Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Official AbbottWMM Package

Nights
4
Date
May 23, 2027
  • Marathon
Available Soon

If you have questions regarding the Cape Town Official Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) Package please: EMAIL OUR TEAM or CALL 617-242-7845

As the Official Travel Agency and Tour Operator of AbbottWMM, we have created packages specifically designed for runners who have their own entry. 

Marathon Tours & Travel are the Official Tour Operator of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and have teams in offices around the world ready to support your journey to the start line. In 2026, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon passed its final test and reached a historic milestone by officially joining the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) as the eighth race in the prestigious series. This achievement cements the city’s place among the world’s premier marathon destinations, highlighting its world-class course, breathtaking scenery, and growing global appeal to runners and spectators alike. It is the only AIMS gold label marathon in Africa.

Cape Town’s history is long and storied. It is a city with an unrivalled culture and diversity, boasting a heady mix of old and new. Nothing speaks to this more than the iconic attractions made up of Cape Point, City Walk, Groot Constantia, Kirstenbosch, Robben Island Museum, Table Mountain Cableway and V&A Waterfront, that form the core of the Mother City.

Our expertly curated packages include a welcome reception, escorted race number pick-up, warm-up run, pre-race dinner, and more.  Your Marathon Tours & Travel team will be on hand for guidance and support to help make your trip fun, experiential and a race to remember.

A trip to South Africa would not be complete without a visit to a Shamwari, a luxurious safari lodge where you can view game, dine, relax and make memories after your race. South Africa is a country that you will not forget!

The Cape Town Marathon is an AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel World Age Group Qualifying Race.

If you reside in the UK, please go here

If you reside in Oceania or Asia (excluding China), please go here

If you reside in China (including Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao), please go here

Meals Included

Meals Included

Daily breakfasts & dinner on Saturday

Trip Extension

Trip Extension

Optional 3-Night Shamwari Extension, Extra nights are available upon request

Accommodation

Accommodation

Four (4) nights’ accommodation

A Helping Hand

A Helping Hand

Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel

Medal Bling

Medal Bling

Finishers receive a medal, ASICS Shirt & goodie bag

Travel Package Information

  • Itinerary

    • Cape Town Official AbbottWMM Package/4 Nights/May 20 - 24, 2027

      Thursday, May 20
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      Depending on the length of stay you have booked with us you might arrive before or depart on different days to the following itinerary.

      The itinerary below reflects our four-night Official AbbottWMM package. Extending your stay by adding a pre or post trip extension or adding extra nights is recommended as it allows you the time to enjoy the Country. For guidance on South Africa and what to expect please refer to our Destination Guide

      Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) make your way from the airport to the hotel and check in.

      Marathon Tours & Travel hosts will be waiting in your hotel reception area today to meet you and answer any questions you might have.

      Friday, May 21
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      After breakfast, we will depart for a half-day sightseeing tour of this beautiful city including all the ‘must-sees” of Cape Town, which is a geographical and cultural extravaganza.  If weather permits, you’ll also enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain where you will be able to get a 360 degree view of Cape Town, Table Bay and the nearby peaks of the surrounding mountains. Last stop is at the expo to pick up your race kits. Return from the expo is under your own arrangements (Uber taxi or walk). (Breakfast included)

      Saturday, May 22
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      This morning before breakfast we will have a shake-out run, please join us! All fitness levels are welcome as it will be at an easy pace, no longer than 5km (approx. 3 miles). A perfect opportunity to loosen your legs, ask questions and get to know your fellow runners!

      If you did not collect your bib yet today is your last chance.

      Your day is free to explore, please ask your Marathon Tours & Travel (MTT) hosts for recommendations.

      Often restaurants are booked up early, but you do not need to worry about finding somewhere to carb-load as this evening we will enjoy a substantial buffet meal with other MTT guests from around the world. (Breakfast and dinner included)

      Sunday, May 23 – RACE DAY!
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      Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race day is here! After an early breakfast, please make your way to the start line. Marathon Tours & Travel will guide you.

      Depending on your hotel location we will either provide transport to and from the race or take escorted walks at key times.

      Supporters are welcome to join the MTT team to cheer everyone on.

