15 Epic Half Marathons You Must Run in 2026

This guide brings together fifteen of the world’s most epic half marathons. From desert trails and jungle paths to icy tundras and volcanic ridges, every race on this list offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Together, they span all seven continents, giving you tropical, alpine, urban, mountainous, and even Antarctic routes to explore.

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Africa

1. Kilimanjaro Half Marathon

Run beneath the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro — the “roof of Africa.” The course begins at about 2,723 ft (830 m) above sea level and climbs to approximately 3,773 ft (1,150 m). Though the elevation gain is modest, it qualifies as a high-altitude challenge.

Photo: @kilimanjaromarathon

Runners follow red clay roads through the Moshi countryside with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s snowcapped summit. Locals cheer with traditional songs and dancing, and some runners even pause for a mid-race Kilimanjaro beer.

This race is a true celebration of the Tanzanian spirit and natural beauty.

2. Victoria Falls Half Marathon

Race beside one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — Victoria Falls.

The course kicks off near the Zambezi River and immediately crosses the bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia, running through the mist of the thunderous falls. Locals call it “The Smoke That Thunders”—and you’ll understand why.

Photo: @VictoriaFallsMarathon

The route winds through a national park, where you may see elephants and other wildlife. The finish line awaits in Victoria Falls town, with rainbows dancing in the spray and the roar of water in the air.

A truly magical race that blends wild nature and world-class race organization.

Asia

3. Petra Desert Half Marathon

Run through history in the ancient Nabataean city of Petra.

The race starts among the carved tombs and temples of Petra’s archaeological site, including the famous Treasury, before climbing through the narrow Siq canyon and out into the desert.

Photo: @petradesertmarathon

The course winds through sand and gravel trails into Martian landscapes and rocky canyons, eventually stretching up to 15.5 miles (25 km) due to the specific terrain. With every step, you’re surrounded by the breath of centuries.

At the finish line, runners receive a Petra-themed medal — a souvenir from one of the world’s most unforgettable deserts.

4. Great Wall Half Marathon

Possibly the toughest half marathon on the planet.

The race takes place on the steep stone steps of the Great Wall, featuring more than 5,000 ancient stairs with sharp inclines, narrow towers, and uneven stone paths. Runners cover about 2 miles (3 km) directly on the Wall itself.

Photo: @greatwallmarathon

After descending from the wall, the course continues through scenic countryside, past terraced fields and Tianjin villages.

It’s a journey through both landscape and history, a bucket-list challenge for runners ready to earn their finish.

Europe

5. Iceland Volcano Half Marathon

Feel like you’re running on Mars. This half marathon takes place in the volcanic wilderness of Mývatn, a geothermal region filled with lava fields, smoking craters, and steaming vents.

Photo: @icelandvolcanomarathon

The course circles the surreal Dimmuborgir lava formations and climbs the ridge of the Hverfjall crater to give runners jaw-dropping panoramic views.

There’s no shade and lots of wind, but cool summer temperatures (~59°F / 15°C) make it manageable.

You’ll earn a volcano-shaped medal and the right to say you raced on alien terrain.

6. Athens Half Marathon

Run where the marathon was born.

The Athens Half takes place in the very heart of the Greek capital, beginning in Syntagma Square and passing iconic landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the National Gardens, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

Photo: @athenshalfmarathon

Hills are part of the city’s character, expect climbs and descents throughout the route.

The run finishes with the Acropolis in view, making it not just a race but a run through history.

7. Half Marathon du Mont-Blanc

A legendary mountain race that starts in Chamonix and climbs over 5,249 ft (1,600 m) to the Planpraz plateau, 6,562 ft (2,000 m) above sea level.

Photo: @MarathonDuMontBlanc

This is more of a trail run than a typical road race: steep switchbacks, singletrack forest trails, alpine meadows, and sweeping 360° views of the Mont Blanc massif.

The entry is through a lottery due to high demand. If you’re lucky enough to get in, you’ll earn a place in one of Europe’s most breathtaking and challenging trail events.

North America

8. United Airlines NYC Half Marathon

  • When: March 2026
  • Where: New York City, USA
  • Website: nyrr.org

A once-a-year chance to run through Times Square, free of traffic and full of cheering crowds.

Photo: nyrr.org

This iconic race starts in Brooklyn and takes runners across the Manhattan Bridge into the heart of the city. The second half winds through Central Park, finishing on the famous Mall, surrounded by over 24,000 runners and thousands of spectators.

