{"id":51907,"date":"2026-06-12T15:44:44","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T19:44:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/madagascar-marathon-2\/"},"modified":"2026-06-25T18:35:18","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T22:35:18","slug":"the-african-challenge","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/the-african-challenge\/","title":{"rendered":"The African Challenge"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":51816,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"inline_featured_image":false,"wds_primary_event_locations":0,"footnotes":""},"event_types":[6,106,104,101,105],"event_locations":[29],"event_distances":[31,11,12,14],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[19],"class_list":["post-51907","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_types-trail","event_types-ultra","event_locations-africa","event_distances-10k","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_distances-ultramarathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-summer"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":52150,"event_logo":34592,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"waitlist","event_status_labels_available":"limited-space","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Register your interest","url":"https:\/\/forms.cloud.microsoft\/e\/0utdTfUi0i","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"","url":"https:\/\/forms.marathontours.com\/booking?tc=MAD","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel's African Challenge Packages please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nAfrican Challenge: From Cape Town to Madagascar<\/strong>\r\n

\r\n\r\nEmbark on the ultimate running adventure with our African Challenge<\/strong>, a once-in-a-lifetime journey that blends iconic races, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences across Southern Africa.\r\n\r\nYour adventure begins in Cape Town, South Africa<\/strong>, one of the world\u2019s most spectacular cities. Enjoy a five-night stay at the Radisson Hotel<\/strong>, perfectly located for you to soak in the vibrant energy of the Cape Town Marathon. With Table Mountain as your backdrop and the Atlantic coastline at your side, this race offers both beauty and excitement in every stride.\r\n\r\nAfter Cape Town, unwind and celebrate your achievement with a two-night escape to the renowned wine region of Stellenbosch<\/strong>. Nestled among rolling vineyards and dramatic mountain scenery, this charming destination provides the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy world-class wines, and experience the rich flavors of South Africa.\r\n\r\nYour journey culminates with Marathon Tours & Travel\u2019s seven-night Madagascar Marathon Package<\/strong>, taking you to one of the most unique and untouched destinations on Earth. Here, you\u2019ll run through the stunning landscapes of Isalo National Park<\/strong>, where rugged sandstone formations, canyons, and wide-open spaces create a race environment unlike any other.\u00a0\u00a0In Madagascar, runners can choose their challenge: 10K, Half-Marathon, Marathon or Ultra 50K.\r\n\r\nFrom bustling city streets to tranquil vineyards and the raw beauty of Madagascar\u2019s wilderness, the African Challenge offers a truly immersive experience. This is more than a race series\u2014it\u2019s a journey across diverse cultures, landscapes, and unforgettable moments.\r\n\r\nDiscover Africa. Challenge yourself. Create memories that last a lifetime.<\/strong>\r\n\r\nIMPORTANT.\u00a0 Madagascar requires uncomfortable travel on bumpy roads from Tulear to Isalo, approx. eight (8) hours each way.\u00a0 This trip is not suitable for those who cannot handle long travel days or these conditions.\u00a0 Madagascar is also a third world country so one must be prepared for the poverty that exists.\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\n<\/div>","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Most meals as outline on itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"Services of English-speaking guides and MTT Hosts"},"transfers":{"detail":"Airport transfers & ground transportation according to the itinerary","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":"Six-night post-race extension available"},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":""},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Guaranteed Entry (additional cost)"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Welcome reception and post-race party with entertainment","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Nature hikes, touring and sightseeing as per the itinerary"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":""},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":"Race shirt and finisher medal"}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51814},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51815},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/7eEeDwkNook"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51827},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51828},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":51825}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"African Challenge Package","package_duration":"14 Nights","package_dates":"May 19 - June 2, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 19","day_content":"Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and transfer by taxi to your hotel. Upon arrival you will have the day on your own to acclimate to the city.\u00a0 Tonight you can enjoy dinner at one of the many fine restaurants or bistros along the famous Waterfront.\u00a0(No meals included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 20","day_content":"
