14 km
Wadi Ghuweir Trail
What makes the Wadi Ghuweir Trail so unique?
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The Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to explore a more secluded and less traveled part of the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
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The trail offers a mix of scenic landscapes, wildlife, and moderate hiking difficulty.
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It's a perfect hike for nature lovers who want to experience the rugged beauty of Jordan's wilderness while enjoying a peaceful, quiet atmosphere.
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Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a beautiful walk through the desert, the Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail is a rewarding journey.

The hanging rock

The siq



Walking through the water

The green canyon
Key Highlights of the Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail:
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Dramatic Canyon Views:
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The trail offers beautiful views of the deep gorges and rock formations, with narrow, winding paths through the wadi.
Wildlife Watching:
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The wadi is home to a wide range of wildlife, including desert animals like foxes, sand cats, and numerous bird species.
Variety of Ecosystems:
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You'll experience a mix of desert and lush valley environments, giving you a sense of the diverse ecosystems found in the Reserve.
Rich Flora:
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The wadi is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom, adding color to the desert landscape.
Peaceful and Secluded:
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Unlike the more popular Wadi Dana Trail, the Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail tends to be quieter, offering a more experience for hikers seeking solitude in nature.
The palm trees



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Length: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.6 miles) one way.
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Duration: The trail typically takes 5-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops for photography or resting.
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Difficulty: Moderate.
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Elevation: It involves some changes but is generally considered more accessible than other more difficult trails in the area.
Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail Overview:
Trail Description:
Starting Point: Wadi Al-Ghweir Entrance
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The trail begins at the Wadi Al-Ghweir entrance, located near the Dana Village.
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To reach the trailhead, you can arrange transportation or drive to the starting point.
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The trail begins with a relatively gentle descent into the valley, making it more accessible than some of the other steeper trails in the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Exploring the Wadi
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As you descend into the valley, you will quickly be surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs and canyon walls.
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Wadi Al-Ghweir is famous for its deep gorges, narrow passageways, and the dry riverbed (which may occasionally have water during the rainy season).
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The landscape is rugged and raw, offering fantastic opportunities for photographers and nature lovers to capture the serene beauty of the desert.
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You will notice unique rock formations, small water pools, and lush vegetation that thrive in the more sheltered areas of the wadi.
Wildlife and Flora
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Wadi Al-Ghweir is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, which makes it an excellent spot for bird watching and nature enthusiasts.
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The reserve is home to sand cats, foxes, and various species of birds of prey, as well as numerous desert plants and wildflowers.​
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The rich biodiversity of the area is due to the unique combination of desert and mountain ecosystems that intersect within the wadi.
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As you move further down into the wadi, you may cross a few seasonal streams and pass through areas with lush greenery, including small trees and shrubs that thrive in the shaded, cooler parts of the valley.
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The valley is relatively narrow, and in some sections, you'll find smooth rock faces that you can climb or navigate carefully, making it a slightly adventurous hike in parts.
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Climbing Out of the Wadi
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As you reach the end of the Wadi Al-Ghweir trail, there is a gentle ascent back up to the plateau above.
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The climb is moderate and not as strenuous as some of the other steeper hikes in the area, but it still requires some energy to make the final push.
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The climb offers stunning views of the valley below, providing an opportunity for sweeping panoramic photos of the wadi and the surrounding landscapes.
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End Point: Wadi Al-Ghweir Campsite/Exit
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The trail ends at a campsite or exit point, which is usually located near the edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
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Many hikers use this as a stopping point before arranging transportation back to Dana Village or to other parts of the reserve.
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Bring Plenty of Water:
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Since this is a desert trail, you’ll need to stay hydrated.
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Carry at least 2-3 liters of water especially in warmer months.
Wear Proper Footwear:
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The trail can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy hiking boots with good grip are important.
Protect Against the Sun:
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Even in cooler months, the sun can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Prepare for the Terrain:
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While the hike is moderate, some parts can be steep or involve light rock scrambling
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Make sure you’re comfortable with some uneven terrain.
Start Early:
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To avoid the midday heat, it's best to start early in the morning.
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This will also give you more time to enjoy the scenery.
Tips for Hiking the Wadi Al-Ghweir Trail: