Where it all began….

Kili Marathon, to begin with, was simply an idea formed by event organiser Wild Frontiers in 2002, over a cold Kilimanjaro Lager, of a great way to draw tourism in to Tanzania – an iconic name and place for a marathon, using  sport and a new marketing idea to attract runners to Tanzania, who would then climb the mountain, or go on safari after running the race. In 2024 the race entered its 22nd year – a massive milestone and a tribute to all the sponsors and athletes who have been with us from the beginning and contributed to the growth and longevity of this fantastic race.  We are looking forward to 2025 and another exciting weekend in Moshi.

Year one, after generating some marketing on a tiny budget, Kili’ marathon attracted a mix of a few ‘international’ runners coupled with local interest – and ended up with a field of about 300 – 400  runners in total who enjoyed the race.  Back in 2003, the local interest from villagers was piqued and they came out to see what was going on in their quiet town so early on a Sunday morning.  Children followed some of the athletes, there were goats on the side of the roads, part of the course was on dirt, but generally most people went about their morning activities – like any other Sunday.

We organised a full 42km and half marathon distance, and a 10 km – timekeeping was done manually with stop-watches… it was quite easy with a small group of runners.

Today, the roads are brimming full of athletes – shoulder to shoulder at the start – as they pit for top honours. We now have, in addition to the Full and Half, a hugely popular Fun Run, ideal for families and people starting their running programme!

Over the years, our main sponsor Kilimanjaro Premium Lager, together with other sponsors have helped us turn this tiny event into a monster – the sponsors have to claim a large part of the credit for this success. The race serves to test Tanzania’s upcoming top athletes, with world-class times being posted by these talented runners, some of whom have gone on to the international circuit and even the Olympics.  2024 attracted some 12,000 entrants over various distances, including accomplished athletes from all over East Africa, as well as local families, friends, children, schools and corporate groups.

As well as being a great breeding ground for the local talent, the event draws quality runners from neighbouring countries, and from around the world – with up to 45 nationalities attending the event. Apart from the race itself, Event has a big pay off in the region, with sponsors building their CSR around the event, and the economic benefits to the country and the region are huge.  Plenty of social events happen over the weekend in Moshi, including ‘Kili Dome’ organised by our sponsors Kilimanjaro Premium Lager – attracting thousands of music lovers to a three-day spectacular outdoor live music & lights show.   Moshi comes to life over Kili Marathon weekend – people flock from far and wide to join in the fun.

Join us in 2025, to celebrate the Kilimanjaro Premium Lager Marathon – we have plenty of exciting plans for the lead up to the event, and race day – follow us on social media, we love to hear your comments and discuss the event with you.  Entries officially open on 18 October 2025.