Marrakech Marathon & Half 2024
Enter the 2024 Marrakech Marathon & Half with Marathon Tours & Travel
Marrakech has much to offer with its souk, the Medina and its traders, its superb Moroccan trees with olive trees, date palms and orange trees. If you are looking for a marathon or half marathon with the authentic Moroccan culture, sights and sounds then Marrakech one is for you. Winters in Morocco are mild so the ideal weather conditions. Perfect for running and then soaking up some sun afterwards with a cool drink and your feet up, in the hotel gardens or by the swimming pool!
We offer a 4-night package in Marrakech at our lovely 5* hotel located only 10 minutes’ walk from the race start/finish, shopping and the city sights. Our itinerary includes guided sightseeing, local cuisine and traditional folklore show (charging horsemen, acrobats, fire-eating, belly dancing), pre-race dinner and celebrations with our Marathon Tours & Travel team.
Meals Included
Daily breakfasts and 2 evening meals.
Guide
Support and guidance from our team during your trip
Transfers
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Trip Extension
Trip extensions available to the desert or extend your stay in Marrakech
Accommodation
Perefectly located 5* hotel in Marrakech
Entry
Guaranteed Marrakech Marathon or Half Marathon entry available (in addition to package price)
Celebration Party
Post-race celebration
Excursions
A varied choice of tours available (optional). Half day sightseeing tour included
A Helping Hand
Race pack delivery to your hotel
Travel Package Information
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Itinerary
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Thursday 25th January, 2024
Arrival Day
Make your way to Marrakech. At the airport you will be met by your driver and taken to your hotel. Usually, hotel rooms are ready to check in after 3:00pm. If you arrive earlier, you can leave your luggage with the hotel and explore your surroundings or relax with some soothing mint tea and Moroccan pastries.
Early this evening we invite you to meet with Marathon Tours & Travel in the hotel lobby before leaving for an optional shake-out run in the local area. It will acquaint you with the local area and shake-out any travel tiredness. The run will be easy and at a pace comfortable for all fitness levels. A perfect opportunity to ask questions and get to know fellow runners.
Friday 26th January, 2024
Half Day Sightseeing & Moroccan Dinner with Folklore Show
After breakfast we leave the hotel with a local guide to experience palaces and monuments of Marrakech and learn the history of Morocco’s “Red City.” We will visit the Bahia Palace, Saadien Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque and explore the souks of Marrakech’s old medina. Returning to the hotel around midday. The rest of your day is at your leisure.
This evening we leave the hotel to experience a Moroccan extravaganza of traditional dress, songs, food, fantasy and entertainment. Starting with a welcome ceremony, a delicious dinner of several courses, finishing with the grand finale. Charging horsemen, acrobats, fire-eating, belly dancers all contribute to the atmosphere of this unforgettable evening.
(Breakfast & Dinner included)
Saturday 27th January, 2024
Leisure Day & Dinner
After breakfast, relax and enjoy Marrakech at your own pace. Marathon Tours & Travel team will be happy to suggest some sightseeing or activity tours or have fun in the Winter sun at the hotel with its many restaurants, swimming pools, spa and beautiful gardens.
If you booked your race entry with us, we will collect your race pack (includes t-shirt & race bib) and hand it to you at the hotel today. If you obtained your own race entry you will be required to make your own way to the Expo to collect your race pack.
This evening please join us for a buffet meal, served in the hotel restaurant.
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Sunday 28th January, 2024
Race Day and celebrations!
After breakfast, get ready to run and then make your way to the race start which is at the end of the road. On arrival at the start please follow the instructions of the race officials, run, and have fun!
Marrakech Marathon and Half start and finish area is only 10 minutes’ walk from our hotel. A perfect position for race day and for spectators to cheer on the runners.
After the race make your way back to the hotel, perhaps soak up some Winter sun with a cool drink and your feet up, in the hotel gardens or by the swimming pool! Celebrate…you deserve it!
This evening, please join your Marathon Tours & Travel team in the hotel bar for a post-race celebration and drink!
(Breakfast included)
Monday 29th January, 2024
Departure Day or extension trip
Unless you have booked extra nights or the extension trip to the desert please check out of your room before 12:00.
