GuideMeet overland trip

Jordan – Walks Around Petra & Wadi Rum

Overland trip across Jordan. Available on request, typical duration 8 days. 8 Days / 7 Nights Explore Jordan through a remarkable journey of ancient cities, hi...

8 Days / 7 Nights Explore Jordan through a remarkable journey of ancient cities, hidden mountain trails, desert landscapes, and authentic Bedouin culture. This walking adventure combines the archaeological wonders of Petra with the dramatic sandstone scenery of Wadi Rum, offering experienced walkers the opportunity to discover Jordan beyond the traditional tourist routes. Inspired by the journeys of early explorers such as the Swiss traveler Johann Ludwig Burckhardt — the man credited with the rediscovery of Petra in 1812 — this itinerary follows lesser-known trails and panoramic viewpoints accompanied by experienced local guides. Journey Introduction Long before modern tourism, travel across the Middle East was undertaken slowly and often on foot, allowing explorers to immerse themselves deeply in local cultures, languages, and landscapes. One of the most famous explorers associated with Jordan was the Swiss adventurer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who traveled through the region disguised as an Arab scholar under the name “Ibrahim ibn Abdullah.” During his travels through Jerash, Amman, and Kerak, he heard stories of a forgotten city hidden within the mountains of Wadi Musa. Under the pretext of visiting the Tomb of Aaron (Jebel Haroun), Burckhardt eventually rediscovered the ancient Nabataean capital of Petra. Today, Petra remains one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures — a vast hidden city carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs where every path reveals a new monument, canyon, or spectacular viewpoint. Complementing Petra’s mountain landscapes are the breathtaking desert panoramas of Wadi Rum, famously featured in the film Lawrence of Arabia. Towering sandstone mountains, narrow siqs, and endless red dunes create one of the most visually stunning desert environments on Earth. This itinerary is designed for experienced walkers seeking active exploration through some of Jordan’s most remarkable landscapes. Day-by-Day Itinerary Day 1 – Arrival in Aqaba / Transfer to Petra Overnight: Petra Arrival at Aqaba International Airport where you will be met and assisted by our local representative. Transfer north through the dramatic desert landscapes of southern Jordan to your chosen hotel in Petra for a five-night stay. Depending on arrival time, enjoy free time to relax or explore the surroundings of Wadi Musa. Overnight in Petra. Day 2 – Little Petra, Monastery & Lower Petra Trails Overnight: Petra After breakfast, transfer to Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), where today’s trekking adventure begins. Walk through narrow sandstone passages and ancient Nabataean pathways toward: Siq el-Barid The Neolithic settlement of El-Beidha Wadi el-Shamaseh Wadi Marwan The route gradually ascends through mountainous desert terrain before reaching Petra’s magnificent Monastery (Ad-Deir), one of the largest monuments in the ancient city. Enjoy a lunch break with lunch boxes and mineral water provided while admiring panoramic mountain views. Continue descending into Petra’s Lower Basin area to explore: Qasr al-Bint Temple Winged Lions Temple Byzantine Church Sextius Florentinus Tomb Haret al-Nassara El-Wu’eira Crusader Fort surroundings In the evening, attend a special lecture and slideshow presentation by a Petra archaeological specialist. Walking distance: Approx. 11 km Walking time: 6–7 hours Overnight in Petra. Day 3 – Petra Archaeological City Exploration Overnight: Petra Today is dedicated to exploring the legendary city of Petra in depth. Begin with the traditional horse ride from the visitor center before continuing on foot through the dramatic Siq canyon to Petra’s most iconic monument — the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Continue exploring: Street of Facades Royal Tombs Roman Theatre Colonnaded Street Qasr al-Bint A scenic scramble leads to Jebel Umm al-‘Amr (1,070m), offering spectacular panoramic views across Petra, including: The Roman Theatre below The High Place of Sacrifice Hidden valleys and monuments Unique aerial perspectives of the Treasury After descending through the Palace Tomb area, enjoy a refreshing drink at the famous Nabataean Cave Bar. Optional evening activity: Petra by Night Experience Walk through candlelit pathways to the Treasury while enjoying Bedouin music, storytelling, and the magical nighttime atmosphere of Petra. Overnight in Petra. Day 4 – High Place of Sacrifice & Wadi Farasa Trails Overnight: Petra Today’s half-day walk explores some of Petra’s most scenic and less-visited mountain trails. Starting from the Visitor Center, hike past: Obelisk Tomb Al-Madras The High Place of Sacrifice (1,055m) From the summit, enjoy impressive views across Petra’s sandstone valleys and archaeological sites. Descend through Wadi Farasa, visiting: Lion Fountain Garden Tomb Triclinium Roman Soldier’s Tomb Continue to the museum area in Jebel Al-Habees before returning to the hotel. This route combines history, mountain scenery, and hidden archaeological treasures. Overnight in Petra. Day 5 – Jebel Haroun (Tomb of Aaron) Trek Overnight: Petra Today features one of the most rewarding hikes in the Petra region — the ascent to Jebel Haroun (Mount Aaron). This mountain is traditionally believed to contain the tomb of Prophet Aaron, brother of Moses, and is considered sacred in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. The trek climbs gradually through mountain trails and desert landscapes toward the summit at approximately 1,336 meters above sea level. Highlights include: Panoramic views across Petra and Wadi Araba Ancient Bedouin pathways White-domed shrine of Aaron Remote mountain wilderness Lunch boxes or a traditional barbecue lunch with tea and mineral water will be served near the summit. Optional donkey rides are available locally for part of the ascent. Walking distance: Approx. 11 km round trip Walking time: 7–8 hours Overnight in Petra. Day 6 – Petra to Aqaba Overnight: Aqaba After breakfast, transfer south to Aqaba on the shores of the Red Sea for a two-night stay. The remainder of the day is free to relax by the pool, explore the town, or enjoy the waterfront cafés and markets. Overnight in Aqaba. Day 7 – Wadi Rum Desert Trekking Experience Overnight: Aqaba Today enjoy a full-day excursion into the spectacular desert wilderness of Wadi Rum. The trek explores: The Seven Pillars of Wisdom Narrow desert siqs Umm Eshreen area Sand dunes Al-Nouqoush rock inscriptions Umm Rashed Lawrence’s Spring surroundings The walking route combines dramatic sandstone formations, red desert valleys, and ancient Bedouin trails. A support 4x4 vehicle accompanies the group throughout the day. Lunch and mineral water are provided during the excursion. In the evening, experience traditional Bedouin hospitality beneath a black “Bait Shaar” tent featuring: Traditional dinner Local music Bedouin folklore and cultural experience Return to Aqaba for overnight stay. Walking time: Approx. 5–6 hours Day 8 – Departure Morning free at leisure before transfer to Aqaba Airport for departure flight. End of services.

Menu
Loading trip...