Rio de Janeiro running races offer an unforgettable experience, set against the backdrop of Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and an infectious happy vibe. These are just a few reasons why runners are drawn to Rio de Janeiro, the second-largest city in Brazil. With hot weather and easy access to beaches, Rio is a dream destination for runners.
We have put together the top running races in the city that will take you through historical landmarks, beaches, mountain bases, and even lagoons.
Top Running Races in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Marathon
Date: 3-7 June 2026
The Rio de Janeiro marathon is the biggest street running festival in Latin America with over 600,000 participants in 2025. This running race features a full marathon, a half marathon, a 10k and a 5k. A large amount of runners come from outside the city.
This running race offers a picturesque backdrop of mountains and ocean views. Participants will experience the sights and sounds of South America’s most beautiful city.
Rio Half Marathon
Date: mid-August 2026
The Rio de Janeiro Half Marathon is another key event in the city’s running calendar. This half marathon takes you through some of the city’s most popular beaches. With a three-hour time limit, you will be taking part in one of Latin America’s fastest running races.
Christ the Redeemer Half Marathon
Date: 11 October 2026
The Christ the Redeemer Half Marathon takes place in Tijuca National Park, one of the world’s largest urban forests. Runners will arrive at the feet of Christ the Redeemer, making for a truly marvelous sight to behold at the finish line. But the experience doesn’t end there—all participants get to celebrate their achievement with a breakfast accompanied by live music, creating an unforgettable post-race atmosphere.
Running Tour with a Private Guide
RIO DE JANEIRO’S TIME MACHINE TOUR – 10K
Tie your shoelaces and embark on a journey through time in the historic center of Rio de Janeiro! On this tour you will visit the Rio of imperial times, experience the transformations that have led to the present day; and get a glimpse of what tomorrow promises for us. Join me on this journey through…
✅ Private guide
✅ Hotel pickup
✅ Your preferred pace and distance
✅ Available all days of the week
Running in Rio while traveling
Joining a running race is not the only way to enjoy what Rio has to offer. If you want to remain active while traveling to this marvelous city, why not try a running tour?
Go! Running Tours runs in more than 70 cities around the world, bringing runners together while getting to know the city like a local.
The Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Beach Sunrise Tour is a 10K running tour that will allow you to get to know some of the most famous landmarks in the city while feeling the first rays of sunlight on one of the most famous beaches in the world.
Join us for a run and see Rio in a whole new way!
SEE ALL RUNNING TOURS IN RIO DE JANEIRO
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BRAZIL, PRIVATE RUNNING TOUR, RIO DE JANEIRO, SIGHTSEEING RUN
RIO DE JANEIRO 10 km Private tourBook now -
BRAZIL, PRIVATE RUNNING TOUR, RIO DE JANEIRO, SIGHTSEEING RUN
RIO DE JANEIRO 10 km Private tourBook now -
BRAZIL, PRIVATE RUNNING TOUR, RIO DE JANEIRO, SIGHTSEEING RUN
RIO DE JANEIRO 21 km Private tourBook now
Hola! If running and traveling are two of your favorite things, you’ll love our tours of more than 70 cities.
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