Overview
The Nairobi Marathon attracts about 8,000 finishers each October at roughly 1,600 m altitude in Kenya's capital. The course passes the KICC tower, Uhuru Park, and the city centre on roads that have hosted some of East Africa's most competitive mass races. October mild highland weather and the altitude challenge make it a unique African capital marathon.
Nairobi Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Nairobi Marathon 2026 race day
The next Nairobi Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 25 October 2026 with a 6:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
Nairobi Marathon course route
The Nairobi Marathon is a plateau-city loop starting and finishing at Nyayo National Stadium, passing the KICC, Uhuru Park, and central boulevards at roughly 1,600 metres above sea level. The central avenues are the easiest once you adjust, while the altitude and subtle rollers make the tougher challenge; crowds gather at Nyayo Stadium, around Uhuru Park, and along the most visible city-centre sections.
Nairobi Marathon elevation profile
The Nairobi Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Nairobi Marathon uses open registration at nairobimarathon.co.ke with no ballot or qualifying standard. Sign-up for the October race typically opens mid-year. As Kenya's largest city marathon with around 8,000 finishers, early registration is advisable though no qualifying time is required.
Nairobi Marathon course videos
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Nairobi City Marathon changes course
The Nairobi (City Marathon)| HiGHLIGHTS
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Nairobi Marathon elevation profile?
- The Nairobi Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Nairobi Marathon?
- The Nairobi Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Nyayo National Stadium.
- What time does the Nairobi Marathon start?
- The 2026 Nairobi Marathon starts at 6:00 am local time on Sunday, 25 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.nairobimarathon.co.ke/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- What altitude is the Nairobi Marathon run at?
- Nairobi sits at roughly 1,600 m (5,250 ft). The altitude affects pacing even though the course itself is flat.
- Where does the Nairobi Marathon finish?
- The finish is at Nyayo National Stadium.
- Is the Nairobi Marathon flat?
- The course is flat, but the 1,600 m altitude is the main physiological challenge.
- What is Nairobi weather in October?
- October is mild in the highlands, typically 14–22 °C (57–72 °F), with possible afternoon rain.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