(Breakfast included)
Itinerary subject to change.
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Extensions
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POST-RACE EXTENSION | 29 – 31 January 2024 | 3 Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Tour with camel ride and Dunes surf
Experience the Moroccan Sahara Desert on a 3-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. Spend the night at a Bedouin camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes. Ride a camel to watch the sunset and sunrise. See the Kasbah of Ouarzazate, and much more.
Monday 29 January, 2024 – Todra Gorge via Kasbah Ait Benhaddou
For those that have booked to extend we leave Marrakech today. The journey from Marrakech to Todra Gorge via Kasbah Ait Benhaddou is a popular route for those seeking to experience the beauty and history of Morocco’s desert landscapes. The drive takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, passing through small Berber villages and stunning scenery along the way. One of the highlights of the trip is a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortress town that has been used as a backdrop for many Hollywood films. The kasbah is a fascinating example of traditional Moroccan architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Continuing on from Kasbah Ait Benhaddou to arrive at the Todra Gorge. This spectacular natural wonder features towering canyon walls that rise up to 300 meters in places, providing a breathtaking backdrop for hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.
Accommodation: Kasbah in Tinghir
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included)
Tuesday 30 January, 2024 – Tinghir to Merzouga Desert Camp
The journey from Tinghir to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes is a breathtaking adventure through the Moroccan Sahara Desert. The drive takes you through spectacular landscapes, including barren mountains, verdant palm groves, and vast expanses of golden sand dunes. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Berber villages and experience the warm hospitality of the local people. As you approach Merzouga, the landscape becomes increasingly surreal, with towering sand dunes rising up from the desert floor. Upon arriving in Merzouga, you can take a camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes to witness the stunning sunset over the Sahara. The experience is truly unforgettable, with the warm hues of the sky blending perfectly with the golden sands. Get ready for a Moroccan dinner served under the stars next to a campfire. Late at night, enjoy Berber music with the local hosts playing drums.
Accommodation: Private Standard Desert Tent
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included)
Wednesday 31 January, 2024 – Merzouga to Marrakech via Ouarzazate
Following an early wake-up you will have the option to watch the sunrise before breakfast, a driver will be waiting to pick you up for the transfer back to Marrakech. the journey takes you through the Ouarzazate region, known for its film studios and desert landscapes where we stop for lunch at a local restaurant. The tour will finish in Marrakech at approximately 8pm, we therefore recommend you book a nights accommodation in Marrakech before returning home or continuing your trip the next day.
(Breakfast included)
Desert Extension Package includes the following:
- 1 Night in Kasbah
- 1 night in a berber desert private tent
- Full board (Lunch, Dinner & Breakfast)
- Local Guide
- Transportation in a comfortable A/C vehicle
- Guided tour of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou
- Visit the Todra Gorge
- Kasbah Ait Benhaddou Visit
- Visit Erfoud
- Dunes Surf
- Camel trek to the desert camp
EXCLUSIONS
- Monuments Entrance fee
Rates (all prices are per person in UK pounds sterling)
Double Occupancy Single Occupancy 2 nights from 29th January, 2024 £199 per person On request Extra night (31st) Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel – Marrakech £85 per person £145 If you wish to EXTEND YOUR STAY at Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel in MARRAKECH we can offer you a selection of sightseeing full or half day tours.
Full Day Tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls at £30
Estimated departure time 9:00am with a return at 7:00pm.
Ouzoud Waterfalls are one of Morocco’s natural wonders. Begin with pickup from your hotel, before departing for one of the most spectacular waterfalls in North Africa, located 93 miles (150 km) north of Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Upon arrival in the village of Ouzoud, admire views of the cascades that plunge 360 feet (110 meters) into the pool below. Follow your local guide through olive tree groves to an argan oil co-operative and learn about Berber culture. Continue down a network of trails to a viewpoint where you can buy fresh orange juice. Board a traditional boat for a short ride on the pool at the bottom of the waterfalls. Then, buy and enjoy a Berber lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the falls. After, take approximately 20 minutes of free time to take pictures, admire the views, or explore the souvenir stalls. Perhaps you will see the resident monkeys. Mid-afternoon, climb a series of stairs for your journey back to Marrakech.
