Kangaroo Island Marathon: what it’s like to run one of the world’s most scenic marathons
The Kangaroo Island Marathon is one of the most iconic and popular marathons in Australia. Located just off the coast of South Australia, the route makes its way through the incredible scenery of the Flinders Chase National Park – making for sights never seen in any other marathon anywhere in the world.
The team at Marathon Tours & Travel (MT&T) Australia are keen runners and took part in the 2023 edition of the Kangaroo Island Marathon. Here is what they had to say about their experience and why you should take part if you’re thinking about giving it a go…
Take in the scenery, but be prepared for a tough test
Oli, MT&T’s marketing manager for Australia believes the beauty of both the half marathon and full marathon course’s has to be seen to be believed; “The start was really incredible, winding up the boardwalk from the remarkable rocks with the rest of field at the start of the half marathon. The first 7km of the race you’re able to look over your shoulder and see exactly where you’ve run from with a wide-open view of the coastline, absolutely gorgeous.”
As part of the Kangaroo Island Marathon package available from Marathon Tours & Travel, participants will get the opportunity to explore the island before the race and acclimatise to the undulating environment that you will be racing in. Preparation is crucial given conditions vary from more “traditional” marathons. Oli said; “I would factor in a good amount of hill training if you’re targeting a time. Otherwise, the major thing to keep in mind is that there’s really a heap to do on the island if you make the trip down. Definitely worth giving yourself at least a day or two either side of the race to enjoy it! I wish we had longer!”
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience
However, those intense conditions don’t have to deter you from taking part and recording a good time. MT&T’s Groups & Events Manager, Jenna-belle said; “The course is hilly the whole way, which I actually really enjoyed because it broke it up into intervals, allowing me to power walk up and run down for the most part. We experienced four seasons on the course, make for a spectacular journey through the park, seeing nature in all lights.”
As well as the beauty and variation in the course, Kangaroo Island Half Marathon and Marathon is a great opportunity to record a good time and experience great camaraderie throughout the day. Jenna-belle completed the Half Marathon in 2 hours 46 minutes, whilst Oli finished in 2 hours 4 minutes. Both had great things to say about the experience throughout the day. “After the initial grind I was able to settle-in and from there was just keeping on top of nutrition & water intake to stay on track. The last 6km were super tough as the groups had split completely by then so I was solo in my own head for the final push. The enchanting scenery helped a whole lot in getting through it!” Oli said. Jenna-belle reiterated the praise for the scenery, helping to push all participants through to the end; “Running past the remarkable rocks, just an epic landscape, the run back from there along the cliffs on the coastline is just magical, we even got a rainbow.”
Make the most of a magnificent part of the world
As well as being the location of three running events, Kangaroo Island also represents one of Australia’s most underrated tourist locations. Ashleigh, MT&T Travel Manager recommended some great spots to take in during your time on the island; “Stay at least 3 nights on the island to do some of the other iconic sights. The Island is a bit larger than Long Island NY, Mallorca and Bali, so with this size in mind you do take a day or two extra to see the best of the sights. Also extend in Adelaide to visit the famous SA wine regions, as these compliment the Kangaroo Island food culture well. Also visit the KI Spirits Gin Distillery which has won World’s Best Gin in the last 10 years.”
Oli recommends booking the Marathon Tours & Travel Kangaroo Island experience, to experience the scenery, camaraderie and great value in full; “We were able to create an environment and opportunities where all the runners could mingle together and connect. I had some really fantastic conversations with runners from around the world swapping stories and experiences.”
To take part in the 2025 Kangaroo Island Marathon or Half Marathon, you can register here.