World Gorilla Marathon is an annual global conservation race organized and managed by African Marathon Group Limited. Held every September 24 (or the immediate Sunday following World Gorilla Day), the marathon promotes awareness and funding for gorilla conservation across Africa, while offering a unique opportunity to run physically or virtually in support of endangered mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas.
Participants can join the physical marathon in Bwindi National Park in Uganda, one of the world’s most biologically diverse ecosystems renowned for the adventurous experience of trekking endangered gorillas and harboring more than half of their world’s mountain gorilla population.
Yes. The virtual marathon allows anyone globally to run or walk from any location while supporting the cause. All virtual participants will receive a digital finisher’s certificate, and international delivery of medals (where possible) and race packs is available.
The marathon is held every year on September 24 or the immediate Saturday following World Gorilla Day to maximize global participation and awareness.
Yes. Runners can choose from:
i). Local (Uganda and East Africans) Participants:
ii). International Participants:
ii). The fee covers:
No. The marathon participation fee does not include a permit for gorilla trekking. Trekking permits must be booked separately through our authorized and partner tour operators or travel companies. Discover the trusted and approved partner travel and tour companies.
Absolutely. International runners are encouraged to travel to host countries, run the physical marathon, and explore the opportunity to visit the magnificent gorillas before or after the race.
Participants must be at least 18 years old to register for the full marathon. Those under 18 may participate in shorter family-friendly runs. Recommended when accompanied by a guardian.
You can register directly on our website by selecting either physical or virtual participation, choosing your preferred country or location, and completing the online payment process.
World Gorilla Marathon is not yet accredited by World Athletics. However, we are actively working toward international accreditation standards and welcome partnerships to support that goal.
Yes! We welcome passionate conservation supporters and runners to become World Gorilla Marathon ambassadors. Ambassadors help promote the race, raise awareness, and grow our community. Interested individuals can apply via our website or send us an email at: info@worldgorillamarathon.org
Proceeds from the marathon support gorilla conservation, habitat protection, and local community programs in the participating countries. We work closely with NGOs, local governmental authorities, and park agencies to ensure funds are effectively used.
Yes. We partner with licensed eco-tourism and travel companies in each country. These companies can help you plan your trip, including gorilla trekking, accommodation, and transportation. A list of authorized partners is available on our website. Discover our partners
Yes. We invite international conservation organizations, corporates, and multinationals to partner with us to expand our impact. Please reach out through our “Partnership” page for more information or email us at partner@worldgorillamarathon.org
We welcome local, regional and international volunteers in roles such as logistics, event management, media, hospitality, and conservation outreach. Interested individuals can apply via the “Volunteer” section of our website or email us at: volunteer@worldgorillamarathon.org
We recommend bringing:
Yes, participants can submit their race time through supported fitness apps or tracking tools. Those who submit results receive digital certificates and in future we shall be having their times ranked globally.
Yes. official physical marathons will have medical aid points, hydration stations, and event marshals to support runners.
Virtual participants will receive race packs and medals through our international country level collection points (TBC), or through our country level contact persons (TBC). Ensure your postal details are correct during registration. Mail delivery timelines may vary by region.
Absolutely! We encourage families, organizations, and running clubs to participate together. You can register as a team and receive group benefits/discounts.
Yes. We highly recommend combining your marathon participation with a gorilla trekking experience. You will need to book this separately through our vetted and licensed tour operators due to limited permit availability across the gorilla trekking destinations.
No, but we work with local eco-lodges and hotels near marathon venues and gorilla parks. Visit our recommended and vetted accommodation partners.
Discover accommodation partners
Our physical events are coordinated with local authorities, health facilities, first aid and safety personnel. Emergency services and road closures will be in place to ensure participant safety.
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