Petra Desert Marathon 2025

• Historic, scenic route through ancient sites and desert landscapes.
• Challenging terrain with significant elevation changes and varied surfaces.
• Entry includes a multi-day tour package with accommodation and guided tours.
• Marathon begins at 06:30 AM with a 7-hour completion limit.
• Water stations every 4 km, with some offering energy drinks and snacks.

Set against the backdrop of one of the world's most iconic archeological sites, the Petra Desert Marathon offers runners a truly unique and challenging adventure through the beautiful Martian-like landscape of Jordan. This marathon begins at the revered Street of Facades in Petra, taking participants on a breathtaking journey through ancient ruins, with tombs, caves, and monasteries intricately carved into the imposing mountainsides, before heading onto the expansive desert terrain.

Starting with a trek through the Siq and past the Treasury, runners commence their race with an early morning start, under the embrace of cool desert temperatures, before the site welcomes crowds of daily tourists. Once outside the boundaries of the Petra Archaeological Park, the course transitions onto hilly tarmac roads towards the desert, offering isolation and awe-inspiring views.

The marathon route includes a demanding loop around Al Musirh hilltop, adding to the challenge with its relentless undulations before rejoining the half-marathon course at the picturesque Siq Al Bard gorge. With a mixture of terrain types from paved roads to rocky desert paths, this marathon pushes endurance as well as strategy.

Runners are provided a time limit of seven hours to complete the race, ensuring adequate support from race officials and medical staff throughout. This event is more than a race; it’s an exploration of ancient history interwoven with strenuous physical challenge, ideal for those seeking an experience beyond the typical urban track.

Accommodations and packages often include a cultural immersion, with guided tours of Petra, and options to explore Jordan's other wonders such as Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. The post-race celebrations encapsulate the spirit of Jordan's rich heritage, from traditional gastronomy experiences at Petra Kitchen to celebratory dinners.

Whether you're an elite runner or an adventurous spirit seeking to combine a love of history with physical endurance, the Petra Desert Marathon promises an unforgettable experience, where every stride through the majestic desert is complimented by the silent whispers of the ages. This is more than a race; it's a journey through time and terrain unparalleled in the marathon world.

Expect daytime temperatures between 84-93°F (29-34°C) with moderate humidity during the Petra Desert Marathon in early September. Rain is rare, with minimal precipitation expected, and runners can anticipate sunny conditions throughout the event. Early morning offers slightly cooler temperatures, so starting early and staying hydrated is key.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Petra Desert Marathon, a race that promises both a physical challenge and a visual feast. Starting in the awe-inspiring ancient city of Petra, runners are immediately immersed in history, weaving through landmarks like the Treasury and the Monastery. The course transitions from asphalt roads to rugged desert trails after 6 kilometers, offering a diverse terrain of gravel and sand.

With an elevation gain of 1,074 meters and a descent of 1,024 meters, the route is characterized by its demanding hills and thrilling descents. As you traverse the narrow Siq gorge and the breathtaking Siq Al Bard at Little Petra, the landscape unfolds in a tapestry of ancient beauty and stark desert vistas.

The marathon's layout takes you on a loop around Al Musirh hilltop, through the village of Ammarine, and past the stunning rock formations of Wadi Araba. The final stretch tests your endurance with a 5-kilometer uphill climb to a mountain ridge, rewarded by a 4-kilometer downhill sprint to the finish on paved roads.

This race is not just about the miles; it's a journey back in time through one of the world's most captivating landscapes, blending the thrill of running with the allure of history.

Visiting Petra for the Petra Desert Marathon offers a compelling mix of physical challenge and cultural discovery. Beyond the race, Petra itself is a marvel; begin your journey through the Siq, and don't miss iconic landmarks like the Treasury and the Monastery. For a broader experience, venture into the mesmerizing landscapes of Wadi Rum or take a dip in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea. Little Petra also offers fascinating historical insights for those with extra time.

Stay in Wadi Musa for convenient access to Petra and plan your itinerary in advance, perhaps with the help of a local guide. Embrace the warmth of Jordanian hospitality and indulge in the local cuisine, where a cooking class at Petra Kitchen can deepen your appreciation of traditional dishes. For those extending their trip, Amman offers additional historical sites such as Madaba and Mount Nebo.

Pack wisely for the desert climate—sunscreen and sturdy walking shoes are essential. Respect local customs by dressing modestly, and consider downloading offline maps to navigate the area with ease. With these insights, your visit to Petra promises to be both enriching and unforgettable.