Petra & Wadi Rum by Bike

• Three nights four-star, four nights comfortable hotels, one night private desert camp
• Five days cycling with full vehicle support
• Group normally five to 18 plus local leader. Minimum age: 16 years old
• 95 percent quiet paved roads, five percent gravel and sandy roads
• Mainly flat with some steep climbs and hot temperatures

Spring and autumn are very popular in Jordan as it is cooler, around 24C (75C) in the day and down to 8C (46F) at night. Rain is more likely, however, protracted bad weather is unlikely. It is hot and dry, but not unpleasant, throughout Jordan in the summer. Daytime maximum temperatures are around 32C (90F) in Amman. Jerash temperatures are the same.

Wadi Rum on average in summer is around 30C (86F) though it can get as high as 40C (104C). At night it is usually around 30C (86F). In winter, it is much cooler and can get as low as 10C (50F) during the day. In the evening it is around freezing point. There are occasions when there is rain or even snow in the desert. If weather conditions require it we may need to modify the itinerary or the camp location for your comfort and safety. Aqaba is very hot when the air is still, but there is usually a breeze. Rain is unusual but possible. The Dead Sea air temperatures vary from around 14C (57F) in winter up to highs around 37C (99F) in summer months. The water temperature however doesn’t drop below 20C (68F). As with many countries in the world, seasons can go on longer than usual so it is advisable to always check the weather of the country you are travelling to a week or two before your trip so you can pack appropriately.

This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate).

Five days of cycling

Average 28mi (45km) per day

100 percent vehicle support

Please see the introductory pages of the cycling holidays brochure or our website for more information on classification and grading. The tour centres on the Jordan Valley using mostly paved roads, which are generally in a good state of repair, with some pot-holed sections. The first two riding days involve several descents on paved roads. In places, there may be some loose stones so care needs to be taken. Some of the descents are quite steep, but the leader can assist you if you are not confident and the trip is fully vehicle-supported should you decide you want a day off riding.

The fourth day of cycling is the longest and most challenging in terms of terrain, but it is also the most spectacular. There are several ascents and one reasonably long and quite steep descent. This day is a fantastic day of riding but it is important you have a reasonable level of fitness and keep well hydrated in the warmer months. On the whole, the cycling days are quite short and, other than Day 6, you will not be cycling all day. The trip is well balanced with the cultural sites and these are as much the focus as the cycling. The day in Petra can be long and tiring but well worth the effort.

To do the optional 850 steps up to the Monastery or the climb up to the High Place of Sacrifice you should have a reasonable level of fitness. Your leader can provide you with further advice about these hikes. It is not advisable to do the High Place of Sacrifice if you suffer from vertigo as there are some very steep narrow steps and cliffs. The leader always accompanies anyone doing this option. While camping in Wadi Rum, please be aware that the plumbed toilets and showers are basic and hot water may be limited. Our private Exodus camp is, however, often mentioned as a highlight of the trip for many of our guests. In very rare instances, where local conditions require, we may need to amend the order of the itinerary but we will ensure that all the elements are still included and site visits are of the same duration.

During winter, Jordan can experience low temperatures so it is really important you are adequately equipped for the cycling and the night in the desert during this time. During summer it can get very hot and you will need to ensure you are hydrated and have appropriate sun protection. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

Ramadan is expected to run from approximately 10 March-10 April 2024 and 28 February-29 March 2025. One of the most important periods in the Islamic calendar, it is a special time to visit a Muslim country. Each evening, the streets empty as people head home to break the fast, followed by an air of festivity upon their return. Our leaders and drivers choose to work at this time so we continue to run trips; however, their energy levels may be slightly lower than normal. Many tourist sites, restaurants and shops will have an amended schedule, but your tour leader will know how to adapt the itinerary to still experience all the inclusions on this trip and maximise your experience during this special time.