Running through the ecological capital and conquering the plateau. Curitiba, a 42.195km challenge
The Curitiba Marathon, held in the vibrant capital of Paraná, Brazil, offers a unique challenge that combines a beautiful urban landscape with the demanding conditions of a high-altitude plateau. Held every year in late November, the course navigates through the city’s modern architecture, abundant green spaces, and iconic landmarks.
The race, starting from the central Praça Nossa Senhora de Salete, is known for its constant rolling hills and significant altitude (the city sits at over 900m above sea level), testing the endurance of every runner.
However, the enthusiastic support from Curitiba’s citizens and the sight of its famously well-planned urban environment provide a powerful motivation, leading runners to an unforgettable sense of accomplishment in the ecological capital of Brazil.
Curitiba Marathon: A 42.195km challenge that tests the limits on a high-altitude plateau
The Curitiba Marathon is more than just a race; it’s an adventure through one of Brazil’s most innovative and green cities. It requires strategic pacing to manage the high elevation and continuous elevation changes. Push your physical limits and write your story in this city renowned for its quality of life and sustainability.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The race begins bright and early at 5:30 am at Praça Nossa Senhora de Salete (Our Lady of Salete Square), a key political and cultural center of the city. Starting at this central location, surrounded by important government buildings, runners are motivated by the coolness of the early morning and the anticipation of tackling the course’s challenging terrain, which is characterized by rolling hills from the start.
Sights along the way
The Curitiba Marathon course takes runners through the heart of the city, highlighting its ecological commitment and architectural diversity.
・0-15 km：The initial section often runs through central and historic districts, setting the tone for the city’s rich culture. Although the elevation profile begins immediately, the atmosphere is encouraging, passing by commercial centers and residential areas with local support.
・15-30 km：This section often features runs near Curitiba’s famous parks, such as Parque Barigui or Parque Tanguá, showcasing the city’s extensive green spaces and innovative urban design. Running through these green tunnels provides a refreshing break, but the constant change in elevation demands careful energy management.
・30-42.195 km：As fatigue sets in, the challenge intensifies. Runners face the final climbs in the high-altitude conditions. The final stretch often brings runners back toward the city center, passing major avenues and landmarks, with the cheers of the local crowd driving them to the finish line.
Finish point
Finish in a central, vibrant location, completing one of Brazil’s toughest urban marathons! The accomplishment of conquering the challenging altitude and elevation profile, paired with the vibrant Brazilian atmosphere, is the ultimate reward.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The course is known for its “rolling hills” nature. The cumulative elevation gain is approximately 242m, comparable to other major city marathons but compressed into a high-altitude environment. The city’s high elevation (around 932m/3,058 ft) means the entire race is run at altitude, adding a significant layer of difficulty.
・Weather：Held in late November, which is late spring in Southern Brazil, the weather is typically mild to warm but manageable due to the high altitude. Average temperatures can range from 15–22°C (59–72°F) at race time, often with a cool start perfect for running.
Participants’ comments
・ “The altitude was a serious challenge, but the beautiful parks made every kilometer worth it!”
・ “A race for true hill runners. Don’t underestimate the climbs!”
・ “The organization was impeccable, and the people of Curitiba were incredible supporters.”
・ “Running through a city known for its sustainability felt truly inspiring.”
・ “The early morning start was cold, but it was perfect for running once the sun came up.”
・ “I achieved my biggest dream in Brazil! The sense of accomplishment on that plateau is unmatched.”
・ “You feel the thin air, but the energy of the crowd and the beautiful scenery push you through.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Curitiba Marathon is to respect the high altitude and maintain a conservative pace, especially in the early sections, to manage the continuous rolling hills. Utilize the cool morning start to your advantage, but conserve energy for the climbs in the second half. Since the entire race is run at altitude (over 900m), hydration and electrolyte intake are more crucial than usual. Focus on enjoying the city’s scenery to maintain mental stamina, and trust your pace discipline.
The Curitiba Marathon is a 42.195km challenge set on a high plateau. Join runners from around the world to test your limits in the ecological capital of Brazil, and conquer the hills for a sense of accomplishment you won’t forget.
2024 Curitiba Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 17, 2024
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time: –
MEN
1:Ederson Vilela Pereira:2:18:02
2:Kiprotich Kirui:2:19:02
3:Altobeli Silva:2:22:33
4:Jackson Ruri:2:23:49
5:Givaldo Araujo De Sena:2:24:45
6:Gabriel Alves Pozzo:2:30:05
7:Dieimesson Jean De Almeida:2:38:17
8:Luiz Fernando Figueiredo:2:40:10
9:Eliezer Assuncao:2:40:55
10:Rafael Fernando Da Cruz Da Silva:2:41:57
WOMEN
1:Valdilene Dos Santos Silva:2:41:26
2:Naum Jepchirchir:2:42:12
3:Amanda Aparecida De Oliveira:2:43:19
4:Andreia Aparecida Hessel:2:43:44
5:Aline Prudencio De Freitas:2:55:29
6:Renata Moreno Dos Santos:3:06:45
7:Ana Cristina Munaro:3:09:13
8:Rosangela Vieira:3:09:30
9:Rafaela Molinari Trica:3:09:51
10:Mayara Regina Munaro:3:15:25
2025 Curitiba Marathon
To all runners seeking a true challenge. This 42.195km race on the high plateau of Curitiba is waiting for you. Come and test your limits against the altitude and hills in one of Brazil’s most beautiful and vibrant cities, setting a new personal standard for endurance.
・Location: Praça Nossa Senhora de Salete, Curitiba
・Date and time: November 23, 2025
・Start time: 5:30 am
Curitiba: The Green City, a blend of innovation and nature
Curitiba, the capital of Paraná state, is famous worldwide as Brazil’s “Ecological Capital” and a model of successful urban planning and sustainability. Sitting on a high plateau, the city boasts a high quality of life, recognized for its abundant green spaces, innovative transportation system (including the famous tube stations for buses), and rich cultural diversity stemming from European immigration (mainly German, Italian, and Polish).
Visitors are instantly captivated by the blend of modern, well-structured urban zones and peaceful, extensive public parks. The city’s famous landmarks, such as the curved glass structure of the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico), the unique Opera de Arame (Wire Opera House), and the sprawling Barigui Park, offer endless beauty.
Curitiba is a city that breathes culture, with numerous museums, theaters, and a lively food scene that reflects its diverse European heritage. Whether you are exploring the historic Largo da Ordem on a Sunday morning, enjoying the cool, high-altitude air, or appreciating the city’s commitment to nature, Curitiba offers an experience that is both sophisticated and close to nature. It is a place where innovation and quality of life are not just goals, but everyday realities.
