Africa's Only World Major Candidate
Cape Town Marathon
The Cape Town Marathon is the country's flagship 42.2 km race, known for its fast route, stunning scenery, and growing international reputation. It is also one of the most accessible first marathons in South Africa.
Photo by Deklerk Basson on Unsplash
- Distance: 42.2 km marathon.
- When: Mid-October each year.
- Status: World Athletics Gold Label — South Africa's highest-rated marathon.
- Cutoff: 6 hours 30 minutes for the marathon.
- Route: A largely flat city route with views of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and the Atlantic coastline.
History
A race with growing ambition
The Cape Town Marathon has been held since 2014 and has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most prestigious marathons on the African continent. In 2023 it earned World Athletics Gold Label status and has been working toward becoming a candidate for the Abbott World Marathon Majors.
The race brings together elite international athletes and thousands of everyday runners on a shared route through one of the world's most scenic cities.
The Route
A fast, flat city course
The marathon starts and finishes near the Cape Town Stadium in Green Point. The route loops through the city bowl, along the Atlantic Seaboard, through Woodstock, and back along the waterfront.
Key features:
- Mostly flat with only gentle undulations — ideal for first-time marathoners chasing a PB.
- Scenic landmarks including Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and the Cape Town Stadium.
- Good crowd support through the city centre and along the fan mile.
The flat profile makes this one of the best first marathon options in South Africa. If you want a fair shot at a good time, this is your race.
Beginner Advice
Tips for first-timers
- Use this as your first marathon. The flat route and generous cutoff make it one of the most beginner-friendly marathon options in South Africa.
- Watch your pacing. The flat course tempts people to go out too fast. Stick to your plan.
- Prepare for October heat. Cape Town in mid-October can be warm — train in similar conditions if possible.
- Enjoy the city. Cape Town is a world-class destination. Make a weekend of it.
Your next step
Build toward your first marathon
A marathon starts with a solid running base. Start with the fundamentals and build up over time.