Full Day Tour to Essaouira at £30
Estimated departure time 9:00am with a return at 7:00pm.
Essaouira is a delightful coastal city with harbour and beach, known for its vibrant culture, captivating history, and picturesque scenery. Begin with pickup from your hotel, before departing on a scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside towards the Atlantic coast. Once in Essaouira you can expect to see the city’s charming blue and white medina walls, which create a striking contrast against the azure sea. As you step into the narrow winding streets of the medina, you’ll find yourself immersed in a lively atmosphere filled with colourful shops, bustling markets, and the smells of fresh seafood. Explore the charming streets of this harbour city lined with art galleries, handicraft shops, and quaint cafés. Buy and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in the city’s famous grilled fish and other local specialties. Afterward, you can explore the city’s cultural landmarks, such as the Skala de la Ville, a fort offering views of the coast, or Place Moulay Hassan, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and observe the local way of life. As the day comes to a close, you’ll return to Marrakech.
Half Day Menara Secret Gardens with Camel Ride at £49
Estimated departure time 2:30pm with a return at 5.30pm.
Explore the gardens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Secret Gardens and Menara Gardens. Following pickup from your hotel, journey through UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Marrakech and discover a fragrant oasis in the heart of the city of Marrakech. Head next to the Menara Gardens, with the peaks of the Atlas Mountains in the background. Learn about the unique irrigation system designed to provide water to the surrounding area via underground channels from the artificial lake. Discover the secret garden, which is an outstanding example of Islamic art and architecture. It’s part of the great tradition of stately Arab-Andalusian and Moroccan palaces. End your journey by going to the Palmeraie area and enjoy a 1-hour camel ride before returning to your hotel.
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Packages & Rates
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Guaranteed 2024 Marrakech Marathon Entry at £70
Guaranteed 2024 Marrakech Half Marathon Entry at £50
We are pleased to offer you guaranteed entry for the Marrakech Marathon or Half. You can buy the entry from Marathon Tours & Travel if you also buy the accommodation package from us.
Marathon Tours & Travel Marrakech Marathon & Half package includes the following:
- Your 5* accommodation in Marrakech for 4 nights
- Daily breakfasts, except on arrival day
- Hotel taxes
- Return airport transfers
- Welcome meet up (Thursday)
- Short shake-out run (Thursday)
- Race pack delivery to hotel (if you book your entry with us)
- Half Day Marrakech Tour (Friday)
- Moroccan Extravaganza with dinner and traditional folklore show (Friday)
- Pre-race dinner (Saturday)
- Post race celebration (Sunday)
- Guidance and support from Marathon Tours & Travel team
Rates (all prices are per person in UK pounds sterling)
Double Occupancy Single Occupancy 4 nights from 25th January, 2024 – Standard room £629 per person £864 Supplement for pool view room + £30 per person + £50 Supplement for deluxe room + £40 per person + £70 Supplement for junior suite + £230 per person + £440 Optional Extras
Full Day Tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls at £30
Full Day Tour to Essaouira at £30
Half Day Menara Secret Gardens with Camel Ride at £49
3 Day Desert Extension 29th to 31st January at £199
Refer to Extensions Section for rates and details of our 2 nights post-race extension package to the Desert and extra nights in Marrakech!
A longer stay?
Contact us for a quote or use our easy booking tool to cost and book.
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Hotels
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The Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel is a top hotel in a perfect location, in the heart of the popular Hivernage district. Decorated with style and comfort you will find many facilities to enjoy. These include sports/tennis court, swimming pools, spa with hamman and fitness centre, multiple bars and lounges, 24/7 room service and concierge and a beautiful palm tree and flower filled 7,000 m2 garden.
