Hiking in Jordan reveals a landscape far more varied than its desert reputation suggests. Walk through northern hills, descend into dramatic valleys, explore sandstone terrain around Petra or discover Wadi Rum with a local guide.
You do not need to undertake a long expedition to enjoy walking here. A carefully chosen day hike can add a rewarding outdoor experience to a wider holiday, while multi-day routes offer more time to explore landscapes and meet local communities.
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What Is the Jordan Trail?
The Jordan Trail is a long-distance hiking route connecting Umm Qais in northern Jordan with Aqaba on the Red Sea.
The Jordan Trail Association currently describes it as extending over 675 kilometres, passing through 75 villages and towns, with approximately 35 hiking days. Your actual schedule will depend on the sections chosen, pace, rest days and support arrangements.
The route is organised into eight main regions. You can explore a shorter section rather than committing to the entire journey.
Do not assume the whole trail is consistently signposted. Waymarking varies, and remote sections require navigation skills, reliable route information and careful planning.
Where to Go Hiking in Jordan
Northern Jordan: Hills and Community Connections
The areas around Umm Qais and Ajloun offer countryside walks through landscapes shaped by farming, villages and historic sites.
Spring can bring greenery and flowers, depending on rainfall. Routes still vary in difficulty, so check distance, elevation changes and surface conditions before choosing a walk.
Dana and the Routes Towards Petra
The Dana-to-Petra region offers striking changes in elevation and scenery. Longer journeys require planning for overnight stops, meals, water and transport.
A short walk near your accommodation and a multi-day trek through remote terrain are very different undertakings. Choose according to your experience and available time.
Petra: Walking Through an Ancient Landscape
Petra combines archaeological discovery with substantial walking. The main route, Royal Tombs and Monastery trail each involve different distances and physical demands.
Follow official access arrangements and allow enough time to return before closing. More ambitious routes should be discussed with an appropriately experienced guide.
Wadi Rum: Desert Walks and Mountain Routes
Wadi Rum offers sandy valleys, rocky passages and routes through dramatic sandstone scenery.
Some outings involve straightforward walking; others include scrambling, exposed terrain or technical climbing. Ask for a clear description before booking and confirm that your guide has the expertise required.
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When Is the Best Time to Hike?
Spring and autumn generally offer more comfortable conditions for many routes, but the best dates depend on location, elevation and the individual trail.
Early autumn may remain very hot, particularly in lowland and desert areas. Winter can bring rain, cold conditions, snow or ice at higher elevations. Spring weather can also change quickly.
Avoid treating a particular month as a guarantee of suitable conditions. Check the forecast and local advice shortly before your hike.
Plan Water and Food Before Setting Out
Water is one of the most important considerations for hiking in Jordan.
Do not assume that every village, spring or marked point provides accessible, safe drinking water. Confirm dependable sources and any arranged deliveries before departure.
Discuss your needs with the provider, considering the route, temperature, effort and distance between supplies. Carry sufficient capacity and a reserve appropriate to the outing.
For multi-day hikes, establish who supplies meals and water, where they will be available and what happens if plans change. Carry accessible snacks even when meals are included.
Do You Need a Local Guide?
A knowledgeable local guide can assist with navigation, route selection and arrangements with communities along the way. The Jordan Trail Association strongly recommends local guiding because some sections are remote, have limited water and may lack connectivity.
Choose expertise that matches your activity. A general sightseeing guide or driver should not automatically be assumed to provide technical mountain guiding.
Before booking, ask about:
Daily distance and elevation changes.
Walking surfaces, scrambling and exposure.
Guide experience and group size.
Water, meals and accommodation.
Vehicle support and collection points.
Emergency communication and exit options.
Navigation and Access
Download current route information before departure and carry an appropriate backup. A phone without reception may still display downloaded maps, but it cannot replace adequate preparation.
Confirm permissions, reserve rules and any seasonal closures. A route shown on a map is not proof that access is currently permitted.
For a one-way hike, arrange transport from the finish as carefully as transport to the start. Tell a trusted contact where you are going and when you expect to return.
Weather and Canyon Precautions
Canyons and valleys require particular care when rain is possible. Conditions upstream can matter even when the starting point appears dry.
Follow official alerts and closures, and ask your provider how weather affects the route. Walking poles can help with balance on suitable terrain, but they do not make a flooded crossing safe.
Allow enough daylight for the outing and turn back if conditions exceed your abilities or preparation.
What to Bring
Adapt your equipment to the route and duration:
| Item | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Footwear | Broken-in walking shoes or boots with suitable grip. |
| Water and food | Confirmed supplies, carrying capacity and appropriate reserves. |
| Sun protection | Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and suitable clothing. |
| Layers | Protection for cold, wind and rain where expected. |
| Navigation | Current offline maps, route details and a backup. |
| Communication | Charged phone, power bank and arrangements for remote areas. |
| First-aid supplies | Personal medication and a kit suited to the outing. |
| Day pack | Comfortable fit, with room to carry your rubbish out. |
Multi-day or unsupported hikes require additional equipment and preparation.
Respect the Landscape and Local Communities
Stay on appropriate routes, leave archaeological remains untouched and take all rubbish with you.
Ask permission before photographing people or entering private land. Respect livestock and wildlife, and avoid reaching into concealed spaces where you cannot see clearly.
Where possible, use local guiding, meals and accommodation that contribute to the communities along your route.
Plan Your Hiking Experience with Excursions Jordan
The right hike is one that matches your interests, fitness and preparation. A manageable route with time to enjoy the scenery can be more rewarding than an itinerary that pushes everyone too hard.
Excursions Jordan brings together activities from local providers across the country. Review each listing’s difficulty, inclusions and requirements, and ask questions before committing.
Whether you choose a countryside walk, a guided desert outing or a longer trek, leave room to appreciate the places you pass through.
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