The Petra Desert Marathon is one of the world’s most distinctive destination marathons. Rather than being designed for fast times, it’s an adventure race that combines running with visiting one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.
Event overview
- Date (2026): 5 September 2026
- Location: Petra, Jordan
- Distances:
- Marathon (42.195 km)
- 25 km “Ultra Half Marathon”
What makes it special?
The race starts before Petra opens to tourists, allowing runners to pass through the ancient city in relative quiet before heading out into the surrounding desert. The route features rock-cut monuments, desert valleys, and mountain scenery that few races can match.
Course difficulty
This is considered a challenging marathon, not a personal-best course.
- Elevation gain: about 739 m (marathon)
- Surface:
- sand
- gravel
- paved roads
- Temperatures can reach 30–35°C (86–95°F)
- Very little shade throughout the course.
Entry
International runners cannot purchase race entry alone. Registration requires booking the organizer’s tour package, which includes accommodation, transportation, and Petra admission.
Typical itinerary
Most participants spend several days in Jordan, often visiting:
This marathon is a great fit if you:
- enjoy adventure travel,
- don’t mind heat and hills,
- want to combine a marathon with an unforgettable vacation,
- are looking for a unique race rather than a fast finish time.
Have you ever run in Petra,Jordan?
Please,share us your previous experience with us in the comments.
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