The Best Run Clubs in Cape Town
In a time where running feels like the ‘in thing to do’, and socialising now means coffee after a workout rather than drinks at the pub, it is no surprise that run clubs are booming. And honestly, if you’re in a new city, what better way to balance out all the good food you’re going to eat than with a social run and a chance to meet like-minded people?
I’m firmly in my ‘running era’, currently training for the 2026 London Marathon, so naturally, while in Cape Town, I needed to keep up my three training runs a week. That meant testing routes, joining clubs, and finding the best spots to clock up the miles.
Here’s our take on where to run in Cape Town, plus the clubs we genuinely loved.
Finshing the Balwin Peninsula Half Marathon in 2026
Where to Run in Cape Town
Sea Point Promenade to Saunders Rock
If you’re staying in Sea Point or Green Point, the most reliable, stress-free option is the Sea Point Promenade. You can follow a straight path along the seaside from Saunders Rock Beach all the way to the V&A Waterfront. It’s 5 km one way, so if you run there and back, you can easily rack up 10 km on this predictable, no-fuss route.
The best part is that it is completely flat. No hills, no navigation stress, just sea views and plenty of fellow runners to keep you motivated.
If you carry on past Saunders Rock towards Camps Bay, expect a steep uphill to Clifton, followed by a lovely downhill stretch into Camps Bay. It is a slightly more challenging route, but your long run will be worth it for the views.
Also, as long as you’re running during daylight hours and sticking to areas with people, you should be completely safe.
Chapman’s Peak Drive
If you are happy to jump in the car for a truly scenic route, then Chapman's Peak Drive is hard to beat.
Chapman’s Peak Drive
You will likely drive this road at some point anyway, but running it is a different experience altogether. Think dramatic cliffs, ocean views and long winding stretches. The top of Chappies (as the locals call it) is tolled for cars, but cyclists and pedestrians can pass through without paying.
It is one of the most memorable routes we have done.
Best Run Clubs in Cape Town
If planning a route feels like too much effort on holiday, or you simply want company to make the miles go quicker, joining a run club is the way to go. Capetonians are incredibly active, so there is no shortage of options. These are our favourites:
Burnt Run Club
BRC by Burnt Studios has become one of the most recognisable communities in Cape Town. You will spot their apparel all over the city. They even have a clubhouse where you can enjoy brunch and shop their collection.
We joined an easy 5 km that started at Platō Coffee in Sea Point. The Run leaders walked us to the start point, led a warm-up, and even ran a Valentine’s themed competition that week.
Post-run, we grabbed coffee with the group and received 10% off our Platō order. A delightful Saturday morning if you ask us.
Season: November 2025 to 2 May 2026
When: Saturday mornings during the summer
Best way to stay updated:
Website with Strava and WhatsApp links
Timings can change, so keep an eye on their Instagram and be sure to join their Strava or WhatsApp groups.
A friendly, well-organised and ideal if you want a structured but social 5 km.
Running Late Club
Running Late Club lives by the motto “Rather Late Than Never”, and their energy is contagious. Whether you are chasing a PB, starting your running journey, or just there to socialise, you will feel welcome.
Typical summer schedule:
Wednesday evening social run from Saunders Rock
Saturday morning social runs from varying locations
Weekly track sessions
Expect a bigger crowd at their evening runs and a bit of a party atmosphere. They are known for hosting events with DJs and special themed runs.
Stay up to date here:
Or buy some of their merch
High energy, social and great if you like your runs with a side of atmosphere.
Trail Leopards
Based near Hout Bay, Trail Leopards is perfect if you are on the other (Eastern) side of Table Mountain or are happy to drive to the start point.
They offer:
Tuesday morning bakery runs from South Yeaster Bakery (our all-time favourite bakery; we’ve stopped here for a coffee and bun every time we’ve cycled Chappie’s)
Thursday afternoon trail runs in the mountains
They are big on connection and community, encouraging you to leave your headphones at home and chat as you run. Dogs are welcome on a lead and promote a leave-no-trace approach (as all runs should).
Expect early starts (as with most morning run clubs); Tuesday runs start at 6.15 am. Early, yes, but running at sunrise, when the air is cooler, is honestly the best way to begin the day.
Stay connected:
Scenic, relaxed and ideal if you want mountain trails without navigating them solo.
Parkrun South Africa
If you are a seasoned parkrunner and want to keep ticking off events while travelling, parkrun South Africa has you covered.
Running through vinyards in Franschoek
There are an abundance of parkruns across Cape Town, including Green Point, Century City, Hout Bay and Fish Hoek, plus many more across the country. In total, there are 225 parkruns in South Africa.
We ran a parkrun in Franschhoek, and it has to be one of the most scenic 5 km routes we have ever done. Vineyards, blue skies and mountain views. It did not feel like a standard Saturday morning run.
If it is your first time, you will need to register. It is completely free to: Register here
Find your nearest event here:
Final Thoughts
Cape Town has a knack for getting you out of bed early. From mountain trails to flat seaside promenades, it is one of the easiest cities in the world to stay active. And the best part? Running requires no kit beyond a decent pair of trainers.
Capetonians are famously outdoorsy. At sunrise, you will spot dog walkers along the coast, cycling groups cruising the roads, and run clubs gathering with takeaway coffees in hand. There is an easy rhythm to it all.
If you are visiting and keen to balance great food with feel-good movement, joining a run club is one of the simplest ways to experience the city like a local. You never regret a run, especially when it comes with views like these.
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A Round up of some of the best run clubs in Cape Town