{"id":373,"date":"2023-03-27T16:48:23","date_gmt":"2023-03-27T20:48:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usa.marathontours.com\/events\/big-five-marathon\/"},"modified":"2026-08-25T09:54:03","modified_gmt":"2026-08-25T13:54:03","slug":"big-five-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/big-five-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Big Five Marathon"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":390,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"inline_featured_image":false,"wds_primary_event_locations":0,"footnotes":""},"event_types":[6,106,104,101],"event_locations":[29],"event_distances":[11,12],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[19],"class_list":["post-373","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_types-trail","event_locations-africa","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-summer"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":390,"event_logo":388,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"available","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:marcie.clawson@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":[{"button_option":"external","button_text":"Seven-Night Package","button_external_link":{"title":"Seven-Night Package","url":"https:\/\/bookingus.marathontours.com\/experience\/big-five-south-african-experience-2027-7-night-package\/175","target":"_blank"},"button_text_colour":"","button_background_colour":"","button_border_colour":""}],"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Six-Night Package","url":"https:\/\/bookingus.marathontours.com\/experience\/big-five-marathon-2027-6-night-package\/174","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel's Big Five Packages please:\u00a0EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nThe Big Five Marathon and Half-Marathon provides the opportunity to run among the wildlife in their natural habitat in the northeastern corner of South Africa. The course is in the Entabeni Game Reserve, which is a 22,000 hectare malaria \u2013 free<\/span> private reserve situated in the Limpopo Province between Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park.\r\n\r\nThe package tour includes game drives in four-wheel jeeps through the Reserve. You will have the opportunity to view the \u201cBig Five\u201d (African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and rhinoceros) as well as numerous other species such as giraffe, hippopotamus and the many splendid species of antelope, not to mention the abundance of bird life. Your safari lodges will offer spectacular views to the mighty Entabeni-monolith.","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Breakfast, lunch & dinner are provided daily (see itinerary)","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"Support throughout your stay from Albatros Staff and Park Rangers"},"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":"Choose from accommodations located within or outside Entabeni reserve"},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Guaranteed marathon or half-marathon entry at additional cost"},"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":384},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":374},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=N_jVm0_aVos"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":390},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":379},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":431}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"Big Five Marathon Package","package_duration":"6 Nights","package_dates":"June 16 - 22, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 16","day_content":"Arrive at Johannesburg International Airport (JNB) for your transfer to Entabeni Safari Conservancy\r\n\r\nTransfer departure times from the airport are: 8:30am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:00pm. Depending on your arrival time you may need to arrive the day before to connect with one of the scheduled group transfers or book an individual transfer at an extra cost.\r\n\r\nUpon arrival to Entabeni you will meet your tour leader and \u00a0check in at your respective lodge\/camp. Participants arriving on one of the first three transfers (departure from Johannesburg International Airport at 08:30, 10:00 & 12:00) will have the possibility to go on the first of several exciting game drives. The game drives will provide the opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in serene surroundings. The Entabeni Safari Conservancy offers diverse wildlife, open safari vehicles and relatively few tourists, creating an ideal wilderness atmosphere.\u00a0(Dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, June 17","day_content":"Today is dedicated to exploring the game reserve through a game drive and\/or a bush walk. We will get accustomed to the park\u2019s geography, and climate, and we can slowly start preparing ourselves for Saturday\u2019s exciting event: The Big Five Marathon.\r\n\r\nThe game drive is included in the itinerary and will take place either in the early morning (6:00am \u2013 9:00am) or in the late afternoon (4:00pm \u2013 7:30pm) and are followed by breakfast or dinner buffets comprised of an assortment of local foods and sweets. A bush walk with an experienced armed ranger is also included on the second day, giving us a chance to get \u00a0close to the nature and wildlife. Additional game drives and bush walks can be purchased \u00a0at your lodge. Alternatively, some of your free time can also be used for shorter runs outside Entabeni \u2013 the tour leader will help organize the runs.