Zanzibar Marathon

Course & Elevation

The Yas Zanzibar International Marathon is a road-running event on Zanzibar Island whose longest race is a 21 km half marathon, despite the name. It was first launched in 2021 under the auspices of President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, and the telecoms company Yas Tanzania was title sponsor of the 2026 edition for the fifth consecutive year. The programme has three races: the 21 km half marathon, a 10 km race and a 5 km run for beginners and families. Organisers have said they have begun discussions about adding a 42 km marathon, but none was on the 2026 programme. In 2025 the start and finish were at the new Maisara sports complex, with the half marathon running out to Kiembe Samaki and back; the sixth edition in 2026 was again held at Maisara Grounds. The organisers describe the routes as scenic, with coastal stretches, lush landscapes and cultural landmarks. Runners are timed by chip, and finishers receive a medal and a personalised certificate. The fifth edition took place in November 2025 with 4,758 runners across the three races, and the sixth in September 2026.