My Jordan Journal - Jordan Tourism Board N.A. Official Blog

Biking in Jordan: From Historic Sites to Lush Forests

Written by Leen Hajjar | Jun 20, 2024 3:00:00 PM

Cycling in Jordan is like no other experience. From cycling through stunning desert landscapes and rolling green forests to visiting world heritage sites on the way, Jordan is filled with incredible biking experiences.

The Jordan Bike Trail, a unique cycling experience that was established in 2017, takes cyclists on a tour across the kingdom. It is a 730km mixed-surface bike route that requires about 15 days to complete with 20,000 meters of ascent. It starts in the north of Jordan and passes through some of the country's most treasured sites, such as the stone-carved Nabatean city of Petra and the port city of Aqaba.

It consists of one main route with various detours, depending on the rider’s experience, and cyclists can opt to bike with the assistance of a tour company. Along the trail, there are different accommodation options that bikers can select, including camping at a camp site in the desert or staying with a local family. 


Cycling in Jordan is also one of the most favored activities among locals. With Jordan’s ideal weather most of the year, countless Jordanians frequently plan weekend cycling adventures with friends and loved ones where they choose to explore different routes in areas around the kingdom.

Some of the most popular routes pass through sites such as Umm Qais, the town known for its Greco-Roman remains, the Azraq Wetland Reserve that is filled with varied terrain, nature, and wildlife, and the stunning Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on Earth. Cyclists can also explore the ancient city of Madaba that is home to the oldest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land. The mosaic map was discovered in 1884 and it is currently located at Madaba’s Greek Orthodox church of St. George.

Jordan’s beautiful landscapes coupled with its historic sites and extensive trails certainly make it an ideal destination for a memorable cycling experience.