USD (US$)
AUD (AU$)
CAD (CA$)
EUR (€)
GBP (£)
JPY (¥)Jordan is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged deserts to lush hills and stunning coastlines. With the opening of the Jordan Trail, a 650-km route stretching through mountains, valleys, and historic towns, hiking in Jordan has become increasingly popular. This trail, designed with hikers in mind, offers sections suitable for all abilities-whether you’re looking for a short, scenic walk or a longer, thrilling journey. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best hiking routes in Jordan, highlight the incredible sights along the Jordan Trail, and share essential tips for preparing for your hiking adventure.
Hiking Routes in Jordan
In addition to the many hiking trails through Wadi Rum, the Jordan Trail stands out as the most renowned and popular hiking route in the country. The local community designed and marked the trail with hikers in mind, adding convenient stops for food and accommodations along the way. Spanning an impressive 650 kilometers across 52 villages and towns, it provides a unique opportunity to experience Jordan’s diverse scenery and cultures firsthand.
For adventurous souls seeking an unforgettable journey, the Jordan Trail offers a chance to explore the heart of the country, ideal especially for those backpacking in Jordan. Completing the entire trail typically takes around 40 days, though visitors can easily choose shorter sections to suit their schedule. Along the way, the trail passes iconic sites like Umm Qays and the ancient city of Petra, making it possible for those with limited time to still enjoy a taste of the trail’s incredible beauty and cultural significance.
How To Get There
The Jordan Trail organizers divided the trail into 8 routes, each varying in distance. Most routes on the trail start in famous areas such as Umm Qays and Ajloun Castle. Hikers can join at any of the towns, villages, and sites en route and hike for a few hours to a few weeks. The routes can be found on the Jordan Trail website, which provides all the necessary information required for hiking in Jordan.
When To Go Hiking in Jordan
Given the diverse landscapes the Jordan Trail traverses, the best time to visit depends on the region. In the north, spring is ideal, offering mild temperatures and a vibrant display of flora and fauna. Further south, February and March are perfect for hiking, with cool temperatures and lush greenery. While the winter months can bring rain and occasional snowfall, September and early November provide another excellent window, with pleasant weather for outdoor adventures.
Safety
With such hot weather, hiking in Jordan can become dangerous if hikers are not well prepared. Always carry sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Terrain can be rocky and steep, so walk carefully and do not attempt anything that you are uneasy with. The best option is to take hiking sticks to provide support for canyon crossings.
While hiking in Jordan, always check for snakes and scorpions in the grass. Hyenas and wolves roam the hiking trails in Jordan, but hikers rarely spot them. In order to ensure that you have a safe hiking experience, the best option is to walk with a local guide on one of our hiking tours.
What To Bring for Hiking in Jordan
No matter where hikers are in the world, they should always be well-equipped, and hiking in Jordan is no exception. The following list features essential items for those planning to hike the Jordan Trail:
- Map and compass
- Sunscreen
- Water - water can be refilled at each town and village and hikers should have a number of water containers particularly for the longer routes
- Hiking poles
- Hiking Shoes
- Backpack
- Raincoat
- Hat
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Insect repellent and bite cream
Trek Through Jordan Like Never Before
Thanks to the Jordan Trail, hiking in Jordan has never been more accessible. With breathtaking vistas, captivating local stories, delicious homemade dishes, and an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes, every step of the trail promises a unique adventure. To help you make the most of your experience, explore our Jordan travel resources for expert advice, hidden gems, a comprehensive Jordan packing list, and much more.
For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Jordan, our hiking tours offer the perfect way to experience it all-whether you’re tackling the entire Jordan Trail or just enjoying a scenic day hike. Let us guide you every step of the way and help you create memories that will truly last a lifetime.
