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Marathon Guide

🦍Marathon Guide

📝 1. Entry into the Races

i). Who Can Enter:
The World Gorilla Marathon is open to runners of all backgrounds, nationalities, and levels-Professional athletes, amateur runners, conservationists, adventurers, and virtual participants from around the globe.

 ii). Categories:

  • 42KM Gorilla Marathon
  • 21KM Half Marathon
  • 10KM Jungle Breeze Run
  • 5KM Family Fun Run
  • Virtual Marathon (Global Participation)

 iii). Minimum Age Requirement:
Participants must be 18 years or older on race day to enter the full or half marathon. Runners under 18 may enter the 10K with parental or guardian consent.

4. How to Register:

  • Visit www.gorillamarathon.org/register or www.worldgorillamarathon.org/register
  • Complete the online registration form
  • Select your race category and optional add-ons (e.g. gorilla trekking and accommodation that are booked through our partners. Visit Tour Operator and Accommodation pages)
  • Agree to terms and conditions before submitting your registration.

 

5. Registration duration/period:

    • Registration Starts on: 20 June 2025 and Closes on 15 September 2025
    • Late Registration (if space allows): On-site at Bwindi (Buhoma), 26 Sept 2025

     

    6. Entry Fees & Payment:

    i). Local (Ugandan and East Africans) Participants:

    • 5KM: UGX 50,000
    • 10KM: UGX 50,000
    • 21KM Half Marathon: UGX 50,000
    • 42 Full Marathon: UGX 50,000

    ii). International Participants:

      • 5KM: USD 50
      • 10KM: USD 50
      • Half Marathon: USD 50
      • Full Marathon: USD 50
      • Virtual Marathon: USD 50.

        iii). What’s Included:

        • Official race bib or T-shirt
        • Finisher medal for physical participants & e-certificate for virtual participants
        • Timing chip
        • Race-day hydration & medical support
        • Entry into post-race conservation briefing
        • Conservation awareness materials
        • Contributions to gorilla conservation program.

         

        7. Payment Methods:

        • Mobile Money (Ugandans only MTN and Airtel)
        • Credit/Debit Card (local & international participants)
        • PayPal (local & international participants)
        • Bank transfer (international participants)

         

        8. What should i pack when traveling for the World Gorilla Marathon:

         We recommend bringing:

        • Light, breathable sportswear for running
        • A rain jacket (depending on the region and season)
        • Comfortable running shoes and Hiking shoes if you intend to trek gorillas
        • Insect repellent
        • Sunscreen and a hat
        • Reusable water bottle
        • Modest, lightweight clothing for travel and local engagement
        • Binoculars (optional) or camera (required for exquisite photography during gorilla trekking).

         

        🌐9. International Standards & Code of Conduct

        The World Gorilla Marathon follows global best practices and guidelines:

        • Accurate course measurements for all distances
        • Aid stations every 5 km with water and first aid
        • Clearly marked routes with marshals
        • Environmentally responsible race practices-plastic-free zones and waste collection points
        • Zero tolerance for doping, littering, or harassment
        • All participants must respect wildlife, forest rules, and local communities.

         

        📦 10. Race Pack Collection

        • Dates: 20 June 2025 to 1 September 2025
        • Location: Kampala (UWA offices), Entebbe (TBC), Bwindi (TBC) and Europe (TBC), USA (TBC), Australia (TBC), Asia (TBC)
        • What to Bring: Registration confirmation/proof of payment, ID/Driving permit or passport.

        No race packs will be distributed on the morning of the event.

        📣 11. Important Notices

        • Weather: Expect cool mornings and possible afternoon showers. Dress in layers.
        • Altitude: Bwindi sits at ~1,500–2,600 meters above sea level. Train accordingly.
        • Wildlife: Bwindi is a protected habitat. Runners must not interfere with any wildlife.
        • Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in public areas.

        🌍 12. Conservation Impact

        Proceeds from the World Gorilla Marathon support:

        • Mountain gorilla protection and habitat restoration
        • Community empowerment, and health projects
        • Sustainable tourism development in Uganda.

         

        📧 13. Contact & Help Desk

        For questions, group bookings, volunteering, or sponsorship inquiries:
        📩 Email: info@worldgorillamarathon.org
        📞 Direct Telephone call: +256 708 527 830 (Uganda office)