Frequently Asked Questions about World Gorilla Marathon

1. What is the World Gorilla Marathon?

World Gorilla Marathon™ is a global landmark, annual conservation awareness and sporting sustainable tourism event championed, organized and managed by African Marathon Events Limited (AME). The marathon is held on every (Date To Be Confirmed) (if it’s a Sunday or another confirmed and published date within the World Gorilla Day-week) in Uganda; home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and the marathon promotes awareness and fundraising for gorilla conservation across Uganda while offering a unique opportunity to run physically or virtually participate in the marathon campaign across the world.

Participants can join the physical marathon in Kampala, Uganda. As documented by Winston Churchill in his book: “My African Journey”, Uganda is the Peral of Africa and home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, which are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, some of the world’s most biologically diverse ecosystems renowned for the adventurous experience of trekking endangered gorillas.in their natural habitat.

Yes. The virtual marathon allows anyone globally to run or walk from any location while supporting the cause. All virtual participants will receive a digital finisher’s certificate, (where possible).

The marathon shall be held every year on (Date To Be Confirmed) (if it’s a Sunday or on another confirmed day within the World Gorilla Day-week to maximize global participation and awareness although the inaugural race is scheduled to take place on (Date To Be Confirmed) in Kampala, Uganda.

Yes. Runners can choose from:

  • 42KM Gorilla Marathon
  • 21KM Half Marathon
  • 10 KM City Breeze Run
  • 5KM Family Fun run (Ideal for families, Conservationists, Wellness, and Lifestyle supporters)

i). Local (Uganda and East Africans) Participants:

  • 5KM: UGX 50,000
  • 10KM: UGX 50,000
  • 21KM Half Marathon: UGX 50,000
  • 42KM Gorilla Marathon: UGX 50,000

ii). International Participants:

  • 5KM: USD 50
  • 10KM: USD 50
  • 21KM Half Marathon: USD 50
  • 42KM Gorilla Marathon: USD 50
  • Virtual Marathon: USD 50

ii). The fee covers:

  • Official race bib, timing chip, and finisher medal
  • Finisher medal for physical participants & e-certificate for virtual participants
  • Race-day hydration & medical support
  • Entry into post-race conservation briefing
  • Conservation awareness materials
  • Contributions to gorilla conservation programs

No. The marathon participation fee does not include a permit for gorilla trekking. Trekking permits must be booked separately through our authorized and partner tour operators or travel companies. Discover the trusted and approved partner travel and tour companies.

Absolutely. International runners are encouraged to travel to host country; Uganda, run the physical marathon, and explore the opportunity to also visit the magnificent mountain gorillas before or after the race in Bwindi National Park or Mgahinga National Park.

Participants must be at least 18 years old to register for the full marathon. Those under 18 may participate in shorter family-friendly runs. Recommended when accompanied by a guardian.

You can register directly on our website by selecting either local or International and choosing the race category physical or virtual participation and completing the online payment process on the official website: Register – World Gorilla Marathon

World Gorilla Marathon is not yet accredited by World Athletics. However, we are actively working toward international accreditation standards and welcome partnerships to support that goal.

Yes! We welcome passionate conservation supporters and runners to become World Gorilla Marathon ambassadors. Ambassadors help promote the race, raise awareness, and grow our community. Interested individuals can inquire via our website.

Proceeds from the marathon support gorilla conservation awareness, habitat protection, gorilla behavior and health monitoring projects, Community resilience and other tailored local community programs. We work closely with Community based organizations, local governmental conservation and tourism regulatory authorities to ensure that marathon campaigns create an impact that matters for our biodiversity.

Yes. We partner with licensed eco-tourism and travel companies in each country. These companies can help you plan your trip, including gorilla trekking, accommodation, and transportation. A list of authorized partners is available on our website. Discover our partners

Yes. We invite international conservation organizations, corporates, and multinationals to partner with us to expand our impact. Please reach out through our “Partnership” page for more information.

We welcome local, regional and international volunteers in roles such as logistics, event management, media, hospitality, and conservation outreach. Interested individuals can apply via the “Volunteer” section on our website.

We recommend bringing:

  • Light, breathable sportswear for running
  • A breathable rain jacket for abrupt rain showers
  • Comfortable running shoes and hiking shoes if you intend to trek gorillas
  • Insect repellent (if you intend to embark on the gorilla trekking experience)
  • Sunscreen and a hat
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Modest gorilla trekking clothes (long sleeves, gaiters, gloves)
  • Binoculars (optional) or camera (required for exquisite photography during gorilla trekking)

Yes, participants can submit their race time through supported fitness apps or tracking tools. Those who submit results receive digital certificates and in future we shall be having their times ranked globally.

Yes. official physical marathons will have medical aid points, hydration stations, and event marshals to support runners.