After breakfast, we will head to the heart of the Cape Winelands, through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. Taking Helshoogte Pass into the Drakenstein Mountains, we enjoy wine tastings with breathtaking views and have lunch inspired by the local countryside and farm produce. We continue our journey into the Drakenstein Valley and the Paarl Wine Route to stop at Fairview Wine Estate for a cheese and wine pairing and time to shop at the Deli (itinerary subject to change).<\/span><\/div>\r\n
\r\n\r\nTonight, you will enjoy a meet and greet with your fellow travelers at Marathon Tours & Travel\u2019s hosted Welcome Reception and trip briefing.\u00a0(Breakfast, Lunch and Welcome Reception included)<\/i>\r\n\r\n<\/div>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 21","day_content":"
After breakfast, we will depart for a half-day sightseeing tour of this beautiful city including all the \u2018must-sees\u201d of Cape Town, which is a geographical and cultural extravaganza. You will see Cape Town, from its historical beginnings to the dazzling modern shopping malls. A stop at the\u00a0expo to pick up your race kits will be included in the tour.<\/span><\/div>\r\n
\r\n\r\nThe evening is yours to enjoy.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/i>\r\n\r\n<\/div>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 22","day_content":"Enjoy a free day on your own in Cape Town.\u00a0<\/span>In the evening, Marathon Tours & Travel will host a pre-race dinner.\u00a0(Breakfast and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 23 \u2013 Cape Town Race Day! ","day_content":"

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race day is here! After an early breakfast, please make your way to the start line. Marathon Tours & Travel will take escorted trips at key times and will be in the hotel lobby to provide guidance.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

After the race, recharge with us in the International Tent. Meet up here to find us, your family and friends. For those who prefer not to walk back a shuttle bus service is provided. Following the race, you will have time to clean up and recharge before joining us for a post race celebration party.\u00a0 (Breakfast and included)<\/em><\/span><\/p>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 24","day_content":"Enjoy a leisure morning before a morning transfer to the five-star Lanzerac Hotel.\u00a0 Upon being greeted at the hotel, enjoy a group wine tasting and tour of the hotel's wine cellar.\u00a0 The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.\u00a0 (Breakfast included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 25","day_content":"Today is a full day tour of local wine estates with wine tasting and magnificent views all around you.\u00a0 Lunch with a wine tasting is included before heading back to the Lanzerac Hotel.\u00a0 The evening is yours to enjoy one of the local restaurants or dinner at the Lanzerac.\u00a0 (Breakfast and lunch included).<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 26","day_content":"Prepare for an early morning departure to the Cape Town International Airport for our group flight to Antananarivo, Madagascar (via Johannesburg).\u00a0 Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar affectionately known as \u201cTana\", you will be met and transferred to the Relais de Plateaux Hotel (in close proximity to the airport) for your overnight stay. Airport transfers included. All meals are on your own today."},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 27","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will have our first encounters with lemurs at Lemur Park! After enjoying a morning walking through this lush park full of wildlife, we will head to a local restaurant for lunch. The afternoon will be a visit to the Rova of Antananarivo, which is a royal palace complex that served as the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as of the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. Following this we will return back to the Relais de Plateaux for dinner and overnight accommodations. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 28","day_content":"Today is our very early morning flight to Tulear. The group will be transferred to the airport with your English-speaking guides for the one hour flight to Toliara (also called Tulear) on the southwest coast of Madagascar. Upon arrival, we will begin the six hour (approximate) drive to Isalo, with a stop for breakfast first.\u00a0 Arrival at Le Jardin du Roy will be in time for a late lunch and a restful afternoon to get acquainted with your new surroundings.\u00a0 Tonight, we will gather for our welcome dinner at Le Jardin du Roy. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 29","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will have a guided hike around Le Jardin du Roy property and surrounding area.\u00a0 After lunch at the hotel, you are free to do one of the several optional activities offered by the hotel or rest for race day tomorrow! This evening will be our mandatory race briefing prior to our pre-race dinner. