The best cycling routes in Jordan

Jordan offers an incredibly diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You can expect to traverse arid desert wildernesses like Wadi Rum with its dramatic sandstone mountains, experience the unique Dead Sea basin (the lowest point on Earth), and cycle through the lush pine forests and rolling hills of Ajloun. The routes also feature deep wadis and high mountains within the Dana Biosphere Reserve, providing a mix of challenging climbs and scenic rides through fertile valleys. Overall, the routes range from easy paths to very challenging ascents, with the majority being difficult.

While many routes in Jordan are challenging, there are options for less experienced cyclists. For instance, the Bike loop from Wadi al Kufeir is rated as easy and offers a shorter distance. Generally, Jordan's varied topography ensures that while many routes are demanding, some easier paths are available, particularly in less mountainous areas or within specific reserves.

Many routes offer breathtaking scenery. For expansive views of the Dead Sea and the dramatic Wadi Mujib gorge, consider the View of the Dead Sea Coastline – Wadi Mujib loop from Amman beach. Another highly scenic option is the Madaba – Sunset over the Dead Sea loop from Marj Al-hamam, which provides stunning views towards the Dead Sea, especially at sunset. Routes around Mount Nebo also offer panoramic vistas over the Jordan Valley.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Jordan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Bike loop from Wadi Al-Seer, the Rmeimeen loop from محطة مستشفى الحسين للسرطان, and the Iraq Al-Amir – Qasr Al-Abd Palace loop from Royal Automobile Museum. These circular routes are convenient for day trips.

Jordan is rich in historical and natural attractions. Along your cycling routes, you can encounter ancient sites like Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into rose-red cliffs, or the well-preserved Roman ruins of Jerash. The Tomb Façade 846, Petra – Little Petra loop from Petra offers a unique perspective of these historical marvels. You can also visit the Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) or the Royal Tombs of Petra. Natural wonders include the Dead Sea, the dramatic Wadi Mujib gorge, and the expansive views from Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. You can also find highlights like the Dead Sea, Sweimeh – Jordan and the View of the Dead Sea Coastline.

The best time for touring cycling in Jordan is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions. Summers can be very hot, especially in desert areas and the Jordan Valley, while winters can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain, particularly in the northern regions.

Yes, Jordan is well-suited for multi-day touring cycling adventures. The most prominent is the Jordan Bike Trail, a 730 km route stretching the length of the country from north to south, connecting historical and natural wonders. This trail incorporates dirt paths, singletrack, and backroads, offering a deep cultural immersion and opportunities to engage with local Bedouin communities, often including overnight stays in Bedouin camps.

The touring cycling routes in Jordan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique desert landscapes, the challenging mountain ranges, and the stunning Dead Sea coastline. Many appreciate the diverse terrain and the opportunity to experience Jordan's rich history and natural beauty on two wheels.

There are over 25 touring cycling routes available in Jordan, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels. These routes are popular, with more than 900 touring cyclists having used komoot to explore Jordan's varied terrain.

Yes, several routes provide views of or pass by Mount Nebo, a historically significant site. The View of the Dead Sea Coastline – Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses loop from Madaba and the View of the Dead Sea Coastline – Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses loop from Amman beach are excellent options for experiencing the expansive views over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea from this iconic location.

Among the listed routes, the View of the Dead Sea Coastline – Mount Nebo Memorial of Moses loop from Madaba is one of the longest, covering approximately 85 kilometers (52.8 miles). This route is also one of the most challenging, featuring significant elevation changes.