Cycle the Jordan Trail to Petra
- Jordan
- 7 nights
Pedal through vast desert landscapes and remote nature reserves, pausing at Wadi Rum for a snooze under the Milky Way
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides and bike mechanics
- All Accommodation3 nights in a hotel, 2 nights wild camping and 2 nights glamping in a Bedouin desert camps
- MealsAll breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 traditional Arabic dinners, plus snacks to keep you going while cycling
- Transfers & Support VehicleAirport transfers and everything in between, including a support vehicle to carry your kit or hop into if your legs need a rest
- Equipment, Permits & FeesScott Aspect 740 bikes; all your desert camping equipment; cycling permits and entry fees
- Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From…excluding flights
Highlights
Take on the most epic sections of the pioneering Jordan Bike Trail, all the way to the unmissable 'Rose City' of Petra – one of the Seven Wonders of the World
Cycle along the ancient paths of camel caravans to the majestic Wadi Rum, hopping in a desert Jeep in search of a spectacular sunset
Chill out by the Red Sea, and swim (or float!) in the Dead Sea – the lowest point on earth, famous for its healing properties
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Amman
HotelTwin shareShow Day 1 detailHide detail
The start point for today is your hotel in central Madaba. You'll be met at the airport and transferred to Madaba and are free to check in after 14:00.
Day 2
And we're off!
Driving3hrsCycling4hrs · 40km · 640m up · 800m downWild campingTwin or single tentAll meals includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Over the next two days, you'll be cycling the most epic stages of the Jordan Bike Trail, a pioneering mixed-surface route that stretches 730km down the entire length of the country. First, from Madaba, you’ll jump in the minibus and head south to the Dana Nature Reserve, where you’ll get set up with your bike. You’ll hit the road in the late morning after enjoying some panoramic views of the reserve's rugged beauty. Pedal along the historic King’s Highway – an ancient trade route that has connected cultures for centuries. As you cycle, you'll pass through a landscape of rocky hills and distant desert plains passing by Shobak Castle, before you arrive to have lunch with a welcoming local Bedouin family, where you can enjoy traditional dishes and learn about their culture. In the afternoon, you’ll continue cycling along winding tracks around the mountains of Dana and Petra, to reach a special camping location in the wilderness, with sweeping views over the dramatic Wadi Araba.
Day 3
The long and winding road
Cycling5hrs · 36km · 820m up · 1000m downGlampingTwin tentAll meals includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
After a substantial hummus-based breakfast, you’ll begin cycling straight from the wilderness camp, tackling a brief climb to rejoin the route to Petra. The trail continues crossing dry streams, then climbs to a track on the upper rim of the Araba Valley, offering magnificent expansive views of the distant Petra mountains. The route is proper wilderness riding with a mix of dirt tracks and gravel roads, all framed by the desert landscape. Later on, rejoin the King's Highway and soon after you can enjoy a winding descent towards the entrance of Little Petra. After a picnic lunch, you'll have time to explore this fascinating site on foot. Also known as Siq al-Barid, Little Petra is a Nabataean settlement also cut into the rock which served as a 'suburb' of the larger city of Petra. Later in the afternoon, you'll cycle back a short way to arrive at the Little Petra Bedouin Camp, the peaceful desert retreat where you'll spend the night. Lit by fire torches and scattered with traditional carpets, it’s a great place to unwind and share stories around the fire.
Day 4
To the rose red city of Petra
Hiking3hrs · 12km · 200m up · 200m downCycling2.5hrs · 34km · 330m up · 1350m downWild campingTwin or single tentAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
Today starts early with a spectacular hike to Petra, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. You’ll take the lesser-known 'backdoor' route to enter the city, winding on ancient pathways alongside rugged canyons and up rocky steps. You will have a little time to explore the sites and learn all about its ancient past with a local specialist guide before leaving the same way, usually in the early afternoon. Following a short jeep transfer to the village of Rajif, the next part of your journey begins. You’ll get back on your bike for an off-road adventure, descending through dirt roads that wind down toward Wadi Rum. You’ll find yourself cycling through the vast expanse of desert as you approach your wild campsite. Run by a local Bedouin family, they’ll prepare traditional meals for you to tuck into. As night falls, you can either climb into your tent or grab your mattress and sleep open-air – highly recommended for star-gazing fans.