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 30 - Madagascar Race Day!","day_content":"Breakfast will be available early this morning.\u00a0 The races will begin at 7:00am outside your doorstep at the Jardin du Roy. The post-race party will include an awards ceremony, entertainment and will be followed by a buffet dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 31","day_content":"Following breakfast is a visit to the sapphire mining town of Ilakaka. This area produces some of the world\u2019s purest sapphires, which were first unearthed only 25 years ago. Enjoy afternoon activities at your hotel prior to our group dinner. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 1","day_content":"After breakfast, we will transfer from the hotels to Isalo National Park for a beautiful morning hike. The group will be divided into smaller groups and will then regroup at Canyon Namaza\u2019s picnic area. For those who wish to continue their hike up to the stunning Cascades, a boxed lunch will be provided. This is a moderate to difficult hike, so guests should be confident in their balance and walking ability along wet and narrow paths. Those who wish to return to the Le Jardin du Roy for lunch will be transported back. All meals will be enjoyed at the hotel today. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 2","day_content":"Depart your hotel today for the return drive to Toliara (Tulear) Airport for our flight to Tana where you can connect to you international flight home (typically this is only Air France around 11:00 PM).\u00a0 For those flying out the next day (Thursday, June 3), an additional night can be arranged for you at the Relais de Plateaux near the airport for an additional cost. Those extending their time in Madagascar on the extension, please see the Post-Race Extension Itinerary for details. (Breakfast and box lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nPlease plan for a very long day today!\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"POST-AFRICAN CHALLENGE OPTION\r\n<\/strong>\r\n\r\nIfaty and Andasibe | Six Night Package<\/strong>\r\nSpend more time exploring Madagascar. Find details below.\r\n\r\n ","event_extensions_packages":[{"package_title":"Post-Race Extension | Ifaty and Andasibe","package_duration":"6 Nights","package_dates":"June 2 - 8, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, June 2: Isalo | Toliara | Ifaty","day_content":"This morning you will depart with the group to Tulear and after lunch continue by coach bus north to the beach area of Ifaty. The rest of the day is to relax from a long day of travel at the Les Dunes located on the beautiful coastal line of Madagascar. (Breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, June 3: Ifaty | Reniala Reserve","day_content":"Today you have the option to relax and enjoy many of the water sports and activities Les Dunes offers or visit nearby Reniala Reserve, an eco-system known as the spiny forest consisting of towering spiny bushes and some spectacular ancient baobab trees. The botanical trail reveals a bird sanctuary, endangered radiated tortoises, various species of chameleons and lemurs as well. All meals will be enjoyed at Les Dunes.(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, June 4: Ifaty","day_content":"Enjoy a free day to relax and take in your surroundings. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, June 5: Ifaty | Toliara | Antananarivo","day_content":"Following an early breakfast, you will depart to the Tulear Airport for your flight to Tana. Upon arrival in Tana, you will have lunch and experience the Digue Market. Once you have purchased your souvenirs, the group will make its way to the Hotel Colbert for your overnight accommodations. Dinner is on your own this evening. (Breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, June 6: Antananarivo | Andasibe","day_content":"Plan for an 8:00 AM departure for a three-hour (approximate) drive through the highland countryside to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park where you will spend the next two nights at the Mantadia\u00a0 Lodge (or Relais de Mantadia). This evening enjoy an optional nocturnal walk with your experienced guide before dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, June 7: Andasibe","day_content":"Rise early to hike into Analamazaotra Reserve to see and hear the unforgettable babakoto (and other denizens). This is the largest of the lemurs, also known as the Indri indri, and has consistently refused to live in captivity \u2013 the only place in the world where to see them and hear their haunting call. Meals and overnight Mantadia Lodge (or Relais de Mantadia). (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n "},{"day_title":"Tuesday, June 8: Andasibe | Antananarivo","day_content":"Following breakfast we will make a stop at Lemur Island and enjoy lunch at the Varkona Forest Lodge before we begin our drive back to Tana. A stop is planned at the Relais des Plateaux for a buffet dinner before your transfer to the airport (if applicable).\u00a0 An additional night is needed at the Relais des Plateaux for those on the June 10, 12:25 AM Air France Flight.\u00a0 (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)<\/em>"}]}],"event_packages_and_rates":"

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African Challenge Tour | Fourteen-Night Package: May 19 - June 2, 2027<\/h3>\r\nCape Town Features:<\/strong>\r\n