Petra Desert Marathon, Jordan

Book this Holiday

Itinerary Pricing

The Petra Desert Marathon, which starts at at the rock city of Petra is rapidly becoming one of those iconic races on everyone's bucket list. This beautiful yet challenging adventure marathon set in the stunning desert region of Jordan is worth every penny. Starting in the ancient city of Petra, the route takes runners on a remarkable route through the mountain and desert area surrounding Petra. From the lunar-like mountain landscape to the arid desert, runners can expect challenging terrain in …

Read More

The Petra Desert Marathon, which starts at at the rock city of Petra is rapidly becoming one of those iconic races on everyone's bucket list. This beautiful yet challenging adventure marathon set in the stunning desert region of Jordan is worth every penny. Starting in the ancient city of Petra, the route takes runners on a remarkable route through the mountain and desert area surrounding Petra. From the lunar-like mountain landscape to the arid desert, runners can expect challenging terrain in the dry desert heat. The race likes to say it is a 'run back in time' which is how it feels visiting and exploring this iconic location on foot

The event consists of a full and a half marathon and is part of a 5-night tour package which also includes social events, excursions, hotel accommodation, a dip in the Dead Sea and entry to the historic site of Petra.

  

The race route:

 

The start line is in the Street of Facades in the ancient city of Petra where you will find yourself surrounded by tombs, caves and monasteries carved out of the mountainside. From there a 2 kilometre uphill section on paved road leads you out of the Petra Archaeological Park boundaries via the main hilly tarmac road and out towards the desert. 

After 6K, the route leaves the asphalt road and continues into the desert. Half marathon runners take a direct route to the river bed gorge “Siq Al Bard” while marathon runners have to do a loop around the hilltop “Al Musirh”. From Siq al Bard at Little Petra, the route returns back on a tarmac road heading towards the village of Ammarine. Just before the village the course divides: half marathon runners continue straight through the village while marathon runners turn left on the road leading to Wadi Araba to do an 8 kilometre stretch that runs past incredible rock formations rarely visited by normal tourists.

Just after the 30K mark the marathon runners find themselves back at Ammarine village where the marathon and half marathon course merge once again. From here, the route goes uphill to a mountain ridge for the next five kilometres, but the effort is rewarded with an astonishing view back out over most of the marathon route and the mountains covering Petra. On this mountain ridge, the surface becomes gravel for 3 kilometres before you reach the final leg, a 4 kilometre descent on paved roads towards the finish line.

Age limits:

 

Marathon 18 years old / Half Marathon 16 years old

 

Course time limits:

All runners have 7 hours to complete the race, anyone still on the route after the cut-off time will be picked up by a race official or medical car and driven back to the finish area.

There is a five-hour cut off at the 30km mark (13km mark for the half marathon) meaning that runners who haven’t passed this point at 11:30 will not be allowed to finish the race.

Visas:

UK passport holders can obtain a visa upon arrival in Jordan at the airport, it costs JOD40 (approx £45). 

Book this Holiday

Hotel details

Itinerary

Pricing

PDF Downloads

• 

  Standard Package

  The standard package stays the first 2 nights at the Grand East Hotel - Dead Sea or similar. The following 3 nights in Petra will be at Icon Hotel or similar. 

  

  Deluxe Package

   

  The deluxe package stays the first 2 nights at the  Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea or similar and the following 3 nights at Mövenpick Resort or similar in Petra.

   

   

   

  Extensions

   

  Participants going on the adventure extension will stay one extra night in their hotel in Petra.

   

  The second night will be in either a Bedouin Tent or Star Tent in Hasan Zawaideh Camp, Rum Magic Camp or similar (Both Bedouin Tent and Star Tent have private bathrooms and showers).  

   

  For the last night of the adventure extension, we'll be staying at a hotel in Amman.

   

   

   

  

   

   

   

• Itinerary

  PETRA MARATHON TOUR 5-NIGHTS

   

  Sept 3 - Arrival - transfer to Dead Sea Resort.

   

  You will arrive at Queen Alia International Airport then transfer to your choice of hotel (this will be arranged according to your arrival). There are three hotel options: standard, comfort or deluxe, the itinerary is the same for all three. Transfer time approx. 45-60 mins.  The rest of the day is free to relax at the Dead Sea where you can enjoy the beach or the pool.

   

  Overnight Dead Sea.  

