Does the altitude affect performance?

Yes. At 1,795m, most runners will find their pace is 5 to 15% slower than at sea level, especially early in the race. Local runners are acclimatised but visitors should factor this in when setting goals.

Are there cut-off times?

Yes, cut-off times apply for the full marathon. Check the official race website for the latest cut-off details as these are confirmed closer to race day.

MarathonAnnual Event

Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon

Sunday, 25 October 2026 · 5:00 AM

Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi

5:00 AM

5km, 10km, 21.1km, 42km

TBC

Standard Chartered

+254 20 329 3780, secretariat@nairobimarathon.com

www.nairobimarathon.com

31 weeks to go

Early preparation. Build your base.

💡 Focus on consistent easy effort and building aerobic fitness. No need to stress about race-specific work yet. Just show up regularly.

registration@nairobimarathon.com

Event Highlights

One of East Africa's largest and most established road marathons

Route passes through Nairobi's iconic streets and green corridors

Attracts elite Kenyan and international athletes every year

Strong community atmosphere with thousands of participants across all distances

Raises funds for local charitable causes through the Standard Chartered Foundation

Race Options & Fees

5km

10km

21.1km

42km

TBC

Course Details

The course runs through central Nairobi and surrounding roads, with a mix of tarmac and some rolling sections. The city sits at 1,795m above sea level so expect the altitude to affect pace, particularly for runners arriving from lower elevations. Roads are closed for the event and the route is well marshalled.

Getting There

The race starts at Uhuru Gardens in Langata, easily reachable from most parts of Nairobi. Parking is limited on race day so public transport or dropping off nearby is recommended. Uhuru Gardens is off Langata Road, opposite Carnivore Restaurant.

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Did You Know?

🌍Nairobi sits at 1,795m above sea level, making it one of the higher-altitude city marathons in the world.

🌍Uhuru Gardens is the site where Kenya's independence flag was first raised on 12 December 1963.

🌍Kenya has produced more marathon world record holders than any other country in history.

Frequently Asked Questions

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