Kigali International Peace Marathon

KigaliRwanda

Next race

Sunday, 23 May 2027

6:30 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Kigali International Peace Marathon draws approximately 8,000 finishers each May through Rwanda's hilltop capital at roughly 1,500 m altitude. The course passes the Kigali Convention Centre, the Kigali Genocide Memorial approach, and the city's terraced hillside roads with views across the 'land of a thousand hills.' May's mild highland dry season makes it East Africa's most significant peace-themed marathon.

Kigali International Peace Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 8,000 finishers

Weather: Warm and humid autumn
20–20°C · humidity 65–75%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Kigali International Peace Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Kigali International Peace Marathon is an urban road that starts and finishes at Amahoro Stadium or the Kigali Convention Centre area. The loop passes the city centre, the Kacyiru district, and terraced hillside roads with valley views. Flatter corridors and river valleys offer the easiest miles, while the moderate climbs through hills, bridges, or bluffs are the tougher sections once fatigue builds. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.

Kigali International Peace Marathon route map

Registration

Kigali International Peace Marathon entry requirements

For the Kigali International Peace Marathon, the race is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is through https://kigalimarathon.org/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kigali International Peace Marathon elevation profile?: The Kigali International Peace Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
Where can I find the Kigali International Peace Marathon route map?: This page includes a Kigali International Peace Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Passes the city centre, the Kacyiru district, and terraced hillside roads with valley views.
How long is the Kigali International Peace Marathon?: The Kigali International Peace Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at Amahoro Stadium or the Kigali Convention Centre area.
What time does the Kigali International Peace Marathon start?: The 2027 Kigali International Peace Marathon starts at 6:30 am local time on Sunday, 23 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
What is the significance of the Kigali Peace Marathon?: The race promotes peace and reconciliation in Rwanda, drawing runners from across East Africa and the world. It is one of the continent's most meaningful mass-participation marathons.
When is the Kigali International Peace Marathon?: The race is held in May, typically on the fourth Sunday.
Is the Kigali Marathon hilly?: Yes. Kigali is famously hilly — the 'land of a thousand hills' — and the marathon course includes rolling climbs throughout. Expect more elevation change than flat coastal African marathons.
How does Kigali's altitude affect the race?: Kigali sits at roughly 1,500 m (4,900 ft). Combined with the rolling hills, pacing conservatively is essential for sea-level runners.
What weather should I expect in Kigali in May?: May is the start of the dry season in Rwanda, with mild temperatures often 16–24 °C (61–75 °F). Afternoon rain becomes more likely toward the end of the month.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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