Are you seeking an exhilarating way to experience another country? If you have a passion for running, why not embark on a memorable adventure by participating in a marathon?

The Top 7 World Marathons, officially recognized as the Abbott World Marathon Majors, include the New York City Marathon, Tokyo Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Boston Marathon, and the newly added Sydney Marathon. Each of these iconic races offers a unique experience, making them ideal choices for your inaugural marathon. For instance, the Boston Marathon is renowned as the world’s oldest annual marathon, and the New York City Marathon, the largest of its kind, provides an unforgettable journey through its urban landscape.

These prestigious marathons are celebrated for their remarkable experiences, yet they are also highly sought after, making entry extremely competitive. The NYC Marathon, while iconic, may take years for one to secure a coveted spot through its lottery system.

Before diving deeper, let us explore the origins of the marathon. The concept traces back to the historic Battle of Marathon in Greece, where Pheidippides, a messenger, ran from Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persians. Although this original distance was shorter than today’s marathon at 26.2 miles, British Royalty’s decision to extend it by 1.2 miles has become standard in modern races.

Essential Tips for First-Time Runners

Establish a Training Plan

The Nike Run Club app is a valuable resource, offering free training plans tailored to various distances, proven to be effective for runners of all levels.

Familiarize Yourself with the Course

Understanding the marathon route can enhance your race day experience. Be sure to identify hydration stations and restroom locations to optimize your performance.

Invest in Quality Running Shoes

Transitioning to a minimalist approach with Xero shoes has transformed my running experience. However, consider the terrain—rough paths may still necessitate more protective footwear.

Now, let’s explore some of the world’s most remarkable marathons that promise stunning views and exhilarating challenges, enhancing your travel and outdoor experiences.

Saharan Challenge

Overview

Complete two marathons in two days.

Location

Draa Valley, Morocco

Timing

This two-day race typically occurs in October.

Details

The Saharan Challenge is a five-day adventure that includes Bedouin-style camping and full support, making it an ideal opportunity for raising funds for charity. Starting in Marrakech, participants are transported over the Atlas Mountains to a specially arranged camp at the edge of the Saharan Desert.

The comprehensive package includes three nights of camping, meals, accommodations in Marrakech, flight transfers, and a finisher medal, culminating in a rewarding cold beer at the finish line. While the course is challenging, it ranks as one of the best marathons globally.

More Information

Visit their website for further details.

Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc

Overview

This ultramarathon spans approximately 171 kilometers (106 miles) and features an elevation gain of 10,040 meters (32,940 feet).

Location

The route traverses the Tour du Mont Blanc, crossing through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Timing

Takes place annually on the last weekend of August or the first weekend in September.

Details

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a coveted trekking route in Europe, typically taking 11 days to complete on foot. However, participants in this ultramarathon often finish it within 22-26 hours, emphasizing the race’s demanding nature. Entry typically requires either qualification or luck in a lottery.

More Information

For comprehensive details, check out UTMB’s website .

Come to Galapagos Marathon

Overview

This event offers full, half marathon, or 10k distances in one of the world’s most pristine environments.

Location

The Galapagos Islands.

Timing

The current marathon dates are in August and October; early registration is advised due to limited space.

Details

Participants not only enjoy the breathtaking wildlife but also must sponsor a local runner, fulfilling the requirement to pay their entrance fee. Notably, this marathon has been labeled by ESPN as “The best marathon on the planet.”

You will enjoy a hotel stay next to the starting line, and a personal driver/caddy will provide hydration throughout the race every 2 kilometers. Coupled with a week-long stay on the island, this marathon offers a unique blend of racing and wildlife adventure.

More Information

Visit the Come to Galapagos website for additional information.

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

Overview

This marathon, recognized as a high-altitude adventure sports event, commences at Everest Base Camp and navigates through the challenging Sherpa trails of Khumbu Valley.

Location

Everest Base Camp.

Timing

Takes place annually on May 29th.

Details

Since its inception in 2003, this race has claimed the title of the world’s highest marathon. Beyond the marathon itself, participants also undertake the trek to base camp, gaining the opportunity to witness the highest mountain on Earth. However, it is advised to be prepared for the demanding altitudes, which contribute to this race’s reputation as one of the toughest globally.

More Information

Explore further details at the Everest Marathon website.

North Pole Marathon

Overview

Dubbed the “World’s Coolest Marathon,” this unique event is staged in one of Earth’s most remote locations.

Location

The geographic North Pole.

Timing

Held in April.

Details

Participants have the extraordinary chance to race at the top of the world, confronting extreme cold and subzero temperatures throughout this Arctic marathon. Running on floating ice floes, with only feet of ice separating competitors from the Arctic Ocean, offers a thrill unique to this race.

More Information

Although costly, this race is a dream for many. Visit the North Pole Marathon website for further information.

Borneo International Marathon

Overview

This destination marathon, established in 1984, has been recognized as one of the 50 best running races in the world by Runner’s World Magazine in 2018.

Location

Sabah, Borneo.

Timing

The full marathon occurs in June, while the half marathon takes place in February.

Details

Set on the unique island of Borneo, this marathon combines athleticism with an adventure of a lifetime amid incredible wildlife and rich cultural experiences. Notably, the registration fee is an economical $30, making it one of the most affordable races.

More Information

For further details and registration, please visit the Borneo Marathon website.

Bagan Temple Marathon

Overview

This marathon, half marathon, and 10k race takes participants through Myanmar’s ancient temples, earning it the nickname, “Temple Run.”

Location

Myanmar.

Timing

Scheduled for November each year.

Details

This mostly flat yet hot and dusty course provides a unique experience as runners traverse historic temples and tranquil villages, reminiscent of stepping back in time.

More Information

For registration details and more, head over to the Bagan Temple Marathon website.

Great Wall Marathon

Overview

This iconic race offers three distances: a full marathon, half marathon, and an 8.5km fun run.

Location

The Great Wall of China.

Timing

Held annually at the end of May.

Details

Cited as one of the most challenging marathons globally, participants face constant elevation changes and navigate 5,164 stone steps along the Great Wall. Despite the demanding conditions, the breathtaking views make this race a rewarding experience.

More Information

Secure your spot for next year’s race at the Great Wall Marathon website.

Safaricom Marathon

Overview

This marathon supports the charity Tusk, benefiting the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Location

Kenya.

Timing

Scheduled for June.

Details

Participants can anticipate an unforgettable wildlife experience while contributing to conservation efforts in a region rich in wildlife.

More Information

Visit the Lewa Safari Marathon website to get involved and help raise funds for this significant cause.

Marathon des Sables

Overview

This extreme race covers 250 kilometers over seven days across the Sahara Desert.

Location

Moroccan Sahara.

Timing

Typically held in October.

Details

Competitors are required to carry their own supplies, including food and sleeping gear, throughout the duration of the race. This grueling ultramarathon equates to running six marathons consecutively, with the longest day stretching to 91 kilometers across the sandy desert.

Your physical limits will be tested, but the sense of achievement will be unparalleled. Over 22,000 competitors have participated since its inception in 1986, with 30% returning for additional challenges.

More Information

For registration and details, visit the Marathon des Sables website.

Concluding Thoughts

Regardless of your race choice, a myriad of events awaits you globally. Ranging from fun runs to ultramarathons like the Marathon des Sables, once you catch the racing bug, you’ll always seek new challenges.

Which of these marathons have you tackled? More importantly, which are on your bucket list?

Perhaps we will cross paths at one of these remarkable events.