Jordan — Amman
The Jordan Trail is a 675km thru-hike across Jordan, from Umm Qais's forests to the Red Sea's waters. This demanding 30-40 day route offers a profound cultural odyssey through diverse landscapes and ancient civilisations. Traverse eight distinct regions, from rugged highlands to desert scrubland, experiencing legendary hospitality. This is a significant undertaking for experienced walkers.
Distance: 675.0 km
Elevation Gain: 18000 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 30-40 days
The Jordan Trail is a monumental 675-kilometre thru-hike that traverses the entire length of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, from the lush, forested hills of Umm Qais in the north to the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea in the south. This is not merely a hiking route; it is a profound cultural odyssey that connects the diverse landscapes, ancient civilisations, and legendary hospitality of the Middle East. Over the course of 30 to 40 days, walkers journey through eight distinct regions, crossing the dramatic canyons of the Great Rift Valley, the limestone plateaus of the north, the rose-red city of Petra, and the otherworldly desert expanses of Wadi Rum. With over 18,000 metres of elevation gain, the trail demands physical resilience and mental fortitude, rewarding those who undertake it with a perspective on Jordan that few travellers ever experience. It is a path where history is etched into every stone and where the warmth of the local communities provides a constant, welcoming presence in a rugged and challenging environment.
The Jordan Trail is a masterclass in geographical and cultural diversity. Established formally in 2015 by the Jordan Trail Association, the route follows ancient trade paths and nomadic tracks that have been used for millennia. The journey begins in the north, where the landscape is surprisingly green, characterised by rolling hills, olive groves, and the ruins of the Decapolis city of Gadara. As the trail moves south, the terrain transforms dramatically. The Mediterranean climate gives way to the arid beauty of the Jordan Rift Valley, where deep wadis (canyons) cut through the landscape, offering challenging descents and gruelling climbs. These canyons, such as Wadi Mujib and Wadi Hasa, are geological wonders, featuring towering sandstone walls and, in some seasons, flowing water that provides a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
The central section of the trail takes hikers through the Dana Biosphere Reserve, a crown jewel of Jordan’s natural heritage. Here, the trail descends from the high plateau of the Sharah Mountains into the desert floor of Wadi Araba, showcasing four distinct bio-geographical zones in a single day’s walk. The transition from alpine-like forests to sand dunes is a highlight of the trek. Following this, the "Back Door" route into Petra offers a spectacular entrance to the Nabataean capital, avoiding the tourist crowds and providing a sense of discovery akin to that of early explorers. The final stages of the trail lead through the vast, silent wilderness of Wadi Rum—the "Valley of the Moon"—where massive sandstone massifs rise from the red sand, before a final descent to the coastal city of Aqaba.
Walking the Jordan Trail is as much about the people as it is about the scenery. The trail passes through dozens of villages and Bedouin encampments. The concept of "Karam" (generosity) is central to Jordanian culture, and hikers are frequently invited for tea or a meal by locals. This interaction is the heartbeat of the trail, turning a physical challenge into a deeply moving human experience. However, the trail is not to be underestimated. It is a remote, backcountry experience where water management is critical, navigation can be complex, and the physical toll of consecutive high-mileage days in a desert environment is significant. For those prepared for the challenge, it is arguably the most rewarding long-distance hike in the Middle East.
The Jordan Trail is a tapestry woven from thousands of years of human history. The route follows segments of the King’s Highway, an ancient trade route mentioned in the Bible that connected Egypt with the Levant and Mesopotamia. For centuries, this corridor was the lifeblood of the region, used by Nabataean spice caravans, Roman legions, Byzantine pilgrims, and Crusader knights. As you walk, you are literally stepping on history—from the basalt paving stones of Roman roads in the north to the 12th-century Crusader castles of Ajloun and Kerak that still dominate the ridgelines.
The cultural significance of the trail is most visible in the Nabataean ruins of Petra. The Nabataeans were masters of water management and desert survival, skills that are still reflected in the traditional lifestyles of the Bedouin tribes who inhabit the southern reaches of the trail. The Bedouin, or "Bedu" (dwellers of the desert), have a history of nomadism that predates modern borders. Their knowledge of the land, its hidden springs, and its seasonal rhythms is what made life possible in these arid regions. The Jordan Trail Association has worked closely with these communities to ensure the trail provides sustainable economic opportunities through homestays and guiding, preserving traditional knowledge while sharing it with the world.
