Great Ethiopian Run 10km 2026

The Great Ethiopian Run 10km takes place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on the morning of Sunday 22 November 2026, with the finish in Meskel Square. Children's races are held the day before, on 21 November. The organiser describes it as Africa's biggest road race. This guide is for runners, running clubs and agencies planning a race weekend in the Ethiopian capital.

About the Great Ethiopian Run

The Great Ethiopian Run is an annual 10km road race through the streets of central Addis Ababa. It is staged by Great Ethiopian Run, which calls itself Ethiopia's top race event management company, and it attracts a very large field, from elite athletes to families and charity groups. Ethiopia is famous for its distance runners, and race day turns the city centre into a huge celebration.

Addis Ababa sits at high altitude, so the race is a special experience for visiting runners. The organiser says the final 200 metres across the square to the finish are flat. Entries, race information and FAQs are on the official Great Ethiopian Run website.

Great Ethiopian Run 2026 date and venue

The organiser lists the 2026 Great Ethiopian Run 10km on the morning of Sunday 22 November 2026, and the children's races on 21 November 2026. There are several starts: the Green Start opposite the main entrance of a hotel on the course, the Red Start from Meskel Square, and a Yellow Start for sponsored high-school students. All participants finish in Meskel Square.

International participants collect race packs in person in race week, from 19 to 21 November 2026, at the official race hotel's welcome desk. Check the official FAQ for collection times and what to bring.

How to get to Addis Ababa for the Great Ethiopian Run

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) is one of Africa's busiest hubs, with direct links to the Gulf, North Africa, Europe and most of Africa. It is located close to the city centre.

Taxis and ride-hailing services are available from the airport. Roads in the centre close for the race on Sunday morning, so plan transport to the start accordingly. Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Ethiopia before booking.

Where to stay

Areas around Meskel Square, Bole and Kazanchis are convenient for the start and finish and for race-pack collection. Bole is also close to the airport and has many restaurants. Race weekend is busy, so book rooms early.

Planning a group trip to the Great Ethiopian Run

A group tour to the Great Ethiopian Run suits running clubs, corporate teams and charity groups. Arrive two or three days early to adjust to the altitude and to collect race packs. Confirm whether places are still available on the official website before booking travel.

After the race, add a city tour of Addis Ababa with its museums, markets and coffee culture, or a short trip to other parts of Ethiopia.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Great Ethiopian Run 2026?

The organiser lists the 2026 Great Ethiopian Run 10km on the morning of Sunday 22 November 2026 in Addis Ababa. The children's races take place on Saturday 21 November. Race packs are collected beforehand.

Where does the race start and finish?

There are several starts, including the Red Start in Meskel Square. All participants finish in Meskel Square in central Addis Ababa. Plan transport to the start early, as roads in the centre close for the race.

How do international runners collect race packs?

International participants collect packs in person at the welcome desk of the official race hotel from 19 to 21 November 2026. Check the official FAQ for times and documents. Bring your registration confirmation.

Does the altitude affect runners?

Addis Ababa is at high altitude, so many visiting runners find the race harder than at sea level. Arrive a few days early, pace yourself and stay hydrated. Consult a doctor if unsure.

Which airport serves Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) is the city's international airport and a major African hub with direct flights from the Gulf, North Africa and Europe. It is close to the city centre, and taxis are available from the airport.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Great Ethiopian Run in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.