Inclusions
- 4-night accommodation in Camp Khoka Moya
- Game drives and bush walks
- Meals as per itinerary
- Transportation as per itinerary
- English speaking Albatros Tour Leader
- Zipline adventure
- Panorama Route tour
The Big Five Marathon is a unigue event, a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one to put on your running bucket list. Named after the Big Five game animals you could see at some point during the race (Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino and Buffalo) the race, which also includes a half marathon option, is part trail marathon, part African Safari adventure. The race route runs through the private game reserve of Entabeni in South Africa, which is situated between Johannesburg and the Kruger National…
The Big Five Marathon is a unigue event, a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one to put on your running bucket list. Named after the Big Five game animals you could see at some point during the race (Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino and Buffalo) the race, which also includes a half marathon option, is part trail marathon, part African Safari adventure.
The race route runs through the private game reserve of Entabeni in South Africa, which is situated between Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park. Even though the game is an ever present on the race route, the wildlife have become increasingly accustomed to visiting tourists so you'll never be in any danger while you are running. But to reassure you, the course is watched over by helicopters and armed rangers at all times while you are running.
The route of the marathon is known for its magnificent savannah scenery as well as its toughness. There are some nasty climbs in the 26.2 miles and even though the race takes place in the African winter, the sun can be brutal on the open savannahs at that time of year.
The Big Five Marathon is an experience you'll never forget ...in every sense of the words.
Lakeside Lodge
Lakeside Lodge is situated on the banks of Entabeni Lake on the upper escarpment. The location is only a few metres away from the start and finish line of the marathon and half marathon. All rooms are elegantly furnished and are linked with thatched walkways to the reception, restaurant, conference rooms and boma areas.
Legend Safari Resort
The resort is located just outside the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, but it has easy access to the game park as the resort borders the Lower Escarpment Gate. Glass sliding doors lead onto a secluded outdoor patio where you can enjoy a good book or your morning coffee. The beautifully-designed bedrooms include a small seating area and luxurious en-suite bathroom with a spacious shower and separate bath. Wake up to the sight of impalas and zebras strolling by your window and go for leisurely shake-out runs on the lush grounds belonging to the resort.
The drive from the resort to Lakeside Lodge (start and finish of the race and route inspection) is approximately 60 mins going through the game park.
7 DAY PACKAGE!
10th June - Welcome to Entabeni!
Let the adventure begin! After arriving in Johannesburg, South Africa, our race officials will greet you with big smiles at the airport and take you to your transfer to your chosen lodge or camp.
If you arrive in time, participants can choose to join one of our afternoon game drives - getting an opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in stunning surroundings, already on your first day!
Meals: Dinner
11th June - Explore Entabeni
Day two kicks off the thrill with a deep dive into the wild! Today we will explore the magic of the Entabeni Game Reserve, with a sunrise or sunset game drive and an up-close bush walk with an experienced ranger.
During the game drive you will have the chance to spot South Africa's most iconic animals, such as elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and perhaps even a pride of lions blocking the path. Don't worry, you'll be in good hands with our experienced park rangers.
Want to stretch out those legs? Our tour guide can help you arrange a light shake-out run around the area.
Important: June is winter in South Africa, so pack a warm jacket, gloves and hat for the early and afternoon game drives.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
12th June: Route Inspection
After an early breakfast, all participants will be transported from their respective accommodations to the starting line of the marathon. There will be a short briefing about the route before we hit the road, showing you the location of the water stations, examination of the terrain and overall difficulty of the route.
After the route inspection, we will all gather for a buffet lunch where you will meet the organizers, medical team and rangers. They will give a formal introduction of the event and answer any questions you may have.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
13th June: Race Day!
Today is the big day your chance to take part in one of our most thrilling challenges: The Big Five Marathon!
In the morning, all participants will be transported from their accommodation to the starting line. The marathon is scheduled to start at 09:00, but delays are to be expected as the race team ensure the route is completely safe. If the Big Five are too close to the race route, the start will be postponed.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
14th June: Celebration Dinner
Congratulations on your great achievement! Today you will have some time to relax at the camp, or join one of our optional excursions.
The afternoon is reserved for a fantastic game drive, followed by an epic celebration dinner in your honour. There will be mouth watering food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony, a big bonfire and a vibrant dancefloor!
