Big Five Marathon & Half Marathon, South Africa

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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…

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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. 

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.

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  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.

  

   

• Itinerary

  6-NIGHT PACKAGE 

  11 June: Depart UK

  Depart from the UK for an overnight flight to Johannesberg (international flights are not included in the package)

  12 June: Arrival at Entabeni

  Our tour will start and end at Johannesburg International Airport (also known as OR Tambo). All participants will be transferred at set transfer tmes from the airport to Entabeni Game Reserve. 

  The set transfer departure times from the airport are: 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00. If none of these transfers fit with your arrival, it is possible to book an individual transfer at an additional cost. Private transfers for up to four people between the airport and Entabeni resort are £350 each way.

  Upon arrival to Entabeni, you will meet your tour leader and be checked in at your respective accommodation. Participants arriving on one of the first three transfers (departure from Johannesburg International Airport at 08:30, 10:00 & 12:00) will have the opportunity to go on a game drive during the afternoon. Don't worry if you are arriving later, there will be plenty of other opportunities.

  The game drives will provide the chance to experience an authentic African safari in serene surroundings. As well as the wildlife, the Entabeni Game Reserve offers open safari vehicles and relatively few tourists, creating an ideal wilderness atmosphere.

  Meals: Dinner

  13 June: Entabeni Game Drives

  Day two of your stay in Entabeni is dedicated to exploring the game reserve through a morning game drive and a bush walk. It will help you become accustomed to the park's geography, and climate, and you can slowly start preparing yourself for Saturday's exciting event: The Big Five Marathon and Half Marathon.

  The game drive is included in the itinerary and will take place either in the early morning or in the late afternoon. A bush walk with an experienced armed ranger is also included on the second day, giving you the chance to embrace the nature and wildlife at close range. Additional game drives and bush walks can be purchased at the resort. Alternatively, some of your free time can also be used for shorter runs outside Entabeni - the tour leader will help organise these runs.

  Early morning game drives typically takes place between 06:00 and 09:30. During these early hours you will experience the cool African morning, spot spectacular wildlife, and most probably work up an appetite. Once back from the morning safari the breakfast buffet awaits you at the lodge/camp.

  The afternoon game drive begins around 16:00, and arrives back at the lodge in time for dinner around 19:30. Similar to the morning game drive, the afternoon drive provides great wildlife experiences. Moreover, the afternoon drive offers the opportunity to experience a beautiful sunset in ideal settings: enjoying a cold drink on the savannah, while admiring the changing colours of the darkening evening sky. The afternoon drive then turns into a night safari, where we will have the chance to spot fascinating nocturnal wildlife.

  PLEASE NOTE: June is winter time in South Africa and while the temperature often rises to 20-25 degrees Celsius during the day, temperatures around 0 degrees Celsius at night time are not unusual! The large drop from day to night time temperatures makes the evenings and mornings feel extremely cold. It is therefore essential to bring a winter jacket, warm hat and gloves when going on game drives!

  Over the last few years, the reserve's wildlife has become increasingly accustomed to tourists. It is therefore not uncommon to see elephants, giraffes and different species of antelopes grazing in close proximity to the safari vehicles. A pride of lions even occasionally holds up traffic, lying lazily across the track. The staff use open 4x4 safari vehicles for the game drives, which provide an excellent opportunity for viewing the wildlife in safety.

  During your stay, you will have a number of park rangers allocated to your group: one for approximately every ten participants. The rangers ensure your safety, drive the safari vehicles, provide competent guiding, coordinate the events with the race management, and are at your disposal around the clock. Furthermore a tour leader will be with the group from beginning to end.

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  14 June: Route Inspection

  After breakfast, all participants will be transported from their respective lodges/camp to the starting point of the marathon for a route inspection. Before we set off for the start line, there will be a short briefing about the route. All safari vehicles follow the route in a convoy, allowing you to examine the different running surfaces, note the locations of water stations and assess the overall difficulty of the route. 

  After the route inspection, a large buffet lunch will be served for all of the participants. Everyone will be gathered - participants, race officials, medical staff and rangers - for a formal introduction to the event, and a presentation of the practical issues surrounding the marathon. There are no scheduled game drives this day. 