\r\n\r\nPlease Note:<\/strong>\u00a0June is \u00a0wintertime in South Africa and while the temperature often rises to 20-25 degrees Celsius (68 \u2013 77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, temperatures around 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit) at night time is not unusual! Especially the large drop from day to \u00a0nighttime temperatures makes the evenings and mornings feel extremely cold. It is therefore essential to bring a winter jacket, warm hat and gloves when going on game drives! Blankets are available in the jeeps for extra warmth.\r\n\r\nOver the last few years, the reserve\u2019s wildlife has become increasingly accustomed to tourists. It is therefore not uncommon to see elephants, giraffes and different species of antelopes grazing \u00a0near the safari vehicles. A pride of lions even occasionally holds up traffic, lying lazily across the track. We use open 4\u00d74 safari vehicles, which provide us with an excellent opportunity for viewing the wildlife in safety. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, June 18","day_content":"After breakfast all the participants are transported from their respective lodges\/camp to the starting point of the marathon. Before we set off for the start line, there will be a short briefing about the route inspection. All safari vehicles follow the route in a convoy, allowing the participants to examine the different running surfaces, note the locations of water posts, and assess the overall difficulty of the route. After the route inspection a large buffet lunch will be served. This is the time where everyone is gathered - the participants, race officials, medical staff and rangers - for a formal introduction to the event, and a presentation of the practical issues surrounding the marathon. There are no scheduled game drives this day. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, June 19","day_content":"It is race day! Today you take part in an unforgettable challenge: The Big Five Marathon. In the morning all participants will be transported from the various lodges and camps to the starting line in time for final preparations. The marathon is planned to start at 9:00am, but delays may occur, as the exact start time will be dependent on the location of the big five game \u2013 if too close to the route, the start will be postponed. There are no scheduled game drives this day.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, June 20","day_content":"Today we have time to relax after running on the African savannah. Additional game drives and excursions can be \u00a0purchased, and, in the afternoon, we will experience yet another fantastic game drive followed by our post-marathon celebration. There will be great food, live entertainment, an award ceremony, a big bonfire and partying under the starry skies. Please be aware that the party takes place in a traditional South African boma with open roof and large open doorways. It is therefore advisable to dress warm! For the same reason there\u2019s no dress code and casual clothing is recommended.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, June 21","day_content":"On your final day at the Entabeni Safari Conservancy there is the opportunity for one last game drive either in the morning or in the afternoon. In the evening farewell dinners will be held at the respective lodges.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 22","day_content":"Our week at Entabeni Safari Conservancy has come to an end and it\u2019s time to head back to Johannesburg. Your transfer from Entabeni to Johannesburg International Airport will have you arriving at the airport at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM or 6:00 PM depending on your flight departure time. If you wish to extend your stay in South Africa, choose one of our two optional extensions and extend your stay. Private transfers to Johannesburg O.R Tambo International Airport are available for an extra charge, if the group transfers don\u2019t fit your onward journey.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]},{"package_title":"Big Five South African Experience Package","package_duration":"7 Nights","package_dates":"June 15 - 22, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 15","day_content":"Your tour will start and end at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (JNB).\u00a0 Upon arrival, all participants will be transferred at set group transfer times from the airport to the Zebra Nature Reserve.\r\n\r\nTransfer departure times from the airport are 8:30am, 10:00am, 12:00pm and 2:00pm.\u00a0 Depending on your arrival time you may need to arrive the day before to connect with one of the scheduled transfers or book an individual transfer at an extra cost.\r\n\r\nAfter arrival at Zebra Nature Reserve, you will enjoy lunch before check-in.\u00a0 In the afternoon there will be a guided nature walk ending at the reptile center where you will have the chance to learn about many of the endemic reptile species.\u00a0In the late afternoon, you will be treated to a nature drive through the reserve that ends at a lookout point where you will enjoy a traditional sundowner.\u00a0(Lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 16","day_content":"Today we will visit South Africa\u2019s most famous township Soweto. With a guide who was born and raised in Soweto you\u2019ll hear personal insights into the culture of the township and learn about Soweto\u2019s vibrant modern personality. During the visit in Soweto, we will also visit the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial. In the afternoon you will have time to relax or choose from numerous optional activities including fishing, kayaking, mountain biking or visit the onsite spa (all at additional cost). Additionally, since all wildlife in the reserve is non-predatory, you can venture out on your own for a walk or run.