Important: The party takes place in a traditional South African boma under the naked sky - so bring some warm clothese.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
15th June: Final game drive and farewell dinner
This morning, we have arranged a one last game drive for you. After yet another thrilling day, a farewell dinner will be held at each accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinne
16th June: Goodbye South Africa or Hello Extension!
Unfortunately, our time at the Entabeni Game Reserve has come to an end. As upon arrival, all participants will be transferred back to Johannesburg International Airport.
Are you up for more thrills? Whether you're up for the city life of Cape Town, the stunning nature of Victoria Falls or want to dive deeper into the safari experience, we have the perfect extension for you!
Meals: Breakfast
8 DAY PACKAGE!
9th June - Welcome to the Zebra Nature Reserve!
Your adventure begins and ends at Johannesburg's International Airport! After greeting you with big smiles, we will drive you to your new accommodation - the stunning Zebra Nature Reserve. This reserve boasts a stunning 400 hectacres of predator-free wilderness, directly in your backyard.
Group transfers will take you to your accommodation where a delicious South African lunch will be waiting for you. In the afternoon, you can stretch your legs with a guided nature walk that ends up at the reptile-centre which is followed by a relaxed sunset drive of the area.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
10th June - A visit to the Soweto township
Today we dive into South Africa's rich history with a guided tour of Soweto, led by a local resident. You will get personal insight into the vibrant culture of the township and visit key sites like the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
In the afternoon, you can choose from optional activities like kayaking, mountain biking, fishing or a visit to the onsite spa. If you prefer to keep moving, you can head out for a solo run on the marked 5km trail through the reserve.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
11th June - Let's explore Entabeni!
After an early breakfast, we will head out to our next accommodation - The Legend Safari Resort in the Entabeni Game Reserve.
Upon arrival, you will embark on the first of many exciting game drives in Entabeni, introducing you to this stunning reserve and its wildlife.
The game drives provide the opportunity to experience an authentic African safari in serene surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
12th June - Route Inspection
After an early breakfast, we will transport you to the starting line of the Big Five Marathon. You will get a short briefing of the inspection before we hit the road! On the way we will show you the location of the water stations, examination of the terrain and overall difficulty of the route.
After the inspection, we will gather for a buffet lunch where you get the chance to meet the race officials, medical team and rangers. We will give you a formal introduction on the event and answer any questions you may have about the big day!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
13th June - Race Day!
Today you will take part in one of our most thrilling challenges: The Big Five Marathon!
After breakfast, we will drive you to the starting line. The marathon is scheduled to start at 09:00, but delays are to be expected to make sure the route is completely safe. If the Big Five are too close to the race route, the start will be postponed.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
14th June - Celebration Dinner
There will be mouth watering food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony, a big bonfire and a vibrant dancefloor!
Important: The party takes place in a traditional South African boma under the naked stars - it is therefore advisable to dress warm!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
15th June - Final game drive & farewell dinner
This morning, we have arranged a one last game drive for you. After yet another thrilling day, a farewell dinner will be held at your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Unfortunately, our time at the Entabeni Game Reserve has come to an end. As upon arrival, all participants will be transferred to Johannesburg International Airport.
Are you up for more thrills? Whether you're up for the city life of Cape Town, the stunning nature of Victoria Falls or do you want to dive deeper into the safari, we have the perfect extension for you!
Meals: Breakfast
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
Join us for an exciting safari trip which includes game drives, bush walks, and exploration of the area along the famed Panorama Route.
Spot more of the Big Five game and a wealth of bird species, as well as other African wildlife. Your camp is beautifully situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, bordering the famed Kruger National Park. Consisting of fifteen stylishly-appointed tents with modern ensuite facilities and private terraces, a pool, bar, lounge and dining area and spacious, lush lawns, the camp provides an authentic African safari experience.
During your stay in Mantobeni Camp, you will have an additional opportunity to visit a local community situated beside the reserve. This is a great chance to gain insight into the daily lives of the locals. If you are interested in a local community visit, please let the tour leader know in advance.
