The Petra Desert Marathon 2026 in 5-star hotels
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationMiddle East / Jordan
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions156.95 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
Arabic
In a few words
Lace up your running shoes for an extraordinary challenge: the legendary Petra Marathon . This 8-day tour in Jordan perfectly combines pushing your limits and contemplation, all in absolute comfort thanks to 5-star hotels and a charming camp nestled in the dunes.
Your journey begins with the exploration of Amman , the Roman ruins of Jerash , and the Ajloun fortress. Before the physical challenge, treat yourself to a restorative break in the mineral waters of the Dead Sea .
Then comes the big day: walk on the sands of this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or cheer on the runners amidst breathtaking scenery. The next day, let yourself be guided through the mysterious Siq to admire the famous Treasury and its royal tombs.
Finally, explore the vastness of Wadi Rum on a 4x4 excursion , punctuated by traditional Bedouin tea. An ideal combination of physical adventure, relaxation, and historical treasures.
The highlights
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Push yourself to the limit in the legendary Petra Marathon, a wonder of world heritage.
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Travel back in time by exploring Amman, the ruins of Jerash and the city of Petra
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Recover from your exertions by floating in the soothing waters of the Dead Sea.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
The Petra Marathon is designed for regular runners with significant experience in long-distance running. This sporting challenge takes place in an exceptional environment, with unique conditions due to the desert climate, high temperatures, and varied terrain. Specific preparation beforehand is strongly recommended to ensure you are in the best possible condition for the race.
Participants must be able to sustain a prolonged endurance effort and ideally have prior experience in half-marathon or marathon distances. Regular training combining long runs, endurance work, and preparation adapted to varied terrain will allow them to fully enjoy this unique experience.
Beyond the timed performance, the Petra Marathon is above all a human and sporting adventure, an exceptional opportunity to push your limits in a legendary setting, at the heart of the history and landscapes of Jordan.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h
- Average distance/day: 8 km
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Trail and road running
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 43 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 200 m
- Average daily descent: 200 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
Arabic
Your trip to Jordan is organized with a professional and experienced local team, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience throughout your stay. You will benefit from the services of a qualified driver, experienced in tourist travel and committed to adhering to all applicable safety standards. A trained and experienced French-speaking local guide will also be present to help you discover the country's rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage, while ensuring the program runs smoothly. For the sporting portion of your trip, special attention is paid to the organization of the Petra Marathon, with support tailored to the needs of each participant. Our priority is to offer you a safe, comfortable, and memorable sporting and tourist experience.
Program
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Arrival in Amman - Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA)
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon arrival at Amman Airport , our local team will greet you and assist you with entry formalities , including obtaining your visa. You will then enjoy a private transfer to your accommodation. This initial journey is ideal for getting a feel for the Jordanian capital . After settling into your hotel , you will have free time to relax and recover from your flight. You will spend your first night in Amman .
Day 1 -
Amman - Amman city tour - Jerash - The Dead Sea
- Transportation Bus - 01h40 - 70km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll set off to explore Amman . You'll begin at the Citadel , perched atop Jabal Al-Qalaa hill, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city. You'll explore its must-see archaeological sites, such as the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace . Then, you'll descend to the city center to admire the imposing Roman theater . Next, you'll travel north to Jerash , a remarkably well-preserved ancient city. You'll stroll along its cobbled streets and observe historical monuments like the Temple of Artemis , Hadrian's Arch , and the famous Oval Square . Your itinerary continues to Ajloun to visit its 12th-century medieval fortress. From this elevated vantage point, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hills. At the end of the day, you'll reach the Dead Sea , the lowest point on Earth. You settle into your hotel for dinner and spend the night by the water.
Day 2 -
Free day at the Dead Sea
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, enjoy a free day on the shores of the Dead Sea . This natural wonder lies more than 400 meters below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth. Take time to relax and experience the famous floating sensation in its salty waters , renowned for their mineral richness. This moment of rest allows you to recharge before resuming your active itinerary, all while observing the contrast between the water and the surrounding mountains. As an optional excursion, you can explore Bethany Beyond the Jordan River . This historical site, located on the hill of Tell El-Kharrar , is recognized as the biblical home of John the Baptist. End your day with dinner and spend the night at your hotel on the shores of the Dead Sea .
Day 3 -
Dead Sea - Petra
- Transportation Bus - 03h - 200km
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, enjoy some final moments of relaxation or free time by the Dead Sea . In the early afternoon, you'll depart for Petra , the famous Nabatean city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, you'll attend the official Petra Marathon briefing at 5:00 PM. This briefing will provide an overview of the course and give you the latest safety instructions and essential recommendations before your athletic challenge. You'll then check into your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 -
Petra (Marathon Day)
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Distance 43 km
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, it's time for your big sporting challenge: the Petra Desert Marathon . At 6:00 AM , you'll leave the hotel on foot to reach the visitor center , located about 1 km from the starting line at the entrance to the famous Siq . Punctuality is essential to access the site and start the race. Runners who haven't collected their race bib the day before must arrive by 5:30 AM . The race starts at 6:30 AM for participants in the marathon and ultra-half-marathon . You'll then set off on a demanding run amidst the Nabataean ruins. Once you cross the finish line, you'll return to your hotel for some well-deserved rest. Enjoy dinner in the evening and spend the night in Petra .
