Jordan captivates travelers with its blend of ancient history, dramatic desert landscapes, and warm hospitality. From the rose-red city of Petra to the otherworldly wadis and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, this Middle Eastern kingdom offers unforgettable experiences. Whether floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea, camping under stars in Wadi Rum, or exploring Roman ruins at Jerash, Jordan rewards visitors with authentic culture and timeless beauty.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Jordan Trail - Dana to Petra Section
The most spectacular section of Jordan's 650km national trail descends through the stunning Dana Biosphere Reserve's sandstone canyons, past ancient copper mines at Feynan, and through Wadi Araba's rugged wilderness before ascending to Petra. Wilderness camping with incredible solitude and star-filled skies.
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2
Petra High Place of Sacrifice
The most rewarding half-day hike within Petra climbs through carved stone steps past ancient obelisks to a Nabataean sacrificial altar with panoramic views over the rose-red city. The descent through Wadi Farasa passes rock-carved lion fountains, a garden triclinium, and the Renaissance Tomb.
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3
Wadi Mujib Siq Trail
Jordan's most thrilling wade-through hike follows a watercourse through the dramatic Siq trail of Wadi Mujib — the 'Grand Canyon of Jordan.' Hikers wade through chest-deep water and swim past waterfalls in a spectacular slot canyon before reaching a final waterfall in a natural amphitheater. Requires wetsuits in cooler months.
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4
Ajloun Forest Reserve Trails
A network of well-marked trails through Jordan's most accessible nature reserve, weaving through oak, pistachio, and carob woodland with wildflowers in spring. The Soap House Trail passes traditional soap-making facilities and offers valley views across to the West Bank hills.
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5
Wadi Rum Desert Trek
Guided trekking through the 'Valley of the Moon' navigating red sand dunes, scrambling over ancient sandstone formations, and exploring hidden Nabataean inscriptions and Lawrence of Arabia's legendary campsites. Mandatory local Bedouin guide ensures navigation through featureless desert terrain.
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6
Dana Canyon Rim Walk
A short but visually rewarding walk from Dana village along the canyon rim of the Dana Biosphere Reserve with sweeping views into the Great Rift Valley. The ancient stone village of Dana itself dates to the 15th century and is inhabited by a handful of traditional families.
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7
Petra Back Trail via Um Sayhoun
A quieter approach to Petra's Monastery (Al-Deir) from the back, starting from the Bedouin village of Um Sayhoun and descending through wild sandstone terrain to emerge at the Monastery's rear — completely avoiding the main crowds in the Siq. Return via the main stairs offers the contrast of the grand processional route.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Jordan.
- Spring
- March to May is Jordan's finest hiking season with mild temperatures (15-22°C), wildflowers carpeting the hills, and the Wadi Rum and Dana reserve landscapes at their most photogenic. Wadi Mujib opens from April.
- Summer
- June to August is very hot (35-40°C) making daytime hiking dangerous except at altitude. Early morning starts (5-7 AM) possible in highland areas like Ajloun and Dana. Avoid Wadi Rum and Petra in peak summer heat.
- Fall
- September to November offers excellent hiking conditions as temperatures drop but trails remain dry. The best season for the Dana-Petra Jordan Trail and multi-day desert treks when nights are pleasantly cool.
- Winter
- December to February brings cool temperatures (5-15°C) in the highlands with occasional snow at Dana and Ajloun making for atmospheric but cold hiking. Wadi Mujib closes in winter due to flash flood risk.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Flash floods in wadis and canyons — never enter wadi trails during rain or if dark clouds form over distant mountains
Hazard: Extreme heat in desert areas — start hikes before 7 AM in summer and carry 3-4 liters of water per person
Hazard: Sun exposure — UV levels are very high in Jordan's desert environment year-round, wear SPF 50+
Hazard: Loose sandstone in Petra — crumbling rock underfoot on staircase trails requires careful footwear
Hazard: Disorientation in Wadi Rum — featureless desert terrain makes navigation extremely difficult; always use a local Bedouin guide
Hazard: Salt crystal cuts at Dead Sea shoreline — wear sandals and protect open wounds from the highly saline water