MarathonBig Five

Name: Big Five Marathon
Start: 2026-06-13
End: 2026-06-13
Location: Big Five

10 Jun 2026 - 16 Jun 2026

Big Five -- Big Five Marathon

Trip duration: 10 Jun 2026; 16 Jun 2026

Info: 13 Jun 2026; 01 Mar 2026

The race

The combination of a classic African safari with a demanding marathon. This is exactly what the Big Five Marathon stands for. When you run through the African savannah, your biggest supporters are the wild animals of Africa, which you will not overlook during the marathon. Running through one of Africa's most spectacular game reserves is definitely a unique experience. This marathon is booked as an exclusive event with a small number of participants.

Registration Big Five Marathon 2026

Globalrunning.com offers you a package with a guaranteed runner’s bib and accommodation. Furthermore, we offer the possibility that family members or friends can travel with you as companions and together you can enjoy this event.

Take a look at our packages. We ensure that during your stay in South Africa everything is arranged down to the last detail so that the athlete can fully devote himself or herself to the run. Whether individually or with a running group, with us you run around the world!

Book now directly and secure your entry with guaranteed participation!

Flights can be added upon request
We would be glad to put together a tailor made running trip for you
Part of a running group? Then we would be pleased to offer you a personalized package with group discount! Contact us for the options

Event details

Date

Saturday, 13 June 2026

Start time

09:00:00

Start location

Mookgophong, South Africa

Finish location

Mookgophong, South Africa

Expo location

Entabeni Safari Conservancy, Haakdoring Rd, Mokopane, Sterkrivier, 0600, South Africa

Time limit

07:00:00

Weather

Dry and between 15 and 25 degrees during the event. The nights are cold (can even be around freezing)

Course

The course runs on both sand and asphalt roads (80% sand). The course is tough and hilly. Halfway through, the course includes a steep descent and a steep ascent. Along the way, you can spot many wild animals such as lions, elephants, etc.

Reminder

T-Shirt and medal

T-Shirt

Included

Maps

The map below shows the locations of the start & finish, our hotels of choice and the expo location. Underneath the map, there are two buttons which show the course and elevation maps of the event.

Legend

Coursemap Elevationmap

Coursemap

Elevationmap

Trip schedule

Tuesday, 10 June 2025

Let the adventure begin! After arriving in Johannesburg, South Africa, our race officials will greet you with big smiles at the airport and take you to your chosen lodge or camp. If you arrive in time, participants can choose to join one of our afternoon game drives - getting an opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in stunning surroundings, already on your first day! Arrival in Johannesburg and transver to Entabeni Game Reserve. Check-in to your chosen accommodation Afternoon game drive (optional) Dinner

Wednesday, 11 June 2025

Day two kicks off the thrill with a deep dive into the wild! Today we will explore the magic of the Entabeni Game Reserve, with a sunrise or sunset game drive and an up-close bush walk with an experienced ranger. During the game drive you get the chance to spot South Africa's most iconic animals, such as elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and even a pride of lions blocking our path. Don't worry, you'll be in good hands with our experienced park rangers. Want to stretch out those legs? Our tour guide can help you arrange a light shake-out run around the area. Game drives and a bush walk with an armed ranger Shake-out run (optional) Time at your own leisure. Important: June is winter in South Africa, so pack a warm jacket, gloves and hat for the early and afternoon game drives. Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Thursday, 12 June 2025

After an early breakfast, all participants will be transported from their respective accommodations to the starting line of the marathon. You will get a short briefing about the route inspection before we hit the road, showing you the location of the water stations, examination of the terrain and overall difficulty of the route. After the route inspection, we will gather for a buffet lunch where you will meet the organizers, medical team and rangers. They will give a formal introduction of the event and answer any questions you may have. Route Inspection Buffet Lunch Race briefing and introduction

Friday, 13 June 2025

Today you will take part in one of our most thrilling challenges: The Big Five Marathon! In the morning, all participants will be transported from their accommodation to the starting line. The marathon is scheduled to start at 09:00, but delays are to be expected to make sure the route is completely safe. If the Big Five are too close to the race route, the start will be postponed. You can find more information about the race here Transfer to the race starting point. The Big Five Marathon kick-off (9am) 20 minute leg massage. Evening at your own leisure Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Saturday, 14 June 2025

Congratulations on your great achievement! Today you will have some time to relax at your camp, or join one of our optional excursions. The afternoon is reserved for a fantastic game drive, followed by an epic celebration dinner in your honor. There will be mouth watering food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony, a big bonfire and a vibrant dancefloor! Important: The party takes place in a traditional South African boma under the naked sky - it is therefore advisable to dress warm. Post-race relaxation. Afternoon game drive (optional). Celebration dinner and prize ceremony Breakfast Lunch Celebration Dinner

Sunday, 15 June 2025

This morning, we have arranged a one last game drive for you. After yet another thrilling day, a farewell dinner will be held at each accommodation. Game drive. Farewell dinner. Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Monday, 16 June 2025

Unfortunately, our time at the Entabeni Game Reserve has come to an end. As upon arrival, all participants will be transferred to Johannesburg International Airport. Are you up for more thrill? Whether you're up for the city life of Cape Town, the stunning nature of Victoria Falls or want to dive deeper into the safari experience, we have the perfect extension for you! You can find our adventurous add-on's here. Transfer back to Johannesburg Airport. Breakfast
Transport
We do not offer transport for this arrangement by default. However, we do offer the option to book flights with us. Prices will vary if you choose to make use of our service.
Accomodation
- Legend Golf & Safari Resort
Legend Golf & Safari Resort
€ 3715,00 per person

Located in the middle of the Entabeni Safari Conservancy you can find the Legend Golf & Safari Resort. This accommodation is surrounded by the wildlife on the savannahs outside the residence. From the boutique lodges you have a beautiful view over the iconic Hanglip Mountain and the Waterberg Mountains. Especially the sunset is from here a beautiful and unforgettable sight. Because of its beautiful location, the Legend Golf & Safari Resort is an excellent place to escape from everyday life for a while.
The luxurious lodges are equipped with air conditioning, a 38-inch plasma TV, a private en-suite bathroom and coffee and tea making facilities. In addition, the rooms are also equipped with a personal safe. The resort has several lounges, bars and à la carte restaurants. The lodges are surrounded by beautiful gardens and fishing ponds, making a leisurely stroll around the grounds an activity in itself. Participants who want to be active before or after the Big Five Marathon or Half Marathon can make use of the gym facilities.
About Big Five

The Entabeni Safari Conservancy is located in South Africa, about a three-hour drive from Johannesburg. This reserve, known for its beautiful and untouched nature, is home to many species of wildlife. These include the legendary Big Five. The sight of these wild animals is an unforgettable experience, which can often be experienced on one of the safaris through Entabeni. During a stay in one of the lodges that are built in the reserve, you will be dreaming under the sound of the different animal species. An unforgettable experience in South Africa awaits you!

from € 3715,00

per
person