Hiking in Jordan: Top 7 Hiking Trails

Explore the captivating beauty of Jordan's landscapes with the Wadi Mujib trail, one of the most thrilling hiking trails in Jordan. This trail offers a unique blend of hiking, canyoning, and swimming experiences, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Traverse through the rugged terrain of the Wadi Mujib River, surrounded by stunning canyon views and otherworldly desertscape. There is no better backdrop for your Instagram pics than the sandstone gorge where the waters from Wadi Mujib pour into the Dead Sea. Just remember to bring a dry bag for your valuables as some sections of the trail involve getting into the water.

Highlights:

• Traverse through the majestic Wadi Mujib Canyon, encountering towering sandstone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the mesmerizing flow of the Mujib River below.
• Embark on an adrenaline-pumping journey, wading through waist-deep water, scrambling over rugged rocks, and navigating narrow passageways carved into the canyon walls.
• Keep your senses sharp to spot ibex, wildcats, and a diverse range of bird species that add to the canyon's rich biodiversity.

Best time to hike: April to October is the peak hiking season in Wadi Mujib. The trail is closed during the winter (December to early March).

The Dana to Petra trail weaves through Jordan's iconic historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and culminates at the ancient city of Petra. Passing through Dana's diverse biogeographical zones, including habitats for globally threatened species like the Nubian Ibex and Blanford's Fox, the hike offers opportunities for wildlife sightings amidst breathtaking scenery. En route, explore the Dana Reserve and Feynan Ecolodge, marveling at the surprising lushness of Jordan's desert terrain. This is hands down one of the world's premier hiking trails.

Highlights:

• Hike through a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged terrain of Dana Biosphere Reserve to the ancient ruins of Petra. Encounter sweeping desert vistas, verdant valleys, and dramatic rock formations.
• Explore archaeological sites along the trail, including the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its breathtaking rock-cut architecture and rich historical significance. Delve into the mysteries of Petra's hidden tombs, temples, and monuments.
• Encounter a variety of wildlife as you trek through the diverse ecosystems of Dana Biosphere Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for rare bird species, including eagles and vultures, as well as desert mammals such as ibex and foxes.

Best time to hike: Spring (March and April) or fall (September to November) is the best season to embark on the Dana to Petra hike trip. The summer heat can be unbearable, and there is no river cooling off on this trail.

The Little Petra to Petra trail is ideal for novice to intermediate hikers. The mostly flat path gradually inclines toward the end, leading past stunning ancient caves adorned with mosaics and carvings, remnants of ancient civilizations. Along the way, encounter Bedouin tents, grazing camels, and opportunities to engage with locals before reaching the breathtaking Monastery through a mountain pass within Petra's majestic canyon.

Highlights:

• Journey through an awe-inspiring desert terrain, winding your way from the quaint charm of Little Petra to the majestic ancient city of Petra, encountering beautiful rock formations, expansive desert vistas, and hidden valets along the way.
• Uncover archaeological wonders and hidden gems tucked away in the desert. Marvel at ancient Nabatean tombs, intricately carved facades, and rock-cut architecture dating back thousands of years.
• Witness the stark beauty of desert wilderness, where golden sands meet rugged mountains and ancient cliffs. See the desert landscape assume the hues of gold and orange during sunrise or sunset.

Best time to hike: Spring (March and April) or fall (September to November) is the best season to embark on the Little Petra to Petra hike.

This relatively easy 16-kilometer trail starts in Dana’s dreamy Ottoman village and stops at the amazingly green Feynan Ecolodge. It is easily one of the most scenic routes in Jordan. This trail boasts the natural beauty and diverse ecosystem of Dana Biosphere Reserve. Spot countless species of plants, mammals, and birds along the trail. Although the trail is unmarked, most tourists cope well without a guide, as there is only a single path through the gorge.

Highlights:

• Ascend through breathtaking landscapes of Dana Biosphere Reserve, with sweeping views of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and sprawling desert expanse.
• Uncover the remnants of ancient civilizations along the trail, including Nabatean settlements and Byzantine ruins. Wander through historical sites that echo with tales of the past, providing a captivating glimpse into Jordan’s rich cultural heritage.
• Encounter a plethora of wildlife inhabiting the reserve, from graceful ibex and elusive foxes to majestic birds of prey soaring overhead. 

