Lake Hawassa Half Marathon 2025

Feeling the itch to travel? 🤔 We thought so! This February, why not hop on a plane and lace up your running shoes in Ethiopia for the Hawassa Half Marathon! 🤩 Officially named the Sofi Malt Lake Hawassa Half Marathon, this event promises an incredible experience 🗺️. You’ll start your run along the shores of Lake Awasa, surrounded by nature 🌿 and make your way toward the city 🏙️. And not just any city! Hawassa is located 275 km south of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa📍, at an altitude of 1,700 m above sea level 🌊. That's right! Prepare your lungs, as the oxygen level won't be as high as at sea level! 😅 This is the altitude where top champions train 🏆, so you'll need to rise to the occasion and honor these lands 🚀.

You'll have the option of running a half marathon or an 8 km race. No hills in sight, it's a straight line course along the lake 🏞️: perfect for a fast run! 🏎️ Whether you're a road running enthusiast, a competitive spirit, or an ambitious runner looking to test yourself against the best 😎, this is the perfect chance to beat your personal records ⏱️. You'll be surrounded by a stunning backdrop, from the home of Gash Hussein to the Saint Gabriel Church, your finishing line 🏁. And that's not all! The organization will take care of you down to the last detail 🧅 throughout your stay, so no stress! You’ll stay in a hotel just steps away from the lake and be invited to participate in various activities to explore the culture and history of the country 🤓.

And it's not just you who will benefit! 😉 By participating, you’re supporting a great charitable cause: the fight against polio in children 🧫. The organizers partner with Rotary and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to fund research and actions to protect and vaccinate children 💉. Even today, more than 2 million children are affected by the disease. By running this race, you support an important cause, and children can also take part in special races organized just for them 🧒.

And once you cross the finish line, why not turn your sporty getaway into a true cultural immersion? 🌍 The locals are incredibly generous and welcoming 🫶. They'll be more than happy to share their local dishes with you, so indulge in some wat 🍲, keftos, or fifirs 🤌. You can easily join in by picking up ingredients at the Merkato Market, one of the largest markets in Africa! 🤯 Be ready for a sensory overload with all the amazing smells! 😍 After your meal, you might want to stretch your legs, so we recommend the National Museum of Ethiopia if you want to meet Lucy, our hominid ancestor over 3 million years old! 🦴 If you prefer some quiet, the Entoto Mountains National Park offers breathtaking views of Addis Ababa 🌄.

So, are you ready to take on this challenge under the Ethiopian sky? 💪