WAYS TO GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACKS IN JORDAN

This hike is probably one of the most spectacular hikes in Jordan, starting from the Shobak Plateau and descending through a colorful sandstone gorge, passing through hanging gardens. Its water flow changes throughout the year, so expect to get your feet wet or even fully wet when trying to cross one of the rainwater pools along the way. At the end of the wadi you will find yourself walking through the ruins of Feynan, one of the most ancient copper mining centers in the world. Enjoy a peaceful candlelit dinner at Feynan Ecolodge followed by stargazing on the roof.  On the next day, you can join one of the local activities offered at the Lodge, such as Arabic coffee making, Kuhol Making, and others.

Distance: 17 km  - Time: 6 - 7 hrs - Altitude: From 320m above sea level to 820m above sea level - Grade: Difficult

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 & every Saturday from 20 April to Dec 2021  

This trail offers an aquatic hike through small pools of water, especially refreshing during spring time. With different stone formations, this trail is reminiscent of the famous Siq of Petra “Petra canyon”. After 3 - 4 hours, you will take a relaxing tea break, whilst learning more about the spectacular surroundings from your local guide. Upon reaching the green valleys of Albustaan, you will meet your Bedouin hosts and sleep in a Bedouin tent or return to your hotel.

Distance: 18 km - Time: 7 - 8 hrs - Altitude: From 320m above sea level to 820m above sea level - Grade: Difficult

Departure Dates ; every Saturday from September to December 2020 & every Saturday from 20 April to Dec 2021  

The Wadi Bin (Ibn) Hammad Canyon  is situated between Madaba and al-Karak, south of Amman Amman. It is hidden deep in a large valley with lush vegetation, hanging gardens, palm trees, high sandstone cliffs, waterfalls , bucolic stream and plenty of water running through a narrow gorge (Siq). The area is popular with locals because of the hot spring, cool temperatures and picnic pportunities.This short and attractive family-friendly walk is an easy stroll for all ages and is a wonderful introduction to Jordan’s hidden natural treasures. The drive to the wadi on the valley’s steep slopes is spectacular by itself, with magnificent views of the area.  after 3-4 hrs water trail drive to visit the impressive crusader castle in Kerak , where Homeric battles took place between Saladin and Renaud de Chatillon, around 1180 A.D.  So why not combine History and Nature? Let’s take a walk around Kerak and discover Wadi Bin Hammad, one of the finest hikes in Jordan …

Distance: 5-6 km - Time: 3-4 hrs - Altitude: from 800m above sea level to 380m above sea level -Grade: Easy

Departure Dates ; every Saturday from September to December 2020 & every Saturday from 20 May to Dec 2021  

The trail will lead you from out of the mountain wilderness and into the countryside, where you will be welcomed into old but still inhabited villages dotted around the foot of the mountain range. Leaving Al Bustaan behind you will see more of the stunning geology of this region. In this beautiful green space of terraced orchards, you will see a variety of trees native to Jordan, including pistachio, fig and "Roman" olive trees. The narrow gorge leads the way to Shobak caste, the historical path lined with ancient caves once used as tombs.

Distance: 15km - Time: 5 - 7 hrs - Altitude: From 800m to 1,360m above sea level - Grade: Moderate

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

This easier hike starts from the old village of Sihan, which was inhabited by Shobaki locals up until the nineteenth century. Only ruins of the old stone houses now stand witness to a once lively community in Sihan. A high viewpoint is easily reached, rewarding you with magnificent views of Shobak’s proposed protected area. Following the Al Hazeem road you reach the Ras Al Faid area, where you spend your last night in Shobak before heading towards little Petra.

Distance: 14 km -Time: 5 - 6 hrs - Altitude: From 1,360m above sea level to 1,210 m above sea level -Grade: Easy

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

Waking up to panoramic views, you will see mushroom shaped rock formations and juniper trees cover the landscape. For two hours the trail snakes up to the peak of Al Saffaha - the perfect spot for a tea break or picnic. Finishing the trail in Gbour Al Whaidat, you will meet again with your Bedouin hosts for Camping or Transfer to final destination .

