Dana to Petra Trek in Jordan (Guided)

JORDAN HIKING TOUR OVERVIEW

The newly designed Jordan Trail is a historical 650 km long trail linking ancient trade routes. You’ll be following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, and Mohammed, all of whom are believed to have walked this path. The trail is divided into eight sections, and you’ll be hiking the Dana to Petra section, a particularly spectacular part of the trail that starts in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, the largest nature reserve in Jordan and ends in Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

After the trekking part of your trip, you’ll also have a chance to explore Wadi Rum by jeep and experience the surreal feeling of floating in the Dead Sea.

Along the way, you’ll learn about Bedouin culture and even stay in a Bedouin camp for two nights

HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR JORDAN HIKING TOUR

✔ Hike 5 days of the Jordan Trail, which National Geographic has rated as one of the Best Trips of 2018.

✔ Experience the 4 biosphere climates of Dana.

✔ Hike into Little Petra, a much less visited sight than Petra. It will be one of the coolest days you’ve ever finished a day of hiking.

✔ Hike into Petra through the “Back Tour”, a unique way to experience this incredible UNESCO site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

✔ Explore Wadi Rum on an adventurous jeep tour. (Only on the 9-day tour)

✔ Experience Bedouin culture by spending two nights in a Bedouin camp

✔ Float in the Dead Sea. (Only on the 9-day tour)

Map of Dana to Petra Trek in Jordan

5-DAY JORDAN HIKING TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Amman – Hike from Dana Village to Mansoura Area

In the early morning, the group will be picked up from the hotel in Amman. The drive from Amman to the starting point of the trek takes about 2 – 5 hours time to get to know your fellow hikers or to have another nap.

Our trekking journey starts with hiking through the diverse landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. The reserve includes four distinct ecozones and is thus accommodating an astonishing diversity of plants, birds, and other animals. First, we’ll follow a trail along the mountains overlooking Dana Valley, and then descend into al Khashasha Valley A wilderness campsite awaits us on the outskirts of the valley

• Accommodation: Overnight: Wilderness Camping in Mansoura.
• Hiking Distance: 15 Km, Ascent: 260m, Descent: 690 m

Day 2: Hike from Mansoura to Furon

Well rested, we will leave the campsite in the early morning and head towards Furon.

Today‘s hike is challenging but extremely rewarding. We will start ascending through the mountains for approximately an hour before getting a glimpse of the beautiful Sharah Mountains and the wide Wadi Araba Desert. That outstanding view will accompany you all the way to your campsite in Al Furon. Enjoy a cup of tea and the great view from the campsite while passing the time until your well-earned dinner.

• Accommodation: Overnight: Wilderness Camping in Furon
• Hiking Distance: 14 Km, Ascent 563 m, Descent 170 m

Day 3: Hike from Furon to Ghbour Whedat

Today’s hike leads past Ras Al-Feid and towards Ghbour Whedat, through some of the country’s wildest corners.

Contouring the Sharah Mountains, we follow a trail comprised of smaller, connecting Bedouin shepherd paths. The bare peeks of black, rugged mountains overlooking the trail, and the precipitous drops of the canyons below make this part of the trek spectacular.

Gradually climbing up the hills, you will uncover more spectacular views over the barren desert below. Then, as you proceed towards the wilderness campsite, the landscape slowly becomes softer, with mushroom-like rock formations lining the way.

• Accommodation: Wilderness Camping in Ghbour Whedat
• Hiking Distance: 17.1Km, Ascent 750m, Descent 920m

Day 4: Ghbour Whedat – Hike from Ghbour Whedat to Little Petra

After yesterday’s very remote hike, we will see signs of increasing human habitation while approaching Little Petra today. Passing Bedouin camps, sheep pens, and small agricultural plots you can gain an impression of the living environment of part of Jordan’s population. We will also pass the first Nabataean ruins, including wine and olive presses, aqueducts, and other ancient water infrastructures.

Finally, we will climb up through a canyon walled with soft sandstone rocks, and then down a narrow, steep flight of stairs into Little Petra. The site, also known as Siq al-Barid (Engl. the Cold Canyon), is believed by archaeologists to be a ‘suburb’ of Petra and was probably meant to house traders traveling along the Silk Road. After some time to explore, we’ll head on to our home for the night – hot showers are waiting!

