The Aussie Challenge
Join us for the 2027 Aussie Challenge and combine Sydney with Kangaroo Island. These two races, only a week apart, are the perfect combination for those looking to get the most out of their Australian experience. Seven Continents Club® members will get the opportunity to check off both their Half and Full Oceania Marathons in one journey. The flight to Australia can be a long one, so make the most out of it with two unique races in one exciting adventure.
Marathon Tours & Travel is proud to be the Official Travel Agency for the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. Now in a landmark achievement, the TCS Sydney Marathon has been named the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major (AbbottWMM) and joined the series in 2025.
The Kangaroo Island Marathon is one of the most beautiful marathon courses anywhere in the world, providing once-in-a-lifetime views, a challenging course and an opportunity to see some incredible wildlife. Perfect for adventure runners, thrill-seekers or runners looking to vary the type of course they run on, the 2027 Kangaroo Island Marathon promises to be a superb event, filled with fun and incredible achievements!
The Aussie Challenge combines these two iconic races so you can experience the vibrant bustling city of Sydney and the natural beauty and wildlife of Kangaroo Island all in one package.
Meals Included
Meals as outlined on the itinerary
Transfers
Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, race day transfers to start/finish, one-way airfare from Adelaide to Sydney and airport transfer to hotel in Sydney
Accommodation
12 nights’ accommodation
Entry
Guaranteed race entry for the TCS Sydney Marathon and Kangaroo Island races available
Celebration Party
Post-Race Celebration
Excursions
Kangaroo Island day excursion and Sydney cocktail cruise
A Helping Hand
Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
Medal Bling
Finishers will receive a special Aussie Challenge Medal and Finisher Shirt
Travel Package Information
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Itinerary
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Wednesday 18 August
Arrive in Adelaide (ADL) and transfer on your own to the Pullman Adelaide Hotel. This afternoon you will have some free time to explore Adelaide before our group meeting at the hotel in the evening for a welcome reception.
Included Meals: Welcome Drinks with Light Food.
Thursday 19 August
The Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, renowned for its exceptional Shiraz and Grenache wines. Today, we’ll spend the day visiting local vineyards, tasting regional wines, and enjoying lunch at one of the Barossa Valley’s most iconic wineries.
For a more active experience, you may opt for a 1-hour bike ride through the valley instead of participating in one of the tastings.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Friday 20 August
After breakfast, travel to Cape Jervis (approximately 90 minutes) for the ferry to Kangaroo Island. Upon arrival, enjoy a group lunch before transferring to the Ozone Hotel. This evening, enjoy a two-course dinner at the hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Saturday 21 August
Today, explore some of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic sights, including Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, while also visiting local businesses along the way. Part of today’s touring will follow sections of Sunday’s race route through Flinders Chase National Park. This evening, join your fellow runners for a pre-race dinner at the hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Sunday 22 August
Race Day!
This morning you will be transferred to the starting line of the Kangaroo Island Marathon in Flinders Chase National Park (approx. 80 minutes). Return transfers will be provided at the conclusion of the race. This evening the group will gather for a post-race reception to celebrate your accomplishments!
Included Meals: Breakfast
Monday 23 August
Bid farewell to Kangaroo Island as we return to Adelaide. Along the way, enjoy a private wine tasting at Chalk Hill Wines, followed by a gin tasting and lunch at Never Never Distilling Co. Upon arrival in Adelaide, the remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Tuesday 24 August
Today, visit Cleland Wildlife Park for the chance to get up close to Australia’s native wildlife and hand-feed select animals. We’ll return to Adelaide via Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic city views before enjoying free time to explore at your leisure. This evening, join the group for farewell drinks and light refreshments.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Drinks with Light Food
Wednesday 25 August
After breakfast, transfer to the Adelaide Airport for your flight to Sydney. Upon arrival, check in to the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city’s iconic sights, vibrant neighbourhoods, or world-famous harbour.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Thursday 26 August
Free day in Sydney!
We recommend visiting the Sydney Running Show today to collect your race kit. Afterwards, take time to wander through Sydney’s unique neighbourhoods and soak up the local culture, shopping, and attractions.
At some point today a representative will be waiting in the lobby to greet you and answer any questions you might have.
This afternoon, around 16:00, we will board a Welcome Harbour Cruise to welcome you to the city!!
This evening has been left free for you to enjoy one of Sydney’s many great restaurants, although drinks and snacks will be provided on board the cruise.
(Breakfast and light cruise refreshments included)
Friday 27 August
Half-Day Sightseeing Tour & Expo Visit
Today you will discover Sydney beyond the city centre with a bus tour out to the North Head, providing some of Sydney’s most stunning lookouts and enjoy free time in beautiful Manly before heading to the race Expo for around 14:00.
This evening is free for you to explore and enjoy one of the many restaurants in Sydney!
(Breakfast included)
Saturday 28 August
Shake-Out Run & Pre-Race Dinner
This morning after breakfast you are welcome to join for a light shake-out run along the harbour. This will be at an easy pace and is a chance to loosen your legs. It will be no longer than 5km (approx. 3 miles).
Enjoy the rest of the day your leisure.
Consider booking the Bridge Climb, a hop on hop off pass or even a day tour to experience this wonderful city.
This evening we will enjoy a private pre-race dinner in the Ballroom at the Sheraton hotel!
(Breakfast and Dinner included)
Sunday 29 August
Race Day!
Race day is here! After an early breakfast, make your way to the start line. Our representatives will be in the hotel lobby to provide guidance.
After the race, recharge in the recovery zone.
In the evening we’ll meet up for post race celebrations, saying cheers to all of our runners on an amazing accomplishment!
(Breakfast included)
Monday 30 August
Departure Day
Unless you have booked extra nights with us then today is the day you check out of your room and we say thank you for joining us.
It’s not goodbye, but instead we’ll hopefully see you soon on another Marathon Tours & Travel trip!
(Breakfast included)
Itinerary subject to change!
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Packages & Rates
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The Aussie Challenge Tour | 12-Night Package: 18 August – 30 August, 2027
Adelaide Features:
- 4 nights’ accommodation at the Pullman Adelaide
- Breakfast daily
- Welcome Dinner (Wednesday, 18 August)
- Barossa Valley Full Day Wine Tour
- Adelaide Hills Full Day Tour with a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park
- Farewell Dinner (Tuesday, 24 August)
Kangaroo Island Features:
- 3 nights’ accommodation at the Aurora Ozone Hotel
- Breakfast daily
- Roundtrip transportation to the Cape Jervis ferry terminal
- Roundtrip SeaLink Ferry to Kangaroo Island
- Meals as outlined on the itinerary
- Full Day Kangaroo Island Sightseeing Tour with picnic lunch
- Visit to McLaren Vale wine region for a tasting and lunch
Sydney Features:
- One-way airfare from Adelaide to Sydney and airport transfer to the hotel
- 5 nights accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
- Breakfast daily
- English speaking on-site host
- Meet & greet
- Afternoon Harbour Cruise (Thursday PM: ~16:00 departure)
- Half Day North Head/Manly sightseeing tour and Expo visit (Friday)
- Shake-out run (Sat AM)
- Pre-race Dinner at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park (Sat PM)
- Race day support
- Post-race Celebration at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park (Sun PM)
- Guidance and support from Marathon Tours & Travel in Sydney
Not included:
- Guaranteed Entry into the Kangaroo Island Marathon or Half-Marathon (Available at an additional cost)
- Guaranteed TCS Sydney Marathon Entry (Available at an additional cost)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions above
Flights:
International flights should be booked to arrive at Adelaide Airport (ADL) on Wednesday, 18 August, 2027. Your flight home can depart on Monday, 30 August, 2027 at any time that is convenient for you, or talk to us about adding extra nights in Sydney to extend your stay.
Room Policy:
Marathon Tours & Travel’s policy is that anyone staying in our room block must be part of our package. If you plan to bring a spouse or guest, they must purchase our package. For example, if there are two of you, the rate would be the double occupancy rate (per person). If you purchase a single occupancy rate package, then only you are allowed in your room. To attend any of our activities, you must be part of our package.
2027 Rates
Aussie Challenge - 12 Night PackageAll prices are per person in UK pounds sterling Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Standard Room £ 3,895 £ 5,259 Optional ExtrasAll prices are per person in UK pounds sterling TCS Sydney Marathon Entry £ 339 Kangaroo Island Marathon Entry £ 95 Kangaroo Island Half Marathon Entry £ 95
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Hotels
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Pullman Adelaide
Adelaide’s premium 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. The 308 rooms and suites offer a fresh, open layout and all-round connectivity; ready to welcome modern-day adventurers and nomads, travelling for business or pleasure. Positioned in the heart of the Adelaide CBD and walking distance to Adelaide Oval and the Adelaide Convention Centre, experience the Pullman Adelaide and the perfect park location. Pullman Adelaide is an easy gateway to all of the favorite wine regions, including the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale.
Aurora Ozone Hotel, Kangaroo IslandWelcome to the Aurora Ozone Hotel at Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Boasting a truly unique location, set along the foreshore of one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines.
Experience our quality Kangaroo Island accommodation located on the foreshore with stunning views overlooking Nepean Bay from our Zone Restaurant.
Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde ParkSituated in the heart of Sydney, Australia, this five-star hotel is a great destination to connect to while savouring incredible views of downtown and Hyde Park. Find yourself near many local businesses and attractions, such as St. Mary’s Cathedral, Royal Botanic Garden and Middle Harbour. The hotel features a rooftop fitness centre, a heated indoor pool, a day spa and a premier club lounge.
Twin Room = 2 single beds
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Event Information
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The Aussie Challenge consists of two events:
The Kangaroo Island Marathon
Race Date: Sunday 22 August 2027
Race Times:
- Marathon – 7:30am
- Half Marathon – 8:00am*
- 10K – 8:30am
*Half marathon runners must report by 7:00am sharp. Buses depart to the Remarkable Rocks (start line) at 7:15am. Late runners will be transferred to the 10K.
Course: The course route carves its way through the heart of a shutdown Flinders Chase National Park. Runners are inspired by post-bushfire regenerating flora and fauna, undulating roads and trails, an exposed coastal section with views to the powerful Southern Ocean and a boardwalk leading to the iconic Remarkable Rocks. The race format encourages a spirit of camaraderie amongst runners as they pass by each other throughout the day.
Climate: The weather in Kangaroo Island is mild with an average temperature between 10-17°C.
Entry Fee: We can provide entry to the Marathon, Half Marathon or 10km at a special rate when you book a package through Marathon Tours & Travel.
Time Limit: The course time limit is seven (7) hours.
Difficulty: Challenging course with rolling hills and beautiful scenery.
TCS Sydney Marathon
The Course
The TCS Sydney Marathon 2027 will start across the harbour at Milsons Point, crosses the Sydney Harbour Bridge, runs through the city streets, out to the green parks in the suburbs and back to finish in front of the Sydney Opera House. Whilst it’s not a completely flat route the marathon is still considered fast and very runner and spectator friendly. The time limit for this marathon is 7 hours. All the races start and cross over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and finish in front of the Sydney Opera House, except the Fun Run which ends at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Sydney Marathon and the Bridge Run courses are AIMS Certified accurate courses. Marathon Course Map and Marathon Course Profile.
Race Date:
- Sunday 29 August, 2027
Race Times:
2027 Times are to be confirmed, please use the 2026 times as a guide.
- 07:10am Start Time, cut-off time 07:45am
Eligibility:
- Marathon – 18 years +
Time Limit:
- TCS Sydney Marathon – 7 Hours
The marathon event will have cut-off points along the route. For more information go here.
Awards: Everyone who finishes their running event within the time limit will receive a commemorative medal with Marathon finishers also receiving a finishers t-shirt.
Weather: The end of August will see Sydney entering it’s spring season. Runners should prepare for all weather conditions; you will find the most-up to date weather information here. Typically, at this time daily high temperatures will range from 15°C – 20°C.
Difficulty: Moderate. See Marathon course profile here.
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Registration & Booking
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Payments
When you confirm your booking, we will take payment.
The cost of the event entry is non-refundable, unless you are successful in the official TCS Sydney Marathon ballot.
Travel Advice
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Australia’s current entry restrictions and requirements.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend travellers to take out comprehensive travel insurance with sufficient healthcare cover. Make sure that you are insured for existing medical conditions, any activities you plan to do and any equipment that you plan to take. Travel insurance covers you if anything doesn’t go to plan before you travel as well, so we recommend sorting it at the time of booking. For more information, click here.
Guaranteed Kangaroo Island & TCS Sydney Marathon 2027 Entry
We are pleased to offer you guaranteed entry for the 2027 Kangaroo Island Marathon and 2027 TCS Sydney Marathon. You can buy the entry at our exclusive rates if you purchase your package with us.
Starting Times and Bib Numbers
Although we are licensed to sell official entries for the 2027 TCS Sydney Marathon, we have no influence over the allocation of starting times and bib numbers.
Closer to the event we will ask for your expected pace and other details to complete the registration process for the TCS Sydney Marathon. The race organisers will allocate you a starting time and bib based on the information you provide.
All race rules must be followed.
Aussie Challenge 2027 Package Cancellation Terms
Period before departure date in which you notify us Cancellation charge More than 98 days before Deposit or 30% (together with any non-refundable costs) 98 to 71 days before (inclusive) 60% (together with any non-refundable costs) 70 to 57 before (inclusive) 85% (together with any non-refundable costs) 56 days or less 100% (together with any non-refundable costs)
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Seven Continents Club ®
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The Seven Continents Club® (SCC) is our global running community that proudly supports runners in pursuing their running goals. As well as connecting runners from around the world, being a member of the club comes with exclusive benefits, including priority access to our most in‑demand events - helping you plan ahead and secure places in some of the world’s most sought‑after running adventures. Join SCC today!
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