Distance: 18 km -Time: 7 - 8 hrs  Altitude: From 1,210 above sea level to 1,240 above sea level (ascent 100 m, descent 100 m).
Grade: Moderate

 Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

Several hours of moderate hiking will take you to your next destination of Petra, via Al Farsh (the flat region), which lies west of this area. Be prepared to be astounded by splendid views of Wadi Araba, particularly the flat desert in the heart of the Rift Valley. Wonderment and surprise are the usual reactions upon seeing for the first time the extraordinary colors of the Nabataean capital, Petra; the ancient city of carved and decorated facades. The unique tombs and treasures encloses its visitors into an ancient world, providing a silent narration of the story of its powerful Nabataean past. This story then takes us to Little Petra, the agricultural center famous throughout history as a trading suburb. At the end of this unforgettable day, you will spend the night in a Bedouin camp or hotel.

Distance: 15 km -  Time: 6 - 7 hrs - Altitude:From 1,240 m above sea level to 1,047 m above sea level - Grade: Moderate

 Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

Enjoy some of the most un-spoilt and stark terrain of the challenge with views over the Petra Mountains. Climbing gradually for 2,5 hours we have extensive views of craggy Jabal Haroun (Mount Aaron), the resting place of the Prophet Aaron, brother of Moses and Miriam ,  we first trek across a wild and windswept plateau to Wadi Shamassat , then follow a trail which goes along some spectacular ledges until we finally arrive at the cliffs at the top of the main Petra complex where we enter via the 'Monastery'. This is the part of Petra which is visited the least.   We then trek down from the Monastery and visit the church, the main tombs and the Nabatean temple. We then leave this part of the complex by another narrow gorge before finally arriving at the massive facade of the  Treasury - the iconic image of Petra. The remainder of the day is free to explore the site at leisure. In the late afternoon we rendez-vous and transfer to our hotel in the nearby town of Wadi Mousa.

Distance: 18 Km – Grade Moderate  - length 7-8hrs

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021

Incredible landscape of sandstone sculptures which over the centuries have been eroded by the wind into many unusual shapes. we trek to Jabel Qaroun 1300M above sea level , stunning views overlooking the Wadi Arba , a day off the beaten track to explore the ancient  water harvesting sea steam from the Nabatean era . on reaching the rim of the final top canyon we are rewarded with a superb panorama over the mountains of Petra. The last section of today's trek follows small paths and dirt tracks which lead us to  (Ras Slasel  )superb views of Petra , and the tombs of Aaron, brother of Moses  ,  soon we reach the famous Nabatean caravan stations in Baidah ( Little Petra ) , the ruins at Little Petra which gives us a taste for what is to come. The ruins are approached from one end by the narrow canyon known as Siq Barid -  which probably derives from the cold wind which always seems to blow through here. Inside the Little Petra valley the walls are lined with tombs, and the remains of caves previously inhabited by the Nabateans. There are many fascinating tiny staircases mounting the cliffs towards what, at the time, would have been houses.  The  major caravanserai of the Nabatean capital. Its easy to imagine the sounds and smells of old days, when traders, caravan masters , drovers and local dwellers roamed about , chatted, negotiated, argued and prayed. Mediterranean tress such as Oak, juniper, carob and pistacia  thrive here in small sandy valleys among typical desert plants such as the desert broom, visit little Petra (Baidah) 300BC, Rock  stairs lead to rock carved streets, and thence to rock carved palaces, temples, houses  and dwellings. Afterwards hiking to the Neolithic village at  Baidah dates from 7000 to 6500 BC.  Uniquely complete record of architectural evolution from the early Neolithic period (c.6800 BC). Leaving the Neolithic village south west to Wadi  Shamasat for short bus transfer to Wadi Mousa , check-in at hotel  , freshen up , followed by Privet dinner at the Red Cave restaurant in Wadi Mousa .

Distance: 20 Km – Grade Moderate  - length 7-8hrs

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

Hiking in Petra with summit of Mount Aron (Jabal Haroun) is one full day trail,  The Tomb of Aaron is the name of the supposed burial place of Aaron, the brother of Moses. There are two descriptions of its location in the Pentateuch, and different interpretations of its location. Although in Jewish tradition, the location of Aaron's grave, like that of Moses, is shrouded in mystery, the Islamic tradition places it on Mount Hor, near Petra City

Distance: 20 Km – Grade difficult   - length 8-9hrs

Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021  

Umm Al-Biyara (“Mother of Cisterns”) is Petra’s highest and most prominent mountain and looks directly over the ancient city center. It is topped by a flat plateau that slopes slightly downward toward the city. On top are the remains of Edomite buildings from the seventh–sixth centuries B.C., and more recent excavations have revealed a splendid Nabataean /Roman bath complex  that overlooks the entire city. The hike to the top of Umm Al-Biyara is a minimum half-day trip. Good walking shoes, sun screen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential, as the ascent is quite steep and challenging, especially during the heat of the day. Since Umm Al-Biyara is at the heart of Petra, hikers should account for the walk in and out of the park as well.

