Uganda Marathon 2025

• Community Impact: Supports local projects and fundraising in Masaka, Uganda.
• Tourism and Culture: Offers a week-long adventure, blending running with cultural experiences.
• Scenic Challenge: Features a beautiful, rolling terrain for a unique marathon route.
• Race Options: Includes marathon, half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km distances.
• Central Location: Starts and finishes at Liberation Square in Masaka.

The Uganda Marathon is a unique and challenging race offering participants an unforgettable week-long adventure in Uganda, centered around the race itself. Held in Masaka, the marathon features a 42.195 km course that stretches over 1 or 2 laps of a 13.1-mile route, characterized by hills, rough terrain, and the warm African sun, marking it as one of the toughest yet most rewarding challenges for avid runners.

Participants won't just race; they will immerse in daily activities such as campfire evenings, entertainment, music, drumming, and dance. This provides incredible opportunities to explore Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes and directly contribute to community development projects in education, health, and more.

The entry package is comprehensive, including accommodation, meals, race entry, support amenities, and airport transfers. Notably, the event's profits help subsidize young local runners' participation.

Participants enjoy a range of race distances and various accommodation options, from simple to luxurious, depending on their preference. Beyond the race itself, community support is palpable with local cheerers, and the event ends with a grand celebration, combining physical challenge, cultural immersion, and impactful community engagement, making it a distinct life experience.

Expect temperatures between 64-77°F (18-25°C) with high humidity for the Uganda Marathon in Masaka during late May. As it coincides with the end of the rainy season, anticipate wet and muddy trails. Prepare for overcast skies and possible rain throughout your run.

The Uganda International Marathon is an exhilarating journey through the captivating landscapes of Uganda. This challenging course weaves through picturesque hills and rolling terrain, offering runners a dynamic mix of ascents and descents. Starting and finishing on Katwe Road in Masaka, the route takes participants past rural farms, charming villages, and lively towns, all set against some of Africa's most breathtaking scenery. Along the way, enthusiastic local crowds, including cheerful children, provide spirited support, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the event.

Beyond the race itself, this marathon is a unique blend of athletic endeavor and cultural immersion. Participants can engage in educational tours, local cooking classes, and language lessons in Kampala, making it more than just a race—it's a deep dive into Ugandan culture. The event also embraces a strong charitable ethos, with funds raised supporting sustainable projects that align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, benefiting the local community.

While the hilly terrain and Uganda's high altitude present formidable challenges, the experience is profoundly rewarding, leaving runners with unforgettable memories of both the course and the connections made along the way.

Visiting Masaka for the Uganda Marathon offers a delightful mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Beyond the race, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes. Consider staying in Masaka town or near Lake Nabugabo, where options like Hotel Brovad and B&B Villa Katwe offer comfort with a touch of local charm. The area is easily accessible from Kampala, and planning your journey in advance ensures a smooth trip.

Lake Nabugabo is a must-visit, offering swimming, canoeing, and bird watching just 20 km from Masaka. For a taste of local life, explore the agro-tourism opportunities, learning about banana farming and cattle grazing techniques. Experience the rhythm of Masaka through traditional Ganda dances and storytelling, or browse local markets for handmade crafts and unique souvenirs.

Savor the local cuisine at eateries like The Elgin, where you can enjoy dishes such as matoke and posho. Take a moment to relax at cafes like Plot 99 and Café Frikadellen, perfect for meeting locals and fellow travelers. Engage with the community by participating in charity activities or exploring the scenic green hills around Masaka for a refreshing nature walk. This combination of athletic challenge and cultural immersion makes a visit to Masaka truly rewarding.