Water trekking in Wadi Mujib

If you were to go back thousands of years to the site of Wadi Mujib, in central-eastern Jordan, all you would see is the sea. It is the sea that has left its mark on the rock, creating canyons that can be more thana kilometre deep. These canyons are criss-crossed by the River Arnon, which rises in the Gilead mountains before flowing into the Dead Sea after 800 kilometres.

This makes the Mujib Reserve the lowest nature reserve in the world, at over 400 metres below sea level! This environment, where water and rock meet, is home to a rare wealth of biodiversity.

The Mujib reserve was originally created to protect the Nubian ibex, a vulnerable species that has made its home in the area. It is also home to 300 species of plants, including rare orchids, 10 species of carnivorous mammals including the wild cat, the caracal and the splendid Syrian wolf, as well as a large number ofsedentary and migratory birds. The Mujib Reserve was designated a UNESCOBiosphere Reservein 2011.

The descent into the valley of Wadi Mujib, ** Jordan's "Grand Canyon"**, is particularly impressive. There are several hiking trails to choose from, depending on your level of fitness and the time you spend here...

The Siq Trail, which runs for a kilometre and a half through a canyon, can be walked independently. This is the best-known and easiest trail, but it is still forbidden to under-18s. For two or three hours, you can wade waist-deep between vertiginous cliffs. The path finally leads to a twenty-metre-high waterfall that offers a refreshing break.

For the other trails, you will need to book a guide with some knowledge of the terrain. TheAl Hidan Trail is of moderate difficulty and runs for around five kilometres. It is currently under construction but should reopen soon. TheIbex Trail is a little different, as there is no water passage. It is five kilometres long and not very complicated, but you should still allow five to six hours for the hike. For more information on the various trails, consult the Mujib Reserve brochure.

Discovering Wadi Mujib combines an unusual experience, sport and fantastic scenery, put it on your bucket list of things to do in Jordan right now!

📆 When can you hike in Wadi Mujib?

Due to its highly varied geography, the weather conditions in Wadi Mujib are changeable and evolve quickly. The water trails are open from 1 April to 31 October, while the Ibex Trail is accessible from 1 November to 31 March.

👉 The Mujib reserve is, however, closed during Ramadan and access to the trails depends on weather conditions.

⏰ Walking times in Wadi Mujib

• The Siq Trail, which can be hiked without a guide, is open from 8am to 3pm.
• TheIbex Trail guided hike starts at 8.30am
• TheAl Hidan Trail hike should take place between 8.30am and 3pm.

👛 Price of a hike in Wadi Mujib

• Siq Trail (unguided): 21 JOD
• Ibex Trail (guide included): 21 JOD

Prices also include a life jacket for aquatic hikes. Price information for theAl Hidan Trail will be available soon.

🚗 How do I get to Wadi Mujib?

The Wild Jordan centre, which organises excursions to Wadi Mujib, is on the shores of the Dead Sea along Route 65. It's an hour and 15 minutes' drive from Amman and 2 hours 45 minutes from Aqaba. Unfortunately, it is not possible to make this journey by public transport.