Jordan Trail Trail

Classic 80 km mountain-to-wadi route from Dana to Petra through southern Jordan - usually walked in 5 to 6 days.

Time to Hike: 5 to 6 days covering roughly 80 km. Daily stages vary by itinerary but typically range from 12 to 20 km, with options to shorten stages using local transfers.

Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn offer the mildest temperatures and best walking conditions; avoid the peak summer heat when temperatures can be extreme.

Getting there: Fly into Amman and continue by bus or private transfer to the trailheads; public buses serve Wadi Musa (Petra) while taxis and arranged transfers connect to Dana village and reserve entrances.

Costs: Expect modest daily costs for simple guesthouses, campsites and meals; entrance fees apply at protected reserves and Petra and you may want to budget for transfers or a guide if you prefer not to self-support.

Difficulty: Moderate terrain with rocky tracks, steep descents and exposed ridge walking; water is scarce in places and summer heat and occasional winter rain are the main hazards. Some sections are waymarked but bring maps or GPS.

Dana to Petra traverses dramatic contrasts - high limestone plateaus and terraced wadis around the Dana Biosphere Reserve give way to remote mining valleys and then the red-sandstone canyons that lead into Petra. Expect wide views, sudden drops into narrow gorges and archaeological surprises along the way.

Villages, family-run guesthouses and simple campsites punctuate the route rather than staffed mountain huts. The ecological Feynan area and its eco-lodge are a common overnight highlight, offering a comfortable stop and local hospitality before the final day into the Petra valley.

What makes this section notable is the blend of natural variety and history - a compact, multi-day sample of southern Jordan that ends with the world-famous rock-carved city and towering sandstone scenery.

Amman is the nearest international gateway via Queen Alia International Airport. From Amman most walkers take a bus or private transfer to Wadi Musa if finishing at Petra, or arrange a direct taxi or shuttle to the trailhead near Dana to start the route.

Most people walk from Dana southwards toward Petra, finishing in Wadi Musa where overnight facilities and onward transport are readily available. If you prefer fewer logistics, many operators and hotels will arrange one-way transfers.

The optimum windows are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are moderate and desert flash floods are uncommon. Summer brings very high temperatures and winter can be cold and wet at higher elevations.

Reserve nights in popular guesthouses and the eco-lodge in advance during peak periods, and plan water caches or reliable refill points because some stretches have limited services. Expect sun exposure, heat risk in summer and slippery rock in wet weather.