The Safaricom Marathon allows participants from all over the globe to compete in an internationally acclaimed event whilst running through one of Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife conservancies. Although regarded as one of the toughest marathons in the world, runners of all abilities take part — from walkers and amateurs to professionals like Paul Tergat, the Kenyan former world record holder. As a result, the event has grown to become one of the country’s major sporting events and is regarded by Runner’s World as one of the world’s top ten “must do” marathons.

There are three race categories; The Full Marathon, Half Marathon and Children’s 5km Race. The course is set on dirt roads that take the runners on a 13 mile route through the conservancy — across savannah plains, along river banks and through acacia woodland. Half Marathon runners complete one loop of the course, Full Marathon runners, two. The average elevation of the course is 5,500 feet (1,700 m) above sea level. Located within one hundred miles of the equator, the sun can bring afternoon temperature as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees celcius) all year round. The elevation, when combined with the equatorial sun have proven to test even the most seasoned marathon runners.

The race is run on a game reserve and animals will be seen during the race. When running stay on the designated course and only use the official toilets if required. The course will be patrolled at all times and there will be armed rangers located around the course. A helicopter and Supercub light aircraft monitor the movements of the large species during the race. The entry fee for the Full and Half Marathon is $250. Your place will only be reserved once full entry fee payment has been received. In addition, there is a minimum fundraising requirement of $1,500 per person due before race day.