Ma'an Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Ma'an.
Ma'an Governorate is Jordan's largest governorate by area, encompassing the legendary rose-red city of Petra, the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the historic market town of Ma'an city. This southern region is home to some of the ancient world's most extraordinary monuments, carved by the Nabataean civilization over two millennia ago. From rugged desert canyons to Crusader-era castles, Ma'an offers an unparalleled journey through layers of human history set against spectacular natural scenery.
Top Hiking Trails
The best hikes Ma'an has to offer.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir) Hike
moderateThe most popular hike within Petra, ascending 800 rock-cut steps from the Colonnaded Street to Petra's largest monument — the Monastery (Ad-Deir). The path passes through shaded canyon sections, past Bedouin tea stalls, and opens onto sweeping views before the final ascent.
High Place of Sacrifice via Wadi Farasa
moderateA circular hike ascending to the Nabataean sacrificial altar on the summit of Zibb Atuf mountain, then descending through the quieter Wadi Farasa canyon past Lion Fountain, Garden Temple, Roman Soldier's Tomb, and a Byzantine chapel — a wonderfully complete cross-section of Petra's monuments.
Wadi Dana to Feynan (Full Day Trek)
hardOne of Jordan's finest multi-ecosystem treks, descending from the alpine pine forests of Dana village (1,400m) through progressively more dramatic sandstone and granite gorges to the desert floor at Feynan Ecolodge. Passes through four distinct bioclimatic zones with extraordinary flora and fauna.
Khubtha Summit — Treasury Viewpoint
moderateA lesser-known but spectacular hike ascending rock-cut stairs from the Outer Siq to the mountaintop directly above Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), providing the most dramatic aerial view of Petra's most famous monument looking down from above. Some scrambling required.
Jabal Haroun (Aaron's Tomb) Full Day Hike
hardA full-day guided hike from inside Petra to the sacred summit of Jabal Haroun, where a white-domed shrine marks the traditional tomb of the Prophet Aaron. The route passes ancient Nabataean way stations and offers extraordinary views including Wadi Rum, Wadi Araba, and the Red Sea on clear days.
Petra Back Trail — Outer Siq Circuit
easyAn easy loop around the outer areas of Petra connecting the Siq entrance with the Obelisk Tomb and the Bedul Tomb ridge. Ideal for visitors who want a shorter Petra experience or families with younger children. Fewer crowds than the main Siq route.
Um al-Biyara Summit Hike
hardAn unmarked but rewarding hike to the highest point in Petra — the flat-topped mesa of Um al-Biyara where an Edomite settlement from around 600-700 BC was excavated. The climb requires route-finding ability and a guide is strongly recommended. Views from the summit are extraordinary.
Wadi Sabra Canyon Trek
hardA full-day guided canyon trek through Wadi Sabra to a remote Nabataean theatre rarely visited by tourists. The route involves some scrambling, narrow canyon sections with spring pools, and open desert walking. One of the most rewarding off-track experiences available from Petra.
Dana White Trail (Rummana Loop)
easyA short and beautiful trail through the juniper forest above Dana village, passing a Bedouin tent observation post and offering views over the canyon. Ideal for birdwatchers (this area is an important raptor migration corridor) and families with limited hiking experience.
Shoubak Castle Walking Trail
easyA short walking circuit around the ruins of Shoubak (Montreal) Crusader Castle exploring the tower rooms, underground cistern, secret escape tunnel, Byzantine church, and castle walls. Stunning views over the pine-forested hillsides of northern Ma'an Governorate.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Flat or gently graded terrain, suitable for families with children. Minimal elevation gain. Suitable footwear (trainers) sufficient.
🟡 Moderate
Significant elevation gain with well-maintained paths. Good fitness required. Sturdy walking shoes essential. Appropriate for most able-bodied adults.
🟠 Challenging
Significant elevation, steep sections, longer distances. Good fitness required. 5-8 hours.
🔴 Expert
Remote, unmarked, or technical routes requiring navigation skills. Licensed guide mandatory. Full hiking equipment needed.
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 flooding in narrow wadis (canyons) — never enter a gorge during or immediately after rainfall
- Sun exposure and dehydration — the desert climate dehydrates rapidly; carry minimum 2-3 litres of water
- Unstable rock surfaces in Petra's unmaintained areas — stay on marked paths
- Slippery smooth sandstone on wet days — take extra care in winter conditions
- Scorpions and snakes — shake out shoes left outside overnight; watch where you place hands when scrambling
- No phone signal in many remote hiking areas — inform your hotel of your route and estimated return time
- Unmarked trails — Um al-Biyara and remote canyon routes require a licensed guide
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 Spring
March-May — The best hiking season. Mild temperatures, possible wildflowers in Dana and on Petra hillsides. Trails are dry and in excellent condition.
☀️ Summer
June-August — Hiking is possible but start before 7 AM to beat heat. Carry extra water. Dana highlands remain more comfortable than lower Petra trails.
🍂 Fall
September-November — Excellent hiking conditions. October is particularly ideal — cooler temperatures, golden light, and thinner crowds.
❄️ Winter
December-February — Cold but peaceful hiking. Petra and Dana hillsides occasionally receive snow. Flash flooding risk in narrow wadis after rain — check weather before any canyon hike.
Explore Ma'an's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide