Race of a lifetime

It is an event that offers a 10K, half-marathon, marathon and ultra 50K; and has a uniquely designed course that twists and turns within beautiful Isalo National Park.

The staging of the race takes place at Hotel Le Jardin du Roy, a true oasis in Isalo. It is in the heart of the Bara country in southwest Madagascar surrounded by beautiful sandstone formations dating back to the Jurassic period. Here runners and companions not only have the convenience of the race start and finish at their doorstep but can also enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings from the moment they arrive.

Beginning as soon as the sun rises, runners cross the start line for the journey in and around the park. They endure a variety of terrain including sandy and hand-mowed grass trails, paved roads, and somewhat rocky and/or small water crossings. An isolated course, runners can take in the surrounding beauty of golden tall grass, various canyons, and sightings of local villagers and farmers.

Although runners must be self-sufficient, the race provides several aid stations to include bottled water, potatoes, fruit, and coca cola. Race team members scout the course by ATV’s with supplies and ensure all runners are well. As the hours pass the sun can become grueling with little to no escape from the heat. This is a race that defines the runner and requires self-motivation and joy of the sport to generate the fortitude to complete the distance. The course is described as difficult mostly due to the terrain and heat, as the elevation gain is only an estimated 700 feet.

The Madagascar Marathon is not only about the race though: the destination itself is a marvel. Marathon Tours & Travel (MTT), the owner of the race, provides an amazing cultural experience with an introduction to various species of flora, fauna and wildlife (especially the notorious lemurs). The essential elements to ensure safety are incorporated for delivery of a race to brag about for years to come.

All international runners must be part of MTT’s seven-night package due to the logistics and race location. The next running of the event is 31 May 2026. Learn more through the website (www.madagascarmarathon.com).

“Super well organized by Marathon Tours & Travel; with many interesting activities, nice accommodations, and a group of fellow-minded runners!” Marta, 2024 Madagascar Half-Marathon Woman’s Winner