Wadi Mujib Siq Trail | Dead Sea

The Wadi Mujib Siq Trail is a self-guided water trekking route located within the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, specifically starting at the Mujib Adventure Center on the Dead Sea Highway.

Visual Characteristics

The trail is a deep, narrow canyon (siq) featuring sheer sandstone walls that rise up to 50 meters and are colored in various shades of ochre, pink, and orange. The floor consists of a perennial river with depths ranging from ankle-deep to chest-deep, interspersed with boulders, natural pools, and small waterfalls. The trail culminates at a massive, permanent 20-meter waterfall.

Location & Access Logistics

The trail starts at the Mujib Adventure Center, located at the Mujib Bridge on the Dead Sea Highway (Route 65). From Amman, the drive is approximately 85 kilometers (75 minutes). Access is via the main entrance; visitors park in the center's paved lot. Private transport is the standard arrival method, as no public buses serve the trailhead directly.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Siq is a natural geological formation carved by the Mujib River (the biblical Arnon) through layers of Paleozoic sandstone. It serves as the primary drainage for the 212-square-kilometer reserve into the Dead Sea. The environment is a unique desert-riparian ecosystem, supporting specialized aquatic plants and providing a water source for regional wildlife like the Nubian Ibex.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities are centered on canyoning and river trekking. The trail requires wading and swimming against the current, climbing over rocks using fixed ropes, and navigating metal ladders installed at steeper sections. The primary highlight is reaching the base of the Great Waterfall.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The Mujib Adventure Center provides mandatory life jackets, dry bag rentals, and basic instruction. Changing rooms, lockers, and public restrooms are available on-site. The trail is shaded by the high canyon walls, but the initial entrance and the visitor center are fully exposed. 4G cellular signal is available at the trailhead but drops completely once inside the canyon.

Best Time to Visit

The Siq Trail is seasonal and typically open from April 1 to October 31. It is strictly closed during winter (November to March) due to flash flood risks. To avoid overcrowding, visitors should arrive at opening time (08:00). High-grip water shoes are required, and all participants must be over 18 years of age.

Facts & Legends

The trail is one of the most popular adventure tourism sites in the Middle East. A verified safety fact is the reserve's real-time monitoring system for upstream rainfall, as water levels can rise dangerously in the narrow Siq within minutes during heavy inland storms.

Nearby Landmarks

Mujib Adventure Center (0.1km - Start Point)

Dead Sea Panoramic Complex (22.0km North)

Karak Castle (32.0km South)

Mujib Bridge (0.2km West)