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  
  15 June: The Big Five Marathon®

  The day everyone has waiting for has arrived! Today you will take part in an unforgettable challenge: The Big Five Marathon or Half Marathon. In the morning, all participants will be transported from the different lodges/camps to the starting line in time for final preparations. The marathon is scheduled to start at 09:00. Delays are likely because the exact start time will depend on the location of the big five game - if too close to the route, the start will be postponed while they move. 

  For more information about the race, look here.

  There are no scheduled game drives today.

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  16 June: After Marathon party

  Today your will have time to relax after running through the African savannah. You will have the option to purchase additional game drives and excursions for the morning. In the afternoon, there is another organised game drive followed by the post-marathon party. There will be delightful food, live entertainment, a prize ceremony, a big bonfire, and partying under the starry skies. Please be aware that the party takes place in a traditional South African boma with open roof and large open doorways. It is therefore advisable to wrap up warm! For the same reason, there will be no dress code and casual warm clothing is recommended.

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  17 June: Entabeni

  On the final day at the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, you will have one last game drive  in the morning. Those interested will also get the opportunity to stretch their legs on a final bush walk.

  In the evening, farewell dinners will be held at the respective lodges.

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  18 June: Depart for Johannesburg

  Your time at the Entabeni Game Reserve has come to an end and it's time to head back to Johannesburg. As upon arrival, all participants will be transferred from Entabeni to Johannesburg International Airport. 

  Transfers arrivel at the airport at the following times: 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 and 18:00. If you are flying at a different time it's possible to book individual transfer to Johannesburg at a cost.

  Meals: Breakfast

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  OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS

  Big Five Safari & Panorama Route 2024- Manyeleti Private Game Reserve Extension

  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 additonal opportunity to visit a local community situated beside the reserve that our camp works closely with. This is a great chance to gain insight into the daily lives of the locals. If you are interested in the local community visit, please let the tour leader know in advance.

  Day 1 - 18 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 enjoyed at the camp.

    Meals: Breakfast and dinner

  • Day 2 - 19 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 spicy morning scents and the special glow over the savannah in the early morning. It is cool and peaceful, and a quiet lull descends upon the savannah when the night’s hunting is over. 

    After breakfast, you will either go for a game drive or bush walk. In the afternoon after lunch, we set off for another game drive or bush walk and spend the afternoon exploring the bush. 

    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 being 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 along.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  • Day 3 - 20 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. We'll have a break for lunch 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 - 21 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 - 22 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

  • Inclusions

    • 4-night accommodation in Mantobeni Camp 
    • Game drives and bush walks 
    • Meals as per itinerary 
    • Transportation as per itinerary 
    • Zipline adventure 
    • Panorama Route tour 
  • Exclusions

    • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Beverages
    • Personal expenses
    • Travel and health insurance 
    • Anything else not mentioned under "Inclusions"

     

  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 representation of Victora Falls - a huge puff of "smoke" accompanied by the thunderous sound of the water.

   

  • Day 1 - 18 June: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

    After breakfast, we start our drive to O R Tambo International Airport where we will check in for our 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 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 - 19 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, our 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 can be 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, we will enjoy a cold drink while on the look-out for crocodiles and hippopotamus. 

    Meals: Breakfast 

  • Day 3 - 20 June: Optional Activities & Boma Dinner Drum Show

    Today is set aside for you to experience the many activities that are available around Victoria Falls. We offer an optional safari in Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Or you could enjoy a helicopter flight over the falls, go river rafting on the Zambezi, or perhaps bungee jump over the falls. There is also the opportunity to experience the falls from the Zambia side.

    Our local representative will be able to assist in booking activities. 

    In the evening guests from both hotels meet in a Boma for Dinner & Drum show. This evening of non-stop entertainment includes performances by traditional singers, dancers and drummers, face painting and dinner featuring local cuisine. The grand finale is an interactive drumming show, giving you the chance to discover your inner African rhythm! 

