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Cape Town Marathon 2027: The Complete Runner's Guide To The Course And Race Weekend

The Cape Town Marathon has entered a new era after becoming the eighth event in the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Joining Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York, it is the first marathon in Africa to achieve Major status and has quickly become one of the most desirable races in world marathon running.

The Cape Town Marathon has entered a new era after becoming the eighth event in the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Joining Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York, it is the first marathon in Africa to achieve Majors status and has quickly become one of the most desirable races in world marathon running. For runners working towards the Abbott World Marathon Majors Eight Star Medal, Cape Town is now an essential destination. Even before achieving Majors status, however, it had built a reputation as one of the world's most spectacular marathons. With the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean never far away and one of the most beautiful cities on earth as its setting, this is a marathon that offers far more than simply another 26.2 miles. Why Run The Cape Town Marathon? Every Abbott World Marathon Major has its own unique character. Cape Town brings something completely different to the series by combining world class organisation with extraordinary natural scenery and an experience unlike anywhere else. The marathon allows runners to explore one of Africa's greatest cities while taking in spectacular mountain views, vibrant neighbourhoods and a stunning coastline. Many participants extend their visit by several days, combining the race with trips to the Cape Winelands, Robben Island, Cape Point or even a South African safari. Few marathons offer so much beyond race day itself. Since becoming a World Marathon Major, international demand has increased dramatically. The 2026 event attracted approximately 27,000 participants across marathon weekend, making it the largest edition in the race's history and confirming Cape Town's place among the world's leading marathons. Read more about the World Marathon Majors here. About Cape Town Cape Town is regularly ranked among the world's most beautiful cities, and it is easy to understand why. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the towering cliffs of Table Mountain, it combines breathtaking scenery with a fascinating history, outstanding restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere that immediately appeals to visitors. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become the city's social and entertainment hub, offering everything from luxury hotels and independent cafés to museums and waterfront restaurants. Just a short ferry ride away lies Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned, making it one of South Africa's most important historical sites. Nature is never far away in Cape Town. Visitors can take the famous cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, explore the dramatic coastline at Cape Point or spend a day discovering the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Many runners arrive several days before the marathon or remain afterwards simply to enjoy everything the region has to offer. The city is also remarkably compact. Many hotels used by marathon runners are located around Green Point, Sea Point and the Waterfront, allowing visitors to walk between many of the city's main attractions while enjoying spectacular views across Table Bay. The History Of The Cape Town Marathon The Cape Town Marathon was first held in 2007 and quickly established itself as Africa's premier marathon. From its earliest years, the organisers set themselves the ambitious objective of creating the continent's first Abbott World Marathon Major, recognising that Africa deserved representation alongside the world's most prestigious races. Achieving that goal required years of continual investment in race organisation, athlete services, sustainability and international participation. Every edition helped move the marathon closer to meeting the demanding standards expected of a World Marathon Major while maintaining the friendly atmosphere that had become one of its defining characteristics. That ambition was finally realised when Cape Town officially joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors. It marked a historic moment not only for the race itself but also for African athletics, giving runners from around the world another incredible destination on their journey towards the Abbott World Marathon Majors Eight Star Medal. Who Organises The Cape Town Marathon? The marathon is organised by the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon team in partnership with the City of Cape Town and Athletics South Africa. Years of careful planning and continual improvement have transformed the event into one of the world's best organised marathons while preserving its distinctive South African identity. One of the most significant improvements introduced following Major status has been the new dual start system, designed to improve the overall runner experience and reduce congestion during the opening miles. Combined with excellent volunteer support and detailed planning, it helps ensure race morning runs as smoothly as possible. When Is The Cape Town Marathon? The 2027 Cape Town Marathon will take place on Sunday 23 May 2027, with a full programme of running events taking place across marathon weekend. The move from October to May has provided runners with cooler autumn temperatures and generally calmer weather, creating more favourable conditions for marathon running. The timing also allows international visitors to experience Cape Town during one of the city's most pleasant seasons. Comfortable daytime temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing before and after the race, while the surrounding mountains and coastline remain as spectacular as ever. Race Distance The Cape Town Marathon covers the official marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometres), but the wider marathon festival also includes shorter races and trail events, allowing runners of all abilities to experience the excitement of marathon weekend. Is There An Expo? Every participant must collect their race pack from the official Marathon Expo, held at DHL Stadium in Green Point. Conveniently located close to both the start precinct and the finish area, the Expo has become one of the largest running exhibitions in Africa. Visitors can browse the latest running