Grade Moderate    - length 5hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021   
 

Beat the crowds  get off the beaten path! start your trip from Petra main gate to explore Al madras road, amazing road No tourist  this trail start from a little bit after the visitor center on the left of the Obelisk Tomb and Petar Siq and goes through the treasury from above and the high place of sacrifice.

Distance: 20 Km – Grade moderate    - length 8-9hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021   
 

Follow a spectacular blend of mountains and desert landscapes, as well as an extraordinary botanic diversity , make Dana nature reserve one of its kind the reserve stretches over 300Sq.km from the edge of Edom plateau down to the Araba valley, its altitudes vary with short distances from 1,650m above sea level to 150m below, creating different climatic conditions and habitats. The reserve is dissected by deep canyons , winding below lofty sandstone massifs with overwhelming views. The white sandstone at the reserve is sculpted into domes and valleys blanketed by vegetation. To date, 700 species of plants have been recorded in the reserve as well as 200 birds and 36 mammals. The big mammals, though  rare, include Nubian ibex (wild mountain goat) wolf, golden jackal, striped hyena and red fox. The botanic diversity of Dana combines Mediterranean , desert ( saharo Arabian ) , steppe ( Irano- Turanian) and subtropical ( sudanian) plants. Trees includes red juniper , Oak, pistachio . Oleander, brooms Acacia , cypress, all from the Mediterranean zone.

Distance: 20 Km – Grade easy   - length 6-7h hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021   

Marvel at the changing landscape and biodiversity at different levels of the Dana village, 2-3 hrs trek to explore The Dana Biosphere Reserve , the largest nature reserve in Jordan. Within the reserve you’ll be able to find spectacular geological features owing to tectonic shifts millions of years ago. There is also a wide variety of plant and animal life here, with species from Europe, Africa and Asia. Apart from biodiversity, the Dana Biosphere Reserve is a region of great historical significance, as Dana Village, within the reserve, has been inhabited by different tribes for thousands of years. 

Distance: 5 Km – Grade easy   - length 3 hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021   
 

Drive to the North of Jordan , Spectacular drive through the olive groves and pine forests until we reach Ajloun Nature reserve, from where we will start our interesting full day hike. Today we will do Orjan village trail; a 12 km guided trail that takes 6 hours. This tour takes you through wooded valleys to the lush green orchards of Orjan village, giving you the chance to discover the rural lifestyle of the region. 
A poplar-lined spring provides a wonderful contrast to the arid mountains of the previous stages of the trail. As you hike, note the dramatic rock walls, old water mills once used by local people to grind their seeds and the hollow walnut tree. Enjoy a delicious traditional meal in an orchard of fig, pomegranate, apple and apricot trees.  

Distance: 12 Km. Grade easy - length 6hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021   
 

The Soap House Trail  Moderate Distance: 6-7 km,  3 hours. This trail begins at the Reserve's Visitors’ Center and takes you to the Soap House in the neighboring village of Orjan. On the way, you will hike through thick, healthy woodlands filled with oak, pistachio, and oriental strawberry trees. Take a short detour to view a ruined wine press before you pass one of the oldest strawberry trees in the Reserve on your way down into the valley. The trail climbs to 1100m above sea level at Eagle's View Point, and then descends to the Soap House where local women follow the traditional process of making Orjan pure olive soap. * You can continue walking The Houses Trail or the Village Tour once you have reached The Soap House.  Picnic lunch on the  reserve , then we Transfer to Jerash Visit the splendidly preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash, the most complete remaining city of the Decapolis. It is also known as the Pompeii of the east. The history of Jerash is a blend of the Greco-Roman world of the Mediterranean basin and the ancient traditions of the Arab Orient. Indeed, the name of the city itself reflects this interaction. The earliest Arab/Semitic inhabitants, who lived in the area during the pre-classical period of the first Millennium BC , named their village Garshu. The Romans later Hellenised the former Arabic name of Garshu into Gerasa, and the Bible refers to "the region of the Gerasenes" (Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26). At the end of the 19th. century, the Arab and Circassian inhabitants of the small rural settlement transformed the Roman Gerasa into the Arabic Jerash. at the end of the day, drive back to Amman Or Stay in Ajloun. 

Distance: 7 Km. Grade  easy  length 3hrs
Departure Dates; every Saturday from September to December 2020 Plus one Departure on 20 Feb 2021 & every Saturday from March to Dec 2021