- Sun 24 May 2026
06:00
Age 18 & over
£35
- 26.2 miles road running + 160 m ascent
Event overview
Set against breathtaking backdrops and a lively city atmosphere, this marathon welcomes runners of all levels - including charity fundraisers - to experience a truly world-class road race in Cape Town.
Highlights
- Take part in Africa’s only Abbott World Marathon Major candidate event
- Experience Cape Town’s stunning city, coastline, and mountain views
- Secure your place while supporting an important cause
Run for charity
Running the Cape Town Marathon for charity is an inspiring way to make your race even more meaningful. By fundraising for a cause, you’ll help create positive change in communities locally and beyond, while enjoying the electric atmosphere of one of the world’s great city marathons.
What are charity places?
Charity places are guaranteed marathon entries reserved for runners who commit to raising funds for an official charity partner. These special places give you access to the event even if general entries are sold out, and charities often provide extra support, training advice, and branded kit to help you reach your fundraising target.
Benefits of running for charity
Running for charity gives you added motivation, a sense of purpose, and the chance to make a real impact. You’ll join a supportive team, receive encouragement from both the charity and fellow runners, and cross the finish line knowing your efforts have made a difference. Many runners say it’s the most rewarding way to experience the Cape Town Marathon.
Prefer to enter directly? General entry options are explained on the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon page.
Event photos
Charity places
This charity has places in the event. To secure your charity place, simply find a charity then book a charity place or join a charity team with your own place.
What is 'Quick book'? Save time and secure your place immediately using our simple booking system - look for charities marked 'Quick book'.
Quick book
Homelessness
Missing People
Run for Missing People in Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors Candidate event! Experience the cultural highlights and the uniquely vibrant spirit of one of Africa’s most visited cities.
- Running vest
- Fundraising support
- Fundraising materials
- Training plan
- Training guide
- Dedicated contact
- Exclusive social group
- Accommodation package optional
- Instant confirmation of place
- Hassle-free process
- Ready-made fundraising page
Sign up
£100
Fundraise
£2,000
- Average fitness
- Event expo
- Event village
- Spectators
- Traders at event
- Venue accessible
Expo
The Expo is typically held in the days leading up to the marathon and serves as the official registration and race pack collection point for all participants. It also hosts a range of exhibitors, including running brands, health and wellness companies, sponsors, and local vendors, offering the latest gear, nutrition, and event information. The Expo provides a vibrant atmosphere to connect with other runners and immerse yourself in the marathon experience before race day.
Wheelchair race
The Cape Town Marathon includes a wheelchair race category. The event is committed to inclusivity and welcomes wheelchair athletes to participate in the marathon. Wheelchair athletes follow the same scenic route through Cape Town, with dedicated start times and support to ensure a safe and competitive experience.
- Cut off time
- Distance markers
- Entertainment
- First aid
- Flat
- Food stations
- Marshals
- Toilets
- Traffic free
- Water stations
- Wave start
- Way markers
- GPX available
GPX route
The route is displayed on the map above.
Overview
The route begins near the V&A Waterfront, winding through Cape Town’s iconic city centre, Green Point, and Sea Point, offering runners spectacular views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic coastline.
Racers pass landmarks like the Company’s Garden and vibrant neighbourhoods, enjoying a flat, fast course through urban parks and boulevards, finishing with energetic crowds and a memorable city atmosphere.
Map
Cut off
6.5 hours.
- Cafe
- Changing facilities
- Coast
- Entertainment
- Mountains
- Paid parking
- Park
- Secure bag storage
- Toilets
- Urban
Event HQ
CTICC (Cape Town International Convention Centre)
1 Lower Long St
Cape Town
8001
South Africa
Fundraising
- Fundraising materials
- Fundraising support
- Submit fundraising up to 1 month after event
- Chip timing
- Goody bag
- Technical t-shirt
Included
- Official running vest (singlet)
- Race number with integrated timing chip
- Safety pins
- Detailed race guide
- Goodie bag with sponsor samples/offers
- Access to hydration and nutrition stations
- Medical support along the route
- Course entertainment
- Secure bag storage
- Changing facilities
- Finisher’s medal
- Extras for charity runners