Big Five Marathon 2025 in South Africa

This marathon is one-of-a-kind for its unique course that passes through the African savannah, across the habitat of the most notable African wildlife. The so-called "Big Five" includes elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions, and leopards. This curious name has little to do with the size of animals, but it does have some reference to an African hunting past—these five were acknowledged as being the most difficult to catch. Today, however, they are mainly "shot" with photo cameras.

The big five are not the only game you're going to spot en route. You may also find out what it's like to run with giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

This challenging route passes through the Entabeni Game Reserve, located in Limpopo Province, which is between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. The beginning and end of the route is at the Lakeside Lodge with the rugged course passing Ravineside Lodge, the Entabeni Monolith, the Yellow Wood Valley, and Long Drive.

Yellow Wood is renowned as the most dreaded part of the route—they say this is the steepest slope you will run in your life.

The Big Five Marathon takes place in late June and features a classic marathon and a half marathon.