Victoria Falls Marathon and Half Marathon

Africa plays host to some 'must do' marathons and the Victoria Falls Marathon is definitely one of them. With a vibey abmiance and an epic sunset cruise, the event feels much more like good fun than hard work, yet the run should be taken seriously. If the inclines on the route don't take your breath away, the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Victoria Falls surely will. 

Running a marathon and viewing the enormous Victoria Falls is a must for all runners, especially if you plan to run a marathon on every continent. The Victoria Falls Marathon offers participants the opportunity to enjoy great scenery such as running alongside the mighty Zambezi River, Victoria Falls waterfall, game viewing when running through the Zambezi National Park and a glimpse of the town of Victoria Falls en-route to the finish line.

The atmosphere is electric with loads of friendly faces supporting and manning the water stations as well as festive marimba bands playing next to the road. Runners can unwind after the race on an unforgettable Marathon Sunset Cruise with complimentary snacks and drinks to enjoy. On board this sunset cruise you may see wildlife such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles as well as fantastic birdlife on the shores of the Zambezi River. 

Besides the breathtaking landscapes, you will encounter on the marathon race there is plenty more to do and see. Known as the adventure centre of Africa, for good reason, the Victoria Falls has a wealth of activities available! Choose one of the standard travel packages, or tailor-make your own by combining the marathon race with some rafting, canoeing, boat cruising, game viewing, an elephant back safari or even a bungee jump! Safaris in neighbouring Botswana and Zambia are also available and we would be happy to furnish you with details of travel packages in the surrounding region and make all your travel arrangements for you. In addition, there are daily flights from Johannesburg to the falls, which makes linking from international flights to the region easy.

Not just a marathon but a life changing experience! See why.

Distances

Marathon
Half Marathon
Fun Run 7.5km

Course

The Victoria Falls marathon route starts at the post office opposite the Kingdom Hotel, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. All runners are advised to spend the night before the race in the town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe as the border post will be closed early morning on the day of the race.

The route takes you from the Kingdom Hotel towards the old bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia.  From this bridge you have spectacular views of the Victoria Falls. Turn around just before the Zambia border post before crossing the bridge again and heading up Zambezi Drive parallel to the Zambezi River. Once past the massive baobab tree you turn onto the road leading up to the Zambezi National Park. Run a shady loop into the park where you may see some game. We have game rangers deployed along the route for safety.

Continue to Victoria Falls town and residential area. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and enthusiasm from the water stations before finishing at the school on the Kazangula Road.

Start Times

Marathon              6:45am
Half Marathon      7:15am
Fun Run                8:15am

Cut Off Time

12:30pm for the Marathon and Half Marathon. No cut off time for the Fun Run.

2024 Victoria Falls Marathon 5d/4n Marathon Weekend Package 

Day 1 – Friday 5 July

On arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport you will be met and transferred to Victoria Falls. 
Spend 3 nights here inclusive of breakfast daily in your choice of hotel.

Day 2 – Saturday 6 July

Registration day. As a pre-booked guest the day is yours at leisure, but feel free to pop down to registration at Kingdom Hotel if you need anything from theMarathon team.

Day 3 – Sunday 7 July  RACE DAY!

Transfers to the Start Line provided for all RunFun Travel runners. The stadium offers shade, a cash-bar and food stalls. Transfers are not included for runners staying at the Kingdom Hotel or Ilala Lodge as they are within walking distance. A return transfer is also provided from the finish at the Stadium (where a cash bar and food stall is provided) back to you hotel. 

This afternoon you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the jetty for the official Marathon Sunset Cruise. This fantastic 2 hour boat journey takes place on the Zambezi River. While on board all drinks and snacks are included. View hippos, crocs and an abundancy of birdlife while watching the sun dip over the Zambezi. 

Transfers from the cruise back to the hotel included. 

Day 4 – Mon 8 July

Return transfer to Victoria Falls International Airport for your return flight or onward journey, enjoying one of the safari experiences on offer. 

