Walking from Dana to Petra offers a remarkable way to discover Jordan. This multi-day trek brings together dramatic mountain scenery, remote desert valleys, Bedouin hospitality and the ancient wonders of Petra.
For travellers seeking an adventure beyond the usual sightseeing itinerary, the Dana to Petra hike reveals a quieter side of the country—one best experienced on foot.
Discover the Jordan Trail
The Jordan Trail connects landscapes and communities across the country, from the green hills of northern Jordan to the Red Sea in Aqaba. Its routes follow historic paths through villages, mountains, valleys and desert.
The section between Dana and Petra is a highlight for hiking enthusiasts. Commonly planned over five days, it combines wilderness trekking with an unforgettable arrival at one of Jordan’s most celebrated archaeological destinations.
Distances and overnight stops vary according to the selected route, campsite arrangements and the time spent exploring Petra.
What Makes the Dana to Petra Hike Special?
This journey offers much more than a walk between two destinations. Along the way, hikers encounter changing landscapes, traditional local hospitality and traces of the region’s long history.
Highlights include:
Mountain scenery around Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Remote valleys and views towards Wadi Araba.
Nights beneath the desert sky.
Opportunities to learn from local guides and hosts.
The sandstone passages and archaeological remains of Little Petra.
A final day exploring Petra’s monuments and ancient pathways.
The gradual approach to Petra makes the destination part of a larger journey through Jordan’s natural and cultural heritage.
A Suggested Five-Day Dana to Petra Itinerary
The following itinerary provides an overview. Exact walking distances, campsites and access arrangements should be confirmed with the selected tour provider.
Day 1: Dana to Mansoura
The journey begins around Dana, where mountain slopes and dramatic valleys introduce the landscape ahead.
Descending along rugged paths, hikers leave the village surroundings behind and move into quieter wilderness. The first day offers an opportunity to settle into the walking rhythm before reaching the overnight campsite.
Day 2: Mansoura to Furon
The route continues through open valleys and rocky terrain, with climbs revealing wide views towards Wadi Araba.
Shade breaks and a steady pace help make the day comfortable. By evening, the campsite provides a place to rest, enjoy a meal and watch the changing colours of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Furon to Ghbour Whedat
This stage can be one of the more demanding parts of the trek, with sustained ascents and descents.
The reward is striking scenery: sandstone formations, rugged slopes and remote valleys. A wilderness overnight stay adds to the sense of being far from the usual tourist routes.
Day 4: Ghbour Whedat to Little Petra
As the trek approaches Little Petra, the landscape begins to reveal more evidence of historic settlement and water management.
Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid, introduces visitors to carved sandstone façades and narrow passages associated with the Nabataean world. Depending on the itinerary, the night may be spent at a nearby camp or other local accommodation.
Day 5: Little Petra to Petra
The final stage brings hikers to Petra. Where permitted and included in the itinerary, an approach from Little Petra leads towards the Monastery before continuing through the archaeological site.
Further exploration may include the Royal Tombs, ancient streets, the Treasury and the Siq. Petra involves considerable walking and steps, so allow enough time and energy to appreciate the destination.
Entry tickets and the permitted access route should be arranged in advance.
When to Plan Your Trek
Spring and autumn are commonly chosen for hiking in Jordan because conditions are generally more comfortable than during the hottest summer months.
Weather varies with elevation and season. Exposed sections can feel hot even when the air temperature seems moderate, while evenings at camp may be cool.
Check the forecast and local trail advice before departure. Heavy rain and flash-flood warnings can affect route safety and require changes to the itinerary.
Guided Hiking and Local Support
A supported trek can simplify the logistics of travelling through remote terrain. Depending on the package, arrangements may include:
A local trekking guide.
Luggage transfers between overnight stops.
Tents and bedding.
Meals and drinking-water supplies.
Transport before and after the hike.
Facilities and inclusions differ between providers. Confirm water availability, toilet arrangements, bedding, dietary requirements and emergency procedures before booking.
Choosing local guides and services also creates opportunities for tourism spending to benefit communities along the route.
What to Expect Along the Way
Expect uneven ground, loose stones, sandy stretches, climbs and descents. The challenge comes from several consecutive walking days, exposure to the weather and the distance covered.
Camps may be simple and remote, with limited washing facilities, electricity or mobile coverage. Trail markings and navigation conditions can vary, making local knowledge valuable.
Prepare for the walking demands in advance and select an itinerary that suits your fitness and experience.
What to Pack
For a supported trek, a comfortable daypack should hold your daily essentials. Ask the provider what equipment is supplied before packing.
Bring:
Well-fitted walking shoes or boots with reliable grip.
Breathable clothing and sun protection.
A warm layer for evenings.
Water containers with capacity appropriate to the day’s route.
Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
A headlamp and power bank.
Personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
Toiletries and any required sleeping equipment.
Passport, entry documents and Jordanian cash.
Keep luggage practical and follow your guide’s instructions on water, waste disposal and campsite conduct.
Extend Your Jordan Adventure
The Dana to Petra trek can form part of a wider Jordan itinerary.
Continue to Wadi Rum for desert scenery and a camp stay, or travel south to Aqaba for time beside the Red Sea. Travellers with additional days can also explore Amman, Jerash or the Dead Sea.
Combining hiking, heritage and coastal experiences offers a varied way to visit Jordan.
Explore Jordan with Excursions Jordan
Planning a trip to Petra, Wadi Rum or Aqaba? Visit Excursions Jordan to explore tours and local experiences for your journey.
Before booking a multi-day hike, confirm the route, departure dates, difficulty, accommodation and inclusions with the activity provider.