      After the race, recharge with us in the International Tent. Meet the Marathon Tours & Travel team at the finish. Guidance will be given. Depending on your hotel location we will either provide transport or you take a walk back to your hotel.

      This evening, join Marathon Tours & travel hosts, your new running friends and supporters to celebrate as we‘ll meet up for post-race celebrations, saying cheers to all of our runners on an amazing accomplishment! (Breakfast included)

      Monday, May 24
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      Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring on your own to the airport for your flight home. Additional nights are available on request if you would like to continue to explore Cape Town at your own pace. For those joining the post-race extension to Shamwari Game Reserve we will have an early morning transfer to the Cape Town Airport.

      For those who leave us today we will bid you farewell. It’s not goodbye but instead we’ll see you next time as we hope you will join us for another Marathon Tours & Travel trip. (Breakfast included)

  • Extensions

    • Information here is subject to change as we await updated 2027 information.

      The African Challenge | 14-Night Package: May 19 – June 2, 2027

      Run in Cape Town and Madagascar! Our Madagascar Marathon Tour takes place the Sunday following the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. In Madagascar, you can select to run a marathon, half-marathon, 10K or Ultra 50K.  It’s a challenge plus an amazing African adventure! For those who participate in both packages, we have a two-night stay in the wine region of Stellenbosch, airport transfers and your flight from Cape Town to Antananarivo, Madagascar.  Learn more about our Madagascar Marathon Tour here and our full African Challenge package here.  IMPORTANT.  If you are interested in this package and are ready to book Cape Town now, please select the Radisson Hotel.  Questions can be sent to [email protected].

      Shamwari Game Reserve | Three-Night Package: May 24 – 27, 2027 – Post-Race Extension

      Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5, stretching 25,000 hectares over a malaria-free landscape, it offers an award-winning nature experience along with the largest concentration of wildlife in Southern and Eastern Cape.

      Please Note: All children must be 6 years or older to join parents on this extension, and must be supervised at all times. 

      Itinerary:

      Monday, May 24

      Transfer from the hotel to Cape Town International Airport for the one-hour and twenty minute flight to Port Elizabeth. Upon arrival you will be transferred to Shamwari Game Reserve, Snacks and drinks will be served just before departing for your first game drive.  In four-wheel Land Rovers you will explore the expansive 55,000 acre reserve in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffe, eland, buffalo and much more wildlife roaming through the hills and valleys. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

      Tuesday, May 25 and Wednesday, May 26

      Today is an early morning wake-up (6:00 AM) with coffee available before departing for your morning game drive. This is a great time to view many animals visiting the water holes and/or predators hunting for their day food. We will return around 9:00 AM for breakfast and spend the balance of the day relaxing by the pool, going on game walks, and/or enjoying one of the many spa treatments available. We will head out for our last game drive at 4:00 PM and return for our Closing Reception and Dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

      Thursday, May 27

      After breakfast, transfers (included) will be booked to accommodate guests individual travel plans departing Port Elizabeth Airport for onward flights. Please note the road transfer journey time between Shamwari and Port Elizabeth Airport is 60 – 90 minutes, and guests will be grouped on to the best suited transfer time to meet your departure.

       We recommend flying directly to Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) so that you can connect with your international flight home. Please note that your flight from Port Elizabeth to your connecting city is not included.

      (Breakfast included)

      Shamwari Game Reserve | Three-Night Package: May 16 – 19, 2027 – Pre-Race Extension

      Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5, stretching 25,000 hectares over a malaria-free landscape, it offers an award-winning nature experience along with the largest concentration of wildlife in Southern and Eastern Cape.

      Please Note: All children must be 6 years or older to join parents on this extension, and must be supervised at all times. 

