Maratona do Rio

In real life  Thu, May 27 – Sun, May 30, 2027

Latin America's biggest road-running festival: several days of races that pass Copacabana, Ipanema and views of Sugarloaf.

The Maratona do Rio bills itself as the largest road-running festival in Latin America. It dates back to 1979, when it was organised by the Brazilian runner Eleonora Mendonça, and it now attracts international runners as well as Brazilians.

The 2027 edition runs from 27 to 30 May, with races over several distances along Rio's waterfront. Runners can also take on the Desafio challenge, running the half and then the full marathon. With distances from 5K upwards, it caters to casual runners as well as marathoners.

What to expect

• 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon races
• The Desafio 21K + 42K challenge for runners doing both
• Courses along Rio's coastline
• Several days of racing, from 27 to 30 May 2027

Tips for going

• Marathon registration is open through the organiser's platform, and the other distances open later
• Race start times weren't published at the time of writing, so check the organiser's site
• Bring sun protection and plan to drink plenty, even in late May

Questions people ask

What distances are there?

5K, 10K, 21K, 42K and a combined 21K + 42K challenge.

When is it?

27–30 May 2027.

Where does it start?

The 2027 start areas haven't been posted on the homepage. The marathon has finished at Flamengo Park since 2019; check the race pages on maratonadorio.com.br for 2027 details.

About Rio de Janeiro

Christ the Redeemer stands on the summit of Corcovado, arms open over Rio de Janeiro, Guanabara Bay and Sugarloaf.

Getting there: The Corcovado rack railway climbs from Cosme Velho to just below the summit, and official vans run from Copacabana and Largo do Machado.

More about Rio de Janeiro and its 3D version →

Also in Rio de Janeiro

Sources: www.maratonadorio.com.br · en.wikipedia.org. Organizers change plans, so confirm before you go.