Everything you need for a great race experience in Cotonou
Getting to Cotonou
Cotonou is served by Cardjéhoun International Airport, with direct flights from Lagos, Accra, Lomé, Abidjan and Paris. December falls in the dry season — cool mornings, little rain, and pleasant running conditions throughout the event weekend.
The course
All races start and finish at Place de l'Amazone on Boulevard de la Marina. The route is flat and fast, running along the Route des Pêches on the Atlantic coastline. The marathon and half marathon courses will be certified to World Athletics standards (target: June 2027).
Race Expo & bib collection
Bibs are collected at the Race Expo at Place de l'Amazone over three days: Thursday 2 December (14:00–19:00), Friday 3 December (09:00–20:00), and Saturday 4 December (07:00–09:30, final window). Photo ID is required. No bibs are issued on race day.
Bag drop
A numbered sealed-bag drop operates at the Race Village both days. Saturday: 07:00–09:30. Sunday: 04:30–05:30. Bags are returned at the finish area, matched to your bib number.
Where to stay
Official hotel partners offer preferred rates for registered runners. Recommendations will be published here once partner hotels are confirmed. Cotonou offers a range of options from international chains to local guesthouses.
Medical & safety
Water and drinks stations are positioned every 2.5–3km on all courses. Medical posts are placed every 5km on the marathon route, with defibrillators (AED) at the finish and every 10km on the marathon.