This autonomous region on the south coast of China, across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong was Portugese territory until 1999. Since then, it has been developed as a major gambling and shopping destination. It’s one of the most densely populated regions in the world and one of the most visited destinations in Asia. With no arable land, pastures, forest, or woodland, the options for running in Macau are limited. But there are some good spots taking advantage of the waterfront, plus some nice parks. Quick geographical orientation: there’s the Macau Peninsula, connected by bridge south to Taipa Island, then south to Cotai (Macau New Urban Zone), then south to Coloane Island.
A highlight of running in Macau is Sai Van Lake, connected to a nice waterside sidewalk from Macau Tower to Temple A Ma. There’s also and a pleasant loop of the Reservoir, and some great hill running in Guia Park. Just over the bridge in Taipa, the Waterfront Path is among the best places to run in Macau. There are also nice paths on the eastern end in Taipa Grande Nature Park. In Coloane, there’s some great trail running in Coloane Park, along the water in the Coloane Village area, and some good options in the Hac Sa area. There’s even some decent trail running in Macau.
Runner Notes: Macau’s weather is very hot and humid in summer, and May through September can have heavy rains. For transport, there’s a decent bus/ferry/light rail system. NEW [2025]: A 5 km waterfront promenade from the Macau Tower to the Kun Iam–Science Centre is currently under development.
