Ratgeber
Hiking in Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Jordan Trail
In Jordan, Petra, Wadi Rum and parts of the Jordan Trail combine well into an active trip, best in spring and autumn. In summer it is often too hot for long walks. Adventure is a Swiss travel agency offering advice by video call.
Von Adventure, Stand
Schritt für Schritt
- Choose your travel time in spring or autumn.
- Decide whether you want day walks, a section of the Jordan Trail or a round trip.
- Plan at least two days for Petra, so that you do not have to rush.
- Book a local guide for desert tours.
- Allow generously for water and sun protection.
- Check travel advice and entry requirements with the FDFA (EDA).
Checkliste
- Sun hat, sunglasses and sun protection
- At least two to three litres of water per day
- Light, long clothing against the sun
- Sturdy shoes with a good tread
- Warm layer for cold desert nights
- Travel insurance checked
- Entry requirements checked and up to date
Jordan offers desert landscape, rock gorges and ancient sites in one small country. Besides visiting Petra, much can be experienced on foot, from day walks to the Jordan Trail, a long-distance trail through the country. This guide shows what options there are, when the trip is worthwhile and what to watch for with heat and water. Jordan suits travellers who want to combine nature, culture and exercise.
Petra: more than a stroll
Petra is an extensive rock city with many paths, stairways and viewpoints. A visit often involves several hours of walking over rough ground and in the sun. If you visit the higher sites, you climb many steps.
Plan at least two days, so that you can walk in peace and experience the light in the morning and evening. An early start saves energy and avoids the heat. Entering the Siq gorge on foot gives the most impressive approach to Petra. The path runs between high rock walls and ends in front of the famous facade. Good footwear is worth it, because the paths consist of rock, sand and steps. Sun protection and water also belong in the daypack on every visit.
Wadi Rum and desert walks
In Wadi Rum, sandstone, rock arches and wide valleys shape the landscape. Guided walks and overnight stays in a camp offer a quiet experience far from everyday life.
Navigation is difficult in the desert, and tracks blow away. So only go with a local guide who knows the terrain and the weather. Nights in the desert are cool, even if the days were hot. A sleeping bag with a suitable temperature rating and a warm layer belong in your luggage. A sunrise or sunset in the desert is among the most impressive experiences. Ask your guide about suitable viewpoints.
The Jordan Trail in sections
The Jordan Trail is a long-distance trail that links the country from north to south. The whole route takes several weeks, but many travellers choose individual sections of a few days.
The stages lead through villages, gorges and desert. Accommodation, food and water must be planned carefully. For sections we recommend a guide or an organised option.
Check the current situation and the FDFA travel advice before booking. Check water points and supplies for each section. In remote parts there are long stretches without provisions, so you should clarify beforehand who delivers water.
Travel time, heat and water
Spring and autumn usually offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking. In summer it gets very hot, and in winter it can be cold and rainy at higher elevations.
In a dry climate you drink more than you feel. Allow generously for water, protect yourself from the sun and set off early in the day. Weather risks also include sudden rainfall, which can flood gorges. A guide knows such dangers and changes the route if needed. Take electrolytes and snacks, because a lot of salt is lost in the heat. If you drink too late, you only notice when your performance is already dropping.
Putting the trip together
An active trip to Jordan combines walking, culture and nature. A typical option is a round trip with Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, supplemented by a few walking days.
In a video call we match duration, stages and fitness. You will find more on the destination under [Jordan](/m/adventure/planen). We recommend alternating walking days and culture days, so that legs and mind get some recovery. That keeps the trip varied and well within reach.
Culture, hospitality and conduct
Jordan is known for its hospitality. On walks you meet Bedouin families, farmers and villagers. Tea is part of the welcome, and time for conversation is often more important than the schedule.
Dress respectfully, especially in villages, and ask before photographing people. This is part of good conduct towards one another.
Choose providers that involve local guides and accommodation. That way part of the value stays on the ground, and you get to know the country better.
