Rio de Janeiro Marathon
The Lowdown
Prices are in Brazilian Reals. Registration is still available via tour operators. Check out yours here: https://maratonadorio.blob.core.windows.net/media/upload/pagina/e6887d9ad41e4056871c85453a0a25e5.pdf The Rio de Janeiro Marathon (Maratona do Rio) traces its roots to the late 20th century and has grown into one of South America's premier road races, drawing elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world. Held annually in the southern austral winter, the race celebrates Rio's vibrant culture and scenic coastline while offering a competitive marathon distance. Over the years the event has become an important fixture on the international road-racing calendar, showcasing Brazil's capacity to host large-scale endurance events and contributing to the city's sports tourism. The course is a highlight in itself, winding past many of Rio's most iconic sights: runners traverse coastal boulevards with views of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, pass the historic neighborhoods of Flamengo and Botafogo, and enjoy stretches along the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon with the dramatic backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado. The route is relatively flat with a few rolling sections, offering fast opportunities for personal bests while remaining remarkably scenic. Race-day atmosphere is electric — samba bands, capoeira performances, and enthusiastic local supporters line the streets, creating a festive, warm, and welcoming experience for international visitors and local runners alike. The event is AIMS-certified and recognized as a World Athletics label race, and the course is certified for athletes seeking Boston Marathon qualifying times, making it attractive for both elite competitors and age-group runners aiming for qualification. Organizers provide on-course hydration, medical support, and logistics tailored for international participants, ensuring a well-supported race from the early 05:00 start through the finish.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Moderate spectator support
Rio Marathon 2025 Sets Participation Record with 60,000 Runners
Jun 23, 2025The 2025 Rio de Janeiro Marathon finished with record participation of 60,000 registered runners, marking the highest attendance in the event's history and providing significant economic boost to local businesses.
Registration Opens for 2026 Rio de Janeiro Marathon
Oct 6, 2025Pre-registration is now available for the 2026 Rio de Janeiro Marathon scheduled for June 2026, featuring marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K distances along Rio's iconic coastal route.
Copacabana Beach: Runners pass along this world-famous beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning shoreline.
Ipanema Beach: The route includes the scenic Ipanema Beach, offering participants views of its picturesque coastline.
Sugarloaf Mountain: Participants enjoy views of this distinctive peak, a symbol of Rio's natural beauty.
Flamengo Park (Aterro do Flamengo): The marathon concludes at this expansive urban park, providing a lush, green finish line area.
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
BR
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is current and will remain valid on the date of your entry into Brazil.
- Brazilian Visa: As of April 10, 2025, Brazil requires a visa for tourists from certain countries, including the United States. It's essential to verify the specific visa requirements based on your nationality well in advance of your trip.
- Race Registration Confirmation: After registering for the marathon, retain a copy of your confirmation email or receipt. This will be necessary for packet pickup prior to the race.
Entry Methods
- Online portal
- Tour operators
Cancellation & Refund Policy
For participants who have booked travel packages through tour operators, such as Marathon Tours & Travel, the following cancellation policy applies:
Deposits and Payments: A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Final payment deadlines are specified by the tour operator.
Cancellations: All payments, including deposits, are non-refundable and non-transferable. This means that if you cancel for any reason, you will forfeit the amount paid. Therefore, it's highly recommended to secure travel insurance that covers trip cancellations. All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
The course starts near São Conrado and finishes at Aterro do Flamengo, offering continuous oceanfront running past São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana with views of Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer from several elevated points.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and a technical race shirt, and the finish area includes post-race refreshments, fruit, massage tents and a beer garden for participants over 18.
The race weekend features a race expo with official bib pickup and vendors, a pre-race pasta dinner available for purchase, and a short kids' run on race day for families.
Aid stations are placed roughly every 2–3 kilometers offering water, isotonic drink and bananas, and medical support is available along the route; typical marathon cut-off time is approximately 6 hours.
Public transportation and organized participant buses are strongly recommended due to road closures and limited parking near the start and finish, and popular spectator locations include Copacabana and the Flamengo waterfront.
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.