Cape Town motorists are being urged to prepare for widespread road closures and parking restrictions as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon returns on 24 May 2026.
The event, which is one step closer to joining the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, will affect several key routes across the city, including Green Point, the CBD, Woodstock, Observatory, Salt River, the Southern Suburbs and Sea Point.
The City of Cape Town said road closures and logistical arrangements will be in place from Saturday, 23 May, with the biggest disruptions expected on race day, Sunday, 24 May.
Road closures ahead
Among the major roads affected are:
- Helen Suzman Boulevard
- Beach Road in Sea Point
- Beach Road in Mouille Point
- Granger Bay Boulevard
- Nelson Mandela Boulevard
- Somerset Road in Green Point
- Buitengracht Street
- Liesbeek Parkway in Observatory and Mowbray
- Darling Street
- Long Street
- Adderley Street
- Main Road between Woodstock, Observatory and Salt River
Parking restrictions will also apply across several areas from Friday, 22 May, to ensure sections of the race route remain vehicle-free.
Areas expected to be heavily affected include Green Point, Sea Point, the CBD, District Six, Woodstock, Observatory, Salt River, Mowbray, Rondebosch and Newlands.
The City warned that vehicles parked in restricted zones will be towed.
Organisers said alternative parking arrangements have been planned for residents who rely on street parking, and affected residents can contact the Cape Town Marathon race office for assistance.
Transport plan for runners and spectators
Limited parking will also be available around the Green Point Precinct, where the marathon starts and finishes, prompting organisers to introduce several transport alternatives.
These include:
- Park & ride shuttle services from Century City and UCT
- Free MyCiTi shuttle services
- A special train service
- Bicycle parking facilities
On Saturday, shuttle services will transport runners participating in the 5km and 10km peace runs, as well as trail runs, from the V&A Waterfront, CTICC, Civic Centre and Thibault Square MyCiTi stations to DHL Stadium.
The shuttles will operate between 05:30 and 17:30.
On Sunday, park & ride buses from Century City and UCT will begin operating from 05:30, with the final buses to the start line departing at 06:30.
The City also confirmed that parking bays at the Civic Centre will be opened specifically for marathon runners on Sunday from 05:00 until 18:00, subject to availability.
The marathon will also impact several MyCiTi bus routes, particularly in:
- The Cape Town CBD
- Sea Point
- Camps Bay
- Hout Bay and Hangberg
- Woodstock
- Salt River
Commuters are being advised to check for updated route information before travelling.
