Course Map
About this Race
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is Nigeria's flagship road race, a flat course through the vast coastal megacity that crosses its great bridges and runs along the Atlantic waterfront toward the finish. The level profile is fast on paper, but the heat and humidity of the February staging dominate, demanding an early start and cautious pacing. Carrying a World Athletics label, it draws elite East African talent alongside a huge, energetic domestic field. The flat roads reward steady effort once the climate is respected. It suits runners who want to experience one of Africa's biggest and most vibrant city marathons and don't expect the tropical conditions to allow a fast time.
Course Insight
Lagos is a hot, humid February marathon on a flat course defined by its long bridge crossings over the lagoon, exposed and breezy stretches that sap energy. Pace for the tropical conditions and treat the bridges as the course's real test. The crowds and energy of this West African showcase are huge. The flat profile hides a fast start nowhere. Respect the heat and the bridges and you'll have legs for the finish.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to very flat, challenging typical weather.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 44m
- Elevation loss
- 55m
- Highest point
- 15m
- Lowest point
- 2m
- Net elevation
- -11m
- Start
- Orca Shopping Mall on Ahmadu Bello Way
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Course Records
- Men's
- 2:10:23 — David Barmasai Tumo (Kenya), 2020
- Women's
- 2:31:40 — Sharon Cherop (Kenya), 2020
Race History
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon was first held in 2016 and rapidly became Nigeria's flagship road race, crossing the great bridges of the vast coastal megacity. Carrying a World Athletics label, it drew elite East African talent alongside a huge, energetic domestic field despite the demanding heat and humidity. From its inaugural running it grew into one of Africa's biggest and most vibrant city marathons. Run each February, it now draws a large field through the bustling city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Murtala Muhammed Lagos (LOS)
- Best area to stay
- Victoria Island for upscale hotels near the route, Ikoyi for quieter, leafy stays, and Lekki for newer beachside options.
- Getting to the start
- It's point-to-point ending at Eko Atlantic; take the official transport or a taxi to the mainland start, as the bridges close for the race.