International Peace Marathon

Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and although this may seem a daunting setting for runners, it has become the perfect place for the International Peace Marathon held annually in May. This is always a jubilant event, bursting with color and oozing with enthusiastic and energetic participants. The first marathon was held on 15 May 2005, a poignant date which marked a decade since the Rwandan Genocide. Over 2000 runners of varying abilities from over 20 countries come to participate in the International Peace Marathon, drawing athletes from all over Africa and Europe.

It’s an activity-filled day which also inspires a communal interconnectedness, and it is definitely worth entering if you’re an avid long-distance runner looking to explore Rwanda’s gorgeous hills. Be careful, however; the altitude reaches 1500 meters, so it’s worth undertaking altitude training before you begin the race. The marathon consisted of four loops all on paved streets. It is an incredible experience to be able to run a marathon in Rwanda; recommend you carry money during the marathon... it is still the most rewarding marathon you will have ever completed. In the future you would love to be able to run it again.The organizers take feedback and will be working hard to improve conditions for future runs take advantage of the travel deal being offered and have an incredible adventure.

Time: May
Location: Kigali, Rwanda