Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal: What to Know Before You Go

The Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s longest-running endurance events, held between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. The 2026 race takes place on Sunday, 14 June, following the “Up Run” route inland. For runners and spectators, it offers a direct way to experience the province through distance, terrain, and community presence. Planning ahead helps you move through the weekend with clarity and ease.

Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal 2026: Key Facts

The Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal is an ultra-marathon run annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It combines endurance sport with strong local support along the route.

Quick facts for 2026:

• Date: Sunday, 14 June 2026
• Distance: 85.777 km
• Format: Up Run (Durban to Pietermaritzburg)
• Start: Durban City Hall
• Finish: Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse, Pietermaritzburg
• Participants: ±22,000 runners

  This is the shortest recorded Up Run distance in recent years due to route adjustments.

The 2026 Up Run: Durban to Pietermaritzburg

The 2026 race starts at sea level in Durban and climbs inland to Pietermaritzburg. The elevation gain makes pacing important, particularly in the second half of the route.

Key Sections Along the Route

• Cowies Hill: Early climb; traffic adjustments apply in 2026
• Fields Hill: Long, steady ascent that shapes early race strategy
• Botha’s Hill: Well-supported section with consistent spectator presence
• Polly Shortts: Final climb before the finish

  The route moves through urban edges and smaller communities, with support building steadily throughout the day.  

Why the Comrades Matters in KwaZulu-Natal

The Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal sits within the province’s broader sporting calendar. Its scale and continuity make it a defining annual event.  

• Community presence: Support begins before sunrise and continues throughout the race
• Shared experience: Runners and spectators engage across the full route
• Economic contribution: Increased activity across accommodation, transport, and local services
• Heritage: One of the country’s longest-standing road races

Planning Your Visit

When to Arrive

Arrive 2–3 days before race day to allow time for registration (if running), travel adjustments, and rest.

Where to Stay

• Durban: Close to the start line and coastal activities
• Pietermaritzburg: Convenient for the finish and quieter evenings
• Midlands: A balanced option between both cities

Browse accommodation options across KwaZulu-Natal.

Getting Around

• Distance: Durban to Pietermaritzburg is about 80 km (1–1.5 hours) depending on traffic
• Road closures: Expect major restrictions on race day, especially along the N3
• Transport: Official runner shuttles are typically available

  Plan movements in advance, especially if you are supporting runners along the route.

Spectator Experience: Where to Watch

Spectators are part of the rhythm of the Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal, with strong turnout along key sections.

Recommended Viewing Points

• Durban City Hall: Start line with early morning build-up
• Hillcrest and Botha’s Hill: Accessible and well-supported sections
• Scottsville Racecourse: Finish line with full race-day atmosphere

  View upcoming events in Durban.  

What Else to Do While You’re Here

• Extend your visit beyond race day to explore the surrounding regions.
• Walk Durban’s beachfront promenade
• Spend time in the Midlands Meander
• Visit heritage sites in and around Pietermaritzburg

  Explore the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands region.

What to Expect from Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal

The Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal is a long-distance road race between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, held annually in June. The 2026 Up Run covers 85.777 km and starts at Durban City Hall, finishing at Scottsville Racecourse. It attracts thousands of runners and spectators, with strong support along the route. It is suited to experienced runners, endurance athletes, and visitors interested in major sporting events in KwaZulu-Natal.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance of the Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal 2026? The official distance is 85.777 km.   When is the Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal held in 2026? Sunday, 14 June 2026.   What is an Up Run? An Up Run travels from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, climbing inland over the course of the race.   How far is Durban from Pietermaritzburg? Approximately 80 km, or about 1 to 1.5 hours by car depending on traffic.   What time does the race start? The race typically starts at 05:45 am.   For more information on the Comrades: https://www.comrades.com/  

Plan Your Comrades Weekend

The Comrades Marathon KwaZulu-Natal brings together distance, landscape, and people in a focused way. With the right planning, you can move through the event with ease—whether you are running or supporting.  Start shaping your KZN itinerary.