Maratón Internacional Guadalajara
The Lowdown
The Maratón Internacional Guadalajara is one of Mexico’s longest-running city marathons, drawing competitive and recreational runners since its establishment in the late 20th century. Held in the vibrant capital of Jalisco, the race has grown into a major national event showcasing Guadalajara’s cultural heritage and athletic tradition. Over the years it has attracted elite regional talent as well as international participants, and it serves as an important autumn target for runners seeking a flat, fast course in a temperate climate. The course runs through Guadalajara’s most scenic and historic avenues, combining wide boulevards, leafy parks and cultural landmarks. Runners pass landmarks such as the Hospicio Cabañas area, the historic Centro, and tree-lined Paseo Alcalde and Avenida Vallarta sections, offering a mix of urban architecture, public art and green stretches. The route is predominantly flat with gentle undulations, making it conducive to personal bests and qualifying efforts. Aid stations, medical support and crowd zones are well-distributed, and the relatively mild late-November weather typically provides comfortable conditions for distance running. Race day atmosphere is festive and community-oriented, with local music, bands and cheer zones that reflect Guadalajara’s lively cultural spirit. The event accommodates all levels with pacing groups, strong volunteer support and bilingual signage and information for international visitors. The course is AIMS-certified and World Athletics-certified, and the marathon has historically been recognized as a Boston Qualifier, making it attractive to athletes seeking qualifying times for major international marathons.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Hospicio Cabañas
Historic UNESCO World Heritage complex with murals by José Clemente Orozco that the course passes by
Catedral de Guadalajara
Iconic twin-towered cathedral located in the city’s historic center
Teatro Degollado
19th-century neoclassical theater known for its ornate facade and cultural significance
Plaza de Armas
Central square in the downtown area where runners cross near government buildings and palm-lined promenades
Mercado Libertad (San Juan de Dios)
One of Latin America’s largest indoor markets, a bustling local landmark along the route
Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres
Monument and plaza honoring notable people from Jalisco, often passed by on central course sections
Avenida Vallarta
Major urban boulevard lined with shops and trees, providing a long, straight section of the marathon route
Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
MX
Based on nearby accommodations
- Minimum age 18 years on race day for the full marathon
- Open to all nationalities (passport or national ID may be required at bib pickup)
- Completed online registration and full payment by the stated deadline
- Present valid photo ID and race confirmation at bib pickup
- Medical certificate or physician's clearance recommended; participants must complete and sign the health/waiver declaration (organizers may require a medical certificate dated within 12 months)
- No number transfers; bibs are non-transferable and must be worn visibly on the front during the race
- Comply with all race rules, marshal directions and anti-doping regulations
- No unauthorized wheeled devices; wheelchair or handcycle entrants must register in the designated category and meet category-specific requirements
- Finish within the official time limit (cut-off 6 hours) to receive an official time and certificate
- By registering, participants authorize the use of event photos and videos for promotional purposes
- Photo ID
- Online registration
- In store (more information to come)
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
Full refund (minus processing fee) if request submitted more than 60 days before race day
50% refund if requested between 60 and 30 days before race day
No refund within 30 days of race day
Bib transfer to another registered runner allowed until 30 days before race with an administration fee
Deferral to the 2027 edition allowed until 15 days before race for a deferral fee
Medical deferral with official doctor’s note accepted up to race day; credit toward next year issued (no cash refund)
Stay put for more information as official race entries haven't been announced or released
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.