shoes, apparel, nutrition products and recovery equipment while purchasing official marathon merchandise and meeting runners from around the world. As the newest Abbott World Marathon Major, the Expo continues to expand each year and has quickly become an important part of the overall race weekend experience. The Cape Town Expo encourages runners to spend time exploring the displays and enjoying the atmosphere before race day. It provides the perfect opportunity to begin soaking up the excitement before heading to the start line. The DHL Stadium, where the Expo is held How Many Runners Take Part? The 2026 Cape Town Marathon attracted approximately 27,000 participants across marathon weekend, making it the largest event in the race's history. Despite its rapid expansion, the marathon has retained the welcoming atmosphere that made it so popular long before Major status arrived. Volunteers, spectators and local residents all contribute to an event that feels both professionally organised and genuinely friendly, giving first time visitors a memorable introduction to South African hospitality. The Course The Cape Town Marathon offers one of the most scenic routes in the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Rather than focusing purely on famous buildings or historic monuments, the course combines spectacular mountain scenery, sweeping ocean views and vibrant neighbourhoods to create a marathon experience unlike any other. The 2027 course has been designed to showcase the very best of Cape Town while also providing a fast and efficient route capable of meeting the high standards expected of a World Marathon Major. Although there are a few gentle undulations, it remains a relatively quick course and offers runners an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most beautiful cities. The route has changed many times over the last few years so check the details on the official race site. The Start Race morning begins around Green Point, where the marathon now operates from two nearby start areas to improve the flow of runners onto the course. This new system has significantly reduced congestion while allowing participants to settle into their pace much earlier than was possible in previous years. As the sun rises over Table Bay, runners gather beneath the silhouette of Table Mountain while music, commentary and the excitement of thousands of competitors create an unforgettable build up to the race. Green Point The opening miles take runners through Green Point, one of Cape Town's most modern and vibrant districts. Wide roads allow the field to spread out quickly, helping everyone find a comfortable rhythm while soaking up the incredible surroundings. Green Point is home to beautifully maintained parks, stylish apartment buildings and some of Cape Town's most popular restaurants and cafés. Supporters gather in large numbers along these opening miles, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere that carries runners comfortably through the early part of the race. One of the area's most recognisable landmarks is DHL Stadium. Originally built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the striking stadium has become an important part of Cape Town's skyline and serves as the venue for the marathon Expo. Sea Point Leaving Green Point, the course heads towards Sea Point, one of Cape Town's most popular coastal suburbs. This section immediately feels different from almost every other World Marathon Major as the Atlantic Ocean replaces city streets as the dominant feature of the landscape. The famous Sea Point Promenade stretches alongside the coastline and is one of the city's favourite places for walking, running and cycling. Although the marathon does not remain on the promenade itself, runners enjoy spectacular views across the ocean while feeling the fresh sea air that makes this one of the most enjoyable parts of the course. Crowds gather all along this section, with local residents creating a relaxed but enthusiastic atmosphere. Cafés and restaurants begin filling with spectators enjoying breakfast while cheering runners towards the next stage of their marathon journey. Table Mountain Few marathon courses anywhere in the world can match the backdrop provided by Table Mountain. Rising more than 1,000 metres above the city, its distinctive flat summit dominates the skyline throughout much of the race and serves as a constant reminder that you are running somewhere truly special. Recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, Table Mountain is far more than simply a scenic backdrop. It has become the symbol of Cape Town itself and is one of the most photographed natural landmarks on earth. No matter where you look during the marathon, the mountain provides spectacular views that make every mile feel unique. Many runners choose to return after race day by taking the cable car to the summit. The panoramic views across Cape Town, Robben Island, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains provide the perfect way to appreciate just how much of the city you have explored on foot. The City Centre As the marathon moves back towards the heart of Cape Town, runners experience a completely different side of the city. Modern office buildings stand alongside historic architecture, while tree lined streets and public squares provide welcome shade during the middle part of the race. This section highlights Cape Town's remarkable diversity. The route passes busy commercial districts before entering areas rich in history, allowing international visitors to experience the city beyond its famous waterfront and beaches. The crowds continue to build, creating an encouraging atmosphere that helps carry runners through the middle miles. Company's Garden One of the highlights of the city centre is Company's Garden, one of the oldest public gardens in South Africa. Originally established in the seventeenth century by the Dutch East India Company to supply fresh produce to passing ships, it has developed into a peaceful green space surrounded by many of Cape Town's most important public buildings. The gardens are home to beautiful mature trees, colourful flower beds and numerous historic monuments. Although runners only pass alongside the area, it provides a welcome contrast to the surrounding streets and reminds visitors just how much history exists within the city centre. District Six The route also passes close to District Six, one of Cape Town's most historically significant areas. Once a thriving multicultural community, District Six became one of the defining symbols of apartheid after more than 60,000 residents were forcibly removed from their homes during the twentieth