• Accommodation: Bedouin Camp near Little Petra
• Hiking Distance: 14Km, Ascent 610m, Descent 560m

Day 5: Little Petra – Hike from Little Petra to Petra

On our last trekking day, we will enter Petra ‘via the Back Door’, avoiding most other tourists.

Amidst high sandstone mountains, a good track leads down Wadi Ghurab. The way then follows a Nabataean route out of the valley, and skirts around the final mountain on a natural rock terrace which has been ‘improved’ for the safety of walkers. It narrows slightly before reaching a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh. Just beyond, ‘the Monastery’ suddenly comes into view.

After walking the last meters to the impressive structure, we can rest for a bit, taking in the view there also is a Bedouin café for refreshments. Then, more Nabataean steps will lead us down into the main site. We’ll make our way through a colonnaded street, past rock-cut tombs, temples, and a Roman-style theatre, to finally arrive at Petra’s probably most famous building – the Treasury. Take your time to marvel at the façade’s detailed artworks. After a final look, we’ll leave the site through the Siq a narrow, high-walled canyon. End of Services by Petra Visitor’s Center.

• Overnight: Not included. You can arrange with us or on your own extra time in Petra or transportation back to Amman or Aqaba.
• Hiking Distance: 13.8Km, Ascent 496m, Descent 519m

GROUP DEPARTURES AND PRICE FOR THE 5-DAY TOUR

2023 5-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 19th, Mar 5th, Mar 19th, Apr 2nd, Apr 16th, Apr 30th, May 14th, May 17th, Sept 17th, Oct 1st, Oct 15th, Oct 29th, Nov 26th, Dec 10th

Price: $995

9-DAY JORDAN HIKING TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Queen Alia International Airport – Amman, Jordan

Arrive at Amman Airport, where we will meet you, assist with immigration and then transfer you to your hotel. Amman is one of the oldest cities in the world, inhabited since the bronze age. The city is growing into a modern city but retains its character and history.

Accommodation: Hotel in Amman.

Day 2: Amman – Hike from Dana Village to Feynan/Wadi Ghweir Area

At 7:00 am we’ll pick you from your hotel in Amman. Then, we’ll drive ~ 2.5 hours from Amman to Wadi Dana where we will begin the hike Once we arrive the hike will start from Dana Village, 1,200m above sea level, and head west into Dana Valley with your trekking guide.

The trail drops steeply at first and then levels into a more gradual descent through the Dana Biosphere Reserve towards the Wadi Ghuweir. The reserve, Jordan’s largest, includes four distinct bio-geographical zones, which means that Dana supports an astonishing diversity of birds, plants, and animals. On your way down the valley you may see Griffin Vultures overhead as well as hyrax and copper-blue lizards on the rocks; if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of an ibex or a desert fox, or see the footprint of a wolf in the dust.

• Accommodation: Overnight wilderness camping in Wadi Ghuweir
• Hiking Distance: 16Km, Ascent 280m, Descent 1420m

Day 3: Wadi Ghweir – Hike from Wadi Ghweir to Furon

On this day, we will leave Wadi Ghuweir and start our hike heading towards Furon.

As we pass the entrance to Wadi Ghuweir we’ll ascend up through the mountains with great views behind. This is a steep and challenging section of the route, but extremely rewarding. The track leads up into the mountains through a dramatic valley that offers stunning and wonderful views towards the fascinating Wadi Araba Desert. In the afternoon you’ll reach the camp set up by our crew at Furon.

• Accommodation: Overnight wilderness camping in Furon.
• Hiking Distance: 16.4Km, Ascent 1320m, Descent 390m

Day 4: Furon – Hike from Furon to Ghbour Whedat

On this day, we will start hiking from Furon past Ras Al-Feid towards Ghbour Whedat. Today we will witness astonishing views into the some of the most remote and wildest corners of Jordan.

Contouring the Sharah Mountains, follow a trail of mostly clear Bedouin shepherd paths. The sheer peeks of black mountains overlooking our trail and steep precipitous drops of the canyons below make this day absolutely spectacular.

We will gradually climb up the hills to uncover more of the spectacular views over the desert below. Then, we will proceed to our wilderness campsite in Ghbour Whedat.

• Accommodation: Overnight wilderness camping in Ghbour Whedat.
• Hiking Distance: 17.1Km, Ascent 750m, Descent 920m
• Hiking Level: Difficult

Day 5: Ghbour Whedat – Hike from Ghbour Whedat to Little Petra

After yesterday’s very remote hike, today while we approach Little Petra, we will see signs of increasing human habitation. Along the way, we will pass Bedouin camps, sheep pens, and small agricultural plots.

