Al Mudhlim Trail

Overview

The Mas'ouda 2 trail is a challenging and scenic loop located within the Petra Regional Authority area, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This trail showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Petra region while providing insights into the historical significance of the area, including remnants of ancient water management systems used by the Nabataeans. As you traverse the trail, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, along with unique geological formations that tell the story of millions of years of natural history.

The trail is ideal for adventure seekers looking to explore off the beaten path. With varying terrain that includes steep descents, rocky paths, and beautiful valleys, it promises an exhilarating experience for hikers of all skill levels. However, a good level of fitness and preparation is recommended to fully enjoy this immersive adventure.

Getting There

To start your adventure, take a tourist bus or drive to the village of Dlagha, approximately 30 kilometers south of the Petra Visitor Center. Along the way, you will pass through charming villages and picturesque landscapes. Dlagha is known for its agricultural community and is home to the Sa’idiyyin tribe, nestled on the western slope of the southern Sharah Mountains.

Once in Dlagha, take a moment to purchase light snacks and cold drinks. From Dlagha, continue your journey by car or bus along a scenic road to Arqoub Mas'ouda, the official starting point of the trail. This route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Trail Details

Starting Point: Dlagha/ Massouda/ Argoob Massouda
Endpoint: Massouda/ Argoob Massouda
Category: Heritage/Environmental/Geological
Distance: 9.3 Km/12205 Steps
Calories Burn: 488 Calories
Duration: 5.00 - 5.15 Hours/Non-stop
Grade: Difficult
Tour: Loop

Length & Challenge: The trail is approximately 9 kilometers long and requires most of the day to complete. Start early to avoid finishing after dark.

Dress Appropriately: Wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear, and always follow your guide’s advice.

Stay Safe: Watch your step, as many rock cracks are not visible. This trail may be challenging for children and the elderly, so consult the Petra Visitor Center before planning your hike.

Best Visiting Times: Ideal times for visiting are winter (avoiding rainy days due to flash floods) and spring (when the flora is vibrant).

Hydration & Snacks: Bring plenty of water and food for the journey.

Locations along this trail

Exploring the Trail

At Arqoub Mas'ouda, the trail begins with a steep descent leading toward Wadi Al-Ghwaybah. Caution is advised due to the rocky terrain. As you descend, you'll encounter lush vegetation supported by Ain Al-Ghwaybah, a natural spring that has been a vital water source since the Nabataean era. The area is rich in plant life, including various species of shrubs and trees that provide shade and beauty along the way.

Continue eastward through Wadi Al-Ghwaybah, where you can see ancient water channels and rock-hewn cisterns. Look for a stone room built into a rock crevice, likely used by local Bedouins for storage. The trail offers opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds and small mammals, adding to the vibrancy of the experience.

As you approach the end of Wadi Al-Ghwaybah, the path leads you toward Siq Al-Mudhlim, a narrow gorge approximately 200 meters long. Here, you’ll marvel at the towering rock formations and the interplay of light and shadow, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Ensure you have safety equipment for this section, as the footing can be tricky.

After exiting Siq Al-Mudhlim, visitors head south toward Jebel Sobha. Along the way, you'll see several irregular wildlife traps shaped like small chambers, locally known as "Kafrah," which are simple structures used by locals for hunting animals.

Upon reaching the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, which includes distant mountains and valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. The trail then descends into Wadi Al-Rumayl, where you may find natural water pools. Be cautious in this area, as the rocks can be slippery.

From Wadi Al-Rumayl, continue north to Wadi Al-Sumaymah, where you’ll follow the path through lush greenery, enriched by the seasonal rains. At the end of Wadi Al-Sumaymah, the trail merges with Wadi Al-Ghwaybah, where you can observe an archaeological site known locally as Khirbat Al-Rashih. Finally, the path ascends back to Arqoub Mas'ouda, where your journey concludes, offering a sense of accomplishment and connection to the land.

Jabal Masouda Proposed Protected Area

Jabal Masouda, situated south of Petra, is named after the region's tallest peak. This area features elevations from 180 to 1,500 meters above sea level and encompasses three biogeographical zones: Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, and Saharo-Arabian.

Part of the Al Sharah mountain range, Jabal Masouda boasts steep terrain and diverse vegetation, including juniper in the highlands and acacia trees in the valley lowlands, alongside sandy dunes. Covering 295 square kilometers, the proposed protected area includes limestone mountains, scattered sandy patches, and sandstone escarpments, which make up 67% of the region. The landscape features rugged sandstone peaks and deep wadis, creating a unique and vital ecosystem.

The region is a haven for various wildlife and migratory birds. Notably, the Red-rumped Wheatear and the endangered Egyptian vulture have been recorded here. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) has identified 65 bird species in Jabal Masouda, with 40 species nesting in the area. Recently, the Blanford fox (Vulpes cana), a threatened species both locally and globally, was also documented.