Where Are the World’s Most Epic Marathons?
Guest Blog post by Jennifer Dawsons
Marathons are experiencing a boom in popularity, up 49.43% between 2008 and 2018. There are tens of thousands around the world taking place every year, so why restrict yourself to your local race? 26.2 miles in a relatively flat city is one thing, but this epic race takes place in all kinds of demanding environments. From rocky mountains to dense rainforest, runners up for a challenge should look further afield for an epic marathon experience. The scenery will blow you away, while tough terrains provide an added challenge for thrill-seekers.
Torres Del Paine, Patagonia
Patagonia is considered by many to be the most spectacularly beautiful part of the world. Spanning more than 400,000 square miles across Argentina and Chile, the mixture of mountains, desert, rainforest, grassland, and glaciers make this a diverse and unforgiving environment. For adventurous traveller types, check out the September marathon at the Torres Del Paine National Park for some unbeatable views.
The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Every October, the most elite (or crazy) runners gather to take on the Jungle Marathon in Brazil’s truly epic Amazon Rainforest. Sweltering heat, mixed with humidity and creepy crawlies, makes this one of the toughest races in existence. Scrambling across rivers and through the dense jungle takes a typical marathon to a new level. As if that wasn’t crazy enough, 78-mile and 157-mile races are also held here.
Mount Everest, Nepal
There have been 4000 attempts to reach the summit of the world’s tallest mountain, with climbers ranging from age 13 to 70. If you don’t fancy going all the way to the top, you can still see Everest up close by taking part in the highest marathon in the world. Taking place in May at 7600 feet above sea level, you will need to contend with a decreased oxygen supply and ice on the paths. Although this marathon is mostly downhill, this has to be one of the toughest races on the planet. Any muscle pain will surely be overcome by the spectacular Himalayan views, though.
Marathons are considered the most elite race that is available to the average amateur runner. If you have completed a few already, then take it up a notch by travelling to the world’s most epic and beautiful locations. It might be a little tougher in these terrains, but it’s all worth it when you take in the incredible scenery around you,