Year after year foreign visitors head to Jordan to marvel at its astonishing Roman ruins and regal architecture – and for good reason too. Yet, beyond these renowned sites, Jordan is also home to beautiful nature reserves, a vast desert and beautiful coastline which makes it a perfect destination for hikers.
Hiking in Jordan is gradually growing in popularity since the opening of the Jordan Trail; a 650 km stretch of mountain tops, deserts, rolling hills, and streams. Though 400 miles is a big feat, this beautiful trail offers many sections varying in length and difficulty with something to suit all schedules and abilities. If you are someone who really wants to uncover local customs and culture, then hiking in Jordan is for you.
Hiking Routes in Jordan
The Jordan Trail is the best and most popular hiking trail in Jordan. It was created by the local community with hikers in mind and is easy to navigate with places to eat and stay along the route. The route itself stretches an impressive 650 kilometers across 52 villages and towns.
For those who seek adventure, the Jordan Trail is an unforgettable journey encompassing local people and cultures. If completing the entire trail, it will take visitors 40 days on average. The route passes notable sites including Umm Qays and the city of Petra, making it easy for those with less time to hike a short section of the trail.
How to Get There
The Jordan Trail is divided into 8 routes each varying in distance. Most routes on the trail start in popular areas such as Umm Qays and Ajloun Castle. Hikers can join at any of the towns, villages, and sites on-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
As the hiking trail in Jordan spans across such a vast amount of land, the best time to visit varies depending on the region. In the north, springtime is best with pleasant temperatures and an array of flora and fauna. In the south, February and March are the best times for hikers with cool temperatures and plenty of greenery.
The winter season is very rainy and can also see snowfall but September and early November are also a pleasant time to visit.
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.
Whilst hiking in Jordan, always check for snakes and scorpions in the grass. The hiking trails in Jordan are also home to hyenas and wolves but they are rarely seen by hikers.
In order to ensure that you have a safe hiking experience, the best option is to walk with a local guide.
What to Bring for Hiking in Jordan
Any hiker, no matter where they are in the world should be well equipped and hiking in Jordan is no exception. The below list are essential items for hiking 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
Thanks to the Jordan Trail, hiking in Jordan has never been easier. Expect stunning vistas, local stories, delicious homemade dishes and one unforgettable journey.
