Overview
The Quito Marathon attracts approximately 3,000 finishers each July in Ecuador's capital at roughly 2,850 m altitude — one of the world's highest major marathons. The course passes the historic Old Town (Centro Histórico), the Panecillo hill viewpoint, and the Mariscal district on Andean plateau roads. July's dry-season equatorial weather and the altitude challenge make it South America's most demanding capital-city marathon.
Quito Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Quito Marathon 2026 race day
The next Quito Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 26 July 2026 with a 6:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
Quito Marathon course route
The Quito Marathon is a high-altitude loop at roughly 2,850 m through Ecuador's capital, starting near Parque Bicentenario or the Old Town and passing the Centro Histórico UNESCO district, Panecillo, and La Mariscal. The flatter valley-floor boulevards are the easiest miles, while Quito's hillside streets and thin Andean air make pacing the central challenge. Spectators line the historic centre, gather at the start-finish festival, and cheer along the Old Town and La Mariscal corridors.
Quito Marathon elevation profile
The Quito Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Quito Marathon is held on the last Sunday of July during Ecuador's dry season. Registration is at https://www.maratondequito.com/.
Quito Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Quito Trail by UTMB | 2024 Event Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Quito Marathon elevation profile?
- The Quito Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Quito Marathon?
- The Quito Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in the Parque Bicentenario or Quito Old Town area.
- What time does the Quito Marathon start?
- The 2026 Quito Marathon starts at 6:00 am local time on Sunday, 26 July 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.maratondequito.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- How high is the Quito Marathon?
- Quito sits at approximately 2,850 m (9,350 ft) above sea level. The thin air significantly affects performance — arrive early to acclimatise and pace conservatively.
- When is the Quito Marathon?
- The Quito Marathon is held on the last Sunday of July during Ecuador's dry season. Registration is at https://www.maratondequito.com/.
- Does the Quito Marathon pass the Old Town?
- Yes. The UNESCO-listed Centro Histórico with its colonial churches and plazas is a centrepiece of the course through the world's highest capital city.
- Is the Quito Marathon hilly?
- Quito's streets climb and descend the Andean valley sides. Combined with altitude, the course is one of South America's more challenging urban marathons.
- What weather should I expect in Quito in July?
- July is dry season in Quito, with cool mornings often 8–16 °C (46–61 °F) and intense equatorial sun at altitude. Sun protection is essential.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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