The best traffic-free bike rides around Petra

There are over 80 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Petra, offering a wide range of experiences from easy loops to challenging climbs. This includes 26 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring options for all skill levels.

The cooler months, from autumn to spring (October to April), are generally recommended for road cycling in Petra. During this period, you'll avoid the intense summer heat, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride on the quiet secondary roads.

Yes, Petra offers several easy, no traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances. For example, the Bonany Hermitage – Santuari de Bonany loop from Petra is an easy option, covering about 8 km with moderate elevation.

The no traffic road cycling routes around Petra offer a diverse terrain. You'll encounter winding roads through dramatic sandstone mountains, expansive desert plains, and quiet secondary roads. While some roads are recently resurfaced, others may present sand or potholes, requiring careful navigation. Expect a mix of challenging climbs and thrilling descents, with stunning desert backdrops.

Many quiet cycling routes offer breathtaking views. You'll cycle through striking sandstone mountains and vast desert plains. Some routes provide views of Petra itself, Wadi Musa, and the town of Um Sayhoun from higher elevations. The region is also close to the dramatic Wadi Araba Desert and the ecologically rich Dana Biosphere Reserve, which offers stunning vistas as the land drops into desert folds.

Yes, there are several circular no traffic road cycling routes available. These loops allow you to start and end your ride in the same location, often Petra itself. An example is the View of Sineu – Rural Road Between Petra and Sineu loop from Petra, which offers a moderate 21 km ride.

While the ancient city of Petra is explored on foot, cycling routes lead directly to its entrance. You can also cycle to nearby historical sites like Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), an important archaeological site. Further afield, some routes may offer views of Crusader castles like Shobak Castle. Within the broader region, you might encounter highlights such as the Sineu town center and parish church or the Plaça Ramon Llull (Central Square of Petra).

The no traffic road cycling routes in Petra are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique combination of ancient history and dramatic desert landscapes, the quiet secondary roads where encounters with Bedouins on camels are more likely than with cars, and the diverse terrain that caters to various fitness levels.

Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult no traffic routes. These often feature significant elevation gain and longer distances. An example is the Descent to Petra – Climb to Ermita de Betlem loop from Petra, a demanding 83 km route with over 1000 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, some routes, particularly those extending into the northern parts of Jordan that might be incorporated into longer tours, can lead you through fertile countryside with olive groves and picturesque hilltop villages. Even closer to Petra, you'll experience quiet secondary roads that connect smaller settlements, offering a glimpse into local life.

Intermediate cyclists have a wide selection of moderate no traffic routes. These routes offer a good balance of distance and elevation, providing a rewarding ride without being overly strenuous. The Santuari de Bonany – Descent to Petra loop from Ca'n Miraet is a moderate option, covering nearly 50 km with over 600 meters of ascent.