Cape Town’s Global Spotlight: The Cape Town Marathon
In 2027, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will become the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major, and the first ever held on African soil. This iconic race joins Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Sydney on the world’s most prestigious racing calendar. For runners who love pairing a landmark race with a proper vacation, this is a big deal, and an excellent excuse to put Cape Town on your travel (and training) calendar for May 2027.
TLDR
- The Cape Town Marathon becomes the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major in 2027. Taking place on May 23, it will be the first Major ever held in Africa.
- The race is a rewarding challenge for recreational and dedicated runners alike, with a scenic, sea-level course and enthusiastic crowd support.
- Cape Town rewards runners with a world-class city built around fine dining, wine country, and outdoor adventure, ideal for combining a race with a proper vacation.
- Journey Beyond Travel can build your marathon trip around race weekend, with the right accommodation, pre- and post-race experiences, and time to properly explore the Cape.
Why is the Cape Town Marathon becoming a World Marathon Major such a big deal?
The Abbott World Marathon Majors represent the most prestigious marathons on the planet. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s confirmation as the eighth Major, alongside Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Sydney, marks the first time the series has come to African soil. The historic first edition as a Major takes place on May 23, 2027, and it is expected to draw runners from around the world eager to add an eighth star, or simply to experience marathon running somewhere entirely new.
What makes running the Cape Town Marathon such an appealing experience?
This is not a race aimed only at elite athletes. The Cape Town Marathon suits runners who take their sport seriously, as well as anyone who wants to combine a meaningful athletic goal with a beautiful setting. The course largely runs at sea level, avoiding the altitude challenges of inland destinations like Johannesburg, and takes in some of the city’s most scenic areas, from the Atlantic seaboard to views of Table Mountain, with cheering crowds known for their warmth and enthusiasm along the entire route.
How easy is it to get to Cape Town for race weekend?
Cape Town is well served by direct and connecting flights from Europe, the United States, and beyond, and its modern international airport is just a short drive from the city centre and many excellent accommodation options. For international travellers, this accessibility, combined with an often-favourable exchange rate for many visitors, makes Cape Town one of the more straightforward Major marathon destinations to reach compared.
What should you do in Cape Town beyond race day?
The days before and after the marathon are the perfect opportunity to properly experience the Mother City. A visit to Table Mountain, wine tasting in nearby Constantia or Stellenbosch, and a scenic drive along the Chapman’s Peak coastal road all make excellent additions to a race trip, along with Cape Town’s exceptional restaurant scene, which ranges from casual seafood spots at the V&A Waterfront to some of the best fine dining in the Southern Hemisphere.
Cape Town’s coastal paths and roads also offer ideal routes for warm-up runs as you count down to race day. The city has a thriving running scene, so lacing up and heading out can be a great way to meet local people. Check Strava or other running apps for suggested routes and segments that will help with your final preparations and introduce you to different parts of the city.
Once you’ve crossed the finish line and received the coveted marathon medal, you’ll certainly have earned the safari or Garden Route portion of your itinerary.
How does Journey Beyond Travel help plan a marathon trip to Cape Town?
Combining a landmark race with a luxury vacation takes careful planning, from securing the right accommodation over a busy race weekend to building in enough recovery time before heading out to explore. The Journey Beyond team can take care of every detail, from your Cape Town stay through to onward travel, so you can focus on the race itself and everything that South Africa has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Cape Town Marathon become an Abbott World Marathon Major?
The Cape Town Marathon officially joins the Abbott World Marathon Majors from 2027, with its first edition as a Major taking place on May 23, 2027.
Is the Cape Town Marathon suitable for recreational runners?
Absolutely! While it now sits among the world’s most prestigious races, the course and atmosphere suit runners of a wide range of abilities, not only elite athletes.
What else can I do in Cape Town around race weekend?
Cape Town offers wine country day trips, Table Mountain, scenic coastal drives, and an excellent restaurant and café scene, all easily combined with your race weekend.
Can I combine the Cape Town Marathon with a safari?
If 42km isn’t enough distance, you can extend your trip with a luxury safari or Garden Route stay, and Journey Beyond Travel can build these experiences into your itinerary.
How far in advance should I plan a trip around the 2027 Cape Town Marathon?
Given the race’s new Major status, accommodation and flights are likely to book up well in advance, so early planning is strongly recommended. We’re also anticipating even higher than usual demand for race entries, so be ready to apply the moment that online entries open.
Ready to run Cape Town’s biggest race yet?
Planning to run the Cape Town Marathon in 2027? Contact Journey Beyond Travel today, and let’s build a South African trip around your race weekend that you’ll remember for all the right reasons, even if you don’t record a marathon PB.