Bedrooms are air conditioned and feature a private bathroom, tv, free Wi-Fi, and in room safe. Upgrades to pool view, deluxe, or junior suite is possible, subject to availability and upon payment of a supplement. For more details and extra costs please contact us info@marathontours.co.uk
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Event Information
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Enter the 2024 Marrakech Marathon & Half with Marathon Tours & Travel
The Course: This is definitely a race to tick off your bucket list. The course is mostly flat and runs through local neighbourhoods, by the famous city walls and along areas with stunning palm trees, orange trees and olive trees. Overall its mainly flat and fast. The early part of the marathon is a gradual incline, mostly flat then until the last 10km which are mainly downhill. Its a great route for setting a PB or if you want to make the most of the mild weather, generous maximum finish time and interact with the musicians and locals along the route it ticks all the boxes. Although you cannot compare crowd support with a marathon majors you can feel the enthusiasm and you will be immersed in this very special atmosphere that will brighten up your race and pull you through to the finish line.
Date: Sunday 28 January, 2024
Race Time: from 8.30am (42K), from 9.45am (21K)
Eligibility: 17 years or older (42K), 15 years or older (21K)
Number Pickup: Marathon Tours & Travel will collect your race pack and deliver it to you at our hotel.
Temperature: Average temperatures on race day are between 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Refreshment tables: Water and slices of orange every 5kms. Sponges every 5kms from the 7th km table.
Awards: Every finisher receives a medal.
Difficulty: Easy
Minimum Pace/Cut-off Time Policy: 5 hours 30 minutes (42K), 3 hours (21K)
Race rules to be followed.
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Registration & Booking
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Conditions of Sale
Please note we cannot sell race entry without accommodation package. Race entry is not refundable.
If you wish to make any changes to your reservations administration and/or service fees might apply. For our general T&C’s please see here.
How to Book
To make your booking, click on the book now button, ensuring that you select the correct number of rooms and types for all members in your party plus all the required extras. When you book, we will require a deposit to confirm your place.
Payments
When you confirm your booking, we will take a deposit payment. Subsequent payments are taken automatically.
Travel advice
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Morocco’s current entry restrictions and requirements.
Morocco is a Muslim country which follows Islamic laws and customs. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an essential part of any holiday you take, and we highly recommend that you purchase suitable insurance for your trip. You must ensure that your travel insurance policy also covers you to participate in running events.
Security Policy
Marathon Tours & Travel’s security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and /or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest’s tour package will be forfeited, and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.
Race Rules
Our itinerary and details regarding the race are based on current information available at the time this package was released for sale. Whilst we expect the details to remain correct, changes are possible and will be confirmed nearer to the trip after the race organisers have confirmed final instructions. All race rules and procedures need to be followed.
Starting Pens and Bib Numbers
Although we are licensed to sell official entries for the 2024 Marrakech Marathon & Half, we have no influence over the allocation of starting times and bib numbers. After purchasing your race entry with us, you will be asked for your projected finish time and some other data in order to complete the race registration process. Please do not expect it immediately after booking – it will be sent when Marrakech Marathon & Half require it.. The race organisers will allocate you a starting time and bib based on the information you provide.
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Testimonials
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2023 Marathon Tours Marrakech Marathon & Half Trip
Many thanks for organising the event! One can add my experience for feedback!
I booked this trip as I wish to run another marathon in Africa as I had previously travelled with Marathon Tours and Travel (Cape Town Marathon!) I think it was a great weekend holiday as the flight was only around 3.30 hours from Heathrow and transport from airport and hotel was all sorted out! Arriving in Marrakech I felt totally stress free especially BIB already been delivered to the hotel! Breakfast and dinner were included! The hotel was well within walking distance from the start and finishing line. The marathon itself is a loop to loop marathon with a gradual incline in the early part of the race! One can run a decent time as when one goes up, it have to come down! The weather is also well suited for running! The last 10 km was mainly downhill! Although one cannot compare crowd support with a marathon majors but one can feel the enthusiasm especially from passing pedestrians and small pockets of support throughout the course. No surprise I had improved my finishing time when compare when I last ran in Africa! There is enough time for me to do some sightseeing after the race! I would recommend any runners interested in running a marathon in each continent to pick this package for their Africa leg! Also a big Thankyou to Marie the trip organiser who is always so helpful and organised throughout this trip!2023 Marathon Tours Marrakech Marathon & Half TripThank you so much. What a lovely run! Thoroughly enjoyed it. I was very glad of the support offered by the company and it was lovely to walk over together in the morning.
2023 Marathon Tours Marrakech Marathon & Half TripMarrakech was a beautiful experience and your services were really very good.
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