      Itinerary:

      Sunday, May  16

      Transfer from the hotel to Cape Town International Airport for the one-hour and twenty minute flight to Port Elizabeth. Upon arrival you will be transferred to Shamwari Game Reserve, Snacks and drinks will be served just before departing for your first game drive.  In four-wheel Land Rovers you will explore the expansive 55,000 acre reserve in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffe, eland, buffalo and much more wildlife roaming through the hills and valleys. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

      Monday, May  17 and Tuesday, May  18

      Today is an early morning wake-up (6:00 AM) with coffee available before departing for your morning game drive. This is a great time to view many animals visiting the water holes and/or predators hunting for their day food. We will return around 9:00 AM for breakfast and spend the balance of the day relaxing by the pool, going on game walks, and/or enjoying one of the many spa treatments available. We will head out for our last game drive at 4:00 PM and return for our Closing Reception and Dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

      Wednesday, May 19

      After breakfast, transfers (included) will be booked to accommodate guests individual travel plans departing Port Elizabeth Airport for onward flights. Please note the road transfer journey time between Shamwari and Port Elizabeth Airport is 60 – 90 minutes, and guests will be grouped on to the best suited transfer time to meet your departure.

       We recommend flying directly to Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) so that you can connect with your international flight home. Please note that your flight from Port Elizabeth to your connecting city is not included.

      (Breakfast included)

  • Packages & Rates

    • Cape Town Official AbbottWMM Package | Four-Night Package: May 20 – 24, 2027

      Features:  

      • Accommodation for 4 nights, arrival on Thursday, May 20, 2027
      • Breakfast Daily, except day of arrival
      • Pre-departure webinar
      • Race briefing and a guided trip to the Expo
      • Shake-out run
      • Pre-Race Dinner
      • Transportation or escort to race start area
      • Shuttle from the finish area to your hotel.
      • Dedicated support from Marathon Tours & Travel host

      Please Note:

      • This package does not include a race entry. If you wish to purchase a race entry for a companion travelling with you please contact us to add an entry to your booking. Race Entry will be full payment and non refundable and non transferable.

      Not Included:

      • Race Entry (please contact us if you would like to purchase an entry for your companion)
      • Anything not mentioned in inclusions

      Extension to Shamwari Game Reserve | Three Night Package

      Features:  

      Not Included:
      • Anything not mentioned in inclusions

       

      Airfare:

      Cape Town Package Only: Flights should be booked in and out of Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and should arrive on Thursday, May 20, 2027 before 4:00 PM.

      Cape Town and Shamwari Extension: Flights should be booked into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and back from Port Elizabeth (PLZ).  You should plan to arrive on Thursday, May 20, 2027, before 4:00 PM. Plan to depart from Port Elizabeth on Thursday, May 27, 2027, in the mid-afternoon to connect with your international flight home.

      Travel Insurance

      Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents

      Travel Insurance for Canadian Residents

       

      Rates (all prices are per person and in US dollars)

      Additional nights upon request

      Four-Night Official AbbottWMM Package | May 20 - 24Double OccupancySingle Occupancy
      Westin Cape TownStarting from $1795 per personStarting from $3005
      Extension to Shamwari Game Reserve
      Shamwari Game Reserve ExtensionDouble OccupancySingle Occupancy
      Standard Lodge$5480 per person$6850
      Premium Lodge$5890 per person$7465

  • Hotels
    • The Westin Cape Town
      Shamwari Game Reserve (Extension)

      Set in the heart of the Eastern Cape, our private game reserve offers a safari experience like no other. From thrilling Big 5 encounters and breathtaking landscapes to immersive game drives, bush walks, stargazing, and indulgent spa treatments, a stay at Shamwari is transformative, inspiring, and unforgettable.

  • Event Information

    • Information here is subject to change as we await updated 2027 information.

      Race Date: Sunday, May 23 2027 (Marathon)

      Race Time: 

      Marathon — Various 6:00AM
      Elite wheelchairs — 6:10AM
      Elite field 6:15AM — Batches will then go every 2 mins

      Starting Times and Bib Numbers: Allocation of start times and bibs is by Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.  Closer to the event we will ask for your expected pace and other details to complete the registration process for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. The organizers will allocate you a starting time and bib based on the information you provide.

      Race Rules: All official race rules must be followed.

      Course: The marathon course begins outside the iconic Cape Town Stadium and runs along a spectacular route, where you will take in the famous natural beauty of Cape Town’s mountains and sea, as well as many of the city’s great attractions, finishing back at the Cape Town Stadium. The course is ideal for athletes who aim to achieve fast times and for first-timers who want to finish their inaugural marathon.