In the north, the history is more agrarian. The villages around Ajloun and Salt have been inhabited for generations, with families tending to olive trees that are hundreds of years old. The trail passes through the site of Pella, another Decapolis city, where layers of history from the Stone Age to the Islamic period are visible in the archaeological strata. Walking the trail is a chronological journey through the rise and fall of empires, offering a tangible connection to the civilizations that have shaped the modern Middle East.
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Timing is the most critical factor when planning a Jordan Trail thru-hike. Because the trail spans the entire country, weather conditions can vary wildly between the northern highlands and the southern deserts. There are two primary windows for a successful thru-hike: Spring and Autumn.
Spring (March to May): This is widely considered the best time to hike. The northern hills are vibrant green and carpeted with wildflowers, including the rare Black Iris, Jordan’s national flower. Temperatures are generally mild, though the high plateaus can still be chilly. Water sources are at their most reliable during this period. However, spring also brings the risk of "Khamsin" winds—hot, dusty sandstorms that can last for several days and significantly reduce visibility and comfort.
Autumn (September to November): As the summer heat fades, the autumn window opens. The landscape is much drier and more "classic desert" in appearance. The temperatures are stable and pleasant for walking, and the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea remain warm enough for swimming at either end of the trip. The primary challenge in autumn is water scarcity, as many seasonal springs will have dried up after the long summer. Hikers must be more diligent with water planning during this season.
Winter (December to February): Hiking the full trail in winter is not recommended for most. While the southern deserts can be pleasant during the day, the northern highlands and central canyons experience heavy rain, freezing temperatures, and even snow. Flash flooding in the wadis is a lethal risk during winter storms. Many homestays may be less accessible, and the physical toll of being wet and cold in a desert environment is high.
Summer (June to August): A thru-hike in summer is dangerously hot. Temperatures in the Jordan Valley and Wadi Rum regularly exceed 40°C. There is almost no shade on many sections of the trail, and the risk of heatstroke and severe dehydration is extreme. Most local guides will not lead trips during these months, and the Jordan Trail Association strongly advises against trekking the full route in the summer heat.
Region 1: Umm Qais to Ajloun (Northern Highlands)
Region 2: Ajloun to Fuheis
Region 3: Fuheis to Wadi Zarqa Ma’in
Region 4: Wadi Zarqa Ma’in to Kerak
Region 5: Kerak to Dana
Region 6: Dana to Petra
Region 7: Petra to Wadi Rum
Region 8: Wadi Rum to Aqaba (The Red Sea)
Important Notes:
Preparation for the Jordan Trail begins months before you arrive in Amman. Physical fitness is paramount; you should be comfortable walking 20–25 kilometres per day with a weighted pack over rugged, uneven terrain. Training should include significant elevation gain and loss to prepare your knees for the wadi crossings. Logistics are the next hurdle. While the Jordan Trail Association (JTA) provides excellent GPS files and maps, the trail is a "living" route, and conditions can change. It is highly recommended to join the Jordan Trail community groups online to get real-time updates on water sources and trail conditions.
Amman serves as the primary base for all hikers. It is where you will purchase fuel for stoves (available at outdoor shops like Treks or camping sections of large supermarkets), stock up on specialised food, and perhaps meet other hikers. From Amman, you can take a JETT bus or a private taxi to the trailhead at Umm Qais. If you are doing a thru-hike, consider how you will resupply. Most hikers use a combination of village shops and pre-arranged drops or support from local logistics companies.
The Jordan Trail offers a unique mix of accommodation that reflects the country's geography and culture. Unlike European trails with a network of huts, the Jordan Trail relies on local hospitality and wild camping.
Homestays: In the northern and central regions, homestays are a highlight. You stay with a local family, usually in a spare room.
Bedouin Camps: In Dana, Petra, and Wadi Rum, you will find established Bedouin-style camps.
