The Victoria Falls Marathon is one of Africa’s most scenic and unforgettable road races. Held annually in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, it takes runners past iconic landmarks like the Victoria Falls Bridge, along the Zambezi River, and through the town with mist from the Falls often cooling the air. The event typically includes a full marathon, half marathon, and a fun run, attracting both elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world. What makes it special isn’t just the race—it’s the atmosphere, wildlife sightings along the route, and the shared celebration of sport in the shadow of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Here’s a clear, up‑to‑date overview of the Victoria Falls Marathon, including prices, race distances, and the key advantages of attending, based on official 2025–2026 information.
🏃♂️ Victoria Falls Marathon – Overview
The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon takes place annually in early July in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The 2026 race is scheduled for Sunday, 5 July 2026. It is a World Athletics & AIMS‑certified event and attracts thousands of runners from Zimbabwe, the SADC region, and beyond. [vicfallsmarathon.com], [worldsmarathons.com]
📏 Distances Involved
The event caters to all fitness levels with multiple race categories:
- Full Marathon: 42.2 km
- Half Marathon: 21.1 km
- Half Marathon Relay: 21 km (2 × 10.5 km)
- Specially‑Abled Race: 18 km
- Fun Run: approximately 7–7.5 km
All routes include the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge crossing, with parts of the course running through wildlife areas along the Zambezi River. [vicfallsmarathon.com], [events1000.com]
💵 Entry Prices (USD)
Zimbabwean Citizens / Residents
- Full Marathon (42 km): US$15
- Half Marathon (21 km): US$15
- Specially‑abled 18 km: US$15
- Fun Run (±7 km): US$10
- Half Marathon Relay (team): US$30
SADC Citizens / Residents
- Full Marathon: US$50
- Half Marathon: US$50
- Specially‑abled 18 km: US$50
- Fun Run: US$10
- Half Marathon Relay (team): US$60
International Runners
- Full Marathon: US$75
- Half Marathon: US$75
- Specially‑abled 18 km: US$75
- Fun Run: US$15
- Half Marathon Relay (team): US$70
Proof of nationality or residency is required at registration, and prices vary by runner category. [vicfallsmarathon.com]
🌍 Advantages of Attending the Victoria Falls Marathon
🏞️ 1. One of the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon Routes
The marathon has been ranked among the world’s most scenic races, with runners crossing an international border and racing with views of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. [heraldonline.co.zw]
🐘 2. Unique Wildlife Experience
Unlike city marathons, parts of the route pass through national parks, with possible sightings of elephants, antelope, baboons, and more—protected by stationed game rangers. [landlockedmag.com]
🏅 3. Official Qualifier Status
The race is:
- AIMS & World Athletics certified
- An official Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans qualifier, making it attractive for serious competitive runners. [vicfallsmarathon.com]
🤝 4. Strong Social & Cultural Atmosphere
Expect:
- Energetic crowd support
- Traditional marimba bands
- A post‑race Zambezi sunset cruise and celebrations, creating a festival‑like atmosphere. [runfuntravel.com]
✈️ 5. Perfect “Race + Holiday” Destination
Victoria Falls is known as the Adventure Capital of Africa, offering:
- White‑water rafting
- Safaris (Zimbabwe, Zambia & Botswana)
- Gorge swing, bungee jumping, helicopter flights
- Easy access via flights from Johannesburg
Many runners combine the marathon with a full vacation experience. [visitzimbabwe.com], [visitvicto…afalls.org]