The Cape Town Marathon
Summary: Cape Town is fast becoming known as an international sporting destination. With the Cape Town Marathon being shortlisted to join the elite Abbott World Marathon Majors, investors are perfectly poised to leverage this boom to Cape Town’s economy and it’s prominence as more than just a tourism destination.
The heart of the Western Cape, Cape Town is a prime destination for astute global investors. Recently crowned Time Out’s ‘Best City in the World for 2025’, Cape Town is also the recipient of multiple tourism and hospitality awards. In a region renowned for its scenic beauty and ecological diversity, Cape Town is fast becoming a serious sports tourism destination. Beyond its breath-taking landscapes and cosmopolitan lifestyle, Cape Town presents a unique blend of stability and growth potential, making it a compelling choice for those looking to diversify their property portfolios.
Cape Town is more than just a picturesque city; it’s a thriving economic hub. The Western Cape, and Cape Town specifically, has consistently displayed resilience and positive economic indicators. This stability, coupled with a growing demand for quality housing, creates a fertile ground for property investment. Whether you’re considering buying property as an investment, so that you can live in South Africa, or to rent, the market offers buyers a broad range of opportunities.
One of Cape Town’s most significant draws is its unparalleled lifestyle. From pristine beaches and majestic mountains to world-renowned vineyards and a vibrant cultural scene, the city offers a quality of life that is hard to match. This allure attracts a steady influx of both local and international residents, driving demand in the rental and sales markets. The appeal is further amplified by Cape Town’s reputation as a global sports destination. The city hosts several significant annual sporting events that attract thousands of participants and spectators from around the world. These events not only boost the local economy but also enhance Cape Town’s international profile.
The iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour, one of the largest timed cycle races in the world, showcases the city’s stunning scenery and attracts cyclists from all corners of the globe. On its heels, the Cape Epic, a gruelling mountain bike stage race, tests the endurance of the world’s top cyclists and showcases the Western Cape’s rugged beauty.
For long-distance runners, the Two Oceans Marathon is a celebrated ultra-marathon, that draws runners from across the globe to experience the challenging yet breath-taking route along the Cape Peninsula.
Adding to this impressive sporting calendar, the Cape Town Marathon is actively bidding to become an Abbott World Marathon Major. This prestigious designation would place Cape Town alongside cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, further elevating its global status. The economic impact of such an achievement would be substantial, driving increased tourism, investment, and property values. Imagine the increased exposure for properties in the city when the world's most elite runners and their supporters come to Cape Town. This is incredibly positive news for the city and beyond.
Investing in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape, offers several distinct advantages. The region’s robust infrastructure, stable political environment, and progressive economic policies make it an attractive destination for foreign investment. Cape Town’s property market, in particular, has demonstrated consistent growth, driven by a combination of local and international demand. The city and it’s semi-rural surrounds offer a wide range of properties to suit your investment goals and diverse neighbourhoods provide options for various budgets and preferences. The demand for quality properties in Cape Town remains strong, making it an excellent market for short term and long-term investment. The city’s growing appeal to international buyers further ensures a competitive market and attractive returns.
Over and above this, the rental market in Cape Town is particularly buoyant, driven by a steady influx of professionals, tourists, and students. Investing in rental properties can provide a consistent income stream and long-term capital appreciation.
The combination of Cape Town's natural beauty, vibrant lifestyle, and dynamic sports scene creates a compelling investment proposition. The positive news surrounding the potential inclusion of the Cape Town Marathon as a World Marathon Major further underscores the city’s growing international significance.
With the goal of becoming Africa’s premier marathon, the race’s date might shift from later in the year to the month of May to offer the optimal conditions in terms of cooler weather and a lower likelihood of Cape Town’s notorious south-easterly winds. This proposed change extends to include the bigger picture — the economic impact on Cape Town. Autumn is a quieter tourist season than the bustling summer months. A potential Abbott World Marathon Majors event in May would be a significant boost for the local economy — filling hotels, supporting restaurants, and attracting local and international visitors who may also enjoy the other splendours South Africa has to offer.
For overseas investors seeking a stable and high-growth market, Cape Town represents a golden opportunity. The city’s resilience, combined with its unique blend of lifestyle and economic potential, makes it a prime destination for those looking to invest in South Africa.
If you are looking to take the plunge into the South African property market, it is worth exploring the possibilities that Cape Town has to offer. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and many investment opportunities make it a truly exceptional place to invest. With its strong infrastructure and growing international prominence, Cape Town is poised for continued growth and prosperity. Make your dream a reality and consider a property purchase in the vibrant City of Cape Town.