The Nairobi Marathon offers a truly unique running experience in the heartland of distance running. Staged in Kenya's bustling capital at an elevation of approximately 1,660 metres, this race gives international runners a taste of training at altitude alongside some of the world's fastest athletes. The course winds through the city's wide boulevards and green spaces, starting and finishing near Uhuru Gardens on Langata Road. Running in Nairobi is a pilgrimage for anyone who loves the sport.
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The Event
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Event | Nairobi Marathon 2026 |
| Date | October 25, 2026 |
| Venue | Uhuru Gardens / Nyayo National Stadium area |
| Address | Langata Road, Nairobi |
| Airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
Late October falls within Kenya's short rains season, but mornings are typically dry and pleasant. Expect temperatures of 13–25°C (55–77°F) with cloud cover that keeps conditions comfortable for running, though afternoon showers are possible.
The Venue: Uhuru Gardens / Nyayo Stadium
The race typically starts and finishes in the Uhuru Gardens and Nyayo Stadium precinct along Langata Road, one of Nairobi's main arterial roads. The area is well served by public transport and surrounded by some of the city's key landmarks. Nyayo National Stadium itself is a major sports venue with a 30,000-seat capacity.
What's nearby:
- Nairobi National Park — A unique urban wildlife park where you can spot lions and giraffes with the city skyline as a backdrop, just minutes from the course
- Uhuru Gardens & National Monument — A memorial park marking Kenya's independence, adjacent to the start area
- Nairobi Railway Museum — A charming museum documenting the history of the Kenya-Uganda Railway
- The Hub Karen — A modern shopping mall about 15 minutes away with restaurants and shops
Important: Nairobi sits at roughly 1,660 m (5,450 ft) elevation. If you're not accustomed to altitude, arrive at least 2–3 days early to acclimatise, and adjust your pace expectations accordingly.
Where to Stay
The best areas to stay are the Upper Hill and Kilimani neighbourhoods, which are central, safe, and well connected to the race venue. The Westlands area is another popular choice with plenty of restaurants and nightlife. All are a short taxi ride from the start.
Radisson Blu Hotel Nairobi — Top Pick
A polished 5-star hotel in Upper Hill, the Radisson Blu offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, a well-equipped gym, and multiple restaurants. It's about 4 km from the race venue and a reliable choice for international visitors who want comfort and consistency. The breakfast buffet is excellent for carb-loading.
Ole Sereni Hotel — Closest to Start
Ole Sereni is the only hotel in Nairobi that directly overlooks Nairobi National Park, and it sits right on Mombasa Road near the race area. You can literally watch wildlife from the pool deck. The rooms are comfortable, the location is unbeatable for race morning, and the African-themed décor adds character.
PrideInn Westlands — Best Value
Located in the vibrant Westlands district, PrideInn offers clean, modern rooms at an affordable price point. It's about 8 km from the race venue, but Uber rides in Nairobi are inexpensive. The hotel has a restaurant, fitness centre, and friendly staff — solid value for budget-conscious runners.
Getting There
From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is located about 15 km southeast of Nairobi city centre.
| Option | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uber/Bolt | ~30 min | KSh 1,000–2,000 | Reliable and cashless; best option for most visitors |
| Airport taxi | ~30 min | KSh 2,000–3,000 | Use official JKIA taxi desk; agree on price before departure |
| Nairobi Expressway (toll road) | ~20 min | Toll: KSh 400 | Faster route; Uber drivers may use it |
Uber is the recommended option — it's safe, affordable, and you don't need to negotiate fares. Download the app before you land.
Public Transport
Nairobi's public transport system consists primarily of matatus (minibuses) and the newer Nairobi Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. While matatus are ubiquitous and cheap, they can be confusing for first-time visitors. Most international visitors rely on Uber or Bolt for getting around.
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Matatu ride | KSh 30–100 |
| BRT single ride | KSh 50–100 |
| Uber (typical city ride) | KSh 500–1,500 |
For convenience and safety, Uber or Bolt is the best way to get around Nairobi as a visitor.
Where to Eat
Westlands — Nairobi's most cosmopolitan dining district with everything from Ethiopian and Indian to Japanese and Italian. Sarit Centre and the Westgate Mall area have excellent restaurant clusters.
Karen / Langata — A leafy, upmarket suburb with charming garden restaurants and coffee shops, close to the race venue and Nairobi National Park.
Nairobi Food to Try
- Nyama choma — Kenya's beloved grilled meat, typically goat or beef, cooked over charcoal and served with ugali and kachumbari salad
- Ugali and sukuma wiki — The national staple: dense maize porridge with sautéed collard greens — simple, filling, and perfect for carb-loading
- Pilau — A fragrant, spiced rice dish with Swahili coastal influences, often served with beef or chicken
- Samosa — A hugely popular street snack in Nairobi, filled with spiced minced meat or vegetables
- Kenyan chai — Rich, milky tea brewed with ginger and spices; it's a daily ritual and the perfect way to warm up on cool Nairobi mornings
Budget eating: Nairobi is very affordable for visitors. Local restaurants (known as kibandas or "hotels") serve generous plates of traditional food for KSh 200–500 (about $1.50–$4 USD). Java House is a popular local café chain with reliable food and coffee.
Essential Nairobi Tips
Currency. Kenyan Shilling (KSh / KES).
Cash vs card. Cards are accepted at hotels, malls, and upmarket restaurants, but carry cash for smaller shops, markets, and street food.
Tipping. 10% at restaurants is appreciated but not always expected. A small tip of KSh 100–200 for good service is generous.
Language. English and Swahili are both official languages. English is widely spoken in Nairobi, especially in business and tourism.
Weather in October. The short rains season begins, but mornings are usually dry. Temperatures range from 13–25°C (55–77°F). Bring a light rain jacket and layers for cool mornings.
Safety. Nairobi is generally safe in tourist areas and upmarket neighbourhoods, but exercise normal city caution. Avoid walking alone at night, don't display expensive items, and use Uber rather than hailing taxis on the street.
What to See
- Nairobi National Park — The world's only wildlife park within a capital city; spot lions, rhinos, and giraffes with skyscrapers in the background
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust — Visit orphaned baby elephants at their daily 11 AM mud bath (book ahead)
- Giraffe Centre (Langata) — Hand-feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from a raised platform
- Karen Blixen Museum — The former home of the "Out of Africa" author, set in beautiful gardens in Karen
- Nairobi National Museum — Excellent exhibits on Kenyan history, culture, and prehistoric fossils
- Karura Forest — A beautiful urban forest with 50 km of trails, waterfalls, and caves — ideal for a recovery run
Quick Reference
| Need | Answer |
|---|---|
| Airport | Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO), ~30 min from venue |
| Venue | Uhuru Gardens / Nyayo Stadium, Langata Road |
| Nearest station | No metro; use Uber/Bolt |
| Transport to venue | Uber (~KSh 1,500 from airport) |
| Currency | Kenyan Shilling (KES) |
| Cash needed? | Yes — for smaller vendors and markets |
| Language | English and Swahili |
| Weather | 13–25°C (55–77°F), possible afternoon showers |
| Tipping | 10% at restaurants appreciated |
| Emergency | 999 or 112 |
This guide will be updated as more event details are confirmed. Last updated: May 2026.