Cool March weather and a relatively flat course make this a great event for fast times and unforgettable city vibes.

9. Monterey Bay Half Marathon

A stunning seaside race along California’s central coast.

The course starts in downtown Monterey, passes Cannery Row and Pacific Grove, and follows a coastal path with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Photo: @MontereyBayHalfMarathon

Expect sea breeze, cool temperatures, and waves crashing just feet away.

The route is flat and fast, with the highlight being the stretch near Lovers Point, often wrapped in morning mist.

10. Honolulu Half Marathon (The Hapalua)

  • When: April 12, 2026
  • Where: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
  • Website: thehapalua.com

Start your race at sunrise on Waikiki Beach, just as the golden light hits the ocean.

Photo: @thehapalua

The course runs through downtown Honolulu, past the Aloha Tower and back toward the coast. The second half climbs Diamond Head crater for breathtaking ocean views before descending into Kapiolani Park for a festive finish.

There’s no time limit, true to the Hawaiian aloha spirit, everyone is welcome—whether you finish in 1.5 hours or 4.

The finish line features ukulele music, fresh malasadas (Hawaiian donuts), and cold tropical juice.

South America

11. Patagonian International Half Marathon

Run through the remote beauty of Chilean Patagonia, surrounded by glacier-fed turquoise lakes, granite towers, and snowcapped peaks.

Though the altitude is modest (328–656 ft / 100–200 m), the real challenge is the weather: wind gusts up to 45 mph (70 km/h), sudden rain, and even snow.

The Most Epic Half Marathons in the World
Photo: @PatagonianInternationalMarathon

The gravel road course connects local ranches and settlements outside Torres del Paine National Park.

The race is capped at around 1,000 participants to protect the environment. Each finisher receives a handmade medal and the knowledge that they’ve conquered one of the planet’s last wild frontiers.

12. Bogotá International Half Marathon

Held at a soaring 8,661 ft (2,640 m) above sea level, Bogotá’s race is one of the highest-altitude city half marathons in the world.

The thin Andean air makes the run tougher, but the cooler temps (around 59°F / 15°C) and city-wide celebration make up for it.

Photo: @mediamaratonbogota

The route winds through Bogotá’s wide avenues, the colonial La Candelaria district, and modern business areas. Expect loud support, music groups, and a festive vibe.

The event has earned a Platinum Label from World Athletics, the only one in South America, and draws 40,000+ runners from across the globe.

Australia

13. Brooks Half Marathon (Gold Coast Running Festival)

This fast, flat loop course circles the Cbus Super Stadium in sunny Queensland. With temps around 68–77°F (20–25°C) and closed roads, it’s perfect for a PR.

Photo: @GCRunningFestival

The event is family-friendly, with races for kids, live music, and costumed runners. Whether you’re chasing a time or just soaking up the Gold Coast sun among palm trees and cheering crowds, this race is a celebration.

In 2026, the festival marks its 15th anniversary, expect special finisher goodies and plenty of Aussie energy.

14. China Airlines Half Marathon (Gold Coast Marathon Weekend)

One of the fastest courses in the world, completely flat and scenic.

Photo: @GCMarathon

The route follows the coast along the Broadwater from Southport to Paradise Point and back. Runners enjoy sunrise views over the Pacific, distant skyscrapers, and sailboats dotting the harbor.

With cool temperatures, ocean breeze, and zero elevation change, it’s the perfect place to chase a personal best or simply enjoy running along some of the most beautiful beaches in the Southern Hemisphere.

Antarctica

15. Antarctica Half Marathon

As part of a special expedition by Marathon Tours, only about 360 runners per year get the chance to participate in the Antarctica Marathon & Half.

Photo: @AntarcticaMarathon

The course runs along muddy, icy, and snow-covered paths on King George Island, past scientific bases of Russia, Chile, China, and Uruguay. There’s just pure trail-like terrain, curious penguins, and the sound of icebergs creaking in the bay.

It’s cold (around 32°F / 0°C), windy, and wild, and absolutely unforgettable.

Related: 10 Unique Running Goals You Haven’t Tried Yet

Whether you’re chasing your Seven Continents goal or simply looking for the adventure of a lifetime, these races will push your limits, expand your horizons, and leave you with stories to tell for years to come.

So, whenever someone asks, “What’s the best race you’ve ever done?” you won’t think twice.

By Lena Sage

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