Cycling in Jordan
Including Ajloun Forest Reserve, Jordan Bike Trail (Dana to Petra), and Judean Desert and Dead Sea. On the map.
The vibe
Pedaling across rolling basalt plains and olive‑groved valleys gives an open‑air freedom different from crowded city bike lanes. The mild winter months ease the heat and clear the air for comfortable rides. Many cyclists ride independently, mapping routes on the fly, with occasional small guided rides that blend into the landscape.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Ajlun
Mohammad hajeer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The rolling hills and oak forests of the Ajloun region offer a refreshing contrast to Jordan's arid south, featuring lush green trails and steep climbs. It is a favored destination for mountain bikers looking for technical singletrack and scenic forest riding.
Access. Located near Ajloun Castle; the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) manages the reserve and can facilitate local bike rentals and trail information.
Notes. The terrain is hilly and can be muddy in winter; best visited during the spring wildflower season.
Jordan Bike Trail (Dana to Petra)
Aqaba
AshMRichter / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This iconic segment of the Jordan Bike Trail offers a challenging and visually stunning ride through the rugged canyons and historic landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Cyclists traverse ancient paths and dramatic mountain passes before descending into the world-famous archaeological site of Petra.
Access. The trail is best accessed from Dana Village; local operators in Amman or Petra provide luggage transfers, bike rentals, and guided support for multi-day expeditions.
Notes. Best ridden in spring or autumn; requires high fitness and off-road experience. E-bikes are increasingly available for rental in major hubs.
Judean Desert and Dead Sea
Jordan
Mujaddara / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Cycling from the Judean mountains down to the Dead Sea provides one of the most dramatic descents in the region. The area is famous for its steep, rugged gravel tracks that drop thousands of feet toward the lowest point on Earth.
Access. Guided tours are recommended for the desert sections; start points are typically near Arad or Jerusalem.
Notes. Extreme heat in summer; strictly for experienced riders due to the technical nature of the desert descents.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
Aqaba
Greg Schechter from San Francisco, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Cycling through the red sands of Wadi Rum provides a unique experience of riding across vast, Mars-like desert landscapes surrounded by towering sandstone mountains. The terrain consists of packed sand and gravel tracks, offering a serene and immersive way to explore the Bedouin heartland.
Access. Access is via the Wadi Rum Visitor Center; local desert camps provide mountain bike rentals and can arrange support vehicles for multi-day desert crossings.
Notes. Navigation can be difficult due to shifting sands; hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Avoid summer months due to extreme heat.