Samarkand Marathon 2026

The Samarkand Marathon 2026 takes place on 7 to 8 November 2026 at Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Runners can choose a full marathon, half marathon, 10 km, 5 km or 2 km race, or take part in Nordic walking. It suits keen runners, families and anyone who wants a sporty city break in one of the great Silk Road cities.

About the Samarkand Marathon

The Samarkand Marathon is a city running event that starts at Registan Square, the famous ensemble of three madrasas at the heart of Samarkand. Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee presents it as a sports tourism event, and says a special route helps participants explore the city's historic landmarks.

The event has grown from a half marathon into a full race weekend. According to the Tourism Committee, the 2026 programme offers several distances, so serious athletes and first-time runners can take part on the same weekend. The shorter races make it possible for a whole family or a mixed group to join in.

Samarkand is one of the most visited cities in Uzbekistan and is popular with travellers from the Gulf, who come for its blue-tiled monuments, mild autumn weather and rich food culture. The Tourism Committee also highlights local dishes such as Samarkand plov and tandoor-baked samsa, which runners can enjoy after the race.

Samarkand Marathon 2026 dates and venue

The Samarkand Marathon 2026 dates are 7 to 8 November 2026. The start and finish area is Registan Square in central Samarkand.

The Tourism Committee said that registration was open until 2 November, so new entries may now be closed. Agencies with clients who have already registered should check race-kit collection, start times and course details on the official Tourism Committee announcement and any update the organisers publish before race weekend.

Weather in Samarkand in early November is usually cool in the morning and pleasant during the day, which is good for running. Pack layers for the early start.

How to get to Samarkand for the Samarkand Marathon

Samarkand has its own airport, Samarkand International Airport (SKD), a short drive from the city centre. Many international travellers fly into Tashkent International Airport (TAS), the country's main gateway, and continue to Samarkand by domestic flight, by rail or by road.

The rail link between Tashkent and Samarkand is a popular choice for visitors, and the station is a short taxi ride from the old city. On race morning, roads around Registan Square may be closed, so plan to walk or arrive early.

Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Uzbekistan before they book.

Where to stay

For a trip to Samarkand for the Samarkand Marathon, the best areas are:

• Around Registan Square and the old city, within walking distance of the start line.
• Along Tashkent Street and the university area, with easy access to cafés and the main sights.
• The newer districts and the Silk Road tourist centre area, which suit groups that want larger properties and quieter nights.

Race weekend falls in a popular season, and the event is only days away, so confirm rooms now and keep a list of alternative areas.

Planning a group trip to the Samarkand Marathon

A group tour to the Samarkand Marathon works well as a three- to five-night package that mixes the race with sightseeing. Tips for agencies:

• Check whether each client has completed registration, as the official deadline was 2 November.
• Plan an easy sightseeing day before the race, such as Registan, Gur-e-Amir and Shah-i-Zinda, and keep the afternoon free for rest.
• Arrange transfers that reach the start area early, as central roads may close on race morning.
• Offer a short extension to Bukhara or Tashkent after the race for clients who want more of Uzbekistan.
• Include family-friendly options, as the 2 km and 5 km races suit children and beginners.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Samarkand Marathon 2026?

The Samarkand Marathon 2026 takes place on 7 to 8 November 2026. The event is based at Registan Square in central Samarkand, Uzbekistan, and offers several race distances across the weekend.

What distances are offered at the Samarkand Marathon?

According to Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee, participants can choose the full marathon, half marathon, 10 km, 5 km or 2 km, and can also take part in Nordic walking competitions.

Can I still register for the Samarkand Marathon 2026?

The Tourism Committee said registration was open until 2 November 2026. Entries may now be closed, so check with the organisers through the official channels before promising a place to a client.

What is the nearest airport to Samarkand?

Samarkand International Airport (SKD) serves the city. Many visitors also fly into Tashkent International Airport (TAS) and continue to Samarkand by domestic flight, train or road.

Is the Samarkand Marathon suitable for beginners?

Yes. As well as the full and half marathon, the programme includes 10 km, 5 km and 2 km races and Nordic walking, so beginners, families and casual runners can take part.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Samarkand Marathon 2026 in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.