Day 5
Cross the 'Desert Highway' to Wadi Rum
Cycling6hrs · 60km · 400m up · 450m downGlampingTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Today you’ll get a true taste of Middle-Eastern desert landscape today as you make your way through isolated caravan tracks, crossing the desert highway and marvelling at how ancient navigation worked in such vast spaces. As you make your way toward Wadi Rum, the landscape gradually shifts from rocky desert to wide, open sandy plains, and you’ll start to see the iconic sandstone buttes of Wadi Rum in the distance. Upon reaching Wadi Rum, you’ll jump into a desert Jeep to explore the valleys, canyons, and gorges that make up this desert playground – hiking and scrambling is the only way to do it! Bed down in a luxurious Bedouin camp to enjoy the comforts of glamping under the stars.
Day 6
To the Red Sea
Cycling4hrs · 40km · 200m up · 400m downDriving1.5hrsHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
It’s your final day on the bike. A Jeep will transfer you out of camp and from there, you'll cycle across the desert mudflats surrounding Wadi Rum, soaking up the vast desert landscape as you continue your journey south. The terrain here is unique, with hard-packed, flat stretches of desert earth making for a fast and exhilarating ride. It’s time to leave the desert behind and hop on the bus for a short ride to Aqaba, Jordan’s ‘window to the sea.’ You’ll have a bit of time to kick back and relax, or grab a snorkel and marvel at the underwater life that the Red Sea offers.
Day 7
Float away...
Driving5 hrsHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 7 detailHide detail
Having reached the southern tip of the country, it’s time to start the journey back north. Today is a scenic road trip, making a few stops at key points of interest and reaching the Dead Sea for lunchtime. Enjoy the sunshine at the lowest point on earth, give yourself a mud bath, gaze towards Jerusalem or simply spend the afternoon trying to keep your balance in the Dead Sea's salty waters. You'll then continue on to Amman for the night.
Day 8
Back to the airport
Breakfast includedShow Day 8 detailHide detail
After breakfast and final goodbyes with your team, you'll be returned to the airport in time for your flight home. Or if you choose to extend your stay, enjoy a wander around the many sites of bustling Amman.
Practical Stuff
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
- Pick up
- Queen Alia International Airport, Amman
Catch any flight to arrive on Day 1 - Drop off
- Queen Alia International Airport, Amman
Depart any time on Day 8
This Trip is Graded Level 4
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided ride through the Dana Biosphere Reserve
- Guided ride along the upper rim of the Araba Valley
- Short visit to Little Petra
- Guided hike into Petra
- Guided tour of Petra
- Guided ride to Wadi Rum
- Explore the desert in a Jeep
- Guided ride on the desert mudflats
- Visit the Dead Sea
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides and bike mechanics
- 3 nights in cosy, local hotels
- 2 nights wild camping
- 2 nights glamping in Bedouin desert camps
- All (7) tasty breakfasts, to fuel you up each day
- All (6) buffet-style lunches
- 4 traditional Arabic dinners
- Snacks while cycling
- Arrival transfers from Amman Airport at any time on Day 1
- Departure transfers to Amman Airport at any time on Day 8
- All transfers throughout the trip
- Scott Aspect 740 bikes
- All your desert camping equipment
- All permits and entry fees to the sites
- A desert truck to carry all your overnight kit
- To hop into if your legs need a rest
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but in Jordan, there is an expectation to tip for good service. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Your guide will help with advice however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
- Cycling guide: $5+ per person, per day
- Support vehicle driver: $4+ per person, per day
- Wilderness camping support team: $3+ per person, per day
- Local guides: $3+ per person, per guide
- Hotel porters: $2 per person, per day
- Restaurants: £1 per person
- Jeep drivers: $2 per person
Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - while often expected, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine (opens in new tab), as their insurance offers all of the above.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
For breakfast at the hotels expect a buffet typical of 3-star hotel breakfasts all over the world. Lunches will generally be buffet style at local cafes. Dinner (where not included) will be at local restaurants and will cost approx $15-$20pp. Your gu…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Accommodation in Amman (Single)
- …
- Accommodation in Amman (Twin/Double)
- …
- Accommodation in Madaba (Single)
- …
- Accommodation in Madaba (Twin/Double)
- …
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade
- …
Your host will provide private tents as standard while wild camping on Days 2 and 4 (without additional charge). However, for solo travellers looking for their own space for the full duration of the trip, an optional solo upgrade at the hotels and Bedouin camps can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking, as this is subject to availability.
Transfers
- Private Airport Transfer to/from Amman or Madaba Hotel (one way)
- …
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
Ratings & Reviews
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Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 4.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
Latest Reviews
Customer Photos
Before You Travel
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
How does a Much Better cycling adventure work?