\u00a0 Do not be surprised when you encounter zebra, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest, eland and impala living in harmony. In the evening, enjoy dinner around the open fire with local drumming. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included) <\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, June 17","day_content":"After breakfast we will drive three hours to Entabeni Game Reserve and Legend Safari Resort. In the afternoon we will go on the first of several exciting game drives in Entabeni. The game drives provide an opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in serene surroundings. Diverse wildlife viewing in open safari vehicles with knowledgeable park rangers and relatively few tourists, creates an ideal wilderness atmosphere.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, June 18","day_content":"After breakfast, all guests are transported from their respective lodges\/camp to the starting point of the marathon. Before we set off for the start line, there will be a short briefing about the route inspection. All safari vehicles follow the route in a convoy, allowing the participants to examine the different running surfaces, note the locations of water posts, and assess the overall difficulty of the route. After the route inspection a large buffet lunch will be served.\r\n\r\nThis is the time where everyone is gathered \u2013 the participants, race officials, medical staff and rangers \u2013 for a formal introduction to the event, and a presentation of the practical issues surrounding the marathon. There are no scheduled game drives today.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, June 19","day_content":"It is race day! In the morning all guests will be transported from the various lodges and camps to the starting line in time for final preparations. The marathon is planned to start at 9:00 AM, however delays may occur, as the exact start time will be dependent on the location of the big five game \u2013 if too close to the route, the start will be postponed. There are no scheduled game drives today.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, June 20","day_content":"Today we have time to relax after running on the African savannah. Additional game drives and excursions can be purchased, and, in the afternoon, we will experience yet another fantastic game drive followed by our post-marathon celebration. There will be great food, live entertainment, an award ceremony, a big bonfire, and partying under the starry skies. Please be aware that the party takes place in a traditional South African boma with open roof and large open doorways. It is therefore advisable to dress warm! There is no dress code and casual clothing is recommended.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, June 21","day_content":"On your final day at the Entabeni Safari Conservancy there is the opportunity for one last game drive either in the morning or in the afternoon. In the evening farewell dinners will be held at the respective lodges.\u00a0(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 22","day_content":"Our week at Entabeni Safari Conservancy has come to an end and it\u2019s time to head back to Johannesburg. Your transfer from Entabeni to Johannesburg International Airport will have you arriving at the airport at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM or 6:00 PM depending on your flight departure time. If you wish to extend your stay in South Africa, choose one of our two optional extensions and extend your stay. Private transfers to Johannesburg O.R Tambo International Airport are available for an extra charge, if the group transfers don\u2019t fit your onward journey.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"

Big Five Safari & Panorama Route| Four-Night Package: June 22 - 26, 2027<\/h3>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nTreat yourself to more game drives and bush walks at Khoka Moya Camp and experience the famed Panorama Route!\r\n\r\nOur camp is beautifully situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, bordering the famed Kruger National Park. Consisting of fifteen stylishly-appointed tents with modern ensuite facilities and private terraces, a pool, bar, lounge and dining area and spacious, lush lawns, the camp provides an authentic African safari experience.\r\n\r\nTuesday, June 22<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we will leave Entabeni and start our drive to Khoka Moya Camp.\r\n\r\nThe 7-hour drive will be broken up with an exhilarating zip wire adventure. Glide through a scenic river valley and enjoy astounding views from the treetops while swaying over a gushing waterfall and rushing river. The activity is suitable for everyone (not only for marathon runners).\r\n\r\nA light lunch will be served after the adventure. Dinner will be enjoyed at the camp.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast, light lunch & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nWednesday, June 23<\/strong>\r\n\r\nOver the next few days, we will experience morning and afternoon safaris and hiking in the wilderness. Not much can compare with the spicy morning scents and the special glow over the savannah in the early morning. Enjoy the peacefulness, and the quiet lull that descends upon the savannah when\u00a0the night\u2019s hunting is over.\r\n\r\nToday we spend exploring the bush with game drives or bush walks after breakfast and lunch.