Best time to hike: March through November is the best period to hike the Dana Trail.

This is the king of all Jordan trails, covering the entire length of Jordan, from Umm Qais in the north to the Southern beauty of Aqaba. With more than 675-kilometer trail and 75 villages and towns to conquer, the hike typically takes more than 40 days and is reserved for the bravest and the most daring. You will be amazed by the richness of the desert landscapes, including picture-perfect views in Wadi Mujib, archeological wonders in Petra, Bedouin hospitality when you visit Wadi Rum, historical remains in Jerash, and the Dead Sea. There is no better way to immerse yourself in Jordan's gorgeous culture and friendly people than to embark on this challenging but rewarding hike.

Highlights:

• Encounter millennia of history and culture as you pass through archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and traditional villages along the trail. Discover the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, Roman ruins, and Bedouin settlements.
• Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Jordan's natural landscapes, from sunrise over the Red Sea to sunset in the Wadi Rum desert. Marvel at stunning vistas, colorful rock formations, and star-filled skies, offering moments of tranquility and wonder amidst the rugged beauty of the Jordanian wilderness.
• Traverse through diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains of the north to the breathtaking deserts of the south. 

Best time to hike: Spring (March and April) and Autumn (October and November) are the best times to hike the Jordan Trail. The summer (May to September) is too hot to embark on this challenging hike.

Wadi Rum Desert Trek leads intrepid travelers through the fabled Wadi Rum, also known as the ‘Valley of the Moon,’ a realm of towering sandstone monoliths, vast desert plains, and timeless silence. Lose yourself in the serenity of the vast desert expanse and experience the warm hospitality of Bedouin tribes. Encounter hidden oases and marvel at the star-studded sky as night falls. Whether you seek adventure or solace, a trip to the Wadi Rum Desert for a trek promises an unforgettable exploration of Jordan’s wilderness.

Highlights:

• Traverse through surreal desert landscapes, with towering sandstone cliffs, vast sandy plains, and ancient rock formations sculpted by wind and time. 
• Encounter Bedouin camps nestled amidst the desert dunes, where you can share stories around campfires, savor traditional Bedouin cuisine, and learn about nomadic ways of life.
• Capture stunning photographs or immerse yourself in moments of quiet reflection as the sunrise and sunset paint the sky in hues of gold, pink, and orange. 
• Explore Wadi Rum's ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions, offering glimpses into millennia-old civilizations and nomadic tribes, while deciphering stories etched into the desert rocks.

Best time to hike: The best time to hike in Wadi Rum Desert Trek is during the cooler months, from October to April. Peak summer months (June to August) can be scorching hot.

Umm Qais and Ajloun Forest Reserve trail offers one of the best experiences for hiking in Jordan. Starting from the ancient Greco-Roman city of Umm Qais, go on a journey through history, wandering among the ruins while enjoying panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. As the trail winds its way towards Ajloun Forest Reserve, hikers are welcomed by verdant landscapes adorned with oak and pine trees. With its diverse flora and fauna, Ajloun Forest Reserve provides a refreshing escape. This trail is a must-do for nature lovers and history enthusiasts on their trip to Jordan.

Highlights:

• Explore the rich history of Umm Qais, where well-preserved Roman theaters, colonnaded streets, and Byzantine churches provide a fascinating glimpse into Jordan's storied past.
• Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Ajloun Forest Reserve, offering a refreshing escape into nature with verdant woodlands, meandering streams, and wildlife sightings.
• Engage in authentic cultural encounters with friendly villagers, learning about traditional practices and savoring local cuisine, enriching your journey through Jordan's scenic countryside.

Best time to hike: The best time to hike in Umm Qais and Ajloun Forest Reserve is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild, and the landscape is lush and green.

Hiking in Jordan is one of the best things you will ever experience. If you yearn for adventure, culture, history, then Jordan is the place for you. Plan a customized trip to Jordan with the help of our local travel experts for a tailor-made holiday experience.

Check out our articles on things to do in Jordan and how many days to spend in Jordan for inspiration. For a seasonal overview of the country, go through our guide on the best time to visit Jordan.