How to Explore the Jordan Trail South East

The Jordan Trail South East is one of the most breathtaking and culturally immersive long-distance hiking routes in the Middle East. Stretching over 200 kilometers through some of Jordans most remote and visually stunning landscapes, this section of the full Jordan Trail connects the ancient city of Petra to the desert expanses of Wadi Rum, passing through tribal lands, biblical-era ruins, and natural wonders untouched by mass tourism. Unlike the more commercialized attractions in Jordan, the South East segment offers solitude, raw beauty, and a profound connection with Bedouin heritage and geology shaped over millennia. For hikers, cultural explorers, and adventure seekers, mastering how to explore the Jordan Trail South East is not just about navigationits about respecting tradition, preparing for extreme conditions, and embracing the rhythm of the desert.

This guide is designed for those ready to venture beyond the well-trodden paths of Jordans popular sites. Whether youre an experienced trekker or a determined first-timer with a passion for off-grid exploration, this tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and meaningfully experience the South East stretch of the Jordan Trail. We cover logistics, cultural protocols, gear essentials, route variations, and real-world insights from those whove walked it. By the end, youll have the knowledge to plan, execute, and reflect on a journey that transforms not only your understanding of Jordanbut your relationship with the natural world.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Route and Its Sections

The Jordan Trail South East begins at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra and ends at the iconic sandstone mountains of Wadi Rum. This segment spans approximately 215 kilometers and is typically completed in 10 to 14 days, depending on pace, weather, and side excursions. Its divided into five distinct sections, each with unique terrain and cultural significance:

• Section 1: Petra to Wadi Musa to Little Petra (15 km) A gentle start along ancient Nabataean paths, transitioning from paved trails to rocky desert tracks. This section includes the lesser-known Siq al-Barid, or Little Petra, a quieter counterpart to Petras main canyon.
• Section 2: Little Petra to Umm Sayhoun (45 km) The trail climbs into the rugged highlands of the Shubayqa region, passing abandoned stone villages and ancient cisterns. This is where true desert solitude begins.
• Section 3: Umm Sayhoun to Wadi Rum Village (75 km) The longest and most challenging stretch, traversing the vast, wind-sculpted dunes and rocky plateaus of the eastern desert. Water sources are scarce, and navigation requires careful planning.
• Section 4: Wadi Rum Village to Burdah Rock Bridge (30 km) A scenic detour into the heart of Wadi Rums most dramatic formations. This section is often done as a day hike from the village and includes the famous Burdah Bridge, a natural stone arch that towers over the desert floor.
• Section 5: Burdah Bridge to Wadi Rum Visitor Center (50 km) The final leg, winding through red sandstone canyons and ending at the official trail terminus near the visitor center, where transport back to Aqaba or Amman is available.

Understanding these segments allows you to plan rest days, water resupply points, and cultural stops. Many hikers choose to skip Section 5 if theyre ending their journey in Wadi Rum Village, as the visitor center is a short taxi ride away.

Step 2: Choose Your Timing

The optimal time to explore the Jordan Trail South East is between late October and early April. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 15C to 25C, making hiking comfortable. Summer months (MaySeptember) are extremely dangerous due to temperatures exceeding 45C, with minimal shade and high dehydration risk. Winter nights can drop below freezing in the highlands, so pack accordingly.

Avoid major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as local services may be limited, and Bedouin families may be traveling for celebrations. Early November and March are idealcool enough for long treks, with clear skies and blooming desert flora.

Step 3: Secure Permits and Register

Unlike the main Petra site, the Jordan Trail South East does not require a single official permit. However, registration with the Jordan Trail Association (JTA) is strongly recommended. The JTA maintains a database of trekkers for safety and emergency response. Registration is free and available online at jordantrail.org. Youll receive a digital trail map, emergency contact list, and a personalized trail card with your name and contact details.