In this region between Ghbour Whedat and Little Petra, we will also pass Nabatean ruins, some of which may include wine and olive presses, aqueducts and other ancient water infrastructures.

Today we will visit Little Petra, believed by archaeologist to be a “suburb” of Petra, and meant to house traders travelling along the silk road connecting Africa to Asia, Europe and Arabia. Touring Little Petra, we will see rock carved facades, houses and other ancient buildings carved into the sandstone canyon.

• Accommodation: Overnight at a Bedouin Camp in Little Petra.
• Hiking Distance: 14Km, Ascent 610m, Descent 560m
• Hiking Level: Moderate

Day 6: Little Petra – Hike from Little Petra to Petra

After breakfast, it’s time to start your hike. Enter Petra via ‘The Back Door’ avoiding most of the tourists.

Good tracks go pleasantly down Wadi Ghurab amidst sandstone mountains guarding the approaches to Petra. This way follows a Nabataean route out of the valley and skirts around the final mountain on a natural rock terrace which has been ‘improved’ for the safety of walkers. Even so, it still narrows slightly before reaching a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh.

Just beyond, carved into the cliff face, ‘The Monastery’ suddenly comes into view, where there is a Bedouin café for refreshments if you would like.

Nabataean steps then lead down into ancient Petra. Your route then takes you through Wadi Muthlim (weather dependent) to Wadi Musa and your hotel accommodation in Petra.

• Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in Petra
• Hiking Distance: 14Km, Ascent 496m, Descent 519m

Day 7: Petra – 2nd Day Exploring Petra – Wadi Rum Jeep Tour – Wadi Rum

Early morning and after breakfast, you will head to visit the Nabatean Red Rose city of Petra, one of the 7 world wonders. You will enter through the “Siq,” a 1km long narrow gorge which is flanked either side by 80m high cliffs! Notice the dazzling colours and formations of the rocks. The world heritage site is massive and contains hundreds of elaborated rock-cut tombs, a treasury, Roman-style theaters, temples, sacrificial altars and collonaded streets.

Later on this day we will transfer you to Wadi Rum. Enjoy the wilderness adventure of a 4×4 jeep tour of Wadi Rum, following in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, climbing sand dunes and rock bridges. The jeep tour will allow you to travel around Wadi Rum’s valleys, canyons, dunes and deserts, discover rock inscriptions, majestic views of mountains and landscapes and narrow gorges. Return back to your camp, enjoy the hospitality of the Bedouins.

• Accommodation: Overnight at a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum.

Day 8: Wadi Rum – Dead Sea Visit & Lunch – Amman

After breakfast, we will proceed to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Once we arrive, we can enjoy floating in the Dead Sea, one of the world’s great natural experiences.

Day 9: Amman Queen Alia International Airport – Departure

Collection from your hotel in Amman and transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for departure. 

GROUP DEPARTURES AND PRICE FOR THE 9-DAY TOUR

2023 9-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 18th, Mar 4th, Mar 18th, Apr 1st, Apr 15th, Apr 29th, May 13th, Sept 16th, Sept 30th, Oct 14th, Oct 28th, Nov 11th, Nov 25th, Dec 9th

Price: $1495

DANA TO PETRA TREK IN JORDAN INFO

This trip is available all year round.

9-Day Tour Start Dates: Nov 26th, Dec 10th, Dec 27th

2023 9-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 18th, Mar 4th, Mar 18th, Apr 1st, Apr 15th, Apr 29th, May 13th, Sept 16th, Sept 30th, Oct 14th, Oct 28th, Nov 11th, Nov 25th, Dec 9th

2023 5-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 19th, Mar 5th, Mar 19th, Apr 2nd, Apr 16th, Apr 30th, May 14th, May 17th, Sept 17th, Oct 1st, Oct 15th, Oct 29th, Nov 26th, Dec 10th

Book as soon as possible to ensure that accommodation is available on your start date. This hiking tour in Jordan is very popular and spaces often fill up months in advance.

We recommend checking with your pre-and post-trip hotel(s) to inquire about luggage storage. Most of the time hotels are happy to accommodate.

Pre and post-trip lodging is your responsibility. We recommend the accommodations listed below while in town.

