1.South Africans are fanatical runners. There are plenty of runners at our races of all ages, shapes and sizes – from the ‘speed demons’ to the ‘back-of-the-pack’ runners – you will never run (or walk) alone!

2.Well organized races – plentiful water points; marshaled routes; race handouts and at most races the runners are spoilt for choice with different types of drinks and even food

3.Exceptionally scenic races such as The Two Oceans Marathon or the Winelands Marathon

4.A near perfect climate. Races usually start either 6am or 7am which leaves most of the day after the race to relax, soak up the sun, go for a swim etc

5.A large selection of Standard Marathons, Ultras or Half Marathons to choose throughout the year. Peak running season is from January to June although some of South Africa’s most significant, well-known races are run in the second half of the year.

6.Have you looked at the exchange rate lately? South Africa is one of the most affordable countries for an overseas visitor to see!

7.Friendly welcoming people. Fellow runners will pull you through the race and offer their last water sachet or GU gel if you needed it.

8.South Africa is the gateway to Southern African travel. A wide selection of post race recovery destinations easily accessible in and around South Africa. Go on a Big 5 Safari; hot air ballooning over the African plains; whale watching; Great White shark diving; Rovos Rail trip across Southern Africa – the list is endless

9.South Africa is a Rainbow Nation. With eleven official languages and many different tribes and cultures living here, you will experience the diversity of our nation and our people while running in our races.

10.What better way to see a country than slipping on your ‘takkies’ (running shoes) and hitting the streets, forests, corn fields, farm yards, mountains, towns and townships to truly experience the beauty that is South Africa!

Your hosts, Allan & Tracy Eccles, have run 16 Comrades Marathons and over 100 'lesser' Ultras and Marathons. Their safari company, Falcon Africa Safaris, has specialized in Southern African travel for more than 18 years.

Some recommendations

For the Cultural buff, the Soweto Marathon is a must. It takes place in the sprawling Soweto township that was home to Nelson Mandela.

Wine-lovers?? The scenic Winelands Marathon is not to be missed. Your backdrop is the mountains surrounding Stellenbosch just outside Cape Town.

A whale of a time can be had at the Foot of Africa Marathon. Close to Walker Bay, the world's best land based whale watching, or dive with the Great White Shark.

Looking for elephants? The Knysna Forest Marathon takes place during the Oyster Festival in the indigenous forest that is still home to wild elephants.