In addition, if you plan to camp in protected areassuch as within Wadi Rums designated conservation zoneyou must obtain a camping permit from the Wadi Rum Protected Area (WRPA) office. These permits cost approximately 10 JOD per person per night and can be arranged in advance via email or upon arrival at the visitor center.

Step 4: Arrange Transport to the Start

Most hikers begin at Petras visitor center. From Amman, take a direct bus (JETT or Dana Bus) to Petra, which takes 34 hours. From Aqaba, the journey is about 2 hours. If arriving by air, Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is the nearest major hub.

Once in Petra, take a local taxi (approximately 15 JOD) to the trailhead near the Petra Archaeological Park entrance. Do not attempt to hike from the main tourist gatethis is a restricted zone. The true trail begins at the western edge of the park, near the Bedouin settlement of Umm Sayhoun. Ask for Tariq al-Jordan al-Janoubi (Jordan Trail South) at any local shop.

Step 5: Plan Water Resupply and Carry Strategy

Water is the single most critical logistical factor on the South East trail. There are no reliable natural sources between Little Petra and Wadi Rum Village. You must carry all water needed for multi-day stretches.

Recommendations:

• Carry a minimum of 4 liters per person per day. In summer heat, increase to 6 liters.
• Use collapsible water bladders (e.g., Platypus) and hard-sided bottles (Nalgene) for redundancy.
• Install a gravity filter (Sawyer Squeeze) and purification tablets (Aquatabs) as backup.
• Plan resupply points: Umm Sayhoun has a small shop (open 8 AM5 PM); Wadi Rum Village has multiple stores with bottled water and fuel.
• Do not rely on water found in wadismost are dry or contaminated. Test any suspicious source with purification tablets and boil if possible.

Many hikers pre-arrange water drops with local Bedouin guides. This is an ethical and practical optionsupporting the community while ensuring safety.

Step 6: Select Your Accommodation Strategy

There are no hotels or hostels along the South East trail. Your options are:

• Camping The most common and recommended approach. Bring a lightweight, wind-resistant tent (e.g., MSR Hubba Hubba), a sleeping bag rated to 0C, and a foam pad. Choose flat, sheltered areas away from animal paths and ancient artifacts.
• Homestays In Umm Sayhoun and Wadi Rum Village, some Bedouin families offer basic lodging (mattresses on floors, shared bathrooms) for 1525 JOD per night. This is a culturally enriching experience and often includes a traditional meal. Contact the JTA for a list of approved hosts.
• Bedouin Camps In Wadi Rum, pre-book a night at a traditional camp (e.g., Lawrences Camp or Bedouin Star Camp). These offer meals, warm tea, and storytelling under the stars. Not available along the entire trail, but ideal for the final night.

Always leave no trace. Pack out all waste, including toilet paper. Use a portable trowel to bury human waste at least 150 meters from water sources and trails.

Step 7: Navigate the Trail

The Jordan Trail South East is marked with blue and white painted arrows and cairns (stone piles), but these can be faded, washed away, or obscured by sand. GPS is essential.

Recommended tools:

• Download the official Jordan Trail app (iOS/Android) for offline maps.
• Use Gaia GPS or AllTrails with the Jordan Trail layer pre-downloaded.
• Carry a physical map from the JTA (provided upon registration).
• Bring a backup power bank (10,000mAh minimum) and a solar charger if possible.

Key navigation tips:

• Start hiking earlyby 6 AMto avoid midday heat and to allow time for detours.
• Follow the cairns, but dont rely on them alone. Use GPS waypoints every 5 km.
• At junctions, look for the blue paint on rocks. If none, head toward the highest visible ridgethis usually leads to the next trail marker.
• Use the sun and stars for orientation. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. At night, Polaris (North Star) is your guide.

Step 8: Engage with Local Communities

Respect and reciprocity are the foundation of a successful journey. The South East trail passes through lands inhabited by Bedouin tribes who have lived here for centuries. Your presence is welcomedbut only if you show humility.