Day 5 -
Visit to Petra
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Accommodation 5-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll set off to explore Petra , the ancient Nabataean capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guided tour begins with a walk through the Siq , a natural canyon approximately 1 km long, whose sandstone walls open onto the famous Khazneh , the Treasury carved into the rock. You'll continue your journey into the heart of the city to discover the royal tombs , temples, and ancient streets . Your guide will share the history of this ancient trading hub as you visit the High Sacraments, which offer panoramic views of the entire site. You'll then return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Petra . An optional traditional gala dinner is available in the evening to experience Jordanian hospitality.
Day 6 -
Petra - Wadi Rum
- Transportation Bus - 02h - 130km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Unique "bubble-style" accommodation
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll depart for the Wadi Rum desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll discover its landscapes characterized by vast stretches of red sand and rock formations sculpted by time. There, you'll embark on a 4x4 jeep excursion to explore canyons, natural arches, and ancient rock carvings. This exploration will be punctuated by a convivial break to enjoy traditional Bedouin tea . In the late afternoon, you'll settle into your desert camp . You'll watch the sunset over the landscape before enjoying a traditional dinner and spending the night under the stars.
Day 7 -
Wadi Rum - Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA)
- Transportation Bus - 04h30 - 316km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast at the camp , you'll have a final moment to admire the panoramic views of the Wadi Rum desert. Depending on your flight schedule, you'll be transferred to Amman airport . There, you'll receive assistance with departure formalities before boarding your return flight to your final destination.
Day 8
Accommodation
Located in the heart of Amman's prestigious diplomatic quarter, The Landmark Amman Hotel & Conference Center is a prime address for both business and leisure travelers. This 5-star hotel combines modernity, elegance, and high-quality service in close proximity to the capital's main attractions. With its spacious accommodations, wellness facilities, and dining options, the hotel promises a memorable experience. It's the ideal starting point for exploring Jordan or for relaxing in a refined and serene setting.
Located on the shores of the Dead Sea, the Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa offers a spectacular setting, nestled between majestic mountains and saltwater. This 5-star resort is a true oasis of well-being, ideal for recharging after a day of cultural sightseeing or sporting activities. Combining a unique natural environment with upscale amenities, the hotel offers modern accommodations, exclusive relaxation areas, and exceptionally attentive service to guarantee an unforgettable stay.
Ideally located opposite the entrance to the famous archaeological site, this 5-star hotel offers an exceptional location for exploring the legendary Nabataean city. Combining contemporary elegance with oriental touches, the hotel provides a refined setting, enhanced by warm Jordanian hospitality. It is a privileged base from which to fully appreciate the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the heart of the spectacular Wadi Rum desert, nicknamed "the Valley of the Moon" by Lawrence of Arabia, Mazayen Rum Camp offers a magical immersion in one of Jordan's most beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by majestic sandstone mountains and red sand dunes, this camp perfectly combines traditional hospitality with modern comforts. It's the ideal base for experiencing a 4x4 adventure, exploring lunar landscapes, and marveling at an exceptional starry sky, untouched by light pollution, as night falls.
Access
On the day of your arrival, you will meet us at 1:00 PM directly at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman (QAIA) . Our local representatives will warmly welcome you and guide you through the visa process. Once your visa is processed, a private transfer will take you to your hotel in Amman for your first night.
For your departure: The stay ends at the same place, at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman (QAIA) , at 1:00 p.m. on the last day.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Welcome and assistance by a member of our staff upon arrival
- Transfers according to the above itinerary in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle
- Accommodation for 7 nights with half-board in the hotels mentioned or similar
- French-speaking guide during the tour days
- 2-hour tour inside the Wadi Rum desert in a 4x4 vehicle
- Entrance fees to all sites mentioned
- Free visa for Jordan
- Race pack (T-shirt, medal, meal at the finish line, refreshments along the course)
The price does not include
- International flight tickets
- Personal expenses
- Meals and drinks not mentioned above
- The usual tips for the guide, drivers, Knight in Petra, and in restaurants and hotels
- Anything not mentioned above
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
To fully enjoy your stay and the Petra Desert Marathon, it is recommended that you bring equipment adapted to the weather conditions and terrain. Pack running shoes that have already been broken in and are suitable for long distances, breathable technical clothing, a cap or hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. A water bottle or hydration system is strongly advised for the race, as well as a sports watch to track your performance.
For visits and excursions, opt for light and comfortable clothing, a pair of walking shoes with good grip, a lightweight backpack, a windproof jacket for evenings in the desert, and warmer clothing for nights in Wadi Rum. Don't forget your personal belongings, a first-aid kit, your travel documents, and any usual medications.
Appropriate equipment will allow you to experience this sporting and cultural adventure in the best conditions.
Clothing to bring
Jordan enjoys a hot, dry climate, with high daytime temperatures and sometimes cooler evenings, particularly in the Wadi Rum desert. It is advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for sports activities. For the marathon, opt for technical gear designed for exertion: breathable t-shirts, running shorts or leggings, appropriate socks, and clothing that has already been tested during your training.
For visits and excursions, pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothing suitable for walking, as well as clothing that respects local customs (shoulders and knees must be covered during certain visits). Also, remember to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket for cool mornings and evenings in the desert, and a windbreaker for Wadi Rum.
Don't forget: swimsuit for the Dead Sea, sunglasses, cap or hat, light scarf for sun protection and a pair of comfortable shoes for daily explorations.
