Hiking in Jordan
Including Ajloun Forest Reserve, Dana Biosphere Reserve, and Petra Backdoor Trail. On the map.
The vibe
Walking through ancient desert valleys with layered history feels like stepping through time unlike alpine treks. Cooler months, especially autumn to early spring, bring comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Trails host a mix of organized groups and solo trekkers, so there’s moderate traffic but still room to wander.
park ticket required for protected sections
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Ajlun
Mohammad hajeer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A lush, green highland area characterized by oak, pistachio, and pine forests, offering a stark contrast to Jordan's desert regions. The trails provide gentle walks through rolling hills and orchards with panoramic views of the northern landscape.
Access. Located near Ajloun Castle; the reserve is easily accessible by car from Amman or Jerash. Trails are well-marked and managed by the RSCN.
Notes. Spring is the best time to visit when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Tafilah
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This stunning reserve offers diverse ecosystems ranging from Mediterranean forests to arid desert canyons. Hikers can traverse dramatic ridgelines and wadis, experiencing some of the most varied landscapes in the Middle East.
Access. Located near the village of Dana, accessible by car from Amman or Petra. Guided hikes are recommended and easily arranged through the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) visitor center.
Notes. Best visited in spring or autumn to avoid extreme summer heat; winter can bring snow at higher elevations.
Petra Backdoor Trail
Maan
Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
An adventurous route that approaches the ancient city of Petra from the mountains, bypassing the main tourist entrance. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Monastery and the rugged surrounding canyons before descending into the archaeological site.
Access. Starts near Little Petra; often requires a local guide or a pre-arranged transfer from the main Petra visitor center area.
Notes. Requires a valid Jordan Pass or Petra entry ticket; be prepared for steep, rocky terrain.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
Aqaba
Greg Schechter from San Francisco, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Explore the otherworldly desert landscape of Wadi Rum, featuring towering sandstone mountains, natural arches, and vast red sand dunes. Hiking here involves scrambling up rock formations and trekking through deep, silent canyons.
Access. Accessible via the visitor center near the village of Wadi Rum. Most hikers arrange local Bedouin guides for navigation and overnight desert camps.
Notes. Extreme heat in summer; ensure you have ample water and sun protection.