2024 Victoria Falls Marathon Accommodation Options

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge 4*

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge provides luxury accommodation in Victoria Falls. Set on a natural plateau, the westward facing lodge borders the Zambezi National Park and is just 4km from the thundering Victoria Falls. Enjoy uninterrupted views of spectacular African sunsets and year round game at its onsite waterhole, accommodation at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is ideally positioned to offer the most discerning traveller a taste of Africa at its best.

All the rooms have digital safes, IDD phones, remote control air-conditioning, hairdryers, fans, mosquito nets, extensive range of customised toiletries including insect repellent, message pads, complimentary tea and coffee making facilities, and extra length beds. Each standard room has either a double bed or twin beds, a bathroom with a luxury bath and separate shower, and a balcony overlooking the National Park and facing the sunset. 

Sprayview Hotel 4*

Cresta Sprayview Victoria Falls is situated just 1.4km from the Victoria Falls Rain Forest entrance.  It is the perfect getaway for adventure seekers exploring the resort town of Victoria Falls and its surrounds.  In months when the Falls are in full flood, the spray from this majestic wonder of nature rises like a column of smoke, locally referred to as "Mosi-oa-Tunya", the "Smoke That Thunders", and can be seen from the hotel, hence the name "Sprayview" from which the hotel derives its name. The hotel is ideally situated within walking distance of the town of Victoria Falls with its accompanying restaurants and curio markets and a short 10 minute walk to the Falls themselves.

 Set on eight acres of manicured grounds, the hotel offers a tranquil oasis from which to enjoy all Victoria Falls has to offer.  Alfresco dining and the large swimming pool make the hotel a relaxing retreat for families, international travellers, and honeymooners. Cresta Sprayview has 65 rooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, and reception available 24 hours.  All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning to combat the high summer temperatures the region can experience.  In-room tea and coffee making facilities, personal safes, hairdryers and universal plugs help to make guests feel at home.

Other hotels available on request, please enquire

2024 Victoria Falls Marathon Guaranteed Entry and Accommodation Packages 

Our weekend marathon package to this unique part of the world starts from just $1140 pp twin share, $1520 single.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

• Bayette Guest Lodge - from $1140 per person twin share, $1520 single
• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge - from $1790 per person twin share, single on request. Waterhole Facing room - from $1980 twin share, single on request
• Other hotels available to suit your budget, please enqquire

 INCLUDED

• Guaranteed Entry to the Victoria Falls Marathon or Half Marathon 
• 3 night’s accommodation (in Friday, out Monday)
• Breakfast daily
• Tshirt
• Medal
• Delivery of your race number and shirt to your hotel
• Race Day Transfers, to the start/finish line and return
• Official Marathon Sunset Cruise (including park fees and transfers)
• Services of our representative over the weekend
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure

WHY NOT ADD ON A SAFARI WHILE YOU'RE THERE! CONTACT US FOR DETAILS

Contact us for details of an extended Safari to Hwange Safari Lodge from $2470pp or Chobe Marina Lodge, Botswana, from $3360pp, inclusive of your Victoria Falls Marathon weekend package.

EXCLUDED

• Flights
• Items of a personal nature during your stay, eg alcoholic drinks, snacks, etc
• Optional sightseeing tours, not included in your itinerary
• Travel insurance – for your peace of mind RunFun Travel offers travel insurance to cater for all your travel plans. Please contact us for further information or obtain a quick quote by clicking here
  Contact us directly for your travel insurance quote!

HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER!

RunFun Travel is a fully licensed travel agent and can assist you with:

• Flights
• Travel insurance
• Airport transfers (where not included)
• Overseas car rental, driving routes, suggested stops along your way
• Ongoing transfers and travel plans

Please contact us for an obligation free quote that will enhance your trip and we’ll make sure you run the time of your life!

Booking and Deposits

A non-refundable deposit of $450 is required to secure your Victoria Falls Marathon travel, entry and accommodation package. 

All prices are subject to change at any time without notice until due to any unforeseen price increase or currency exchange fluctuations.