The Early Years
2001Established in 2001, the Kilimanjaro Marathon is now 25 years old. From its first edition in Moshi, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Tanzania.
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Course & Elevation
The marathon starts in Moshi at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and runs through scenic farmland, local villages, and coffee plantations while ascending toward the slopes of Africa's highest peak. The course offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro throughout and passes through traditional Chagga communities, creating an immersive cultural experience alongside challenging elevation changes.
Surface: road Profile: Hilly
Weather
Temperature 22°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 35%
February is Tanzania's warmer and drier season, offering pleasant conditions with moderate temperatures and relatively low rainfall. Morning temperatures are cool at higher elevations, warming throughout the day.
The Race
Moshi
Race Lore
The Hills That Break You
With 850m of elevation gain, the Kilimanjaro Marathon is not a course for the faint-hearted. The climbs are where races are won and lost — where the gap between training and undertrained reveals itself without mercy. Locals say the course doesn't beat you; it just waits for you to beat yourself.
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Registration
Registration Opens September
Registration Closes January
Entry Cost TZS 150,000-250,000
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The race starts at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak at 5,895m, with views of the mountain visible throughout much of the course.
- ▸ Kilimanjaro Marathon was established in 2001 to support local schools and community development projects in the Moshi region.
- ▸ The race elevation gain of 850m rivals some dedicated hill marathons despite being held at relatively low absolute elevations.
- ▸ February's timing ensures runners experience the clear season when Kilimanjaro's snows are most visible from the marathon course.
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