It's no secret that we love cycling and many of us at HQ think it's the best way to see a country; however, we realise that organising your own trip can be a total faff. On our cycling trips, we've found a local guide who has put together a perfect route and will navigate for you all the way. We send a van that transports your overnight luggage, as well as providing high-quality bikes and delicious snacks to keep you going. Faff eliminated! All you have to do is turn up, pedal and take in the landscape with your fellow tourers. You don't need to be a lycra-clad 'roadie' although they're welcome too!
Have a read of our article on cycling difficulty levels for further information on selecting the right level of bike adventure for you.
What type of bikes are provided?
You'll be riding Scott Aspect 740 bikes. These are light hardtail aluminium mountain bikes - perfect for riding on-road and for the gravel tracks over the desert. You'll need to let your host know your height, to ensure the correct frame size is supplied.
The bikes are equipped with one water bottle cage. They all come with standard flat pedals and unisex saddles. If you would rather pack your own saddle and pedals (including SPDs), please do and these will be fitted for you.
Will we cycle point to point?
Yes, you will cycle point to point during the trip. Each day, you'll travel from one location to the next, cycling along the Jordan trail through nature reserves and desert landscapes, from Madaba to Wadi Rum.
What do I do about drinking water?
The support vehicle will have large containers of water that you are able to top your water bottles up with. Most hotels will also provide safe drinking water so bring a refillable bottle, it will be used well.
Can I book last minute?
We recommend booking more than 31 days in advance to guarantee your spot on the trip. However, if requesting to book between 31 and 15 days in advance your host will need to check accommodation availability before accepting your booking (please do not book flights until your booking has been confirmed by the host). Unfortunately it is not possible to book this particular tour within 14 days of departure as your host has to register a final list of passenger details for the required permit at this stage (this is a legal requirement of the Jordanian authorities and cannot be flexed).
How will Ramadan affect my trip?
Ramadan will take place from around 28th February to 30th March 2025. The national holiday of Eid ul-Fitr will follow for 2-3 days. The national holiday of Eid ul-Fitr will follow for 2-3 days. Ramadan is an Islamic festival where the religious do not eat or drink during daylight hours. While this is a really interesting time to travel, you can expect some business hours will be shortened, alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and some restaurants will be closed during this festival period. Activities for local people tend to be limited during the day and the nights are very active in cities with lots of different foods being sold and consumed. However in hotel restaurants and tourist areas food and drink are served as normal and Ramadan will not affect the inclusions on your trip. Liquor stores are likely to be closed for the month but in tourist enclaves bars stay open (although some may not allow alcohol outdoors - but inside is generally okay).
Are Jordan trips running as normal since the Israel Conflict?
Yes. Trips to Jordan have been running as normal since the Israel conflict escalated in October 2023 – check out our latest customer reviews! Much Better Adventures operate trips in line with the British FCDO travel advice and also consult with security advisors, both of whom have confirmed that trips are safe to run. We continue to receive real-time updates from the FCDO and our local host in Jordan will also inform us immediately should anything change locally. In case you have any questions, we have prepared some additional information about travel to Jordan during the Israel Conflict.
For current Government advice about travelling in Jordan, have a read of the FCDO pages here.
What are the restrictions on drones, binoculars and camera equipment in Jordan?
Tourists are not allowed to bring drones, binoculars, or some large telephoto camera lenses into Jordan. These will be confiscated at the airport and returned on departure, so please do not risk bringing these on your trip. Even if these are missed by airport security, your guide cannot allow them to be used, as this can have legal consequences if you are caught.
Hot climate: what factors should I consider?
This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme highs, where limited shade and high humidity can also be a factor. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but hydration, proper clothing, and sun protection are essential.
Before travelling, consider your ability to be active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have concerns – especially if you have any cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two prior to the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
Jordan has a characterised 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.
The optimal seasons to explore Jordan by bike are March to April and September to November, when the temperature is comfortably warm but not scorching! The daytimes are around 23-27°C approximately and the nights are cooler but not cold.
Travelling in December will be cooler but it also means that the main sites (such as Petra) are far quieter. While the days are usually sunny and around 15-20°C, the nights can be very cold in the desert and on occasion drop to near zero. Your reward is crisp, clear, desert night skies!
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 367kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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Departure dates
Saturday 19th September 2026
to Saturday 26th September 2026
…Saturday 26th September 2026
to Saturday 3rd October 2026
…
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