Jordan Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Jordan.
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 Hiking Trails
The best hikes Jordan has to offer.
Jordan Trail - Dana to Petra Section
challengingThe 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.
Petra High Place of Sacrifice
moderateThe 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.
Wadi Mujib Siq Trail
moderateJordan'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.
Ajloun Forest Reserve Trails
easyA 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.
Wadi Rum Desert Trek
moderateGuided 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.
Dana Canyon Rim Walk
easyA 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.
Petra Back Trail via Um Sayhoun
moderateA 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.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Flat or gently undulating terrain on well-marked paths, suitable for families with children over 6 and general fitness levels. Dana Rim Walk and Ajloun forest trails are examples.
🟡 Moderate
Some elevation gain, uneven surfaces, or wading/scrambling required. Basic fitness recommended. Petra's High Place and Wadi Rum trekking fall here.
🟠 Challenging
Significant elevation changes, rough terrain, long distances, or technical scrambling. Multi-day wilderness experience. Dana-Petra Jordan Trail section is a prime example.
🔴 Expert
Technical climbing, vertical ascent, or extreme desert conditions requiring experienced guides and specialized equipment. Burdah Rock Bridge ascent and technical Wadi Mujib hikes.
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Flash floods in wadis and canyons — never enter wadi trails during rain or if dark clouds form over distant mountains
- Extreme heat in desert areas — start hikes before 7 AM in summer and carry 3-4 liters of water per person
- Sun exposure — UV levels are very high in Jordan's desert environment year-round, wear SPF 50+
- Loose sandstone in Petra — crumbling rock underfoot on staircase trails requires careful footwear
- Disorientation in Wadi Rum — featureless desert terrain makes navigation extremely difficult; always use a local Bedouin guide
- Salt crystal cuts at Dead Sea shoreline — wear sandals and protect open wounds from the highly saline water
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 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.
Explore Jordan's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide