Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
The Lowdown
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is Africa's only AIMS and World Athletics Gold Label marathon, establishing itself as one of the premier road racing events on the continent since its inaugural run in 2014. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, this race has rapidly gained international recognition and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier. The event attracts elite athletes from around the world while celebrating the spirit of South African running culture, with participants experiencing the unique energy of the Mother City. The course takes runners on a spectacular journey through Cape Town's most iconic landscapes, starting in the city center and winding along the Atlantic Seaboard through Sea Point, Camps Bay, and Hout Bay. Runners are treated to stunning coastal views, the dramatic Twelve Apostles mountain range, and the vibrant neighborhoods that make Cape Town one of the world's most beautiful cities. The predominantly flat and fast course is designed for personal bests, with mild autumn weather in May providing ideal running conditions. Beyond the marathon distance, the event has grown into a weekend festival of running that unites communities and showcases Cape Town's world-class hospitality. The race atmosphere is electric, with enthusiastic local support lining the streets, live entertainment at water stations, and a finish line celebration that captures the warmth and diversity of South African culture. Whether chasing a qualifying time or simply experiencing one of the world's most scenic marathons, runners leave with unforgettable memories of racing in the shadow of Table Mountain.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
2025 Race Cancelled Due to Severe Winds, Sanlam Offers Free 2026 Entry
Oct 19, 2025The 2025 edition was cancelled 75 minutes before start due to dangerous winds. All 24,000 entrants receive sponsored entry to either 2026 or 2027 race.
Cape Town Marathon to Host 2026 Abbott WMM Age Group World Championships
May 8, 2025The race will host the 2026 AbbottWMM Age Group World Championships on May 24, 2026, as it pursues candidacy to become Africa's first World Marathon Major.
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Cape Town Stadium
Start/finish area in Green Point adjacent to the iconic stadium
Sea Point Promenade
Long Atlantic Seaboard stretch with ocean views and cheering crowds
V&A Waterfront
Historic harbor area where runners pass shops, restaurants and the marina
Table Mountain
Dominant Flat-topped landmark visible throughout much of the course
Bo-Kaap
Colorful, historic neighborhood with Cape Malay culture and distinctive houses
Green Point Urban Park
Coastal parkland near the start/finish offering greenery and spectator zones
Signal Hill / Lion's Head views
Scenic elevated vistas alongside the route showcasing Cape Town's skyline and coastline
Cape Town, South Africa
ZA
Based on nearby accommodations
- Participants must meet the minimum age requirements for each event by the race date.
- Photo ID
- Registration email
- Online registration
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances
Bib transfers to another registered runner permitted until 30 days before race start with a R200 administration fee
Deferral to the next official Cape Town Marathon (2027) allowed until 30 days before race start with payment of any difference in entry fees
Changes to race category (eg, from marathon to half marathon) permitted until 30 days before race with an administration fee
If the race is canceled by the organizers for reasons beyond their control (force majeure), entries will be deferred to the next edition or refunded at the organizers' discretion
Organizers reserve the right to amend the cancellation and transfer policy; confirmed entrants will be notified by email of any policy changes
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is a World Athletics Gold Label race and an official Boston Marathon qualifier, attracting elite international fields and fast qualifiers.
The course offers iconic views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Seaboard and the V&A Waterfront and finishes in the Green Point/Cape Town Stadium race village where finishers receive a custom medal and technical finisher shirt.
Race weekend includes an expo with official race gear, a pre-race pasta dinner option, a community fun run/kids race and a lively post-race festival with food and a beer garden.
Runners should be prepared for variable coastal winds and sun exposure, plan to use public transport or arrive early for limited parking, and expect well-spaced aid stations approximately every 2.5–3 km with water, sports drink and on-course medical support.
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.