South AmericaBrazil

Brasilia Marathon

A tour of Brazil's modernist capital along its sweeping monumental avenues, run at mild altitude.

7.7/10 Difficulty
256m Elevation Gain
2000 Founded

Course Map

Elevation Profile
km
mi

Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.

About this Race

The Maratona de Brasília is a course through Brazil's modernist planned capital, run at over 1,100 meters of altitude along the wide, sweeping avenues and monumental architecture of the unique city. The elevation is the main factor on the otherwise flat, spacious terrain. Held in favorable conditions, it offers the striking backdrop of Oscar Niemeyer's landmark buildings. The altitude rather than any climb is the true variable. It suits runners drawn to a distinctive architectural setting who don't mind the mild elevation over a sea-level personal best.

city altitude flat modernist wide-boulevards

Course Insight

Brasília runs at around 1,170 metres along the wide modernist avenues of the planned capital, where mild altitude and dry, exposed conditions shape the effort. Adjust your pace slightly for the thinner air and the open sun. The sweeping monumental architecture is a unique backdrop. The terrain is largely flat. Pace conservatively for the altitude and the course stays manageable.

Pro tip: Ease for the mild altitude and dry sun, and hold even pace along the wide modernist avenues.

Difficulty Breakdown

7.7/10

Mostly due to significant climbing (256m), tough late hills.

Elevation
6.3
Hill Placement
10.0
Weather
2.8
Turns
2.4

Altitude difficulty: +1.8 pts (elevation)

How we calculate difficulty →

Course Details

Course type
Loop
Elevation gain
256m
Elevation loss
258m
Highest point
1082m
Lowest point
1007m
Net elevation
-2m
Start
Starts and finishes on the Esplanada dos Ministerios, in front of the Museu da Republica.
Cutoff time
6h 30m

Race History

The Maratona de Brasília is a course through Brazil's modernist planned capital, run at over 1,100 metres along the wide, sweeping avenues of Oscar Niemeyer's landmark architecture. Its mild altitude on flat, spacious terrain defined its distinctive character. Over the years it drew runners to the unique setting. It remains a striking architectural race at modest elevation.

Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.

Nearest airport(s)
Brasília International (BSB)
Best area to stay
The Asa Sul for proximity to the route, the Setor Hoteleiro for the cluster of central hotels, and Lago Sul for quieter upscale stays.
Getting to the start
The start is near the Esplanada dos Ministérios; take a taxi to the start, as transit is limited at dawn.

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