The Lewa Safari Marathon: Where Running Meets Conservation
A Race with a Purpose
The Lewa Safari Marathon began in 2000 as a bold idea to use sport as a force for good. Hosted within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the marathon was created to raise funds for wildlife protection and to support the surrounding communities.
Over the years, the event has grown into an international phenomenon, drawing elite athletes, recreational runners, conservationists, and adventure seekers from across the globe. It’s not just the challenging course that attracts them — it’s the opportunity to be part of something bigger than personal achievement.
Running Through the Wild
Unlike urban marathons, the Lewa course offers a raw and untamed experience. Set at an altitude of around 1,700 metres, the race unfolds across winding dirt tracks, open savannahs, and forested hills. The terrain is tough, and the heat can be unforgiving, with temperatures climbing as the day progresses.
But it’s not just the terrain that makes this race extraordinary — it’s the fact that runners share the course with Kenya’s famed wildlife. Along the route, it’s not uncommon to spot herds of zebra, gazelle, or even elephants in the distance. With no fences separating runners from the animals, the event is secured by an experienced team of rangers, spotter planes, and helicopters, ensuring that both participants and wildlife remain safe.
A Global Affair
What started as a local fundraiser has blossomed into a global event. Over 1,000 runners take part each year, from professional athletes to first-time marathoners, all united by a common goal: to support conservation and uplift communities.
The marathon has welcomed world champions, Kenyan running legends, celebrities, and even royalty. But at its heart, the race remains grounded in its original mission — protecting Kenya’s wildlife and empowering the people who live alongside it.
Impact Beyond the Finish Line
The true legacy of the Lewa Safari Marathon extends far beyond race day. Proceeds from the event support critical conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community development projects. Schools, healthcare facilities, and women’s empowerment programmes in the region all benefit from the funds raised.
Over the past two decades, the marathon has become a lifeline for the conservancy and the neighbouring communities, ensuring that both people and wildlife can thrive.
2025: A Milestone Year
In 2025, the Lewa Safari Marathon celebrates its 25th edition — a testament to the enduring power of sport and community. The milestone race promises to be the biggest yet, with special events, increased global participation, and renewed focus on the critical conservation work it supports.
More Than Just a Race
The Lewa Safari Marathon isn’t just about clocking a personal best or crossing the finish line. It’s about running with purpose, in one of the world’s last great wildernesses, knowing that every step helps safeguard Kenya’s natural heritage.
For those seeking adventure, challenge, and a chance to make a difference, few races can rival the experience of running through the heart of Africa, surrounded by the wildlife you’re helping to protect.