\r\n\r\nAs you experienced in Entabeni, early morning and late evenings can be chilly, so we provide blankets in the open safari vehicles, but we also recommend that you bring a hat and a windproof jacket or fleece along.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nThursday, June 24<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter an early breakfast we will drive from the camp to the province of Mpumalanga, which means \u201cplace where the sun rises.\u201d\u00a0The Panorama Route is true to its name, with magnificent vistas and a stop at the scenic vantage point known as\u00a0\u201cGod\u2019s Window,\u201d\u00a0with panoramic\u00a0views of the lowveld savannah that lies 1,000m below the plateau.\r\n\r\nThe route also takes us to Bourke\u2019s Luck Potholes, a rocky landscape where water has carved deep cylindrical holes into the bare rock. Finally, we stop at Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world. We\u2019ll\u00a0have a break for lunch in Pilgrim\u2019s Rest, an old gold mining town (lunch is not included). We expect to be back to camp in the late afternoon, allowing you some time to relax before dinner.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nFriday, June 25<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we\u2019ll enjoy another day of game drives (morning and afternoon) and experience the bush. There will be either two game drives today or one game drive and a bush walk. \u202fAll meals will be enjoyed at the camp.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast, lunch & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nSaturday, June 26<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we\u2019ll head back to Johannesburg. The journey will take approximately seven hours by bus. We\u2019ll stop for lunch (not included) and be back in Johannesburg at around 3pm.\u00a0Please allow at least three hours between arrival and your flight home or onward.\r\n

Victoria Falls & Chobe | Four-Night Package: June 22 \u2013 26, 2027<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nExtend your African adventure by joining us in Victoria Falls and visit one of the world\u2019s largest waterfalls.\r\n\r\nWith a height of 108 meters, a combined width of 1700 meters, and picturesque rain forest backdrop, Victoria Falls is an impressive place to spend four days topping off your African adventure.\r\n\r\nIn the Bantu language, the falls are called \u201cmosi-oa-tunya,\u201d which means \u201cthe smoke that thunders,\u201d and that is a perfect representation of Victoria Falls \u2013 a huge puff of \u201csmoke\u201d accompanied by the thunderous sound of the water.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, we will visit the breathtaking Chobe National Park in Botswana for a full day tour.\r\n\r\nTuesday, June 22<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we start our drive to O R Tambo\u00a0International Airport where we will check in for our 1 hour 40-minute flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.\r\n\r\nOn arrival, and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be transferred to your chosen hotel for the next four nights.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nWednesday, June 23<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast, we will take a walking tour around the indescribably beautiful Victoria Falls. Our guide will explain the history & culture of the area and provide information about its location along the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia.\r\n\r\nIt is a good idea to bring an umbrella or light raincoat to protect yourself from the ever-present spray of the falls.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nThursday, June 24<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday we will visit Chobe National Park in Botswana. Chobe allows close encounters with Africa\u2019s iconic wildlife amidst diverse landscapes. Complementing this, a game viewing boat cruise along the Chobe River is included and offers a unique perspective on animals gathering at the water\u2019s edge, enhancing the safari experience.\r\nIf you like elephants you will love Chobe National Park as it offers one of Africa\u2019s highest concentrations of elephants.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nFriday, June 25<\/strong>\r\n\r\nToday is free for you to experience the many activities that are available around Victoria Falls. Enjoy a helicopter flight over the falls, go river rafting on the Zambezi, or perhaps\u00a0bungee jump over the falls. There is also the opportunity to experience the falls from the Zambia side.\u00a0Our local representative will be able to assist in booking activities.\r\nIn the early evening, we will all meet for a Dinner Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River. The cruise offers a serene and picturesque experience, combining dining with stunning views of the sunset over the water. As you glide along the river, look for wildlife on the river\u2019s edge and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the African landscape.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & Dinner Sunset Cruise included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nSaturday, June 26<\/strong>\r\n\r\nYou will have the morning free for optional activities before your transfer back to Victoria Falls airport, where we will take a flight\u00a0to Johannesburg.\u00a0 Flight times are provided below (subject to change).\u00a0 Consider booking your international flight home after 7:00pm.\r\n\r\nFlight Information<\/strong> (2027 flight time subject to change)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\nJune 22, 2027<\/strong>\r\n