The Tusker lite Rwenzori Marathon experience

Rwenzori Marathon — More Than a Race, An African Adventure.

Our Rwenzori Marathon adventure began on the evening of 18th August, as we departed Nairobi and hit the road for Uganda.

The excitement was already building as runners, adventurers and travel enthusiasts settled in for an overnight journey across border, knowing that the days ahead would be about much more than just running.

By the afternoon of 19th August, we had arrived in Jinja, where the adrenaline levels immediately went up a notch. For the brave among us, it was time to take on the Nile bungee jump—standing on the edge, taking that final breath and taking the leap. Swimming and boat cruise in the lake too for the sunset views. The screams, laughter and adrenaline made for one of those moments that would be talked about for a long time.

From Jinja, we continued to Kampala, where we spent the night.

On 20th August, we resumed our journey towards Kasese, travelling deeper into western Uganda and towards the magnificent backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. The landscape gradually changed, and the anticipation of the marathon and everything surrounding it continued to grow.

21st August was a day packed with experiences. We started with a beautiful morning shakeout run, giving the runners an opportunity to loosen up, feel the terrain and take in the incredible surroundings. Running in this part of Uganda was already an experience in itself—the fresh air, the greenery, the mountains and the warmth of the local communities along the way.

We then headed to the Equator, where we paused to appreciate one of those unique geographical experiences that makes African road trips so special.

From there, we ventured into Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring the incredible landscape. here,we explored the incredible Kazinga Channel—the natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This became one of the memorable highlights of the trip as we encountered elephants swimming in the waters, hippos basking along the shores, crocodiles resting by the banks and buffaloes roaming nearby. It was an incredible wildlife experience, made even more special by seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Sometimes the road to a marathon can be just as spectacular as the race itself.

That evening, we were privileged to be hosted by the Uganda Tourism Board for a delicious dinner and an unforgettable cultural night. The food, music, dance and hospitality gave us a taste of Uganda beyond the tourist attractions. It was a beautiful evening of connection, celebration and appreciation.

Then came 22nd August—the big running day. We set out for a beautiful scenic run through the Rwenzori landscape, taking on the challenging elevation while surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery of the journey. Every climb demanded something from the body, but every turn offered something back—mountains, greenery, fresh air, cheering communities and the satisfaction of pushing ourselves through unfamiliar terrain.

It wasn't simply about the finishing time. It was about running in a different country, discovering a different landscape and sharing the road with fellow runners and adventurers. And when the running was finally done, the celebration was only beginning. The evening transformed into an unforgettable street party, with music, dancing, laughter and celebrations that carried on until dawn. Tired legs somehow found more energy, and runners who had spent the day challenging their bodies were now celebrating together.

It was one of those nights where strangers became friends and where the stories of the day's adventures became memories.

On 23rd August, reality slowly returned. With tired bodies, full hearts, countless photographs and even more stories, we loaded up and began our journey back to Nairobi.

The Rwenzori Marathon was never just about the race. It was the overnight road journey, the adrenaline of Jinja, the beauty of Uganda's landscapes, the Equator, the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth, the challenge of elevation, the warmth of Ugandan hospitality, the cultural experience, the friendships, the laughter and the street party that refused to end. It was running, adventure, wildlife, culture and travel—all rolled into one unforgettable journey.

Rwenzori Marathon 2026 — we came for the run, but we left with an experience.