  
  

  (Please note that many flights to Amman arrive at night-time. Hotel check in is normally at 15:00 in the afternoon, so if you arrive in the night and want your room available upon arrival, we recommend that you book a pre-night. The airport representative is also available for pre-night arrivals and participants also have transfer to the Dead Sea included for pre-night bookings)

   

  Sept 4 - Dead Sea - day at leisure.

   

  Today, you will wake up at the Dead Sea – the lowest point on Earth – and start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Our day will be all about winding down and relaxing by the pool or floating on the surface of the Dead Sea.

  
  

  The Dead Sea is truly unique, a landlocked lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel to the west, known for being one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. In fact, it is almost 10 times saltier than regular seawater. This extreme saltiness makes it impossible for plants and animals to thrive in the water, hence its name. That said, the Dead Sea is sometimes considered the largest spa in the world, due to its natural healing properties.

  
  

  According to legend, Cleopatra would visit the Dead Sea and use its products as part of her beauty regime. It is only fair you get to spend the whole day immersed in this magical place. It is the perfect way to mentally prepare yourself for the running challenge ahead.

  There is an option today to do a Cultural Extension with a full day tour of Baptism Site and Mt Nebo with lunchy in Madaba.

  Overnight Dead Sea. Breakfast 

  Sept 5 Transfer to Petra, race briefing and pasta dinner.

  After breakfast at your hotel, check out at 09:00 and drive by bus to Wadi Musa (Petra). Our journey will take approximately 6 hours. Upon arrival, we’ll go straight for lunch at a local restaurant, where we’ll eat all sorts of local delicacies, while we wait for our rooms to be ready for check-in at 15:00. 

  After check-in we will have a few hours to settle in and go out to explore the illustrious “Red Rose City of Petra.” The hotel, located at the gate of Petra, means you are only steps away from this ancient rock-carved Nabataean city. Remember, tomorrow you will be able to get exclusive access to the city before it opens its doors to the public. We will also have Sunday to explore this wonderful place. 

  As the sun sets all runners will meet at tomorrow’s finish area, where the race officials and medical team will give the race briefing. 

  In the evening, we can carbo-load with a pasta dinner served at our respective hotel restaurants. You are then welcome to go back to your rooms to get some well-needed rest before the big day. 

  Overnight Petra. Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  Sept 6 - Petra Marathon & Half Marathon

   

  The day we have all been waiting for! After an early wake-up call, all runners hop on the bus and drive to the Petra Visitors Centre. At 5:45 all participants walk through the Siq to the start line at the Street of Facades. As Petra is not open to the public at that time of day, runners will have the unique experience of seeing Petra without the tourist crowds. At 06:30 the race begins for both full and half marathon runners. Although it is an official race following international competition rules with chip timing, it is important to remember that it is first and foremost an Adventure Marathon in which the experience, scenery and satisfaction of completing the distance is more important than winning or setting a personal record.

   

  At the finish line runners will receive their medals and refreshments. A light continental breakfast and packed lunch at the finish area are included today.
  
  

  There are optional activities available later in the day that can be booked in addition to the basic package:

   

  Petra Kitchen: Learn to cook traditional Jordanian food. Chefs guide you through a cooking class with starter and main course before enjoying the full dinner. The recipe is given to you at the end.  Starts at 18.30 and last for 2.5 hrs. £45.00 per person.

   

  Overnight Petra. Breakfast and packed lunch included today.

   

  Sept 7 - Petra and Celebration Dinner

   

  Today is a day to explore Petra in its full glory. After breakfast, we drive to the Petra Visitors Centre from where we start a guided walk and learn about the impressive history of yesterday’s starting point.

  
  The main entrance of the historical and archaeological city of Petra is the Siq. With walls rising up to 200 metres in height, this narrow gorge split apart by tectonic forces, winds its way 1.2km through the mountains and ends at Petra's most elaborate ruin, the Treasury. We continue past the marvellous tombs and caves carved out of the red sandstone cliff while our guide tells us about the Nabateans who created the city. After some time to explore the area and buy lunch on our own, we head back to the hotel.

  
  Depending on how much time you want to spend in Petra you can also relax and recover from the strenuous efforts of yesterday in one of the areas’ Turkish Baths and Spas or simply treat yourself at a local restaurant with the incredibly tasty Jordanian cuisine.

  
  In the evening all participants depart from the hotel to Little Petra where we will celebrate the completion of the Petra Desert Marathon and Half Marathon with a festive celebration dinner in the desert; dine, drink and dance under the stars and crescent moon.
  
