The Comrades Marathon is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic ultramarathons, drawing runners from across the globe to tackle its challenging route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa. Covering a distance of roughly 85–90 km, the exact length varies depending on whether it’s an “up run” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg or a “down run” in the opposite direction. The race is famed for its steep hills, electric atmosphere, and deep sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators. Organised by the Comrades Marathon Association, it stands as a bucket-list event for distance runners worldwide. The next edition will take place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, as an up run starting in Durban and finishing in Pietermaritzburg.
Race
88 km
The Comrades Marathon is a historic ultramarathon held annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa, covering approximately 85–90 km depending on the year’s direction. The next edition will take place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, following the up run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Comrades Marathon?
How long is the Comrades Marathon?
Where does the Comrades Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Comrades Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Comrades Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Comrades Marathon?
The Comrades Marathon is a historic ultramarathon held annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa, covering approximately 85–90 km depending on the year’s direction. The next edition will take place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, following the up run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
The Comrades Marathon is 88km long.
The Comrades Marathon takes place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The Comrades Marathon elevation gain is 1800 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Comrades Marathon?
The Comrades Marathon is a historic ultramarathon held annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa, covering approximately 85–90 km depending on the year’s direction. The next edition will take place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, following the up run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.
How long is the Comrades Marathon?
The Comrades Marathon is 88km long.
Where does the Comrades Marathon take place?
The Comrades Marathon takes place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
What is the elevation gain of the Comrades Marathon?
The Comrades Marathon elevation gain is 1800 meters, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Comrades Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Comrades Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
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Sport:
Running
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Comrades Marathon or Comrades Marathon. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Comrades Marathon website.