ِِAl Khurma Trail

A Journey Through Time and Nature!

Embark on an adventurous journey along the Al-Khurma Trail, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich archaeological heritage. This challenging trail invites you to explore the stunning beauty of the Petra region while uncovering its historical treasures. Perfect for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs, the trail promises an unforgettable experience. As you hike, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, along with unique geological formations that showcase millions of years of history.

Overview

The Al-Khurma Trail spans approximately 14 km and will take most of the day to complete. Plan your time carefully to avoid being caught in the dark. Due to the natural terrain, wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, and follow local guides' instructions. Be cautious on rocky edges, as this trail can be challenging for children and the elderly. It’s advisable to inquire before planning your adventure.

Getting There

To start your adventure, head to the village of Al-Rajef, located 25 km south of the Petra Visitor Center. Here, visitors can stop to purchase light snacks and drinks before continuing west in four-wheel drive vehicles through the Samaan area to the trailhead at Arqoub Al-Ghanimat. Along the way, you can observe archaeological ruins, including Khirbat Al-Samaan.

Trail Details

• Starting Point: al Rajif/Smaan

• Endpoint: Wadi Araba/es Sadeh/Abu A`arooq

• Category: Heritage/Environmental/Geological

• Distance: 13.6 Km/17848 Steps

• Calories Burn: 714 Calories

• Duration: 5.15 - 5.30 Hours/Non-stop

• Grade: Moderate/Difficult

• Tour: One-way

Preparation Tips

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 the starting point marked on the map, the road descends steeply toward the plateau area -please walk/drive carefully-. Just off the trail to the north lies the archaeological site of Al-Munqata'a, meaning "the detached rock." This site, accessible only by a wooden bridge, features remains from the late Chalcolithic period, including flint tools and pottery fragments.

Continuing west, the path leads to Wadi Al-Khurma, renowned for its stunning rock formations and pottery shards from the Edomite period, linking it to the Qala'a archaeological site above. After visiting Al-Khurma we ascend to the summit of Jabal Al-Qala'a, where you’ll encounter a water reservoir similar to those at Jabal Umm Al-Bayara in Petra.

Approximately 1.8 km southwest of Al-Munqata'a lies Al-Qulai’ah, located atop Jabal el-Khurm at an elevation of 1000–990 meters. This site, fortified with only one access point, once controlled the eastern Edomite plateau. Although largely damaged, some walls remain, indicating a significant Iron II/Edomite structure from the 7th century BC.

After exploring the Qala'a site, we proceed to the western entrance of Jabal Al-Qala'a, then head north through a winding valley to Wadi Al-Khurma. Be aware that signal reception fades in this area. As we traverse Wadi Al-Khurma, keep an eye out for natural water pools and continue west to Ain Ma' Mishait, which locals still use for drinking and irrigation.

From Ain Mishait, take a dirt road west for about 600 meters, then head north for approximately 250 meters to encounter several Nabataean ruins known as "the palace." Continuing north leads us to Wadi Abu 'Aruq, where we then head east toward Al-Sada.

Al-Sada features ancient ruins indicating continuous habitation, with flint artifacts suggesting Palaeolithic presence. Evidence of Middle-Palaeolithic and Pre-pottery Neolithic habitation has also been discovered. The Umm el-'Ala plateau reveals ruins from an Edomite settlement, showcasing fortifications and Iron II pottery.

Ruins on both banks of the valley date back to the first millennium BC, showcasing well-preserved houses built of ashlars, along with Nabataean pottery. The settlement exhibits signs of agricultural use and includes interconnected structures resembling Edomite architecture.

On a mountain crest, a building ruin reveals Nabataean pottery and flint artifacts, hinting at local religious significance. A nearby settlement with around 25 houses shows a well-preserved Nabataean lifestyle, supported by accessible water sources.

The Nabataeans significantly improved water supply with a conduit system built against a cliff, using prefabricated stones and arches. While some parts remain intact, others have deteriorated, leading to a cistern that once supplied water for the settlement.

After visiting the Al-Sada site, we return along the Wadi Abu 'Aruq road, crossing the valley until we reach the main road, marking the end of the trail.