century. Today the area stands as an important reminder of South Africa's past while representing hope, resilience and renewal. Running through this part of Cape Town gives the marathon a depth and meaning that extends well beyond sport, allowing international visitors to connect with an important chapter of the country's history. Bo-Kaap The colourful neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town's most recognisable districts. Famous for its brightly painted houses, cobbled streets and rich Cape Malay heritage, it has become one of the city's most photographed locations. Although the marathon does not weave through every street of Bo-Kaap, the surrounding area gives runners a glimpse into one of Cape Town's most distinctive communities. The vibrant colours, unique architecture and enthusiastic local support make this another memorable section of the course and provide some fantastic opportunities for spectators. Castle Of Good Hope The course also passes close to the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Built during the seventeenth century, the fortress has played an important role throughout the country's history and remains one of Cape Town's best preserved historic landmarks. Its impressive stone walls provide a striking contrast to the modern city skyline surrounding it. For international runners, it offers another reminder that Cape Town combines centuries of history with the energy of a modern global city. The Final Miles As the closing miles approach, runners begin making their way back towards Green Point. By this stage the atmosphere has reached another level, with spectators lining the streets to encourage every participant towards the finish line. Table Mountain once again dominates the skyline, providing one final reminder of the incredible setting in which the marathon takes place. After more than 26 miles of running through one of the world's most beautiful cities, the sight of the finish becomes an emotional moment for many participants. Crossing the line is particularly special for runners collecting another star on their journey towards the Abbott World Marathon Majors Eight Star Medal. Even for those who are not chasing all eight Majors, completing Africa's first World Marathon Major is an achievement that will remain a career highlight for years to come. The Bo-Kaap neighbourhood Is The Cape Town Marathon A Fast Course? Although Cape Town is not quite as flat as Berlin or Chicago, it is still regarded as a relatively quick marathon. The route contains a handful of gentle climbs and rolling sections, but there are no long or punishing hills that significantly disrupt your rhythm. The organisers have worked hard to develop a course that balances speed with scenery. Wide roads, excellent race organisation and generally favourable autumn weather create conditions where experienced runners can target personal bests, while first time marathon runners can enjoy a comfortable introduction to one of the world's newest Marathon Majors. Many participants arrive hoping to run quickly but soon find themselves distracted by the spectacular surroundings. With Table Mountain towering overhead and the Atlantic Ocean appearing throughout the course, it is one of those rare races where taking a few extra seconds to appreciate the scenery rarely feels like a mistake. Supporting A Runner Cape Town is an excellent city for spectators and offers numerous opportunities to cheer runners throughout the race. The compact nature of the city centre means friends and family can often move between several viewing points without travelling long distances, making it possible to see runners multiple times before the finish. Green Point, Sea Point and the city centre all provide excellent locations to watch the race unfold. Cafés, restaurants and public spaces along the route make race day enjoyable for supporters, while the spectacular scenery means even those not following the marathon closely will have plenty to enjoy. After the race, the finish area has been designed to make reunions straightforward. Many runners and supporters then make their way to the nearby Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, where dozens of restaurants and bars provide the perfect place to celebrate completing one of the world's greatest marathons. Charity Fundraising The Cape Town Marathon has always had strong links with community projects and charitable organisations, and those opportunities continue to grow following its inclusion in the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Many runners choose to raise money for South African charities working in healthcare, education, conservation, wildlife protection and community development. Running for charity not only provides extra motivation during training but also allows participants to leave a lasting legacy through their marathon achievement. As international participation continues to increase, the charity programme is expected to expand further. This will create even more opportunities for overseas runners to support worthwhile causes while experiencing Africa's first Abbott World Marathon Major. How To Register Demand for the Cape Town Marathon has increased dramatically since the race achieved Abbott World Marathon Major status. Places are expected to become increasingly competitive, so runners should enter as early as possible once entries open. International runners who are unable to secure a place through the general entry process may also wish to consider travelling with an official international tour operator. These packages often include guaranteed race entry, accommodation and additional support throughout marathon weekend, making them an attractive option for runners travelling long distances. Booking accommodation early is equally important. Hotels around Green Point, Sea Point and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront are particularly popular because of their convenient access to the start, finish and marathon Expo. Our Verdict The Cape Town Marathon has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting additions to the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Becoming Africa's first Major is a historic achievement, but the race deserves its place for far more than geography alone. Outstanding organisation, spectacular scenery and a welcoming atmosphere combine to create a marathon experience unlike any other. From the moment you stand beneath Table Mountain at the start to the moment you cross the finish line, every mile reminds you that you are running somewhere truly special. Race website https://capetownmarathon.com/

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