Race certified by Finishers: event approved by the organizer

Sierra Leone Marathon 2027

« The Sierra Leone Marathon »

The event in a few words

Prepare your passport and your calves 🦵, we are taking you to experience more than just a race: a real human epic! 🌍

Located in Makeni, at the heart of Sierra Leone, this event is the world's most solidarity-focused race 🤯. It’s not a slogan, it’s the very DNA of the event organized by the NGO Street Child 💛. For this adventure in West Africa, you can choose between the marathon (42.195 km), the half marathon (21 km), the 10 km or the 5 km 👟. Mountain bike tours of 10 or 75 km are also offered 🚴.

Pack your suitcase 🧳 because you are not just starting a race, but starting a true immersion in Sierra Leone 🇸🇱. It's a five-day adventure that combines sport, solidarity, and discovery of a culture of infinite richness 😍. The local experience is total because you can visit the educational projects funded by your bib 🧒. You don’t just run, you meet children and communities to see the direct impact of your participation 💪. There’s no need for fancy stuff, here you experience the essentials, between shared smiles and breathtaking landscapes 😇.

Speaking of landscapes, we are talking about running through lush jungle and remote villages on ochre dirt paths 🧡. The terrain is varied, ranging from urban roads to wild trails in the heart of the bush 🌴. The challenge of this race is managing the tropical heat, because at the end of October, temperatures can rise up to 32°C 🌡️. It's like extending the summer! 🌞 The mental aspect takes over as the humidity rises 🥵. But you are not here to set a time record, you come here to be amazed (well, not literally 😅) and to live a unique experience ☝️. On site, the atmosphere is electric ⚡️: the locals cheer you on with unmatched enthusiasm 📣.

Once you cross the finish line and the emotion settles, we recommend extending the adventure to discover Sierra Leone's hidden treasures 🤗. Start by relaxing on the paradisiacal beaches of Tokeh or River No. 2 🤩, renowned for their white sand and crystal-clear waters 🏖️. It's the perfect place to rest your legs after the dusty trails of Makeni 💨. If you still have some energy, explore Bunce Island, a poignant historical site that will take you into the past of the region 🛶. For wildlife enthusiasts, a trip to the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a must to observe these primates in a protected setting 🐒. Finally, take a tour of the artisan market in Freetown to bring back colorful souvenirs and support local craftsmanship 💛.

So, are we packing our bags? 😜 It's time to turn your strides into hope and run where your heart will beat as hard as your steps on the red earth! 🦁

4 reasons to join this race

A bib with a big heart 🧡
Every kilometer you cover directly helps to educate the most vulnerable children in the country. We are not running for a plastic medal, but to provide a concrete future for thousands of children. It's the most rewarding running experience you can have 🫶.
The record of solidarity 🏆
It's the only sporting event of such magnitude in Sierra Leone, attracting runners from all over the world for a common cause. You are part of a project that holds the record for the largest fundraising for education in this region. It's an immense pride to be part of this minority of adventurer runners 🗺️.
A total "Off-Road" immersion 🎥
Forget the sanitized asphalt of European capitals. Here, you tread the red earth, pass through remote villages, and wade into a jungle worthy of the greatest exploration tales 😎. It's a radical change of scenery that takes you out of your comfort zone with every step.
The legendary welcome of the Sierra Leoneans 🗣️
The energy you receive on the side of the road is simply indescribable. Sometimes children run a few meters with you, villagers sing and cheer you on like a hero. You never feel alone in your effort; you are supported by an entire people 💪.

A distance for every taste

Marathon

Road RunningThe most popular
  • End of October 2027
  • 42.195 km

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Day 1 - Wednesday, October 21, 2026: Arrival

  • Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by a member of the Street Child staff. Depending on your flight's arrival time, you will be taken either to the Lungi hotel or directly to your hotel in Makeni (about a 3-hour drive).

Day 2 - Thursday, October 22, 2026: Discover Street Child's work

  • You will learn all about Street Child's work in Sierra Leone directly from the local teams. You will travel (a few hours by car) to rural communities to visit schools and meet local staff to better understand how the money you raise will be used to help children stay in school, safe and learning.

Day 3 - Friday, October 23, 2026: Family walk

  • This is an opportunity to meet the staff members of Street Child in Sierra Leone and participate in workshops to learn how Street Child works with its local partners and overcomes some of the challenges they face. Including the Family Business Scheme market around Makeni.

Day 4 - Saturday, October 24, 2026: Cultural activities and race briefing

  • Discover more about Sierra Leone, its culture and local language. You will also have the chance to attend an amazing local football match. Followed by the pre-race briefing.

Day 5 - Sunday, October 25, 2026: Race day

  • Race day has arrived, it's time to set off on the 5 km, 10 km, half marathon or full marathon race. Whatever distance you choose, you will explore the stunning city of Makeni and the beautiful surrounding trails.

Day 6 - Monday, October 26, 2026: Departure or Tokeh Beach

Your registration includes:

  • Airport transfer

  • Transport (within the country)

  • Accommodation

  • Project visits

  • Breakfast

  • Lunch

  • Dinner

  • Drinking water

  • Race registration

  • Race T-shirt and medal

  • Medical assistance

Your registration does not include:

  • Flights

  • Visa

  • Airport tax in Sierra Leone

  • Travel insurance

  • Vaccinations

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