Day 1 - 16th June: Arrive in Manyeleti Game Reserve & Zipline Adventure
After breakfast, we will leave Entabeni and start our drive to Mantobeni Camp. The 7-hour drive will be broken up with an exhilarating zip wire adventure. Glide through a scenic river valley and enjoy astounding views from the treetops while swaying over a gushing waterfall and rushing river. The activity is suitable for everyone (not only for marathon runners) and includes a photo to bring back as a souvenir. There will also be a lunch stop (not included in the price) on the way to the camp. Dinner will be served at the camp.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 2 - 17th June: Game drive and/or bush walk
Over the next few days, you will experience morning and afternoon safaris and hiking in the beautiful scenery. There is not much that can compare with the crisp morning scents and the special glow over the savannah in the early morning. After breakfast, you will either go for a game drive or a bush walk. In the afternoon after lunch, there is another game drive or bush walk. Afternoon safaris begin late in the day when the sun has cast a warm glow over the landscape. Along the way you can enjoy the sunset.
It's a bit of a sensory revelation when the sky darkens and the stars brighten the bush. The sounds of the savannah fills your ears and the smell of the red soil and the lingering fragrance of the animals clings to your nostrils. Safari vehicles are open-terrain vehicles, and it’s quite an experience to be at such close proximity to a huge elephant - not to mention a lion or rhino. But, fortunately, predators do not consider a car with passengers as food! Since it can be quite chilly in the early mornings and late evenings, we provide blankets in the open safari vehicles, but we also recommend that you bring a hat and a windproof jacket or fleece.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 3 - 18th June: Panorama Route, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon (subject to weather)
After breakfast we will drive from the camp to the province of Mpumalanga, which means "place where the sun rises." The Panorama Route is true to its name, with magnificent vistas and a stop at the scenic vantage point known as "God’s Window," with panoramic views of the low veld savannah that lies 1,000m below the plateau. The route also takes us to Bourke's Luck Potholes, a rocky landscape where water has carved deep cylindrical holes into the bare rock. Finally, you will stop at Blyde River Canyon, which is the world's third largest canyon. There will be a lunch break in an old gold mining town, Pilgrim’s Rest (lunch is not included). We expect to be back in Mantobeni in the late afternoon, giving you some time to relax before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4 - 19th June: Game drive and/or bush walk
After breakfast, we'll enjoy another day of game drives (morning and afternoon) and experience the bush. There will either be two game drives today or one game drive and a bush walk. All meals will be enjoyed at the camp.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 5 - 20th June: Departure Day
After breakfast, we'll head back to Johannesburg. The journey will take approximately 7 hours by bus. We’ll stop for lunch and be back in Johannesburg at around 3pm. Lunch is not included in the price.
Meals: Breakfast
VICTORIA FALLS EXTENSION
With a height of 108 meters, a combined width of 1700 meters, and picturesque rain forest backdrop, Victoria Falls is an impressive place to spend four days topping off your African adventure.
In the Bantu language, the falls are called “mosi-oa-tunya,” which means "the smoke that thunders," and that is a perfect description of Victora Falls - a huge puff of "smoke" accompanied by the thunderous sound of the water.
Day 1 - 16th June: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
After breakfast, we start our drive to O R Tambo International Airport where we will check in for a 1 hour 40 minute flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. On arrival, and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be transferred to your hotel for the next four days. You can choose between the historic Victoria Falls Hotel or the Explorers Village. Victoria Falls is a town in western Zimbabwe and a gateway to the massive waterfall of the same name. Here, the Zambezi River plummets over a cliff and into the Boiling Pot before flowing through a series of gorges.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 2 - 17th June: Tour of Victoria Falls & Sunset Cruise
After breakfast, we will take a walking tour around the indescribably beautiful Victoria Falls, which spans as far as the eye can see. During the tour, your guide will explain the history of the area and provide information about its location along the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. There is often spray from the waterfall, so it is a good idea to bring an umbrella or light raincoat. In the afternoon, we will take a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. From our safe position aboard the boat, you can enjoy a cold drink while looking-out for crocodiles and hippopotamus.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 - 18th June: Chobe National Park
The perfect day for a safari boat cruise! The Chobe National Park offers close encounters with Africa's iconic wildlife amidst its natural habitat. We will sail down the Chobe River, which gives a unique perspective on game gathering at the water's edge. If you an elephant lover, the national park hosts the highest concentration of these majestic creatures in all of Africa.
