Big Five Marathon
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Big Five Marathon
The Big Five Marathon is a trail event held in the Entabeni game reserve in South Africa. Runners compete over two measured distances on sand and gravel surfaces through savanna habitat that is home to African wildlife, including the species known as the Big Five.
Key event details:
- Location: Entabeni, South Africa
- Surface: Sand and gravel
- Maximum participants: 300
- Typical temperature range: 15 to 25°C
- Elevation gain: 885 m
Distances:
- Full Marathon: 42.195 km
- Half Marathon: 21.097 km
Safety and race procedures are specified: international runners must register as part of a tour package to participate; age limits apply (marathon 18 years, half marathon 16 years); Nordic walking and trekking poles are not allowed. The event uses bib timing with an attached chip; results are recorded as net time while the first three finishers are determined by gun time. Cut-off times are enforced at intermediate points and the finish for both distances. Runners receive two bibs with color coding and a race wristband that must be worn after a designated point; failure to wear the wristband leads to disqualification. Danish English speaking doctors are on site and may stop runners for medical reasons. Personal supplies can be placed at designated drink stations and energy products may not be available locally. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
