like Uhuru Highway, Waiyaki Way, and Langata Road, experiencing the vibrant heart of Nairobi. Certified by World Athletics and AIMS, the course guarantees that race times are globally comparable, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event.

Participants can look forward to eight strategically placed supply stations, ensuring they stay hydrated and energized throughout. While the course itself is designed for speed, the warm climate and occasional wind may pose challenges. With a six-hour time limit, the marathon offers both a test of endurance and an opportunity for personal triumph.

Exploring Nairobi alongside participating in the Nairobi City Marathon offers travelers a captivating mix of adventure and cultural discovery. Beyond the race, delve into the heart of Kenya’s vibrant capital.

Nairobi National Park presents a rare opportunity to experience a safari within city limits, while the Nairobi National Museum provides an insightful look into the country's rich heritage. For a taste of colonial history, the Karen Blixen Museum is a must-visit. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Centre. Don't miss the panoramic city views from the KICC Rooftop or the vibrant Maasai markets for local crafts.

Culturally, Nairobi thrives with festivals like the Nairobi International Film Festival and Koroga Festival, which celebrate the nation’s diversity. Art lovers should explore the contemporary exhibitions at Alliance Française and GoDown Arts Centre. As night falls, Westlands and Lang'ata offer lively nightlife scenes perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

In Nairobi, every corner presents an opportunity for discovery, making it an ideal destination for both marathoners and cultural explorers alike.