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The Kigali International Peace Marathon is a prestigious World Athletics Elite Label road race in Rwanda that promotes peace, unity, and resilience through sport.
Course Highlights
The Kigali International Peace Marathon offers a unique running experience through the heart of Rwanda’s capital, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” The course is characterized by its challenging elevation profile, testing runners with rolling climbs and rewarding descents. Participants in the full marathon complete two laps of a scenic 21.1 km circuit that winds through vibrant urban neighborhoods and past significant landmarks. A poignant highlight is passing near symbols of Rwanda’s history and resilience, including the Parliament building and areas surrounding the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The race culminates in a grand finale at the Amahoro National Stadium and BK Arena, where the electric atmosphere of the crowd and the modern architecture of the venue provide an unforgettable finish-line experience.
Race Details
As a World Athletics Elite Label road race, the Kigali International Peace Marathon maintains high standards of organization and competition. The event has expanded to a two-day format for the 2026 edition, with the “Run for Peace” 10K taking place on Saturday, June 13, followed by the Half Marathon (21km) and Full Marathon (42.195km) on Sunday, June 14. The full marathon starts early at 06:30 to take advantage of the cool morning temperatures, while the half marathon begins at 07:00. The course is AIMS-certified, ensuring accurate distance measurement. Runners are supported by numerous medical, refreshment, and sponging stations positioned throughout the circuit. Every finisher is rewarded with a technical running shirt and a uniquely designed medal that features an engraved map of the race route.
Why Runners Love It
Beyond the physical challenge, the Kigali International Peace Marathon is beloved for its deep sense of purpose. Founded in 2005 to promote peace and unity following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the event is “more than a race—it’s a movement.” Runners from over 30 countries participate, experiencing firsthand the hospitality and safety that have made Kigali one of Africa’s most welcoming cities. The “Ubumwe” or unity in action is palpable as local crowds line the streets, offering cheers, chants, and drum beats that propel participants forward. The race is a celebration of Rwanda’s incredible transformation and its future-focused energy. The combination of a world-class competitive environment, breathtaking hilly scenery, and a powerful message of global peace makes it a bucket-list event for marathoners worldwide.
Register for the Kigali International Peace Marathon
At a Glance
- Location: Kigali, Kigali City — Rwanda
- Next Date: 2026-06-14
- Distances: 42.195 km, 21 km, 10 km
- Start Time: 06:30
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.kigalimarathon.rw/
Kigali, Kigali City BP 2568 Rwanda
The Kigali International Peace Marathon is a prestigious World Athletics Elite Label road race in Rwanda that promotes peace, unity, and resilience through sport.
Course Highlights
The Kigali International Peace Marathon offers a unique running experience through the heart of Rwanda’s capital, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” The course is characterized by its challenging elevation profile, testing runners with rolling climbs and rewarding descents. Participants in the full marathon complete two laps of a scenic 21.1 km circuit that winds through vibrant urban neighborhoods and past significant landmarks. A poignant highlight is passing near symbols of Rwanda’s history and resilience, including the Parliament building and areas surrounding the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The race culminates in a grand finale at the Amahoro National Stadium and BK Arena, where the electric atmosphere of the crowd and the modern architecture of the venue provide an unforgettable finish-line experience.
Race Details
As a World Athletics Elite Label road race, the Kigali International Peace Marathon maintains high standards of organization and competition. The event has expanded to a two-day format for the 2026 edition, with the “Run for Peace” 10K taking place on Saturday, June 13, followed by the Half Marathon (21km) and Full Marathon (42.195km) on Sunday, June 14. The full marathon starts early at 06:30 to take advantage of the cool morning temperatures, while the half marathon begins at 07:00. The course is AIMS-certified, ensuring accurate distance measurement. Runners are supported by numerous medical, refreshment, and sponging stations positioned throughout the circuit. Every finisher is rewarded with a technical running shirt and a uniquely designed medal that features an engraved map of the race route.
Why Runners Love It
Beyond the physical challenge, the Kigali International Peace Marathon is beloved for its deep sense of purpose. Founded in 2005 to promote peace and unity following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the event is “more than a race—it’s a movement.” Runners from over 30 countries participate, experiencing firsthand the hospitality and safety that have made Kigali one of Africa’s most welcoming cities. The “Ubumwe” or unity in action is palpable as local crowds line the streets, offering cheers, chants, and drum beats that propel participants forward. The race is a celebration of Rwanda’s incredible transformation and its future-focused energy. The combination of a world-class competitive environment, breathtaking hilly scenery, and a powerful message of global peace makes it a bucket-list event for marathoners worldwide.
Register for the Kigali International Peace Marathon
At a Glance
- Location: Kigali, Kigali City — Rwanda
- Next Date: 2026-06-14
- Distances: 42.195 km, 21 km, 10 km
- Start Time: 06:30
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.kigalimarathon.rw/