  

  Overnight Petra. Breakfast and celebration dinner 

   

  Sept 8 - Farewell Jordan or extend your Jordan adventure.

   

  Our adventure in Jordan is over and it’s time to bid farewell to this extraordinary country.

   

  Check out from the hotel early for the transfer to the airport - transfers ARRIVE at the airport at the following times: 05.00, 08.00, 13.00, 18.00.

   

  It will take three hours to travel from Petra to the airport. If these times don't fit your flight schedule then a sperate transfer can be arranged for £62 one way.

   

  You can also book overnight stays in Amman and discover the thriving capital city. Participants who book one of the extensions will start these adventures after breakfast today.

   

   

  ---

   

    

  EXTENDED TOURS

   

  At the end of the marathon package why not extend your stay on your choice of one of the extensions below:

   

   

  ADVENTURE TOUR - 4-DAYS / 3-NIGHTS

   

  Sept 8 - Little Petra - Monastery hike: 

  Our hike begins by the awe-inspiring "Little Petra," setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. From there, we'll venture through the viewpoints of Wadi Mataha and Jabal al-Khubtha, guiding you to Petra's lesser-known back entrances. After exploring the Monastery, we'll make our way down to the iconic Treasury and emerge through the magnificent Siq.

  Meals: Breakfast and lunch

  Sept 9 - Wadi Rum Desert: 

  The Wadi Rum desert, also known as Valley of the Moon, is a sight to see and now it’s our turn to get lost in this stunning desert and sleep under the stars.

  After breakfast we leave Petra and drive to the magnificent Wadi Rum desert. It was here the British army officer T. E. Lawrence gathered the Arab tribes to revolt against the Ottoman Turkish rule during World War I, a story that became world-famous in the movie “Lawrence of Arabia.” From the Wadi Rum Visitors Center, we change from bus to jeep and go on a tour through the desert, past sand dunes and incredible rock formations. After a cup of tea made by Bedouins, the tour ends with dinner and an overnight in a Bedouin Camp with the choice of a Bedouin Tent or a Star Tent.

  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  Sept 10 - Wadi Mujib and Amman:

  After breakfast in our camp we drive to the Wadi Mujib gorge, in many ways similar to the Siq in Petra - narrow and with towering cliffs rising on both sides. The gorge runs the Mujib River and this unique nature reserve is home to over 400 species of plants, more than 100 species of birds and animals like the Nubian Ibex, Red Fox, Hyena, Jackal, Wild Cat, Caracal, Badger, Mongoose, Wolf and Arabian Leopard.

  You will see the Wadi Mujib on a 2-hour hike on the Siq Trail. You'll follow the course of the river, wading through the water, up to the base of a large waterfall. Along the way, you'll climb several smaller waterfalls with the help of fixed ropes, ladders, and our guide.

  Once you reach the waterfall, you can swim around in the pool at its base and even go behind the falls! The best part, though, is after all the hard work is done - you'll float peacefully back out of the canyon on the river, and have time to soak in the surroundings. Please note that while this hike is rated easy - moderate, the depth of the pools can vary depending on seasonal conditions. Thus, the nature reserve authorities require anyone going on this trail to be 18 years old and capable of swimming. 

  After leaving Wadi Mujib, you will head to Amman where we check in to our hotel.

  Meals: Breakfast and lunch 

  Sept 11 - Departure:

  Our adventure in Jordan is over and it’s time to bid farewell to this extraordinary country. Check out from the hotel must be completed before 12:00 in the afternoon. All participants are transferred from Amman to Queen Alia International Airport.

  Three transfers are available and ARRIVAL times at the airport are 05:00, 13:00 and 18:00. 

  It is possible to book a different transfer to Queen Alia International Airport if the above scheduled group transfers don't fit your onward journey (extra charge).

  Meals: Breakfast

  
  

  WONDERS OF AMMAN: PRE-TOUR - 2-DAYS/1-NIGHT

   

  Sept 2 - Arrival in Amman:

   

  A warm and inviting welcome awaits as you check in at your hotel in Amman, where you stay overnight and look forward to the adventures to come!  

  
  

  Meals: Not included

   

  Sept 3 - Amman City Tour and Jerash:

  
  

  The next day you will embark on a captivating exploration of Jerash, often referred to as the "Pompeii of the East". You will enter through the South Gate, immersing ourselves in the grandeur of the Roman City, strolling through the Oval Plaza with its surrounding colonnades, and visit its grand Roman theatres and Byzantine churches adorned with mosaic-covered floors.

