Course & Elevation

The Nairobi Marathon features a scenic loop course starting and finishing at Nyayo Stadium in the heart of Nairobi. The route takes runners through the city's diverse neighborhoods, passing through Ngong Road, Mombasa Road, and the lush Karura Forest area, with a moderate elevation profile reflecting Nairobi's high altitude location. The course showcases the city's urban landscape while incorporating green spaces and tree-lined sections.

Surface: road Profile: Rolling

Weather

Temperature 20°C

Humidity 65%

Rain Chance 35%

October in Nairobi brings warm, relatively dry conditions with cool mornings typical of the city's 1,600m+ elevation. Short rains are possible but generally light; runners should expect crisp morning temperatures warming to pleasant afternoons.

The Race

Nairobi

Race Lore

Born in the Running Boom

2000 Origin

The Nairobi Marathon was founded in 2000, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 26 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in Nairobi, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.

Running Through a Postcard

Course

The Nairobi Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Nairobi and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Africa.

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Registration

Registration Opens July

Registration Closes September

Entry Cost KES 3,500-5,500

Official Website →

Google Flights

Fun Facts

▸ Nairobi Marathon is one of Africa's oldest continuously running marathons, celebrating over two decades of racing tradition.
▸ The race starts and finishes at historic Nyayo Stadium, which hosted events during Kenya's independence celebrations.
▸ Runners experience racing at 1,600+ meters elevation, providing natural altitude training benefits for many participants.
▸ The marathon supports local community development projects, with portions of entry fees benefiting youth athletic programs in Nairobi.

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