Petra Desert Marathon
Petra, Jordan · Saturday 6 March 2027
The Petra Desert Marathon, held annually in Jordan, is a unique event that combines athleticism with historical significance. Starting at the Street of Facades in the ancient city of Petra, the course takes runners through the stunning desert landscapes surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site. The marathon features a challenging route with steep ascents and descents, offering breathtaking views of the lunar-like mountain landscape.
Difficulty Calculator
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:m
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Adjusted Time
5:02:56
Time difference: +62.9 minutes compared to a flat, road, temperate course.
Course Details
Elevation Gain1074m
Elevation High1425m
Elevation Low873m
Weather Forecast
High29°C
Low20°C
Chance of Rain0%
How hard is Petra Desert Marathon?
Very Difficultharder than 95% of marathons
Flattest / easiestHardest
On our difficulty model, Petra Desert Marathon plays about 52 minutes slower than an average road marathon for a 3:30 runner. It ranks #55 hardest of 1150 marathons we analyse. Use the calculator above to see the exact adjusted time for your own goal pace.
What will you run at Petra Desert Marathon?
Estimated finish times on this course versus the same effort on an average road marathon, based on its elevation, surface, and expected race-day temperature.
| Average-course time | On Petra Desert Marathon | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 3:00:00 | 3:33:27 | +33:27 |
| 3:30:00 | 4:17:26 | +47:26 |
| 4:00:00 | 5:02:56 | +1:02:56 |
| 4:30:00 | 5:49:48 | +1:19:48 |
| 5:00:00 | 6:37:59 | +1:37:59 |
| 5:30:00 | 7:27:23 | +1:57:23 |
| 6:00:00 | 8:17:56 | +2:17:56 |
Use the calculator above for your exact goal time. Want a prediction from your own training? Try the marathon time predictor.
Petra Desert Marathon 2027 Course Analysis
Petra Desert Marathon is a full marathon held in Petra, Jordan. It is scheduled for Saturday 6 March 2027. The course is run on road surface with 1074m of total climbing, with its high point near 1425m above sea level. For registration and full race details, visit the official Petra Desert Marathon website.
Elevation Profile
This is a very challenging course with 1074m of total climbing - well above the average road marathon - topping out around 1425m above sea level. Hill training is essential, and you should expect a slower finish time than on a flat course.
Expected Race Day Weather
Based on historical weather data for March, the expected race day conditions are as follows. Hot conditions are expected, with temperatures between 20°C and 29°C. Heat is one of the biggest performance factors in distance running - for every degree above 15°C, finish times can slow by roughly 1-2%. Extra hydration and a conservative start are strongly recommended. There is a low chance of rain (0%), so dry conditions are likely.
Surface Type: Road
Petra Desert Marathon is run on road surfaces, which provide the fastest and most predictable conditions for racing. Road courses allow for consistent pacing and are typically the best choice for a personal best.
Looking for an easier marathon or a tougher challenge? You can also compare Petra Desert Marathon against other marathons to find the right race for your goals.
Marathons of similar difficulty
If Petra Desert Marathon fits your goal, these courses play out about the same on our difficulty model.