The Venue: Ciletuh Geopark, Pantai Palangpang
Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu is a UNESCO Global Geopark on West Java's south coast, known for its half-moon bay, cascading waterfalls that drop directly into the ocean, and a landscape shaped by ancient tectonic uplift. [1] The race starts at Pantai Palangpang, a beach within the geopark that serves as the main visitor gateway to the area. For runners, that means a course likely to blend coastal roads with inland geopark terrain — a scenic, varied route rather than a flat city loop.
The Organiser: Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism
This is the key detail. The race is organised by Kementerian Pariwisata (the Ministry of Tourism) as part of its Geopark Run Series, which also includes the Belitong Geopark Run. [1] Government backing means the event is tied to Indonesia's sport-tourism strategy, with the resources and coordination capacity that implies. It also means the race is likely to be well-promoted through official tourism channels, though registration and race-day logistics will still depend on the local execution team.
The Distances and What's Missing
Three distances are offered: a half marathon (21.1km), 10km, and 5km. [1] Registration details haven't been announced yet. The official Geopark Run Series site at geoparkrun.com is the place to watch. Getting to Ciletuh requires some planning: it's roughly a 4-5 hour drive from Jakarta or Bandung through increasingly scenic roads, and accommodation around the geopark ranges from basic guesthouses to eco-resorts. This is a destination race that rewards a weekend stay rather than a fly-in, fly-out trip.
Should You Run It?
If you want a government-backed Indonesian half marathon in a UNESCO Global Geopark with coastal scenery that rivals anywhere in the archipelago, the Ciletuh Geopark Run deserves a watchlist spot. The Ministry of Tourism's involvement gives it credibility that most regional races can't match. The 2027 edition is set for 17 January at Pantai Palangpang, Sukabumi, West Java. [1]