Jordan's deepest canyon
Wadi Mujib descends 900 metres from the plateau to the Dead Sea — a dramatic slash of red sandstone that shelters palm trees, rare birds and cold freshwater streams in the middle of the Jordan Valley. The biosphere reserve protects one of the most biodiverse habitats in the Middle East.
The canyon is best known for its Siq Trail: a 2-kilometre route that follows the river through narrows that close to just a metre wide in places. You wade, scramble, swim and rope your way through, emerging at the Dead Sea. It is one of the great adventure hikes of the region.
The Siq Trail in detail
The route starts at the visitor centre on the Dead Sea shore and heads up into the canyon. The water ranges from knee-deep to swimming depth — everything you carry must be waterproof. The trail involves ropes and ladders at key points; no experience is necessary but a reasonable level of fitness is.
The trail is one-way only (you finish at the sea, not back at the start) so the visitor centre arranges return transport. Allow 3–4 hours for the full experience. Morning departures are recommended to avoid the afternoon heat.
Other trails in the reserve
Wadi Mujib has trails for all fitness levels. The Ibex Trail is a 3-hour loop through the canyon walls with viewing platforms and wildlife spotting. The Rahash Trail is a short introductory walk to a small waterfall — suitable for families.
Camping is available within the reserve for those who want to extend the experience. The RSCN visitor centre provides equipment hire, guides and safety briefings for all trails.
Planning your visit
Wadi Mujib Siq Trail operates between April and October only — flash flooding makes it unsafe in winter. Book your trail slot at least a day in advance through the RSCN website, especially in peak spring months.
Wear sports sandals or water shoes (flip-flops are dangerous on the rocks), bring a dry bag for electronics, and apply waterproof sunscreen. Al Maqsad can combine a Wadi Mujib visit with a Dead Sea resort stay for an excellent two-day programme.