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 - 19th June: Zambezi Dinner Cruise
Today you can explore Victoria Falls in your own way! Are you up for river rafting on the Zambezi river? Or daredevil ready for a bungeejump over the falls? You can even enjoy an exhilarating helicopter ride over the falls. Our local representative will be able to assist you with your booking. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner on a sunset cruise, which offers a picturesque experience down the Zambezi River. As you glide along the river, you have the chance to spot more wildlife and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the African landscape.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner Sunset Cruise
Day 5 - 20th June: Departure Day
Unfortunately it's time to say goodbye to Victoria Falls. You will have the morning at your own leisure for optional activities, before your transfer back to Victoria Falls Airport from where we will take a flight back to Johannesburg.
Meals: Breakfast
CAPE TOWN EXTENSION
Day 1 - 16th Jun: Arrive in Cape Town
After breakfast, we will depart from Entabeni and start our drive to OR Tambo International Airport, where we board our 2-hour flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel, the fabulous Winchester Hotel located at the Sea Point Promenade
Meals: Breakfast
Day 2 - 17 Jun: Tour of Cape Point
We start our day with a drive via the awe-inspiring Chapman's Peak, one of the world's most breathtaking coastal routes, leading us to the stunning Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point.
Next up on our journey is Simon's Town, a historic village famous for its large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Wooden walkways allow you to come up close and view these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 3 - 18th Jun: Cape Town city centre
After breakfast, everyone is free to explore this fabulous city at their own pace. You can also join a city walk with our experienced tour-guide for some extra insight into the city's history and urban landscape.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 - 19th June: Tour of the Cape Winelands (tastings included!)
Today is wine tasting day! We will depart for the famous Winelands of the Western Cape to visit two well-known wineries for tours and tastings, while basking in the beauty of the surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 5 - 20 Jun: Goodbye Cape Town
Depending on your time of departure, you have the morning or day at your leisure for one last chance to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Cape Town. Taxis to the airport are available from the hotel (departure transfer not provided). Please note check-out time is 11 am.
Meals: Breakfast
PRICES ARE PER PERSON.
PRICES PER PERSON IN £'s |
TWIN OR DOUBLE ROOM |
SINGLE OCCUPANCY |
| LAKESIDE LODGE 7 DAY PACKAGE | £2759 | £3499 |
|
LEGENDS SAFARI RESORT 7 DAY PACKAGE |
£2589 | £3195 |
| ZEBRA STABLES & LEGANDS SAFARI RESORT 8 DAY PACKAGE | £2849 | £3455 |
|
SAFARI AND PANOROMA ROUTE EXTENSION |
£1639 |
£2059 |
|
VICTORIA FALLS EXTENSION (Explorers Village)
|
£2149
|
£2229
|
| CAPE TOWN EXTENSION | £1719 | £2149 |
|
RACE ENTRY FEE (MARATHON & HALF) |
£300 |
|
IF YOU ARE TRAVELLING ALONE THE SINGLE PRICE APPLIES. IF YOU ARE INTERESSTED IN SHARING WITH ANOTHER PERSON OF THE SAME GENDER, LET US KNOW AND WE WILL TRY TO FIND YOU ONE
Please note: Race entry is conditional to purchasing one of the land packages - there is strictly no entry only available.
A non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking:
Package without extensions:
Any package booked with Kruger, Cape Town or Victoria Falls Extension will have an additinal deposit equivalent to 25% of the extension price
Final balance is due 10 weeks prior to departure.
* Prices do not include flights to and from the UK and Johannesburg*
Transfers at 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 from Johannesburg airport are included in the package price and on return the free transfers will arrive at the Johannesburg airport at 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 and 18:00
Private Car Transfers between Johannesburg airport and Entebeni- Max 4 per car are £476 if you require a transfer ouside of the above times.
WE STRONGLY ADVISE YOU TO TAKE OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE. TRAVEL INSURANCE SHOULD PROTECT YOUR DEPOSIT OR ANY OTHER PAYMENTS IF YOU CANCEL THE TRIP DUE TO INJURY, ILLNESS OR UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.
WE DO NOT REFUND DEPOSITS AND WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOU DECIDE TO CANCEL YOUR TRIP AFTER IT IS CONFIRMED.
For further information email 2:09 Events on info@209events.com
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