The Cape Town Marathon is Africa's first Abbott World Marathon Major and the eighth race to join the series, starting with its 2027 edition. Major status has sent demand surging, and entry is by ballot. The route takes runners through one of the world's most beautiful cities, with views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.
For official updates, head to the Cape Town Marathon website.
The 2027 race is Cape Town's first as an Abbott World Marathon Major. The 2026 edition sold out as a candidate event, so expect the inaugural Major edition to be heavily oversubscribed.
Key Dates
- Race Day: May 23, 2027
- Ballot Window: Expected Jun 2027
Don't miss the window. The Cape Town Marathon ballot opens and closes quickly, and the dates shift slightly each year. Set up a BibsAlert and we'll email you the moment the ballot goes live.
How to Enter the Cape Town Marathon
1. Public Ballot
The main route in. Apply during the ballot window, then wait for the draw; successful and unsuccessful entrants are all notified on the results date, and successful applications are charged at that point. International entries are welcome.
2. Candidacy Club (Guaranteed Entry by Time)
Runners who have recorded a qualifying marathon time can secure a guaranteed spot through the Candidacy Club, bypassing the ballot. This window typically opens alongside the public ballot but closes earlier, so faster runners should apply promptly.
3. Tour Operators
International travel packages with guaranteed entry are available through official partners, a reliable fallback if you miss out in the ballot.
4. Charity/Community Entries
Local and international charity spots may be available for runners willing to fundraise.
The Course
Mostly flat and fast. Starts and finishes in the city center. Route goes along the Atlantic seaboard, through Green Point, and offers stunning views of Table Mountain. A potential PB course with mild autumn weather.
Didn't Get In?
If you weren't selected in the Cape Town Marathon ballot, you still have options:
- Charity entries: Many official charity partners offer guaranteed places in exchange for fundraising commitments. Check the official website for partner organizations.
- Try a similar race: Check the related races below for marathons with similar entry types, dates, or locations.
- Apply again next year: Set up a BibsAlert so you don't miss the next entry window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town a World Marathon Major?
Yes. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major and the first in Africa. It passed the final stage of Abbott's assessment after the 2026 edition and joined the series from the 2027 race; finishers of the 2026 candidate race received a provisional AbbottWMM star that converted to a full star.
Can I skip the ballot?
Yes. Runners with a qualifying marathon time can secure a guaranteed place through the Candidacy Club, which opens alongside the ballot but closes earlier. Official tour-operator packages and charity entries also offer guaranteed spots without going through the draw.
Is it safe for international runners?
Yes. The race is well-organized with security measures along the route. Cape Town is a popular international tourist destination.
What's the weather like on race day?
May is autumn in South Africa. Expect mild temperatures (10-20°C / 50-68°F), ideal for marathon running.
Related Races
London Marathon
Ballot
World Major. Most popular
Tokyo Marathon
Ballot
World Major. Hardest to enter
Berlin Marathon
Ballot
World Major. Fastest course
Looking Ahead
If the current ballot has closed, the next one typically opens around the middle of the year. Set up a BibsAlert to get notified the moment the next ballot opens.