Lagos City Marathon

Next race

Saturday, 13 February 2027

6:30 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban coastal road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Lagos City Marathon is West Africa's largest marathon, drawing approximately 30k starters each February through Nigeria's commercial capital. The out-and-back course links the National Theatre, Victoria Island, and the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge with views across Lagos Lagoon. February's dry-season heat and flat terrain make it a bold early-year challenge in one of Africa's most energetic cities.

Lagos City Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 30k finishers

Weather: Hot and humid winter
28–29°C · humidity 80–85%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:10:23 — David Barmasai (2020)Women: 2:31:40 — Sharon Cherop (2020)

Course & terrain

Lagos City Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Lagos City Marathon is an urban coastal road that starts at the National Theatre on Lagos Island and finishes at the Eko Atlantic / Victoria Island festival zone. The out-and-back route crosses the Third Mainland Bridge approach, passes Victoria Island, and reaches the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge area. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.

Lagos City Marathon route map

Registration

Lagos City Marathon entry requirements

The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is held in February, typically on a Saturday. Registration is through https://lagoscitymarathon.com/ with both elite and mass-participation categories.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lagos City Marathon elevation profile?: The Lagos City Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
Where can I find the Lagos City Marathon route map?: This page includes a Lagos City Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. The out-and-back route crosses the Third Mainland Bridge approach, passes Victoria Island, and reaches the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge area.
How long is the Lagos City Marathon?: The Lagos City Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Urban coastal road from the National Theatre on Lagos Island to the Eko Atlantic / Victoria Island festival zone.
What time does the Lagos City Marathon start?: The 2027 Lagos City Marathon starts at 6:30 am local time on Saturday, 13 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Lagos City Marathon start and finish?: The race starts at the National Theatre on Lagos Island and finishes in the Victoria Island / Eko Atlantic area. The flat out-and-back route showcases Lagos Lagoon and the city's modern waterfront.
When is the Lagos City Marathon?: The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is held in February, typically on a Saturday. with both elite and mass-participation categories.
Is the Lagos marathon flat?: Yes. The course is largely flat along Lagos Island and Victoria Island, with only minor rises on bridge approaches. Heat and humidity are the primary challenges, not terrain.
What should I know about running in Lagos heat?: February is dry season but still hot and humid, often 28–34 °C (82–93 °F) by mid-morning. The early 6:30 am start helps, but hydration and pacing for heat are essential.
Does the Lagos marathon cross the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge?: The course reaches the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge area, offering views across Lagos Lagoon. Exact routing varies by year — check the published course map before race weekend.

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

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