Cape Town Marathon 2027

23.05.27

Marathon

4 Nights

Guaranteed Entry

Official event logo for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon featuring the symbolic peace flame fused with the iconic Table Mountain, a traditional African Mud Cloth pattern, and text in yellow and blue.

Experience South Africa at the Cape Town Marathon

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major! The Cape Town Marathon offers a stunning coastal marathon course, vibrant local culture, and world-class organisation in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Booking the 2027 Cape Town Marathon with Sports Tours International will secure you guaranteed entry, group shake out run, pre-race briefing, sightseeing tours and post-race celebration — combining an exceptional marathon experience with the breathtaking scenery of Cape Town.

The race officially became an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate event in 2024, undergoing it’s second formal assessment at the 2026 event. The race passed this assessment, and is now an official Abbott World Marathon Major.

Please note that we cannot sell entries to residents of South Africa.

2027 Cape Town Marathon Brochure

Would you like to know more? Register your details to receive a digital copy of our Cape Town Marathon brochure.

ENTRY & EXTRAS

Marathon Entry

£290

per person

CAPE TOWN MARATHON ROUTE

The 42.2km Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is a world-class city race welcoming everyone from elite athletes to social runners. The spectacular course showcases Cape Town’s iconic natural and cultural landmarks, with Table Mountain as a constant backdrop, sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, vibrant street art, the Madiba Statue at City Hall, and the lively neighbourhoods of Woodstock. With typically dry weather and a cool early morning temperature averaging 14°C, the flat, fast route offers ideal running conditions. The race is fully supported with numerous water and nutrition stations along the course – and the start area even features 12 coffee stations to fuel you before the race begins.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Getting to Cape Town:
International travellers arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT), approximately 20 km (12 miles) from the city centre. UK and EU residents require a valid passport, and depending on your stay, a visa may be necessary – always check the latest South African government travel guidelines before departure.
• Taxi & Ride-Hailing: Taxis are available at the official rank outside the arrivals hall, with trips to central Cape Town taking around 20–30 minutes and fares averaging ZAR 300–400 (£15–20). Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt offer convenient and reliable alternatives.
• Car Rental: Rental cars are available at the airport and are useful if you plan to explore areas outside the city, such as the Cape Winelands or Cape Point.

Getting around the city:
Private Transport: The safest and most efficient way to navigate Cape Town is by ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt), pre-arranged taxis, or hotel shuttles. These options provide security, reliability, and flexibility, especially during marathon weekend.
Public Transport: Cape Town has a public transport network, including minibus taxis and the MyCiTi Bus service. Minibus taxis can be unpredictable and are generally not recommended for tourists. The MyCiTi Bus is a safe, affordable, and efficient option connecting the city centre with the airport, suburbs, and key areas of interest

WHY BOOK WITH US?

With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Join us for a 5KM shakeout run, meet fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.

INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE:

An action shot of a Sanlam Cape Town Marathon runner racing along a city highway, smiling with both arms out, creating the peace sign gesture on both hands.
Guaranteed Marathon Entry
A hotel room, with a double bed, white bedding, picture wall art on grey walls and a window with views of green trees and fields.
Luxury Hotel Accommodation
A group of people gathered around a table filled with food and drinks at a hotel.
Meet & Greet Drinks 
Group of runners posing for a photo in New York City, after taking part in a 5km shake out run with Sports Tours International.
5KM Shakeout Run
A room full of runners facing three screens on the wall as Sports Tours International staff present a pre marathon race briefing.
Pre-Race Briefing
Cape Town Peninsula Tour
A group of runners, posing for for a photo at a Sports Tours International marathon after-party, with their marathon medals.
Exclusive After-Party
Sports Tours International staff at the Chicago Marathon, cheering on runners as they past them.
Cheer zone for Friends & Family
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon runners passing by the Cape Town City Hall, showcasing its impressive architecture.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • 4 nights’ accommodation at a 4 or 5* hotel in prime locations
  • Comprehensive support from Sports Tours reps in your hotel
  • Ticket included to the Official Opening Concert
  • Escorts to the marathon expo & race start

Itinerary

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL DAY & WELCOME DRINKS

Welcome to Cape Town! Upon arrival, make your way to your chosen hotel and settle in before the excitement begins. This evening, join your fellow runners and the Sports Tours International team for exclusive welcome drinks at a private venue on the iconic V&A Waterfront. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded runners, collect any final event information and soak up the incredible atmosphere ahead of race weekend.

DAY 2 – PRE-RACE BRIEFING, EXPO, & sightseeing tour

After breakfast, our coaches will transfer you from your hotel to the official race briefing, ensuring you’re fully prepared for race day. Following the briefing, enjoy a guided coach tour of the Cape Town Peninsula and its spectacular surroundings, with lunch included along the way. Later in the afternoon, you’ll be dropped off at the Marathon Expo to collect your race bib and explore the event village. In the evening, round off the day with complimentary entry to the official Welcome Concert at the DHL Stadium, where you’ll experience the vibrant culture and energy of Cape Town alongside fellow participants.

DAY 3 – 5KM shakeout

Start your morning with an easy shakeout run, giving you the chance to loosen your legs and enjoy the company of fellow runners before the big day. Throughout the morning, runners also have the opportunity to take part in the Official Peace Run and Trail Runs. Please note that entries for these events must be booked directly with the event organisers and are not available through Sports Tours International.

DAY 4 – RACE DAY & AFTER-PARTY!

The day you’ve been waiting for has arrived! Our experienced team will be on hand throughout the morning, providing an escorted walk to the start line and plenty of support before the race begins. During the marathon, friends and family can support you from our dedicated cheer zone, creating an unforgettable atmosphere along the course.