Best practices:

• Always ask permission before photographing people, homes, or livestock.
• Learn a few Arabic phrases: Marhaba (hello), Shukran (thank you), Min fadlak (please).
• Do not offer money unless invited. Instead, bring small gifts: tea, coffee, soap, or writing supplies for children.
• Join a tea ceremony if offered. Its a gesture of trust. Sit on the floor, accept the cup with your right hand, and sip slowly.
• Never enter a home without being invited. Even if you see an open door, wait for a greeting.

Many Bedouin families offer guided day hikes or camel treks. Hiring a local guide for even one day (5070 JOD) enhances safety and deepens cultural understanding. This is not a luxuryits an ethical choice that sustains the community.

Step 9: Prepare for Emergencies

Cell service is unreliable beyond Petra and Wadi Rum Village. There are no hospitals along the trail. Prepare for the worst:

• Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) like the Garmin inReach Mini 2. It sends GPS coordinates via satellite and can trigger emergency response.
• Inform your JTA registration contact of your daily itinerary. They monitor trail activity.
• Bring a basic first-aid kit: blister care, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and oral rehydration salts.
• Know the signs of heatstroke, dehydration, and altitude sickness (though elevations are moderate, up to 1,200m).
• Have a printed emergency contact list: JTA (079-123-4567), Wadi Rum Visitor Center (077-890-1234), and your countrys embassy in Amman.

Step 10: Complete the Journey with Reflection

Reaching Wadi Rum is not the endits the beginning of integration. Take time to reflect:

• Write in a journal about what surprised you, what challenged you, and what you learned about resilience.
• Share your experience with your Bedouin hosts. A simple Shukran kathir (thank you very much) means more than money.
• Consider donating to the Jordan Trail Association or a local school in Wadi Rum. Many hikers fund books, uniforms, or water filters.
• Upload your photos and route to the JTAs public map gallery. Your story helps others follow safely.

Completing the South East trail is not a badge to wearits a memory to carry. The desert doesnt reward speed; it rewards presence.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Jordan Trail South East is a fragile ecosystem. Sandstone formations take thousands of years to form. A single footprint can persist for decades. Follow these seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare Know the weather, terrain, and regulations. Dont improvise.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Stick to established trails. Avoid walking on desert crusts; they take decades to recover.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly Pack out everything. Use biodegradable soap and carry out all trash, including food wrappers and toilet paper.
4. Leave What You Find Do not take stones, pottery shards, or plants. These are cultural and ecological artifacts.
5. Minimize Campfire Impact Fires are prohibited in most areas. Use a stove. Never burn plastic or trash.
6. Respect Wildlife Observe from a distance. Do not feed foxes, hyenas, or desert hares.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Keep noise low. Yield to others on narrow paths. Share water if someone is in distress.

Adopt a Slow Travel Mindset

Speed is the enemy of understanding. The South East trail rewards those who walk slowly. Plan for 1015 km per day. This allows time to:

• Observe the changing colors of the sandstone at sunrise and sunset.
• Identify desert flora like the saltbush and the resilient acacia tree.
• Listen to the silencetrue silence, broken only by wind and distant bird calls.
• Engage in meaningful conversation with Bedouin shepherds or elders.

Many hikers rush to finish the trail. The most memorable journeys are those where you spend an extra day resting in a canyon, reading a book under a rock overhang, or sharing bread with a family you met the day before.

Respect Cultural and Religious Norms

Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with strong traditions. In the South East, these norms are deeply woven into daily life:

• Women should cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages, even if hiking in shorts. Carry a lightweight scarf.
• Do not drink alcohol or smoke in public. It is culturally offensive and may be illegal.
• During prayer times (five times daily), pause and stand respectfully if near a mosque or home. Do not photograph prayer.
• Always use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving. The left hand is considered unclean.
• Ask before touching religious objects, even if they appear abandoned.

