Havana Marathon 2024

Havana, Cuba

Why Explore the sights of the city in Havana Marathon 2024

As far as international marathons go, Marabana in Cuba is one of the most popular marathons to attend, and for good reason. The event sees hundreds of participants each year and consists of a central loop through the city of Havana. Locals and tourists all gather for a 10k run, half marathon, and a full marathon with the same start and finish line. As with any city race, there will be common obstacles along the way including traffic, trash, and weather.

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Havana Marathon Route 2024

The event team does their best in preparing the course for the race day. Throughout the circuit, there are multiple water stops so you can stay hydrated in the Cuban humidity and aid stations if you need help. The Marabana Marathon circuit travels past the city’s Revolution Square, zoo, stadium, the promenade, and the seawall and for those of you planning on completing the full marathon, you will pass it twice.

Unexpectedly, the route includes some uphill running so be prepared as this comes as a surprise to many marathoners. There are several categories for the selected marathons, mostly age groups with an additional category for disabilities.

Once you finally cross the finish line there will be an award ceremony for which the winners of each category can collect an award. Have you got what it takes to win a Marabana medal? Head to Cuba to find out!

Getting to Marabana

Booking a package online is the simplest way to arrange travel for Marabana. The basic package includes airport transfers, hotel (selection of 5), a guide, and hotel transfers to and from the race. For a single occupant, prices start from around $600 depending on the selected hotel.

The race begins at Paseo Del Prado so depending on where you’re staying, you may need to arrange transport. For Americans, getting flights into Cuba is easiest from Miami or Mexico. You will need to fill out a customs declaration form upon arrival.

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Where to stay in Havana

For hotels in Havana, many of them are well-built and deliver a touch of luxury. Whilst there are several 3 and 4-star hotels located in Havana, the majority of the hotels are 5star. These can include indoor and outdoor pools, dining options, spas, gyms, laundry services, and much more.

Other options, aside from the marathon package deals, are self-catered apartments that can be arranged via Airbnb. Head to the map below to see all the hotels and apartments in the area.

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Things to do in Havana

Now, a trip to Cuba should definitely include a taste of Cuban rum at the very least. If cigars are your thing, then you’re obviously going to want to rush out and get the real deal. If you’re participating in the Marabana marathon then you will already be running past many hotspots of Havana incl. the Capitol building, however, a quick glance isn’t enough to get the big beautiful picture.

Why not take a stroll along the Malecon by the sea for some great pictures while locals fish and catch up with friends. Heading there in the late afternoon will give you chance to watch the sunset.

Check out the stunning architecture in Old Havana and its Fortification System, one of the world heritage sites in Cuba.  Hire a guide to tell you the area’s deep dark secrets. Discover the historical site of Castillo de San Carlos de la Cabana, a fort providing great ocean views where the Cubans fire a cannon at 9 pm every night.

Cuba overall is a country behind the times where historical sites are well reserved and monuments scatter the streets, whenever you visit Cuba you can be sure that you will get a truly unique experience.       

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Havana Marathon 2024 Dates and Registration

The next Havana Marathon will be held on November 17, 2024.

Registration for the marathon can be completed online, usually through a travel package, or once you get there. Prices will vary if registering in Cuba. Once you are signed up and ready to race you will receive a race number and a Marabana t-shirt.

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Photo Credit: Maratón de La Habana-MARABANA