After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement at our exclusive after party at Time Out Market, with great food, entertainment and live music to round off an incredible race day.

DAY 5 – DEPARTURE DAY

After breakfast, it’s time to check out and begin your journey home. If you’ve booked our optional extension package, transfers will take you to the beautiful Spier Wine Estate, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing stay in one of South Africa’s most celebrated wine regions.

DAY 6 – EXTENSION: SPIER WINE ESTATE EXPERIENCE

Enjoy a full day at the stunning Spier Wine Estate, nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Discover the estate’s rich heritage as you take part in guided wine tastings and explore the surrounding vineyards. With spectacular scenery, award-winning wines and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate your marathon achievement.

DAY 7 – EXTENSION: DEPARTURE DAY

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Spier Wine Estate and begin your journey home. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience in South Africa, from race day in Cape Town to the breathtaking landscapes of the Cape Winelands.

Accommodation

Choose from a selection of perfectly selected accommodation options with 4 night stays in the beautiful city where the mountains meet the sea, Cape Town. Our hotel selection puts you right at the intersection of this natural beauty and race-day convenience.

We have secured rooms in some of the V&A Waterfront‘s most sought-after locations. Staying in the heart of this vibrant waterfront district, you’ll be just moments from world-class restaurants, shops, attractions and the marina, while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing base for your South African marathon adventure.

For special requests or questions, contact our team: 0161 703 8161 or sales@sportstoursinternational.co.uk

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Spier Wine Estate Extension Package

2 Nights Optional Add-On

24 – 26th May 2027

Prices From £599

LUXURY CAPE TOWN MARATHON ACCOMODATION & POST-RACE WINLANDS ESCAPE

Extend your South African marathon experience with a relaxing two-night escape to the renowned Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Designed as an optional post-race extension, this add-on offers the perfect opportunity to unwind, recover, and experience the beauty of the Cape Winelands after Cape Town Marathon weekend.
Nestled among vineyards, gardens, and mountain scenery, Spier Wine Estate combines luxury accommodation with authentic wine country experiences, all within easy reach of Cape Town.

Waiter serving wine for a wine tasting in Cape Town

EXTENSION INCLUSIONS

  • 2-nights’ accommodation at Spier Wine Estate
  • Daily complimentary breakfast
  • Complimentary in-room mini bar
  • Hosted wine tasting experience
  • Guided art experience across the estate
  • Morning vineyard and garden walk
  • Return road transfers from Cape Town Waterfront hotels
  • Access to estate walking trails, gardens, and farm experiences
  • Onward transfer to Cape Town International Airport

Please note: This extension package is not included in the main Cape Town Marathon travel package and must be booked separately.

Things to do in CAPE TOWN

WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS SAY

FAQs

Has the Cape Town Marathon joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors?

The Cape Town Marathon is now officially an Abbott World Marathon Major, becoming the first marathon in Africa to join the prestigious series.

The race’s final assessment was delayed after the 2025 event was cancelled due to severe weather. As a result, the evaluation moved to 2026, with participants receiving a provisional AbbottWMM star. Now that Cape Town has achieved Major status, 2026 finishers will earn an official Abbott World Marathon Majors star.

What date is the Cape Town Marathon 2027?

The Cape Town Marathon 2027 takes place on 23rd May 2027 in Cape Town, South Africa.

How can I register for the Cape Town Marathon?

The simplest way to secure your place is by booking one of our Sports Tours International Cape Town Marathon packages, which include guaranteed race entry. This removes the need to manage own arrangements or worry about availability. Your race bib and all registration details are included as part of the package, ensuring a smooth registration process.

What are the Cape Town Marathon qualifying times?

There are no qualifying times required when booking through Sports Tours International. Entry is guaranteed within our packages, so UK runners can focus on training and travel rather than navigating the ballot system.

What travel and accommodation options are available?

Our Cape Town Marathon packages include carefully selected hotels, designed for convenience and comfort.

What are the official organisations involved at the Cape Town Marathon?

The Cape Town Marathon 2027 is organised by the local race team in partnership with the City of Cape Town, and sanctioned by Athletics South Africa, the country’s official governing body for athletics. The event is supported by local sponsors and authorities to ensure a safe and well-managed marathon experience.

What is the expected weather during the Cape Town Marathon?

May in Cape Town is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 15–20°C. Runners can expect mostly dry conditions and a scenic route along the coast.

Where is the Cape Town Marathon start line?

The 2027 Cape Town Marathon starts on Fritz Sonnenberg Road in Green Point, near the Cape Town Stadium. Runners will gather in this dedicated start area before setting off on a scenic route that showcases the city’s stunning coastal and urban views.

Where is the Cape Town Marathon finish line?

The Cape Town Marathon route takes runners on a journey through some of Cape Town’s most iconic streets, and the finish line is located on Vlei Road in Green Point, adjacent to the Cape Town Stadium, creating a central and accessible race finish. This area is well set up for spectators and celebrations, with easy access from nearby accommodation and local attractions.

How much is the entry fee for the Cape Town Marathon 2027?

The registration fee varies depending on entry method. When booking through Sports Tours International, the entry fee is £290pp when purchased alongside our package.

What is the history of the Cape Town Marathon?

The Cape Town Marathon has quickly become one of South Africa’s premier road races. Runners pass iconic landmarks and enjoy world-class organisation.

The race officially became an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate event in 2024, undergoing it’s second formal assessment at the 2026 event. The race passed this assessment, and is now an official Abbott World Marathon Major.

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    Runners in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon with Table Mountain in the background, one runner carrying the South African flag under a clear blue sky.
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      Cape Town Marathon 2027 Digital Brochure

        Runners in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon with Table Mountain in the background, one runner carrying the South African flag under a clear blue sky.

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