Adventure Hiking in Jordan
- Jordan
- 5 nights
Climb Jordan’s highest mountain, enter Petra via the backdoor and sleep in a Bedouin camp under the stars
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Hotel & Glamping3 nights in a hotel and 2 nights in a Bedouin camp
- MealsAll breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners
- TransfersBoth airport transfers and travel between locations
- EquipmentIn the desert you'll stay in fully equipped fixed Bedouin tents
- 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
Pass through the sandstone mountains that guard Petra’s ‘backdoor’ before soaking up the secrets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site itself
Hop in a desert truck through the dunes of Wadi Rum to climb Jordan’s highest peak, with views all the way to Saudi Arabia
Swim, or float, in the Dead Sea – the lowest point on earth, famous for its healing properties
Looking for a longer adventure? Check out Hike Jordan and Snorkel the Red Sea (opens in new tab) to explore technicolour waterworlds as well as lunar sandscapes
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Jordan
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, where you are free to check in after 14:00.
Day 2
Dana Nature Reserve
Driving3.5hrsHiking5hrs · 12km · 250m up · 800m downGlampingTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
After breakfast and a chance to meet your fellow adventurers, it's time for your briefing on the days ahead. Head south to Dana Nature Reserve, one of Jordan’s often-overlooked gems. Today you’ll be hiking the Shaq Al Reesh trail (or similar). This circular trail traverses from Al-Barrah, through a breathtaking siq, to Shaq al Reesh. Time permitting, after the hike you’ll continue south towards Shobak Castle for a panoramic tour. Pull out your camera and take a few great shots, as the castle is perched on the side of a rocky, conical mountain, looking out over fruit trees below on the way to Petra. Memories captured, you’ll then head to your first Bedouin camp experience of this adventure.
Day 3
The backdoor to Petra
Hiking6 hours · 14km · 500m up · 520m downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
After an early breakfast, it's time to start your journey through Petra. You'll cross the desert and pass through Wadi Ghurab amidst the sandstone mountains that guard the approach to Petra. Continue via a Nabataean route that skirts the final mountain on a natural rock terrace. You'll soon reach a hidden plateau high above the impressive chasm of Wadi Siyyagh. The monastery suddenly comes into view as you follow the steps down to ancient Petra, where you'll have time to soak it all in and learn about its ancient past.
Day 4
Head to Wadi Rum and climb Jordan’s highest peak
Driving4.5hrsHiking4hrs · 4km · 400m up · 400m downGlampingTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
Head to the unique desert landscape of Wadi Rum, where you'll hop into a desert truck for the hour’s drive to the foot of Um Ad Dami (1800m) – the highest peak in Jordan. Hike up to the summit, from which the panorama is spectacular – to the south, you can see the border to Saudi Arabia and to the north, Jebel Rum. You'll descend to a remote Bedouin camp to relax and marvel at the stars in the clear desert night. Dinner here is a real experience – you’ll be served zarb, a delicious traditional dish cooked for 4-5 hours on hot coals under the ground.
Day 5
Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea
Driving5hrsHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
If you're an early bird, your Bedouin hosts will be able to point you towards a nearby sand dune for sunrise – a great opportunity to catch the unique, deep reds of the desert landscape one last time. After breakfast, you’ll drive north to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, where you'll stop for a swim and a float before heading to the cosmopolitan city of Amman for your final night.
Day 6
Transfer to Airport
Breakfast includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
After breakfast and final goodbyes with your team, you'll be returned to the airport in time for your flight home.
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 6
This Trip is Graded Level 3
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided hike in the Dana Nature Reserve
- Guided hike to Petra
- Visit to the city of Petra
- Guided hike to the summit of Um Ad Dami, Jordan's highest peak
- Visit to swim in the Dead Sea
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- 3 nights in cosy hotels
- 2 nights glamping in Bedouin camps
- All breakfasts
- 4 lunches (packed lunch)
- 2 traditional Arabic dinners
- Arrival transfers from Amman Airport at any time on Day 1/early hours of Day 2
- Departure transfers to Amman Airport at any time on Day 6
- All transfers during the trip
- Fully equipped, fixed Bedouin tents at the glamping sites
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 there is an expectation in Jordan to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline:
- Main Guide: $5+ per person, per day
- Driver: $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, expect a buffet typical of 3-star hotel breakfasts all over the world. Lunches will generally be either a packed lunch or buffet style. Dinner (where not included) will be at local restaurants and will cost approximately $15-$20 per pe…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Accommodation in Madaba (Single)
- …
- Accommodation in Madaba (Twin/Double)
- …
- Accommodation in Amman (Single)
- …
- Accommodation in Amman (Twin/Double)
- …
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade
- …/per person
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked throughout for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (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
- 2 stars (0)
- 1 star (0)
Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 5.0
- 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
Can I book last minute?
We recommend booking more than 31 days in advance to guarantee your spot on the trip. If requesting to book less than 31 in advance, the 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). Due to high demand in Jordan, if requesting a spot within two weeks of departure, chances are that there won't be any availability – so the sooner you can make plans the better.
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. 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?
The weather in the summer can get very hot, especially in the desert, with daytime temperatures averaging between 32-36°C. May to October tends to be exclusively sunny, while the nights are cool and balmy. Rain is unlikely but not unheard of, so do be prepared, especially if travelling between November and March.
We recommend going on this trip between September to October or March to April. Where the weather is just a little bit cooler.
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 278kg 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
Thursday 24th September 2026
to Tuesday 29th September 2026
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