Cape Town is gearing up for a busy Sunday as the inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon takes to the city’s streets on 18 October 2026.
Cristian Camilo Estrad / Pexels / Illustrative purposes only
With thousands of runners expected, the event will bring road closures and traffic disruptions to parts of the CBD, Green Point and the Atlantic Seaboard. Whether you’re running, supporting someone or simply trying to get around the city, here’s what to know before heading out.
A route through the Mother City
The 42km marathon starts at the Grand Parade, taking runners past some of Cape Town’s most recognisable landmarks, including District Six, Parliament, the Company’s Garden and Bo-Kaap.
The route continues towards Sea Point and Green Point before heading along Marine Drive and towards Woodbridge Island, eventually returning to the city centre. It’s a chance to experience Cape Town from a different perspective, with historic neighbourhoods, city streets and coastal views along the way.
Race distances and cut-off times
The event offers four distances, with staggered starts throughout the morning.
| Distance | Start time | Cut-off time |
| 42km marathon | 5:30am | 12:30pm |
| 10km run and walk | 6:45am | 9:45am |
| 5km run and walk | 7:45am | 9:30am |
| 21km half marathon | 8:30am | 12:15pm |
Runners should check their race information before the day to confirm their start arrangements.
Which roads will be closed?
Road closures will affect parts of the CBD, District Six, Green Point and the Atlantic Seaboard. Roads affected include Darling Street, Strand Street, Adderley Street, Somerset Road, Marine Drive, Beach Road and Main Road in Green Point.
Some restrictions begin before race day. Darling Street, between Corporation Street and Buitenkant Street, is scheduled to close from midday on Saturday, 17 October, until 5am on Monday, 19 October.
Strand Street, between Adderley Street and Castle Street, is scheduled to close at midnight ahead of the race and reopen at 10:30am on Sunday.
Other closures will be introduced in phases, with reopening times varying by road. Motorists should check the City of Cape Town’s official website for traffic updates before travelling.
Free MyCiTi shuttles
Runners can use free MyCiTi event shuttles between the V&A Waterfront’s Silo district and the Civic Centre, as well as between Canal Walk and the Civic Centre.
The shuttles are scheduled to operate from 3:30am to 1:30pm. Runners will need their race numbers to access the service. Check MyCiTi’s special services information before travelling.
What to know before Sunday
If you’re heading into the city, leave extra time for your journey and check for road closures before setting off. If you’re running, make sure you know your start time and transport arrangements.
Cape Town’s streets will look a little different this Sunday, with runners taking in the city’s history, landmarks and coastline on foot. A bit of planning will help everyone make the most of the day.
Source (CapeTimes.co.za)
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Spotify
ALSO READ:
Mont Blanc reaches 4,807 metres as summit gains nearly two metres