Hotel Amman Rotana
W Amman
InterContinental Jordan

Dana to Petra Trek in Jordan involves hiking for 14 to 17 km a day. The maximum elevation gain is 750 m on one day. On the other days, it’s around ~ 450 m.

We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Amman is one of the oldest cities in the world, inhabited since the bronze age. The city is growing into a modern city but retains its character and history.

Your guide will be a local and provide insights into the history and lives of locals. They are chosen for their enthusiasm and interest in sharing their knowledge of these places.

You should be in good physical condition and be a regular walker or hiker. The route is not technical so no prior expertise is required. You will need to carry a daypack large enough for spare clothing, your camera, lunch and two litres of water for each day.

Jordan has a hot, dry climate characterized by long, hot, dry summers and short, cool winters. The climate is influenced by Jordan’s location between the subtropical aridity of the Arabian desert areas and the subtropical humidity of the eastern Mediterranean area.

January is the coldest month, with temperatures from 5°C to 10°C. During the colder months of November – March there is rain and potentially snow in January and February. Pack accordingly!

August is the hottest month at 20°C to 35°C. Daily temperatures can be very hot, especially in the summer; on some days it can be 40°C or more. That’s why we recommend avoiding May-August, the hottest months.

ACCOMMODATION DURING THE DANA TO PETRA TREK

We’ll be camping during the most part of the tour. The Bedouin campgrounds are very spacious and have excellent views of the desert.

Many guests choose to store any extra luggage with the hotel they’ll be using before and after the trip. You are also welcome to leave any luggage with us for secure storage while you’re on your trip – just inform your guide.

TRAVEL TO AMMAN

You’ll fly into Queen Alia International Airport, located 20 miles (30km) south of Amman, the capital city of Jordan.  We’ll pick you up and take you to your hotel.

I find the best deals on Skyscanner and book most of my flights through them.

Note: We highly recommend waiting to book your flights or making other travel arrangements until you receive an email from us notifying you that all your accommodation has been confirmed.

Jordan Visa Requirements

Many nationalities can get a visa for Jordan at the airport or at the Sheikh Hussein crossing. However, the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing and the Arava Border crossing do not issue visas. Visa requirements for Jordan are shown on the Jordan Tourism Board website and you’re responsible for ensuring that you meet them.

The entry visa to Jordan is 40JD (~$57 USD) and must be paid in Jordanian Dinar. There are currency exchanges and an ATM at the ports of entry. Once you’ve booked with us, please refer to your itinerary for questions about visas where you’ll find further information.

The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JD) – known as the Jaydee, which is made up of 1000 fils.  Try to change larger notes as often as possible at larger restaurants and when paying your hotel bill.

Changing money is very easy in Jordan, and most major currencies are accepted in cash and travellers cheques. US dollars are the most accepted, followed by UK pounds and euros.

You’ll find ATMs in cities.  Visa is the most widely accepted card followed by MasterCard. Other cards, such as Cirrus, AMEX, and Plus, are also accepted by many ATMs. Although credit cards are widely accepted, cash is still used the most widely.

Gratuities for guides and drivers are not included in the price of your tour so we offer the following tipping guidelines.

Here’s the recommended tipping schedule for groups:

• Guide: $5 per traveller per day
• Driver: $3 per traveller per day
• Hotels: $2 per traveller per day
• Restaurants: $1 per traveller per restaurant.

PRICING AND INCLUSIONS

 

5-Day Tour: $995 per person. 

9-Day Tour: Starting from $1495 per person. 

$410 is due at the time of booking

The remaining balance is due 8 weeks in advance.

9-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 19th, Mar 5th, Mar 19th, Apr 2nd, Apr 16th, Apr 30th, May 14th

5-Day Tour Start Dates: Feb 20th, Mar 6th, Mar 20th, Apr 3rd, Apr 17th, May 1st, May 15th

BOOK YOUR JORDAN SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOUR NOW

Thank you for your interest in booking this tour. You’ve made a good choice. Our Jordan: Dana to Petra GuidedTour is absolutely stunning and you can reward yourselves after hiking by relaxing at one of the stunning beaches.

  RESERVE YOUR JORDAN HIKING TOUR NOW

Not sure between the 5 or 9-day Jordan Guided Tours? Check out our comparison chart below to help you find your perfect tour.

 

PHOTOS OF THE JORDAN GUIDED HIKING TOUR