Marrakech Marathon 2023

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech Marathon 2023: 33rd Annual Edition

The Marrakech Marathon is a popular racing event that takes place in the city of Marrakech in Morocco each year. It is considered among the world’s most prestigious marathons and annually welcomes more than 8000 local and international participants. Taking place in the heart of the city, the single lap route takes runners along the 12th-century ramparts that run along the side of the city, as well as through the Menara gardens and palm tree-lined roads.

“The Marrakech Marathon is considered among the world’s most prestigious marathons”

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Marrakech Marathon Schedule

Visitors have the opportunity to register for the half or full marathon. The half-marathon (21.1km) cut-off time is 3 hours. The full marathon (42.1km) cut-off time is 5.5 hours. Points of water and orange supplies are installed every 5km throughout the course and a medal is given to all finishers.

Where to view Marrakech Marathon

The marathon takes place in the Moroccan city of Marrakech each January. You can find the starting and finishing point of the race at Avenue de la Ménara, Marrakesh, Marrakesh-Tensift-El-Haouz, Morocco.

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How to get around Marrakech

The nearest major airport is Marrakech Menara Airport, located approximately 15 minutes from the city center. There are many affordable and direct flights available from neighboring countries as well as throughout Europe. Visitors can travel between the airport and city via public transport with direct bus routes available. Routes L11, L12 and L20 travel directly between the airport and city with a travel time of around 25-30 minutes.

There are a number of popular ways to get around the city of Marrakech. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and are the quickest and easiest way to get around the town. Buses are also available and are cheap and frequent, but can often become crowded.

For a more unique way to get around, try out the Caleche – a horse-drawn carriage. Mopeds and bicycles are also available and are a popular and easy way to get around.

Where to stay in Marrakech

There are countless accommodation options available in the city of Marrakech and the surrounding areas. The marathon takes place near the Avenue de la Ménara behind the Sofitel Hotel.  You can find a number of hotels in this area including the Hivernage Hotel & Spa, Suite Novotel Marrakech, Es Saadi and of course, the Hotel Sofitel Marrakech.

For first-time visitors, it is recommended to stay in the city center near the main square Jemaa el-Fnaa. Just a short walk or bus ride away, the main square offers a multitude of hotels as well as nearby restaurants, cafes, shops and more.

For a more local experience, a number of guest houses and apartments are also available throughout Marrakech. You can find a range of nearby options on the map below. 

Things to do in Marrakech

The former imperial city of Marrakech offers a range of unique things to see and do and is one of the many Rad places to visit in Morocco. The melting pot of culture offers a range of ancient and modern attractions and destinations. Jemaa el-Fnaa is the main square and market in Marrakech, located in the heart of the city, the Medina quarter. Surrounding the square, you can countless hotels and restaurants.

Located nearby is the Koutoubia Mosque, a popular 12th-century Almohad-style mosque and the largest mosque in Marrakech. Other popular historical attractions include the Saadian Tombs, Bab Agnaou and Almoravid Koubba.

The outskirts of the city centre feature many popular parks and gardens such as the Majorelle Garden, Menara Gardens and the Botanical Garden; where you can find exotic plants, fountains, museums, scenic views and more.

Marrakech Marathon 2023 Dates

The 33rd edition of the Marrakech Marathon will take place on Sunday January 29, 2023. 

Read more about the other must-do marathons in Africa.