Sāmoa International Marathon

The Sāmoa International Marathon takes place on 3 July 2027 on ʻUpolu, Samoa. The organizer’s 2027 page (opens in a new tab) describes a point-to-point marathon starting at Manono Uta and finishing in central Apia. It also lists a half marathon and 10 km, 6 km and 3 km options. Each distance has its own start, so runners and supporters should check the current race instructions for the event they enter.

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What makes the course different?

The full marathon is a journey across ʻUpolu rather than a circuit that brings runners back to the start. The organizer names Manono Uta as the marathon start and Apia’s central business district as the finish. That arrangement makes the journey to the start an important part of race planning. If you are staying in Apia, check whether your entry includes transport and where and when the vehicle leaves. A supporter following the race may need a different arrangement.

The race page describes an unusually early marathon start. It lists two 2027 starts, at 1 am and 3 am, for runners with different expected finish times. The organizer’s separate schedule and support page (opens in a new tab) also contains a detailed timetable headed 2026. Do not transfer its times or shuttle prices to 2027 without confirmation. Follow the 2027 race manual and the start assigned to you when those instructions are available.

Which distance should I enter?

The organizer lists the marathon, half marathon, 10 km, 6 km and 3 km. The longer options have different starting locations: the 2027 overview identifies Faleasiʻu for the half marathon and Faleʻula for the 10 km. Check the current course map and instructions before making a transport plan; a map or finish description from an earlier edition may not reflect a change to the route.

Choose a distance that matches your preparation and the event’s rules. Before registering, look for age requirements, course cut-offs, support arrangements and whether a walking entry is offered for your chosen distance. If you have questions about a start group or eligibility, contact Samoa Events (opens in a new tab) rather than assuming the same conditions apply across all distances.

Registration, race pack and transport

Start with the organizer’s official registration and event page (opens in a new tab). Check the entry category, total cost, closing date, transfer policy and what is included. A travel package, an entry-only purchase and a local entry can have different terms. Keep your confirmation and any instructions on identification or collection of your race number.

The support page gives an example of a one-way shuttle from Apia to the start for the 2026 event, but that is not a confirmed 2027 schedule. Before booking accommodation, ask the organizer about the 2027 pick-up point, whether your entry includes the shuttle and how supporters can travel. Allow extra time for a pre-dawn departure. If you arrange a taxi or driver, agree on the collection time and destination in advance and check the return plan.

Getting to Samoa and choosing a base

Faleolo International Airport serves ʻUpolu. Compare current flight connections and airport transfers before booking; Samoa Events advises international participants to arrive two or three days before the race on its support page (opens in a new tab). That buffer can also make it easier to collect a race pack and resolve any registration questions.

Apia is a practical base to consider because the marathon finishes in the city and previous race information names a city hotel as a shuttle departure point. Confirm the actual 2027 arrangements before treating that hotel or any other property as the official pick-up. Compare the walk or drive to the finish, cancellation terms and the availability of transport at the required hour. If family members plan to watch, agree where to meet after your finish before you leave for the start.

Preparing for race day

Read the organizer’s current rules on lighting, clothing, personal support, hydration and traffic. A very early start affects what you need to carry and how you will reach the course. Check the expected weather and discuss your preparation with a qualified health professional if you have concerns about running in heat or changing conditions. Do not rely on a previous year’s aid-station description as a guarantee for 2027.

For spectators, the start and finish are in different places. Ask the organizer where spectators may safely stand, whether roads are restricted and how to get to the finish without interfering with runners. Samoa has local customs around village life and public spaces; follow local guidance and race staff directions, and ask before photographing people at close range.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Samoa International Marathon 2027?

The organizer lists Saturday 3 July 2027 for the event.

Where does the full marathon start and finish?

The 2027 overview names Manono Uta as the marathon start and central Apia as the finish. Check the final race manual for exact locations.

Are there shorter races?

Yes. The organizer lists a half marathon and 10 km, 6 km and 3 km distances. Their starts differ from the full marathon start.

Is the 2026 shuttle schedule valid for 2027?

The support page includes a detailed 2026 timetable. Ask Samoa Events for the confirmed 2027 transport and collection arrangements before relying on it.