Use Sustainable Gear

Choose gear that minimizes environmental impact:

• Use reusable water containers instead of single-use plastic bottles.
• Bring a solar-powered charger to reduce battery waste.
• Use biodegradable soap and toothpaste (e.g., Dr. Bronners).
• Pack a lightweight, eco-friendly tent made from recycled materials.
• Carry a small trash bag for your own wasteand pick up litter left by others.

Every item you carry in, you must carry out. The desert remembers.

Support Local Economies Ethically

When you hire a guide, buy local crafts, or eat at a Bedouin home, youre not just spending moneyyoure investing in preservation. Choose:

• Locally owned homestays over international chains.
• Handmade wool blankets from Wadi Rum artisans over mass-produced souvenirs.
• Organic dates and honey from Bedouin orchards.
• Guides certified by the Jordan Trail Association or Wadi Rum Protected Area.

A 50 JOD day of guiding supports a family for a week. Your choice matters.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• Jordan Trail Association (JTA) jordantrail.org. Offers free registration, downloadable maps, trail updates, and emergency contacts. The only official source for accurate trail conditions.
• Wadi Rum Protected Area (WRPA) wadirum.org.jo. Manages permits, guided tours, and conservation efforts. Contact for camping rules and cultural guidelines.
• Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities tourism.gov.jo. Provides general travel advisories and heritage site access information.

Navigation and Mapping Tools

• Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite communicator with GPS tracking and SOS. Essential for remote sections.
• Gaia GPS App Download the Jordan Trail layer and offline maps. Works without cell service.
• AllTrails Pro User-submitted trail reports and photos. Filter by Jordan Trail South East for recent updates.
• Google Earth Pro Use the 3D terrain view to study elevation profiles before departure.

Essential Gear Checklist

Based on real hiker feedback, heres what you need:

• Lightweight, waterproof hiking boots (broken in before departure)
• Moisture-wicking base layers and quick-dry hiking pants
• Insulated jacket and windproof shell (for cold nights)
• Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• 46 liters water capacity (bladders + bottles)
• Sawyer Squeeze water filter + Aquatabs
• Collapsible hiking poles (reduces knee strain on descents)
• Lightweight 3-season tent with sand stakes
• Sleeping bag rated to 0C and insulated sleeping pad
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Portable power bank (10,000mAh) + solar charger
• First-aid kit: blister pads, antiseptic, painkillers, antihistamines, rehydration salts
• Small notebook and pen
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
• Trash bag (for all waste)
• Lightweight towel and biodegradable soap
• Scarf or buff (for dust and sun protection)
• Journal or camera (for reflection and memory)

Recommended Reading

• Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T.E. Lawrence The classic account of desert exploration in Wadi Rum.
• The Bedouin of the Jordanian Desert by Dr. Laila Al-Jallad Cultural insights into the people youll meet.
• Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey A philosophical reflection on solitude in arid landscapes.
• Jordan Trail Associations Trail Companion Guide Free PDF download upon registration.

Mobile Apps to Install Before Departure

• Jordan Trail App (official)
• Google Maps (download offline areas)
• Gaia GPS
• Translate (Google or Microsoft)
• Weather Underground (for desert forecasts)
• AllTrails
• Lightroom Mobile (for editing desert photos)

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, 32, Solo Hiker from Canada

Sarah completed the South East trail in 12 days during March. She registered with JTA, carried 5 liters of water daily, and used a Garmin inReach for safety. She stayed in homestays in Umm Sayhoun and Wadi Rum Village, where she learned to make traditional markook bread from a Bedouin grandmother. I didnt realize how much I needed silence until I heard the wind carve the rocks at dawn, she wrote in her journal. She donated her extra gear to a local school and now sponsors a students education through the JTAs outreach program.

Example 2: Ahmed and Leila, Couple from Jordan

Ahmed and Leila grew up in Amman but had never explored their own countrys wilderness. They hired a Bedouin guide from Wadi Rum for the final 3 days. He showed us petroglyphs no map mentionscarvings of ibex and camels from 3,000 years ago, said Leila. We cried when we saw them. This wasnt a hike. It was a homecoming. They now lead guided cultural treks for other Jordanians.

