Burdah Rock Bridge | Wadi Rum

Burdah Rock Bridge is a natural sandstone arch situated atop the Jabal Burdah massif. It is the highest and most architecturally significant natural bridge within the Wadi Rum Protected Area, suspended approximately 35 meters above a rocky mountain ridge.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge is a massive, spanning arch of weathered yellow and orange sandstone. It is characterized by its height and relatively narrow width, forming a natural sky-bridge that connects two jagged rock sections of the mountain. The surrounding terrain consists of steep vertical cliffs, deep fissures, and honeycomb-weathered rock faces typical of the Rum desert’s geological formations.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located in the southeastern section of the Wadi Rum Protected Area, approximately 25km from the Visitor Center. Access to the base of the mountain is strictly via 4x4 desert vehicle or camel. Reaching the bridge itself requires a strenuous guided hike and "scramble" that takes 2.5 to 3 hours for a round trip. The final ascent to the arch involves navigating narrow ledges and steep rock faces; a guide and basic safety equipment are recommended for non-technical climbers.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The bridge was formed through millions of years of differential erosion. Wind and water exploited vertical joints in the sandstone, eventually hollowing out the rock beneath the more resistant upper layer. Geologically, it is part of the Jabal Burdah formation, which belongs to the Paleozoic sandstone sequences of the Arabian Shelf.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is the ascent to the bridge. Hikers who reach the summit can walk across the span, which provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Wadi Rum desert, including the red sand dunes and distant mountain ranges. The site is a premier location for adventure photography and technical rock climbing.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no facilities at the mountain or on the bridge. No restrooms, shade structures, or paved paths exist. All logistics, including water, food, and emergency kits, must be carried by the visitor or provided by the desert guide. Cellular signal is non-existent in the canyons surrounding the base and remains intermittent at the summit.

Best Time to Visit

The climb should be initiated in the early morning (06:00 AM – 07:00 AM) to complete the ascent before the midday heat. The most suitable months are October through April. In summer, the heat and sun exposure on the exposed rock faces make the climb dangerous. High-grip footwear is mandatory due to the smooth sandstone surfaces.

Facts & Legends

Burdah is often cited as one of the world's most spectacular natural bridges due to its sheer height and the technicality required to reach it. A local Bedouin detail notes that the bridge was historically used as a lookout point by hunters tracking ibex, as its elevation allows for observation of movement across several neighboring desert basins simultaneously.

Nearby Landmarks

Umm Fruth Rock Bridge – 8.0km Northwest

Small Arch – 10.0km North

Khazali Canyon – 12.0km Northwest

Lawrence's House – 15.0km Northwest

Mushaik Mountain – 5.0km South