Includes

Minimum of 3 nights at the hotel
Breakfast
Local city tax

Excluding

Guaranteed and bookable race bib for each participant
Travel assistance
Tourist tax

Travel time

TBA

Info

Saturday, June 13, 2026

Friday, May 1, 2026

Preregistration

Please note that the information below relates to a previous event and may differ from the upcoming edition.

Date

Saturday, June 13, 2026

Start time

9 a.m.

Start location

Mookgophong, South Africa

Finish location

Mookgophong, South Africa

Expo location

Entabeni, Haakdoring Rd, Mokopane, Sterkrivier, 0600, South Africa

Expo info

You will receive information about the marathon at the hotel upon arrival

Trail info

The route runs on both dirt and paved roads (80% dirt) and is challenging and hilly. Midway, a steep downhill section is followed by a steep uphill climb. Along the way, you may spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and many more.

Time limit

07:00:00 a.m.

Weather

Dry climate, with temperatures ranging between 59°F and 77°F during the event. Nights are cold and can drop close to freezing.

Reminder

Medal

T-shirt

Included

Or do you prefer custom booking?

No dates? Register here.

The race

Accommodation

Itinerary

Intro

Combining a classic African safari with a challenging marathon: that is what the Big Five Marathon stands for. During this special race you will run across the African savannah, where not only the landscape is impressive, but also the presence of wild animals. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you will experience a unique journey through one of Africa's most spectacular game reserves.

The biggest "supporters" along the trail are the animals that call this area home. Think giraffes, zebras and possibly even the iconic Big Five, which you may encounter during the race. The varied and challenging terrain requires perseverance, but is rewarded with unparalleled nature experiences and breathtaking views.

The Big Five Marathon is known as an exclusive event with a limited number of starters. It is precisely this small-scale character that creates an intimate and special atmosphere, where adventure, sport and nature come together in a unique way.

Want to know everything about this marathon trip? In our FAQ, you'll quickly find answers to the most frequently asked questions.

The Legend Golf & Safari Resort

+ 14 items

The Legend Golf & Safari Resort is located in the middle of the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, the impressive area where the Big Five Marathon is run. The start and finish line are not within walking distance: from the resort you drive by 4x4 safari vehicles through the game reserve to the race area in about an hour. This immediately makes race day part of the safari experience.

You will stay here in a spacious resort room with a comfortable sitting area and private bathroom with shower and separate bathtub. The resort is known for its combination of tranquility, nature and golf, including an exceptional 18-hole golf course and opportunities to book additional safari game drives. Breakfast and dinner are included with this accommodation option.

After the marathon, this is all about relaxing in the South African bush. From the resort you will enjoy views of the Waterberg region and, depending on the program, you can spot wildlife or explore the unique golf environment. If you want to experience the Big Five Marathon from an accommodation that truly suits the character of this trip, then The Legend Golf & Safari Resort is an atmospheric and adventurous choice.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

You will fly to Johannesburg today

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

You will arrive in Johannesburg at 10:35 am. All participants will be transferred from the airport to the Entabeni Game Reserve at set times. The scheduled transfer departures from the airport are at 8:30 am, 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. If none of these times match your arrival, it is possible to book a private transfer at an additional cost. Upon arrival at Entabeni, you will meet your travel guide and check in at your lodge or camp. Participants arriving on one of the first three transfers (departures from Johannesburg International Airport at 8:30 am, 10:00 am, and 12:00 pm) will have the opportunity to join the first of several exciting game drives. These excursions offer the chance to experience an authentic African safari in a peaceful setting. The Entabeni Game Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, features open safari vehicles, and hosts a relatively small number of tourists, creating a truly special wilderness atmosphere.

Thursday, June 11, 2026

In recent years, the park’s wildlife has gradually become accustomed to the presence of tourists. It is therefore not unusual to see elephants, giraffes, and various species of antelope grazing near the safari vehicles. Occasionally, a pride of lions even blocks the path, lying lazily across it. We use open 4x4 safari vehicles, which offer an excellent opportunity to view the wildlife in complete safety. During our stay, several park rangers will be assigned to us, approximately one for every ten participants. The rangers ensure our safety, drive the vehicles, provide expert guidance, coordinate activities with the race management, and are available to us around the clock. In addition, a travel guide will be with the group from start to finish.

Friday, June 12, 2026

After breakfast, you will attend a presentation about the course, followed by a detailed inspection. Once again, you may have the chance to spot the Big Five! At the end of the inspection, lunch will be served with all participants, during which further information about the event will be provided. The rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner is included.

Saturday, June 13, 2026

The big day! Today, it’s time for the Big Five Marathon or Half Marathon. After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation and taken to the start of the Big Five Race. The race starts at 9:00 am. After the race, transfer back to your accommodation.

Sunday, June 14, 2026

This day is for relaxing and recovering from all the efforts. The morning is free, and in the afternoon a game drive is scheduled. At the end of the afternoon, a big celebration will take place: the After Marathon Party, featuring dinner, an awards ceremony, and live entertainment.

Monday, June 15, 2026

Last full day in Entabeni. On site, you can choose between a morning or afternoon safari, and you will also have the opportunity to take part in a so-called bush walk, also included. In the evening, enjoy your final dinner at your accommodation.

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Unfortunately, it’s already the last day in Entabeni. The transfer to the airport is included.

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Today is the day you return home, hopefully with unforgettable memories for both the runner and the supporter.

Marathon Big Five 2027

Includes

Excluding

Travel time

Info

Date

Start time

Start location

Finish location

Expo location

Expo info

Trail info

Time limit

Weather

Reminder

T-shirt

No dates? Register here.

The race

Accommodation

Itinerary

Intro

The Legend Golf & Safari Resort

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

Thursday, June 11, 2026

Friday, June 12, 2026

Saturday, June 13, 2026

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Monday, June 15, 2026

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Marathon
Big Five 2027