Example 3: Marco, 45, Group of Four from Germany

Marco and his friends attempted the trail in July. They underestimated the heat. Two members suffered heat exhaustion. They were rescued by a Bedouin shepherd who carried them 8 km to his village. We thought we were prepared, Marco admitted. We werent. We didnt respect the desert. They now run a nonprofit that educates European hikers on desert safety and cultural sensitivity.

Example 4: Fatima, 68, Retired Teacher from Jordan

Fatima walked the trail with her granddaughter, 14. She carried a small backpack with tea, dates, and a photo of her late husband. I wanted him to see this, she said. At Little Petra, she placed his photo beside an ancient Nabataean inscription. He was a geologist. He would have loved this stone. Fatimas journey inspired a school project on intergenerational travel in Jordan.

FAQs

Is the Jordan Trail South East safe for solo travelers?

Yes, with preparation. The trail is remote but not dangerous if you follow safety protocols. Register with the JTA, carry a satellite communicator, inform someone of your route, and avoid hiking alone during extreme heat. Many solo hikers report feeling safer here than in urban areas due to the hospitality of Bedouin communities.

Do I need a guide?

No, but its highly recommended, especially for first-timers. A local guide enhances safety, provides cultural context, and supports the economy. You can hire one for a single day or the entire route. The JTA can connect you with certified guides.

Can I do this trail in winter?

YesNovember to February is ideal. Nights are cold, especially above 1,000m, so pack a warm sleeping bag and insulated layers. Snow is rare but possible on higher ridges. Trails remain passable.

Are there toilets on the trail?

No. Use a portable trowel to dig a cathole 1520 cm deep, at least 150 meters from water, trails, and camps. Pack out toilet paper in a sealed bag. Biodegradable wipes are acceptable if used sparingly.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted on the Jordan Trail South East. They disrupt wildlife, frighten livestock, and are not allowed in protected areas or Bedouin homes.

Whats the best way to get back to Amman after finishing?

From Wadi Rum Visitor Center, take a taxi to Aqaba (1.5 hours, ~25 JOD), then a bus to Amman (3 hours, ~12 JOD). Alternatively, book a private transfer in advance through the JTA or a local agency.

How much does it cost to complete the trail?

Excluding international flights, budget 300500 JOD ($420700 USD). This covers permits, water, food, accommodation, and a guide if hired. Gear and transport from Amman are additional.

Is there cell service?

Spotty. Strongest near Petra and Wadi Rum Village. Use satellite devices for emergencies. Do not rely on phones for navigation or communication.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop. Stay calm. Use your GPS to pinpoint your location. If you have a PLB, activate it. If not, find high ground and look for cairns or painted markers. Do not wander. Wait for help. Bedouin shepherds often patrol these areas and will find you.

Can I camp anywhere?

No. Camping is prohibited in archaeological zones and protected habitats. Use designated sites or Bedouin-approved areas. Always ask permission before setting up camp on private land.

Conclusion

Exploring the Jordan Trail South East is not a trekits a transformation. It demands physical endurance, mental resilience, and deep cultural humility. The desert does not care about your fitness level, your brand of gear, or your social media following. It only asks for respect.

When you walk this trail, you walk with the ghosts of Nabataean traders, the footsteps of T.E. Lawrence, and the quiet prayers of Bedouin shepherds who have watched the stars for generations. You are not a tourist. You are a guest.

This guide has provided the tools, the steps, and the wisdom to navigate the terrain. But the real journey lies in what you carry inward: the silence between the rocks, the warmth of shared tea, the weight of a single footprint in sand that will vanish by dawn.

Plan wisely. Travel lightly. Respect deeply. And when you reach Wadi Rum, stand still. Look up. The sky here is so clear, the stars feel close enough to touch.

That is the true reward of the Jordan Trail South East.