Kilimanjaro Marathon 2027

The Kilimanjaro Marathon 2027 takes place in Moshi, Tanzania, on 7 February 2027. Runners can choose a full marathon, a half marathon or a 5 km fun run, with the start and finish at the MoCU stadium in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. This guide is for runners, running clubs and agencies building race-weekend trips to northern Tanzania.

About the Kilimanjaro Marathon

The Kilimanjaro Marathon has been held in Moshi every year since 2003. The organiser offers three distances: a standard 42.2 km marathon, a 21.1 km half marathon and a 5 km fun run. The race is registered with AIMS, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, and the organiser says the course is measured to World Athletics standards.

Race day is a big occasion in Moshi. The organiser describes crowds of local supporters coming out early to cheer the runners, and a lively atmosphere with music and food around the stadium. The course has some uphill sections, so the organiser advises runners to train well for their chosen distance. Entries, route maps and race information are on the official Kilimanjaro Marathon website.

The race usually takes place at the end of February or in March. For 2027 the date has moved earlier, to 7 February, so check older listings carefully.

Kilimanjaro Marathon 2027 date and venue

The organiser lists the race date as 7 February 2027. It is a one-day event on a Sunday, and the organiser says the event starts and finishes in and around the MoCU stadium in Moshi.

The organiser opened entries on 19 October 2026. Runners should confirm start times, race-number collection and route details on the official website closer to the date.

How to get to Moshi for the Kilimanjaro Marathon

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the nearest international airport and lies between Moshi and Arusha. Some travellers fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and connect on a domestic flight to Kilimanjaro.

Pre-booked transfers and taxis are the simplest way to reach Moshi from the airport. Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Tanzania before booking.

Where to stay

Moshi town is the most convenient base, with hotels and guesthouses close to the stadium. Some visitors stay in the foothills of Kilimanjaro or in Arusha, but need to allow for an early transfer on race morning.

The organiser warns that Moshi gets very busy over race weekend and that hotels fill up, so book early.

Planning a group trip to the Kilimanjaro Marathon

A group tour to the Kilimanjaro Marathon suits running clubs, corporate teams and charity groups. Plan to arrive at least two days before the race to collect race numbers and rest after the flight. The official website has a page for group entries.

Many groups combine the race with a short safari to the national parks of northern Tanzania, a day hike on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro, or a few days in Zanzibar to recover. Arrange transport to the start for the whole group on race morning.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Kilimanjaro Marathon 2027?

The organiser lists the race date as 7 February 2027 in Moshi, Tanzania. This is earlier than the late February or March dates used in many past years, so check older listings carefully.

What distances are offered?

There are three distances: a full marathon of 42.2 km, a half marathon of 21.1 km and a 5 km fun run. Runners choose one distance when they enter through the official website.

How do runners enter the Kilimanjaro Marathon?

Entries are made through the official Kilimanjaro Marathon website, which opened entries on 19 October 2026. The site also has information on group entries, fees and terms and conditions. Register early.

Which airport is closest to Moshi?

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the nearest international airport to Moshi. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam is an alternative with domestic connections. Book flights early for race weekend.

Is the course difficult?

The organiser notes that the course has some uphill sections and advises runners to be well trained for their chosen distance. February can be warm in Moshi, so plan for heat and hydration.

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