Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Soweto Marathon is South Africa's beloved People's Race, run at roughly 1,700 metres of altitude through the historic township past landmarks of the anti-apartheid struggle, including the Hector Pieterson memorial and Vilakazi Street. The high elevation and genuinely hilly course make it demanding, requiring measured pacing. Held in November, it offers warm conditions and deeply spirited, history-rich crowd support. The heritage and the hills define the day. It suits runners drawn to a powerful, meaningful course and accept the altitude and climbs over a fast time.
Course Insight
Soweto runs at around 1,700 metres through the historic Johannesburg township, a November marathon where Highveld altitude and relentless hills combine to humble any flat-course plan. Run by effort, easing for the thin air and pacing the climbs by feel. The spirit and history of the route are powerful. Bank nothing on the descents. Respect the altitude and hills, and you'll finish strong rather than fading.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (483m), tough late hills, meaningful altitude.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 483m
- Elevation loss
- 478m
- Highest point
- 1741m
- Lowest point
- 1580m
- Net elevation
- +5m
- Start
- Starts and finishes at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, in Soweto.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Soweto Marathon was first held in 1994 as South Africa's People's Race, run at roughly 1,700 metres of altitude through the historic township past landmarks of the anti-apartheid struggle. Its high elevation, hilly course, and deeply spirited crowds defined its character. From its founding it grew into a beloved, history-rich event. Held each November, it draws a passionate field to the famous township.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- O.R. Tambo Johannesburg (JNB), Lanseria (HLA)
- Best area to stay
- Soweto itself for proximity to the route and local guesthouses, Maboneng in the Joburg CBD for characterful central stays, and Sandton for upscale, quieter options.
- Getting to the start
- The start is in Soweto near the stadium; take a taxi or arrange a ride to the start early.