Sanlam Cape Town Marathon: What You Need to Know
Race Day Overview
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes place on Sunday, May 24. Runners will travel through Green Point, the Cape Town CBD, Woodstock, Salt River, Observatory, the southern suburbs, and Sea Point. Expect road closures and traffic delays on both Saturday and Sunday.
Traffic Disruptions & Road Closures
Authorities warn of significant traffic disruptions along the marathon route. Key arteries affected include:
- Helen Suzman Boulevard
- Beach Road in Sea Point
- Beach Road in Mouille Point
- Nelson Mandela Boulevard
- Somerset Road in Green Point
- Liesbeek Parkway (Observatory & Mowbray)
- Main Street between Woodstock, Observatory, and Salt River
Plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time if you need to drive through these areas.
Parking Restrictions
Starting Friday, May 22, no‑parking zones will be enforced in the race area to keep the route clear. Affected suburbs are:
- Green Point
- Sea Point
- CBD
- District Six
- Woodstock
- Observatory
- Salt River
- Mowbray
- Rondebosch
- Newlands
Vehicles left in restricted zones will be towed. The marathon organizers have arranged alternative parking for residents who rely on on‑street spots. For details, email the race office at [email protected].
Getting to the Start & Finish
Parking near the Green Point Precinct will be extremely limited. Instead, use one of the following options:
- Park & Ride from Century City or UCT (shuttles run 5:30 am – 6:30 am to the start line; return buses 11:00 am – 5:30 pm).
- MyCiTi shuttles from V&A Waterfront, CTICC, Civic Center, and Thibault Square (5:30 am – 5:30 pm on Saturday for 5 km/10 km Peace & Trail Runs).
- Free MyCiTi start‑line shuttle from Civic Center, Thibault Square, and CTICC (5:30 am – 6:45 am on race day; returns 11:00 am – 5:30 pm).
- City‑opened parking at Hertzog Boulevard & Civic Avenue (first‑come, first‑served from 5:00 am, open until 6:00 pm).
Note that several MyCiTi routes (downtown, Sea Point, Camps Bay, Hout Bay/Hangberg, Woodstock, Salt River) will experience service changes on race day.
Spectator Cheering Zones
The city will set up a vibrant hydration and cheer zone in front of City Hall (near the 29.9 km mark). Expect a minstrel group, DJ, and dancers to keep the energy high.
Best Viewing Spots Along the Route
- Start: Fritz Sonnenberg Road & Beach Road, Green Point
- 6.5 km: N2 exit near Searle Street, Woodstock
- 15.3 km: Palmyra Junction Shopping Center
- 17.2 km: Outside Rondebosch Park on Campground Road
- 20‑22 km: Rondebosch Common
- 26.7 km: Salt River Circle
- 27‑29 km: Albert Road & Newmarket Street, Salt River
- 30.7‑32.1 km: Government Avenue to Orange & Long Streets
- 34 km: Green Point Main Road (KFM in front of Primedia building)
- 36.3 km: Sea Point Promenade
- 40 km: Beach Road, Sea Point
- Finish area: The Target on Vlei Road, Green Point
Bring friends, family, and plenty of enthusiasm—your cheers make the race unforgettable!
Conclusion
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon promises an exciting weekend of running, community spirit, and city‑wide celebration. By planning your travel, using the provided transport options, respecting parking restrictions, and heading to the recommended cheer zones, you’ll help keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone. Lace up your shoes, grab a spot along the route, and join the festivities on May 24!
