Pyongyang Marathon

Sign up for the Pyongyang Marathon here

Take part in a marathon in mystique North Korea.

North Korea is on every avid traveler’s bucket list and for a reason. It’s one of the most guarded countries in the world with extremely strict rules and laws. The secrecy is also the biggest draw when it comes to reasons why people visit this Asian country.

So, if you’re into traveling and running, then the Pyongyang marathon is a coveted trophy. Participating in a marathon in North Korea is another one for the bucket list. 2016 will be only the third year in a row when international runners are allowed to take part in the event.

Official site: http://pyongyangmarathon.com/
Race date: 10th of April 2016
Starting location: Kim Il Sung Stadium
Time limits: 10 km - 2 hours, Half marathon - 2,5 hours, Full marathon - 4 hours
Note that the course is essentially a 10 km loop in the city.
Registration: Registration for the Full Marathon included in the package

Tour highlights:

• visiting North Korea
• exploring Beijing
• exploring Pyongyang
• day trip to Kaesong
• running the Pyongyang Marathon

Itinerary:

DAY 1 - Arrival in Pyongyang via Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and transfer to your flight to Pyongyang at 2 PM (included in the package). Upon arrival in North Korea, you will meet your guide and take a transfer to the city center. En route to your hotel, visit the Arch of Triumph, walk from Kim Il Sung Square to Grand Theatre.
Check into your hotel and get ready for dinner.

DAY 2 - Kaesong
After breakfast, start your day trip to Kaesong. You’ll visit the Koryo history museum, and walk from Nam Gate to Janam Hill. After lunch, drive back to Pyongyang.
Upon arrival back in the city, visit the Juche Tower. Dinner will be at a local hotpot restaurant.

DAY 3 - Pyongyang
In the morning, visit the Mansudae Fountain Park and the Grand Monument. You’ll also visit the Pyongyang Metro, and Mangyongdae, the birthplace of the president.
After lunch, take a ride on the marathon course to see the route.

DAY 4 - Marathon Day
This is the day! Take the transfer to the starting point of the marathon. After you have completed the marathon, you’ll have lunch.
Afterwards, rest in your hotel and then head out for some souvenir shopping.
In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner.

DAY 5 - Beijing
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore the city on your own.

DAY 6 - Departure from Beijing
Check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport. Airport transfers available upon request.

What's included:

• Return flights from Beijing to Pyongyang
• North Korea visa handling fee
• Accommodation in a double room
• 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
• Transportation (excl. airport transfers in Beijing)
• All entrance fees
• English speaking guide
• Gratuities for the local staff in North Korea
• Full Marathon participation fee

Not included

• Flights to/from Beijing
• Chinese visa
• Airport transfers in Beijing
• Travel Insurance
• Gratuities to local staff in China

Sign up for the Pyongyang Marathon here