Petra Desert Marathon

First held in 2009, the Petra Desert Marathon sends runners from the ancient city's rock-carved tombs into the surrounding desert on a deliberately challenging, hilly course, with marathon and 25-kilometer distances both starting at 6:30 a.m. before Petra opens to the public. International runners typically register through organized tour packages, combining the race with broader Jordan sightseeing rather than standalone competition entry.

First run on September 26, 2009, the Petra Desert Marathon has become one of the more physically demanding entries on the international adventure marathon circuit, sending runners out from the heart of the ancient city past rock-carved tombs and temples before venturing into the lunar-like desert terrain surrounding Petra proper.