    Meals: Breakfast and Boma Dinner Drum show

  • Day 4 - 21 June: Transfer for Johannesburg & Departure 

    You will have the morning free for any optional activities before your transfer back to Victoria Falls airport, where we will take a flight to Johannesburg, from where you should meet your connecting flight home.

    Meals: Breakfast

    • Inclusions 

      • 3 nights at selected hotel with breakfast
      • Roundtrip flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls
      • Tour of Victoria Falls
      • Sundowner Cruise on the Zambezi
      • Boma Dinner Drum Show
      • Roundtrip transfer between the airport and hotel
    • Exclusions 

      • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
      • Visa to Zimbabwe
      • Beverages
      • Personal expenses
      • Travel and health insurance 
      • Anything else not mentioned under "Inclusions"

     

  CAPE TOWN EXTENSION 

  • Day 1 - 18 Jun: Arrive in Cape Town

    After breakfast, you will leave Entabeni as we start our drive to O R Tambo  International Airport where we will check in for our 2-hour flight to Cape Town. In Cape Town, you will be taken to your hotel, Southern Sun Waterfront.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Day 2 - 19 Jun: Cape Point Tour & Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

    Today, we travel along the Atlantic Seaboard via Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay to Hout Bay, a quaint village and fishing harbour with magnificent mountain views and beach.

    Then we will continue via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point, which is perceived to be the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. We also visit historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base and a large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat.

    You'll end the day with a visit to the well-known Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. The gardens include five of South Africa’s six different biomes and is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape Flora it displays, as well as for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.

    Meals: Breakfast and lunch

  • Day 3 - 20 Jun: Cape Town at your leisure

    Today, everyone’s free to explore this fabulous city at their own pace. The tour leader will also host a city walk that everyone is welcome to join.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Day 4 - 21 June: Tour of the Cape Winelands (tastings included!)

    This morning, you'll depart for the famous Winelands of the Western Cape, where you will visit several well-known wineries for tours and tastings while basking in the beauty of the surroundings. You will also visit Stellenbrau Brewery for craft beer tasting.

    Meals: Breakfast and lunch

  • Day 5 - 22 Jun: Departure Day

    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

  • Inclusions

    • 4-night accommodation in Cape Town 
    • Domestic flight to Cape Town 
    • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary 
    • Tour to Cape Point 
    • Winelands tour and tasting 
    • Guided city walk 
  • Exclusions

    • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Departure transfer to the airport  
    • Beverages
    • Personal expenses
    • Travel and health insurance 
    • Anything else not mentioned under "Inclusions"

• PRICES PER PERSON IN £'s	TWIN OR DOUBLE ROOM	SINGLE OCCUPANCY
  LAKESIDE LODGE 6-NIGHT PACKAGE	£2439	£3079
  LEGENDS SAFARI RESORT 6 NIGHTS	£2439	£3079
  SAFARI AND PANOROMA ROUTE EXTENSION	£1299	£1599
  VICTORIA FALLS EXTENSION (Explorers Village) VICTORIA FALLS EXTENTION (Victoria Falls Hotel)	£1565 £2389	£1729 £3259
  CAPE TOWN EXTENSION	£1299	£1629
  RACE ENTRY FEE (MARATHON & HALF)	£260	£260

     Race entry fees:

  • Marathon and Half Marathon £260

  Please note: Race entry is conditional to purchasing one of the land packages - there is strictly no entry only available.

  Prices do not include flights to and from the UK and Johannesburg.

  Private Car Transfers between Johannesburg airport and Entebeni- Max 4 per car: £350.

  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

  Sterling Prices based on exchange rate £1/Euro1.15 - if exchange rate changes significantly before your balance is paid we reserve the right to adjust the final price. 

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  A non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking:

  Package without extensions:

  • £800

  Package with Kruger, Cape Town or Victoria Falls Extension will have an additinal deposit equivalent to 25% of the extension price

  Final balance is due 75 days before departure.

  Once the booking is confirmed any cancellation up to 75 days before travel will forfeit the deposit. Cancellation from 75-15 days will forfeit 85% of trip cost and any cancellationn 15 days before travel will forfeit the entire trip cost.

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