8 Unmissable Adventures in Jordan: From Wadi Rum Peaks to Petra Trails
Despite misconceptions from cautious travelers, Jordan has solidified its status as the Middle East's top adventure destination. Famous for its ancient archaeological wonders, it also delivers heart-pounding experiences for thrill-seekers exploring its diverse landscapes.
Discover the best adrenaline-fueled activities in this ultimate Jordan adventure guide.
Scale Jordan's Highest Peak in Wadi Rum
Renowned for its otherworldly rust-red deserts, Wadi Rum offers more than camel treks or 4x4 rides across its 720-sq-km protected expanse. Tackle Jebel Umm Ad Dami (1,832m), Jordan's tallest mountain near the Saudi border. This accessible summit hike takes about an hour via a cairn-marked sandstone path. Hire a local guide for safety and to celebrate with a high-five at the Jordanian flag atop.
Trek the Jordan Trail – or a Scenic Section
Immerse yourself in Jordan by hiking its 650km Jordan Trail, or opt for a multi-day segment. The standout route from Dana Biosphere Reserve to Petra winds through four climate zones, Bedouin camps, shepherd trails, and sandstone plateaus with Holy Land vistas. Arrive at Little Petra early for a crowd-free preview of Petra's magic.
Unplug at Feynan Ecolodge
Awarded as one of the world's top ecolodges, solar-powered Feynan Ecolodge nestles in a dramatic desert valley. Enjoy candlelit vegetarian dinners in its 26 rooms. Reach this off-grid gem via rugged tracks or a scenic day hike from Dana along the Jordan Trail.
Embrace Jordanian Hospitality with Bedouin Experiences
Jordanian warmth is legendary. At Feynan, join Bedouin tribes for coffee grinding, goat-hair weaving, or shepherd treks. In Petra, savor a shepherd's breakfast with fresh goat milk. These authentic exchanges foster deep cultural connections, as one Bedouin shared: 'First you come as tourists, then as friends.'
Explore Ancient Petra Away from the Crowds
Petra, the Nabataean cliff-carved wonder, demands exploration beyond the main path. Enter via the dramatic 1km Siq canyon, then hike Al-Khubtha Trail for Treasury views or Wadi Farasa's ancient tombs. These quieter routes reveal the site's timeless allure.
Master Street Food in Amman
Amman's culinary scene tests your endurance. Start on Rainbow Street with falafel at Al Quds (under JD2/US$2.80) or Hashem. Indulge in kunafeh – cheese soaked in rose syrup, topped with pistachios – at Habibah. Learn to cook it at Beit Sitti.
Dive the Red Sea in Aqaba
Aqaba's 26km coastline boasts thriving corals thanks to conservation. Dive pros offer PADI courses or guided dives on the 74m Cedar Pride wreck, a marine hotspot in this emerging regional dive capital.
Canyon Adventure at Wadi Mujib
Jordan's lowest nature reserve, Wadi Mujib, delivers slot canyon thrills north of the Dead Sea. Abseil, scramble, wade, and slide waterfalls in this exhilarating, swim-filled hike – the ultimate desert refresh.
Lauren Keith visited Jordan with support from the Adventure Travel Trade Association and Experience Jordan. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies for positive coverage.
