WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is one of Africa’s most spectacular and prestigious running events, combining world-class racing with some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet. Set against the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town’s vibrant city streets, every kilometre is an unforgettable experience.
Its elevation to the 8th Abbott World Marathon Major in 2026 has firmly established the event among the world’s most celebrated marathons, making it a must-run for marathon enthusiasts everywhere.
The excitement extends far beyond the finish line. Each year, thousands of runners and spectators create a great atmosphere of celebration, camaraderie and South African hospitality, making this an event unlike any other.
Travelling Fit is thrilled to be an Official International Tour Operator for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, and we’d love you to join us for this incredible adventure!
Choose from our 4-day/3-night or 6-day/5-night marathon packages, both designed to make your marathon weekend as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Your package includes a memorable pre-race pasta dinner at the luxurious InterContinental Table Bay Hotel, along with a lively post-race celebration on the famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
Our 6-day package also includes a half-day Cape Town sightseeing tour, featuring a visit to the summit of majestic Table Mountain, exploration of the city’s spectacular surrounds, and a stop at the official Marathon Expo. You will also get the opportunity to add an optional tour to Cape Point Tour which takes in one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, including a visit to the iconic Cape of Good Hope and a visit to the famous colony of African penguins.
Looking to extend your South African adventure? Add our optional post-race Winelands Tour and discover some of the country’s world-renowned vineyards and stunning countryside.
Join us for an unforgettable marathon experience in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations!
- 3 Night Packages Include
- Guaranteed Race Entry (Runners Only)
- 3 Nights Accommodation at the Intercontinental Table Bay:
Check in: Fri 21 May 2027
Check out: Mon 24 May 2027 - Breakfast Daily
- Transfers to the Saturday Peace Runs and Trail events (Saturday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients. - Pre-Marathon Dinner (Saturday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients. - Transfer to the race start (Sunday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit runners. - Supporters can join the Travelling Fit team to cheer on the runners (Sunday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit supporters. - Post Race Celebration including food and drinks (Sunday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients. - Travelling Fit experts available daily in Cape Town to answer any questions
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients - Personalised Travelling Fit Running Top
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients - Invite to Travelling Fit’s Cape Town Closed Facebook Group
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients - Tourism Levy and VAT
- 5 Night Packages Also Include
- 5 Nights Accommodation at the Intercontinental Table Bay:
Check in: Wed 19 May 2027
Check out: Mon 24 May 2027 - Group warm up run (Thu)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients. - Half day tour to Table Mountain and surroundings with a stop at the Marathon Expo (Thursday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients. - Optional Full Day Cape Point Tour including lunch at a local restaurant (Friday)
exclusive to Travelling Fit clients.
PACKAGE PRICES
The Course
The race begins on Fritz Sonnenberg Road adjacent to Green Point Stadium, setting runners off towards Granger Bay. The course winds through central Cape Town, heading out towards Newlands via Nelson Mandela Boulevard. Runners will pass through the neighbourhoods of Woodstock, Salt River, and Mowbray.
Key landmarks along the route include Rondebosch Common, the Castle of Good Hope, and Cape Town City Hall. These sites add a historical and cultural layer to the race experience.
As runners approach the middle of the race, they pass through the Company Gardens—a historical park in the city—and then along Long Street, which is known for its bustling atmosphere.
The route takes runners along the Sea Point promenade, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. This segment is both a highlight for its beauty and a challenge due to its proximity to the race’s conclusion.
The marathon finishes back near the starting area on Vlei Road, Green Point. This location is close to the coast, providing a picturesque end to the race.
Testimonials
Race Information
Entry Fees
The entry fee for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is incorporated into the price of the package.
Qualifying Times
There are no qualifying times for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
Note that all participants must be 18 years or older at the time of the race
Start Time
42.2km Marathon — Batches A-N from 6:17am onwards.
Cut-Off Times
There is a 6:30 cut-off for the Marathon.
There are also cut-off points along the course:
Distance | Time of Day | Time from Your Start |
7km | 8:15AM | 1:58: |
11km | 8:55AM | 2:38 |
14km | 9:25AM | 3:08 |
20km | 10:20AM | 4:03 |
30/5km | 11:55AM | 5:38 |
32.6km | 12:15PM | 5:58 |
36km | 12:50PM | 6:33 |
38.7km | 1:15:PM | 6:58 |
41.4km | 1:35:PM | 7:18 |
Race Timing
The 42.2km Marathon is timed using two systems:
- Gun to mat for prize money and position
- Mat to mat for qualifiers for other races (net time)
Race Packets
TBC
Pace Setters
Details to be advised closer to the time.
Aid Stations
There are 13 Hydration stations on the 42.2km route, approximately 3km apart.
13 will have a combination of water, Coke, Coke No Sugar and Powerade, and 2 of which will serve water.
Personal Refreshments and Clothing
Hydration packs are permitted.
Please note, earphones/headphones are NOT permitted to be used during the race.
TRANSPORT
Our exclusive hotel is approximately 1.5km from the start and we will be providing transport to the start line.
Expo
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo will be held at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
Opening Hours (TBC)
| Thursday 20 May | 09:00 – 19:00 |
| Friday 21 May | 09:00 – 19:00 |
| Saturday 22 May | 09:00 – 15:00 |
Finishers T-Shirts, Medals and Certificates
All finishers will receive a medal.
Weather Conditions
The average temperature ranges from 15 to 20 °C (59 to 68 °F).
Other Events
- 46km Cape Town Trail Marathon
- 22km Cape Town Trail Run
- 11km Cape Town Trail Run
- 10km Peace Run
- 5km Peace Run