  
  

  It's time for the big city! Now we'll head to Amman, Jordan's bustling capital, renowned for its political and cultural significance spanning thousands of years. Highlights of the Amman exploration include the Citadel, Roman ruins, the Roman theatre, and an outside visit to the King Abdullah Mosque.

  You'll have free time to explore the city or visit the vibrant Souq Market.

  Finally, we arrive at our Dead Sea accommodations for a restful overnight stay as you join the rest of the runners on the tour package.

  
  

• PRICES

  5 Night Package

  	Double / Twin (Per Person)	Single (supplement)
  Standard package	£1150	£280
  Deluxe package	£1530	£510

   

  PRICES ARE PER PERSON. 

  • TWIN = TWO PEOPLE IN A ROOM WITH TWO BEDS.
  • DOUBLE = TWO PEOPLE IN A ROOM WITH ONE DOUBLE BED.
  • SINGLE = ONE PERSON IN THE ROOM. IF YOU ARE TRAVELLING ALONE THE SINGLE PRICE APPLIES, WHICH IS ONE TWIN PRICE PLUS THE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT. 
  Inclusions
  • 5 nights accommodation in chosen hotel category
  • Arrival transfer from Amman Airport to Dead Sea 
  • Scheduled departure transfer from Petra to Amman airport 
  • Transportation as per itinerary
  • English-speaking tour leader
  • 3-day entry to Petra
  • Meals according to itinerary
  • Celebration dinner
  Exclusions

  • Flight to/from Jordan
  • Entry visa to Jordan
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for local guides and drivers (USD 5 per person per day is recommended)
  • Cancellation insurance due to illness or injury prior to departure
  • Travel and health insurance (we strongly recommend you to take out sufficient insurance)
  • Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions” 
  • Race entry - available at additional cost
  
  

  ---

  RACE ENTRY 

  Marathon or Half Marathon entry - £235

  Race entry includes:

  • English-speaking race officials
  • Start number
  • Finishers medal
  • Danish and Jordanian medical team
  • Time-taking
  • Drinks and refreshments on the route
  • Exclusive Petra Desert Marathon running T-shirt

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  A deposit is required at the time of booking:

  • Runner £500
  • Non-runner £250

  Final balance is due no later than 10 weeks before travel

  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   
  Extensions & Excursions
  
  
  Adventure  Extension Wadi Rum
  
  

  	Twin / Double (Per Person)	Single (supplement)
  Standard package	£550	£100
  Deluxe package	£600	£190

   
  Twin means two people in one room with individual beds.
  Double means two people in a room with one double bed.
  Single means one person in a room with one bed. If you are travelling alone the single supplement applies which is the one twin price plus the single supplement
   
  Supplement for Upgrade to shared double room at Star Tent: £80
  
  Single room supplement at Star Tent: £160
   
  Inclusions

  • 1 extra night in your Petra Hotel
  • 1 night in Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum
  • 1 night in a 4-star Hotel in Amman
  • Transportation as per itinerary
  • Local English-speaking tour guide
  • Entrance fee to Wadi Rum and Wadi Mujib
  • Meals according to itinerary

  Exclusions

  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Cancellation insurance due to illness prior to departure
  • Travel and health insurance (we strongly recommend you to take out sufficient insurance)
  • Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”

  
  

  ---

   

  
  Wonders of Amman: pre-tour

  
  

  Double / Twin - £155

   

  Single (supplement) - £55
   
  Inclusions

  • One night in a 4* Hotel, Amman
  • Transportation as per itinerary
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Meals according to itinerary

  Exclusions

  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Cancellation insurance due to illness prior to departure
  • Travel and health insurance (we strongly recommend you to take out sufficient insurance)
  • Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”

  
  

  Excursions

  
  Baptism site, Mt Nebo & Madaba - £110

   

  Petra Kitchen - £45

   
  

  ---

   

  WE STRONGLY ADVISE YOU TO TAKE OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE. TRAVEL INSURANCE SHOULD PROTECT YOUR DEPOSIT OR ANY OTHER PAYMENTS IF YOU CANCEL THE TRIP DUE TO INJURY, ILLNESS OR UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.  WE DO NOT REFUND DEPOSITS AND WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOU DECIDE TO CANCEL YOUR TRIP AFTER IT IS CONFIRMED.

• Terms and conditions