Uganda International Marathon 2026

The Uganda International Marathon 2026 takes place on May 24, 2026, in the scenic city of Masaka, Uganda, a unique location that crosses the equator. During late May, Masaka typically experiences warm and tropical conditions with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 29°C, accompanied by the intense African sun and occasional seasonal showers. This mixed-terrain trail and road event offers more than a standard race; it provides a week-long immersive adventure from May 24th to May 31st, combining rugged physical challenges with deep community engagement and rural exploration.

What race categories and distances are available?

• →42km Full Marathon: Two epic laps of a trail course through villages and past schools, featuring rugged terrain and steep hills.
• →21km Half Marathon: One lap of the stunning trail route passing through vibrant villages and breathtaking landscapes.
• →10km: A shorter route over rugged trails with high-energy local runners and awe-inspiring views.
• →5km: A community-focused race shared with local children, many of whom are running their first race.

What kind of terrain should runners expect?

The course is a mixed-terrain event consisting of rugged trails, steep hills, and rough underfoot surfaces. It winds through the rolling terrain of Masaka, utilizing open village paths and passing local schools and community projects. Due to the nature of the terrain, the course is designed for character-building and scenery rather than chasing personal bests (PBs). You can view the Race Track ↗ and the Course Altitude ↗ maps for more detail.

What is included in the full week adventure from 24–31 May?

The event is an immersive 7-day experience in rural Uganda that includes:

• →Accommodation in the Athletes' Village located in the heart of rural Africa.
• →Opportunities to volunteer with grassroots community projects, such as English lessons, piggery construction, playground building, and business planning.
• →Participation in KidsRunWild, a dedicated sports day for children from local schools and orphanages.
• →The opportunity to be cheered on by the local communities throughout the race.
• →Optional add-ons such as gorilla trekking or safaris in the "Pearl of Africa."

Who can participate in the event?

• →Participants: Approximately 5,000 runners from Uganda and around the world.
• →Age Range: Open to all ages and abilities, from 12 to 65+ years old.
• →Roles: The event welcomes not just runners, but also walkers, volunteers, and spectators.

What is the atmosphere and social impact of the race?

The event is characterized by a high-energy African atmosphere filled with singing, laughing, and high-fives from local residents. It is a community-centric event where participants are encouraged to fundraise to support local community projects.

What should I prepare for regarding weather?

Participants should prepare for the full force of the African sun and tropical conditions typical of the Masaka region in May. Given the rugged and hilly nature of the trails, appropriate hydration and sun protection are essential.