Wild Camping: In the remote sections (especially Regions 4, 7, and 8), wild camping is the only option.
Eco-lodges: Notable lodges like Feynan Eco-lodge offer a high-end, sustainable experience but require early booking and a higher budget.
One of the great appeals of the Jordan Trail is its accessibility. Currently, there is no formal "hiking permit" required to walk the trail itself. However, there are several administrative and entry requirements that every hiker must manage.
The Jordan Pass: This is the most important document for any traveller. It is a pre-paid package that covers the cost of your entry visa (if you stay at least three nights) and provides free entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Crusader castles. It must be purchased online before you arrive in Jordan. For a thru-hiker, the "Jordan Wanderer" or "Jordan Explorer" pass is essential, as it includes the entry fee for Petra, which is otherwise 50 JOD.
Entry Visas: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, but the Jordan Pass waives this fee. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.
Local Permissions: While the trail is public, it passes through several protected areas.
Registration: It is highly recommended to register your trek with the Jordan Trail Association. While not a legal requirement, it helps them track trail usage and allows them to provide you with the most up-to-date safety information. Additionally, always leave your itinerary with your embassy and a trusted contact at home.
Precisely traced GPX for the Jordan Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Jordan is a small country with a high density of world-class sites. If you have extra time before or after your hike, consider these experiences:
Water Management: This is the single greatest safety challenge on the Jordan Trail. In the southern sections, you may go two or three days without a reliable water source. You must be able to carry 6–8 litres of water if necessary. Never pass a reliable water source without topping up. Use the JTA water notes, but always verify with locals if possible.
Flash Floods: Jordan’s wadis are beautiful but can be deadly. A rainstorm kilometres away can send a wall of water down a narrow canyon with no warning. Never camp in the bottom of a wadi. If rain is forecast, stay out of the canyon systems entirely. Flash flood season typically runs from October to April.
Heat and Exposure: Heatstroke can come on quickly. Walk during the early morning and late afternoon, and rest in the shade during the midday heat. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and stay hydrated with electrolytes, not just plain water.
Navigation: The trail is not a "beaten path" like the Appalachian Trail. It involves cross-country navigation, following goat tracks, and crossing rocky plateaus where the trail disappears. A GPS with the official track is mandatory. Do not rely on your phone alone; have a backup device.
Wildlife: While generally safe, be aware of scorpions and snakes (especially the Arabian Horned Viper). Always check your boots before putting them on and avoid reaching into dark crevices. Stray dogs and shepherd dogs can be aggressive; carrying trekking poles can help keep them at a distance. Usually, a firm "No" or the motion of picking up a stone is enough to deter them.
Cultural Safety: Jordan is a very safe country for foreigners, but it is conservative. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) to avoid unwanted attention and to show respect for local communities. Solo female hikers should take extra precautions and may feel more comfortable hiking with a partner or a guide in the more remote southern sections.
Jabal Umm ad Dami: Located near the Saudi border in the far south, this is the highest peak in Jordan (1,854 m). The climb is a non-technical scramble and offers views that stretch across the desert of Wadi Rum and deep into Saudi Arabia. It is a spectacular detour for those with an extra day in the Wadi Rum region.
The Siq of Petra: While the Jordan Trail enters Petra via the "Back Door," you should take the time to walk the traditional entrance through the Siq—a narrow, winding canyon that leads to the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Seeing the Treasury for the first time through the narrow gap in the rocks is a quintessential Jordan experience.
Wadi Hasa: Often called the "Grand Canyon of Jordan," this wadi features hanging gardens, hot springs, and towering limestone walls. The trail follows the riverbed for a significant distance, providing a unique "wet hike" experience in the middle of the desert.
Iraq al-Amir: A fascinating archaeological site featuring a partially restored Hellenistic palace (Qasr al-Abad) and a series of caves that have been used since the Copper Age. It is located in a beautiful, fertile valley just a day's walk from Amman.
The Jordan Trail passes through fragile desert ecosystems and ancient archaeological sites that are easily damaged. As the trail grows in popularity, the impact of hikers becomes more visible. It is our collective responsibility to ensure the trail remains pristine.
Specific LNT Guidelines for Jordan:
