{"id":2217,"date":"2023-03-27T20:48:23","date_gmt":"2023-03-27T20:48:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marathontours.co.uk\/?post_type=events&p=2217"},"modified":"2026-04-15T13:06:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T12:06:08","slug":"big-five-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-gb\/events\/big-five-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Big Five Marathon & Half"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":2228,"template":"","event_types":[141,138,137],"event_locations":[118],"event_distances":[143,127,126],"event_course_types":[136,134],"event_seasons":[18],"class_list":["post-2217","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure-marathons","event_types-half-marathons","event_types-marathons","event_locations-africa","event_distances-adventure-marathon","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-adventure","event_course_types-rural","event_seasons-summer"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":2228,"event_logo":2229,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"off_sale","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"waitlist","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"anchor","":null,"external_link":null},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"anchor","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Pre-reg for 2026 now!","url":"https:\/\/bookinggb.marathontours.com\/experience\/big-five-marathon-2026-pre-registration\/206","target":""}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

Big Five Marathon 2026<\/h2>\r\nThe Big Five; the Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, Rhino and Lion. Not many can say they have run a marathon through the vast untouched surroundings of the African Savannah and experienced these incredible animals in their natural habitat. We are very excited to offer you the chance to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime event that will not only challenge you, but will reward you in the most spectacular and memorable way.\r\n\r\nFor international participants, race entry is only possible in conjunction with a multi-day tour package. The packages include all the ingredients for a fantastic getaway; accommodation, social events, sightseeing and select meals and transportation per the itinerary. Packages also generally include ample amounts of free time, during which you can choose to join organised excursions or explore the region at your own pace.\r\n\r\nBook today to run the wildest marathon of them all!\r\n\r\nWe will beat any price in GBP, so you can feel confident booking at the best possible price. Get in touch<\/a> with our team to request your 2026 package.\u00a0<\/strong>","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Breakfast, lunch & dinner are provided daily","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"Support from our team during your stay"},"transfers":{"detail":"Group transfers & game drives (see itinerary)","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":"Various trip extensions available as add-ons"},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":"Choice of lodge, resort & camp accommodations"},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Guaranteed marathon or half marathon entry"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Celebration dinner with live entertainment","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Various social events & sightseeing opportunities"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":""},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":""}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":2228},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":2230},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=cmRZbdG5H88"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":2218},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":2251},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":2249}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"Big Five Marathon Itinerary - 2026","package_duration":"6 Nights","package_dates":"10 - 16 June 2026","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday 10 June ","day_content":"Arrival at Entabeni:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nUpon arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, participants will be transferred to Entabeni Game Reserve at set times: 08:30am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 14:00pm and 16:00pm. If these transfers don't suit your schedule, private transfers are available at an extra cost although after 16:00pm they can't be guaranteed.\r\n\r\nOnce at Entabeni, you'll meet your tour leader and check in at your lodge or camp. Participants arriving on the earlier transfers (08:30am, 10:00am, or 12:00pm) will have the chance to embark on their first game drive immersing themselves in the stunning African wilderness and diverse wildlife.\r\n\r\nMeals: Dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday 11 June ","day_content":"Entabeni Game Drives:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday, you'll explore the reserve on a morning game drive and a bush walk. This is your chance to start getting acquainted with the terrain ahead of Saturday\u2019s Big Five Marathon.\r\n\r\nMorning game drives typically run from 06:00am to 09:30am offering cool temperatures and prime wildlife viewing. After the drive you'll return to a generous breakfast buffet. In the afternoon, a second game drive starts at 16:00pm leading into an evening safari as we spot nocturnal creatures under the stars. The day ends with a delicious dinner back at your lodge.\r\n\r\nPlease note:<\/strong> June is winter in South Africa with daytime temperatures reaching 20-25\u00b0C but nights can be very cold. Warm clothing is essential for early morning and late evening drives.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday 12 June ","day_content":"Route Inspection: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast we will head out for a route inspection. You'll be driven in safari vehicles along the marathon course, giving you the chance to familiarise yourself with the terrain, water stations and any challenges ahead. After the inspection participants will enjoy a buffet lunch with race officials, medical staff and rangers, followed by an introduction to the event logistics.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday 13 June","day_content":"Race Day!<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe highlight of the trip is here\u2014the Big Five Marathon! You'll be transported to the start line in the morning for final preparations. The race begins at 09:00am, though there may be delays depending on the location of the big five animals.\r\n\r\nThere are no scheduled game drives on race day.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday 14 June","day_content":"Celebration Dinner: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter the marathon, the morning is yours to relax or take part in additional game drives (optional). In the afternoon, we'll head out for another game drive before gathering for a festive post-marathon celebration. Enjoy great food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony and a bonfire under the stars. The party takes place in a traditional open-air South African boma, so warm & casual clothing is recommended.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday 15 June ","day_content":"Final Game Drive: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nOn your final morning at Entabeni Safari Conservancy, enjoy one last game drive soaking in the incredible wildlife and landscapes.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, farewell dinners will be hosted at the respective lodges, offering a perfect way to reminisce over your experiences in the African wilderness.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday 16 June","day_content":"Farewell South Africa or Hello Extension: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAs our time at Entabeni comes to a close, you\u2019ll be transferred back to Johannesburg International Airport. Group transfers are available at 08:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 14:00pm, 16:00pm, and 18:00pm.\r\n\r\nIf these times don\u2019t suit your schedule you can arrange a private transfer for an additional fee. For those continuing on to an extension, we\u2019ll ensure you're well looked after.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast<\/em>"}]},{"package_title":"Big Five Marathon Itinerary - 2026","package_duration":"7 Nights","package_dates":"09 - 16 June 2026","package_days":[{"day_title":"Tuesday 09 June ","day_content":"Arrival Zebra Nature Reserve:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nYour adventure begins at Johannesburg International Airport (OR Tambo), where all participants will be transferred to Zebra Nature Reserve at scheduled times. The available transfer times from the airport are 08:30am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 14:00pm, and 16:00pm. If these transfers don\u2019t suit your arrival time, you can book a private transfer at an additional cost. Please note that private transfers after 16:00pm cannot be guaranteed.\r\n\r\nZebra Nature Reserve, located just an hour from the airport, is spread over 400 hectares and home to free-roaming, non-predatory wildlife.\r\n\r\nUpon arrival, enjoy lunch before checking into your accommodation. In the afternoon, you'll take a guided nature walk that ends at the reptile centre where you\u2019ll learn about the reserve\u2019s native reptile species. As the day winds down we'll head out for a nature drive concluding with a traditional sundowner at the lookout point.\r\n\r\nMeals: Lunch, Dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday 10 June ","day_content":"Visit to Soweto:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday we will explore Soweto, South Africa\u2019s most famous township with a guide who grew up there. You\u2019ll gain personal insights into its history and modern-day culture. Highlights include visits to the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.\r\n\r\nAfter returning from Soweto, the afternoon is yours to relax or join optional activities such as fishing, kayaking, mountain biking (additional cost), or exploring the reserve at your own pace. You can also run the marked 5km trail.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday 11 June ","day_content":"Transfer to Entabeni:<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we embark on a short three-hour drive to Entabeni Game Reserve and Legend Safari Resort. Once settled in, you\u2019ll enjoy your first game drive in Entabeni, an exciting opportunity to experience African wildlife up close. The reserve's serene setting and low tourist numbers provide an authentic safari experience in open vehicles.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday 12 June ","day_content":"Route Inspection: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast we will head out for a route inspection. You'll be driven in safari vehicles along the marathon course, giving you the chance to familiarise yourself with the terrain, water stations and any challenges ahead. After the inspection participants will enjoy a buffet lunch with race officials, medical staff and rangers, followed by an introduction to the event logistics.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday 13 June ","day_content":"Race Day!<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe highlight of the trip is here\u2014the Big Five Marathon! You'll be transported to the start line in the morning for final preparations. The race begins at 09:00am, though there may be delays depending on the location of the big five animals.\r\n\r\nThere are no scheduled game drives on race day.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday 14 June ","day_content":"Celebration Dinner: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter the marathon, the morning is yours to relax or take part in additional game drives (optional). In the afternoon, we'll head out for another game drive before gathering for a festive post-marathon celebration. Enjoy great food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony and a bonfire under the stars. The party takes place in a traditional open-air South African boma, so warm & casual clothing is recommended.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday 15 June ","day_content":"Final Game Drive: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nOn your final morning at Entabeni Safari Conservancy, enjoy one last game drive soaking in the incredible wildlife and landscapes.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, farewell dinners will be hosted at the respective lodges, offering a perfect way to reminisce over your experiences in the African wilderness.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday 16 June","day_content":"Farewell South Africa or Hello Extension: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nAs our time at Entabeni comes to a close, you\u2019ll be transferred back to Johannesburg International Airport. Group transfers are available at 08:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 14:00pm, 16:00pm, and 18:00pm.\r\n\r\nIf these times don\u2019t suit your schedule you can arrange a private transfer for an additional fee. For those continuing on to an extension, we\u2019ll ensure you're well looked after.\r\n\r\nMeals: Breakfast<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"

Big Five Safari & Panorama Route: 16 - 20 June<\/h4>\r\nJoin an exciting safari trip which includes game drives, bush walks, and explorations of the area along the famed Panorama Route. Spot the Big Five game and a wealth of bird species, as well as other African wildlife. Our camp is beautifully situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, bordering the famed Kruger National Park. Consisting of fifteen stylishly-appointed tents with modern en-suite facilities and private terraces, a pool, bar, lounge and dining area and spacious, lush lawns, the camp provides an authentic African safari experience. Ask the Marathon Tours & Travel team for more details and a full itinerary.\r\n\r\nPrices from \u00a31,629<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"\r\n

Victoria Falls: 16 - 20 June<\/h4>\r\nWith a height of 108 metres, a combined width of 1,700 metres and picturesque rainforest backdrop, Victoria Falls is an impressive place to spend four days topping off your African adventure. You will stay 3 nights at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge with breakfast. Enjoy a tour of the falls, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi and a Boma Dinner Drum show as your included activities, along with hotel transfers and round-trip flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls. Ask the Marathon Tours & Travel team for more details and a full itinerary.\r\n\r\nPrices from \u00a32,149<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"\r\n

Cape Town: 16 - 20 June<\/h4>\r\nUnderneath the renowned Table Mountain lies the blue, frothy waters of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. South Africa\u2019s southern cape marks this oceanic convergence, and during your journey you pay a visit to one of the most famous of the meeting points \u2013 Cape Point at The Cape of Good Hope. Other activities that are sure to whet your whistle include a tour of the Winelands with tastings (of course!) and various highlights throughout Cape Town itself. Ask the Marathon Tours & Travel team for more details and a full itinerary.\r\n\r\nPrices from \u00a31,719<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"\r\n\r\n\"\"\"\"","event_extensions_packages":null,"event_packages_and_rates":"

Marathon Tours & Travel 2026 Big Five Marathon Packages include:<\/h3>\r\n

Big Five Marathon & Half 2026 - 7 Day Package:<\/h4>\r\n