The best road cycling routes in Jordan

Jordan offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You can experience everything from smooth asphalt roads with significant descents and climbs, particularly around the Dead Sea region and Mount Nebo, to routes through fertile valleys, olive groves, and dramatic canyons. The varied topography ensures a mix of challenging mountain ascents and more rolling landscapes.

There are over 40 road cycling routes available in Jordan, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2 reviews, and have been explored by more than 400 road cyclists using komoot.

Yes, Jordan offers routes suitable for beginners. While many routes feature significant elevation changes, there are options with less demanding profiles. For example, out of the 41 available routes, 1 is classified as easy and 24 as moderate, providing good starting points for those new to road cycling in the region.

Many routes offer breathtaking views, especially those around the Dead Sea and Mount Nebo. For instance, the Scenic view of the Dead Sea – Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses loop from Visitor Center provides panoramic vistas over the Dead Sea. The region's diverse landscapes, from desert to mountains, ensure numerous scenic spots.

Jordan is rich in historical sites. While cycling, you can explore areas near ancient cities like Jerash in the north, or the mosaic city of Madaba. The historic King's Highway also features points of interest such as the Crusader castles of Kerak and Shobak. For a truly iconic experience, routes can lead you close to Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore wonders like Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) and the Royal Tombs of Petra.

Yes, Jordan is home to the Jordan Bike Trail, a 730-kilometer mixed-surface route that spans the entire country. While primarily mixed-surface, sections of it are suitable for road cycling and offer a long-distance adventure through diverse landscapes and historical sites. For more information on this extensive trail, you can visit cycletourismshow.com.

The best time for road cycling in Jordan is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is milder and more pleasant, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the cooler, sometimes rainy, conditions of winter. This allows for more comfortable exploration of the diverse terrain.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Jordan are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Madaba loop from Marj Al-hamam and the جبال الدير – Col de Dabouq loop from Wadi Al-Seer, which allow you to return to your starting location without retracing your path.

Road cycling in Jordan offers encounters with stunning natural features. Beyond the Dead Sea, you can experience the dramatic canyons and unique desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, known for its towering sandstone mountains and red sand dunes. The northern regions feature rolling green forests and fertile valleys, such as those around the Ajloun Forest Reserve.

Absolutely. Jordan's topography is characterized by significant elevation changes, making it ideal for cyclists who enjoy challenging climbs and thrilling descents. Routes like the Scenic view of the Dead Sea – Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses loop from Amman beach feature substantial elevation gains and descents, offering both a physical challenge and rewarding views.

The road cycling routes in Jordan span a range of difficulty levels. Out of the 41 routes, 1 is easy, 24 are moderate, and 16 are classified as difficult. This variety ensures that both casual riders and experienced cyclists can find routes that match their skill and fitness levels.

Yes, the Dead Sea region is a prominent feature in many road cycling routes. You can find routes that offer breathtaking views of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, and even include ascents to Mount Nebo for expansive panoramas. The Scenic view of the Dead Sea – Climb to Dead Sea Panorama loop from Amman beach is a popular option in this area.