Insider Guide: The Cape Town Marathon Route

Welcome to your insider guide to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon course, Africa’s most scenic marathon in South Africa.

Each year, runners from across the globe gather in Cape Town, South Africa’s vibrant Mother City, to experience a marathon that combines coastal views, mountain backdrops, and rich culture.

For those chasing new running adventures, this event delivers it all, an expertly organised race, a stunning route, and the chance to explore one of the most breathtaking cities on the continent.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Cape Town Marathon route, course, elevation, and key landmarks, plus how to secure guaranteed entry with Sports Tours International.

Cape Town is Now an Abbott World Marathon Major

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is now an Abbott World Marathon Major, making it the first marathon in Africa to join the prestigious series alongside races in London, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, New York, Tokyo and Sydney.

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.

The Cape Town Marathon will be one of the most sought-after marathon experiences in the world, with demand for entries expected to rise significantly. Its stunning coastal route, growing international reputation and world-class organisation have already made it one of the leading destination marathons for runners looking to experience an iconic race in South Africa.

The Cape Town Marathon Course

The Cape Town Marathon course is a looped route with partial out-and-back sections, starting and finishing near Green Point Stadium, just steps from the famous V&A Waterfront.

From the starting line on Fritz Sonnenberg Road, runners are treated to epic harbour views before weaving through some of Cape Town’s most diverse districts (Woodstock, Salt River, Mowbray, and Rondebosch) each offering its own character and energy.

The route then winds through the historic city centre, passing landmarks like District Six, Company Gardens, Long Street, Cape Town City Hall, and the Castle of Good Hope, before opening up to a refreshing coastal finish along the Sea Point Promenade.

The finish back at Green Point is electric, the Atlantic Ocean glinting beside you, Table Mountain towering in the distance, and crowds roaring as you complete your Cape Town Marathon journey.

If you look at the Cape Town Marathon route map, you’ll see exactly why runners call this one of the most beautiful marathons in South Africa.

Cape Town Marathon Elevation & Difficulty 

One of the main reasons the Cape Town Marathon appeals to runners of all abilities is its balanced elevation profile, offering just the right mix of challenge and flow.

With a total climb of around 380 metres, this isn’t a mountain marathon, but it isn’t pancake flat either. The highest point on the course reaches approximately 53 metres above sea level, ensuring plenty of variety without being overly punishing.

Here’s what to expect:

• Flat, fast start through Green Point and the Waterfront
• Gentle climbs through Woodstock and the suburbs
• Rolling middle section with manageable gradients
• Flat coastal finish along the Sea Point Promenade (where wind can be a factor)

Smart pacing pays off here. Keep energy in reserve for the out-and-back segment in the middle and the final Atlantic stretch, where both the view and the breeze take your breath away.

Key Landmarks Along the Way

What makes this marathon so special is how it captures Cape Town’s essence, its landscapes, landmarks, and life. Here are some highlights you’ll pass:

• V&A Waterfront & Granger Bay (early kilometres) – Iconic harbour views and pre-dawn excitement.
• Woodstock & Salt River (5–10 km) – Local street art, culture, and urban energy.
• District Six & Castle of Good Hope – Stories of resilience and the city’s oldest colonial landmark.
• Company Gardens & Long Street – Heritage, greenery, and Cape Town’s lively city rhythm.
• Rondebosch Common & Newlands – Lush, leafy suburbs with mountain views.
• Sea Point Promenade (final 5–8 km) – Sweeping ocean views and an unforgettable finish.
• Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill & Devil’s Peak – The natural icons framing your every stride.

Race Day Conditions: What to Expect

 Going forward, this globally loved race will take place in May, marking a major shift from its traditional October date. Alongside the new date comes a revamped route that showcases even more of the natural beauty, culture, and spirit that make Cape Town such an unforgettable marathon destination.

Weather:

May in Cape Town means cooler temperatures and crisp autumn air, perfect marathon running conditions. The shift in timing also brings runners a chance to experience the Mother City in a new light, with stunning autumn colours and mild weather.

Spectator Energy:

The central route makes this a spectator-friendly marathon, with incredible support from start to finish. Expect loud cheers, music, and energy through Green Point, the city centre, and Sea Point.

Logistics:

Sports Tours international’s hotels are conveniently located close to the start and finish areas, making your race weekend smooth and stress-free.

Route Updates:

Minor course adjustments can happen each year, so always review the official Cape Town Marathon route map before race weekend.

The Experience: How It Feels to Run Cape Town

From the first steps through Green Point, the Cape Town Marathon feels alive. You’ll run past harbours and city streets, through historic districts and leafy suburbs, with the ever-present backdrop of Table Mountain.

As you approach the final kilometres along the Atlantic Seaboard, the sun sparkles off the water and the atmosphere builds. Fatigue fades when the finish arch comes into sight, surrounded by music, spectators, and the sound of the ocean.

It’s a moment you’ll never forget, the perfect combination of effort, scenery, and emotion that defines all truly great marathons.

Run the Cape Town Marathon with Sports Tours International

Ready to take on one of the most inspiring marathons in South Africa? With Sports Tours International, you can secure guaranteed entry to the Cape Town Marathon, along with top-quality accommodation, local race support, optional race excursions and more!

Our packages include:
• Guaranteed race entry – no need to enter the ballot
• Accommodation near the start/finish area
• Pre-race briefing, shake-out runs, celebratory drinks
• Dedicated Sports Tours International team support throughout your stay
• Sightseeing tours and more! 

 Join us in the Mother City and run one of the most scenic marathons on the planet, a bucket-list experience in Cape Town that you’ll never forget: Cape Town Marathon