      Temperature: Average temperatures are between 17 – 20 degrees Celsius (62 to 68 Fahrenheit)

      Eligibility: In accordance with Athletics South Africa (ASA) Rules and Regulations, participants must meet the minimum age requirement for each event by the event date.

      42.2km Marathon: 18 years

      Time Limit & Cut-Offs: The course has a strict 6 hour and 30 minutes time limit.  The timing is based on gun to gun.  Due to IAAF requirements the race organizers will be strictly enforcing cut-off times in certain locations.  There will be pick up buses for all athletes that do not make the cut-off times at the following points.  Roving pick-ups will also take place. See the route map for details of all cut-off times

      • Marathon – Cut-Off Points (subject to change)
        • 8:15 AM – at 10.1km (Center Helen Suzman and Buitengracht Street)
        • 9:40 AM – at 18.7km (Water Station 6)
        • 11:10 AM – at 29km (Water Station 10)
        • 12:20 PM – at 35.9km (Water Station 13)
        • 12:48 PM – at 38.5km (Water Station 14)
        • At Finish Line: 6h30m

      Number Pickup: Time will be organized for the group to stop at the expo to pick up your race number during the city tour. The expo is located at the Century City Conference Centre.

      • Friday, May 21: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
      • Saturday, May 22: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

      Awards: Everyone who finishes the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will receive a medal, ASICS Shirt and goodie bag

      Difficulty: Moderate.  Fairly flat course with a couple of long hills.

  • Registration & Booking

    • Rates: All prices are based on current exchange rates and may change due to currency fluctuations.  All payments to Marathon Tours & Travel will be processed in USD.

      Reservation and Payments: A completed tour application together with a deposit of 30% of the package price plus 100% of the race entry price must be received before confirming your reservation. A Second payment of 20%, will be charged to the credit card on file on September 30, 2026. A Third payment of 20%, will be charged to the credit card on file on November 30, 2026. The final payment of remaining balance will be charged to the credit card on January 31, 2027.

      Cancellations: All payments, including your deposit, are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Non-transferrable includes applying your balance to another person, another year, or another trip. Should you cancel for any reason, you will forfeit your trip investment.

      Not Included in Price: All items not specifically listed under tour features.  The race entry fee is additional.

      Insurance: For your protection, trip cancellation, baggage, health and accident insurance is highly recommended for all participants. However, no representation or description of the insurance made by our staff constitutes a binding assurance or promise about the insurance.

      Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents
      Travel Insurance for Canadian Residents

      Security Policy: Marathon Tours & Travel’s security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and /or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest’s tour package will be forfeited and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.

      Responsibility: These tours are operated by Marathon Tours, Inc. of Chelsea, MA who acts only as an agent for the passenger to the companies offering such services and assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity caused by any reason whatsoever by any party offering such services. All terms and conditions offered are governed by the laws of Massachusetts. The right is reserved to cancel the tour prior to departure with a refund, less applicable credit card and processing fees, made as full settlement to the passenger. The right is reserved by Marathon Tours, Inc. to deny acceptance of a booking application by any person. Marathon Tours, Inc. may make any changes or alterations in the itinerary as it deems necessary for the proper handling of the tour. The sole responsibility of any airline used is limited to that set out in the passenger contract evidenced by the ticket. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time that the passengers are not on board their aircraft.

  • Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group World Championship

    • You can use this event to qualify for the Abbott World Marathon Majors Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championships (AGWC). If you secure a place, we invite you to book our official travel package and share the championship experience with other Age Groupers here.

      For more information on the Age Group World Rankings and Championship go here.

Recommended Resources

Meet the Reps

Patrick DiMatteo

Trip Designer

Patrick DiMatteo

Trip Designer

Patrick joined the Marathon Tours & Travel team after receiving his Master of Business Administration degree from Grand Canyon University. While earning his degree, he spent a year in the Harvard University athletic department working in marketing and fan engagement. Born and raised in New Jersey, Patrick also spent time working in the athletic departments of both Princeton and Monmouth University in similar roles. Patrick is a graduate of William Paterson University of New Jersey with a B.A. in Sport Management and Business Administration and has a passion for both running and sports alike. He hopes to combine his passion of travel and running with his business acumen to create incredible experiences for runners around the world.

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