Dana Trek to Petra

Transfer from Amman to the historic town of Madaba, celebrated for its remarkable Byzantine mosaics and welcoming atmosphere. Settle into your hotel and enjoy your first evening in this charming cultural hub.

Travel south along the scenic King’s Highway to the breathtaking Dana Biosphere Reserve (approx. 2 hours). Upon arrival in Dana Village, begin your trek toward Wadi Feynan, carrying only a daypack while your main luggage is transferred ahead.

The trail descends gradually into the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Dana, where towering cliffs, seasonal streams, and desert vegetation create striking scenery. In spring, colourful oleander bushes and lush greenery line the valley, while encounters with Bedouin shepherds and their goats offer an authentic glimpse of rural life.

Pause for a relaxing lunch along the route before continuing toward the edge of Wadi Araba. Along the way, enjoy traditional tea prepared over an open fire—a memorable desert ritual. Your fully supported camp awaits nearby.

Trek highlights: Mostly downhill terrain with minimal ascent

Overnight: Fully supported trekking camp

Set out across the western edge of Wadi Araba, a landscape that may appear remote today but has been inhabited and worked for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence reveals Iron Age settlements, and the Feynan region was once one of the most significant copper production centres in the ancient world. Early in the trek, you will pass visible reminders of this rich heritage, including the remains of historic mining sites and the ruins of a Byzantine church associated with early Christian communities who once laboured in these mines.

The trail continues across rugged desert terrain dotted with hardy acacia and juniper trees that provide pockets of shade. Expect wide open views, scattered Bedouin encampments, and occasional sightings of camels or grazing goats along the way.

Arrive at camp near Wadi Abu Sakakin, dramatically set beneath towering cliffs that glow in warm tones at sunset. A short walk nearby offers sweeping panoramic views across the vast desert landscape.

Overnight: Fully supported trekking camp

Begin the day with an early start to avoid the midday heat, setting off with a steady climb toward a broad ridge offering wide views across the surrounding valleys and mountains. On clear days, you may even glimpse Dana Village far in the distance.

Continue along the ridge to the remains of an ancient settlement near a deep well, a natural location for a rest or lunch stop. The route then descends gradually from the high plateau through rugged sandstone terrain and sculpted rock formations typical of this region.

Arrive at your campsite at Shkaret Msei’d, set amid dramatic desert scenery and expansive views across the surrounding wilderness.

Trek highlights: Ridge walking with panoramic desert landscapes
Total ascent: Approx. 420 metres

Overnight: Fully supported trekking camp

Depart camp and begin with a gradual ascent toward a wide valley where small cultivated fields appear unexpectedly in the desert landscape. Continue along rugged tracks used by local Bedouin families before climbing steadily to a mountain pass between Jebel Haroun and the surrounding ridges.

From the pass, enjoy sweeping views across Wadi Araba and toward the mountains surrounding Petra. The trail then descends toward Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), a historic Nabataean site once used as a caravan stop along ancient trade routes.

After exploring Little Petra, continue for approximately one more hour to reach your final camp near Petra’s “back door” entrance, marking the completion of your trekking journey.

Trek highlights: Transition from desert landscapes to Petra’s mountain terrain
Overnight: Fully supported trekking camp

Begin the day with a short walk from camp toward Petra’s “back door” route, passing near the ancient Neolithic site of Beidha, one of the earliest known farming settlements in the region.

Continue along a steady trail through rocky hills until reaching the impressive Monastery (Al-Deir), Petra’s largest monument, typically visited before the main crowds arrive. From here, descend the famous rock-cut staircase into the heart of the ancient city, passing tombs, temples, and dramatic sandstone cliffs along the way.

Explore Petra’s key highlights, including the Royal Tombs, Qasr al-Bint, and the Colonnaded Street, before concluding your visit at the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Exit through the narrow Siq, Petra’s spectacular natural entrance.

Trek highlights: Historic “back door” entry into Petra and exploration of its main monuments
Overnight: Hotel in Petra

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Petra with time for additional exploration or rest.

Later, travel to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth at approximately 430 metres below sea level. Float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters and take in the unique desert surroundings.

Continue north to Madaba for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of your journey.

After breakfast, transfer to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman for your onward flight home.