While perusing the GreatOutdoors.com website earlier today I came across a great article about a trek I didn’t even know was possible. Earlier this year writer Peter Potterfield took a 50-mile, week-long journey through the Dana Biosphere Reserve in Jordan, that culminated with a seldom traveled route to the stunning ancient site of Petra, an archeological wonder that dates back to the 6th century BC.
The Dana Biosphere is worth the visit to Jordan itself. The UNESCO World Heritage site stretches along the Great Rift Valley and features rugged backcountry that may be unexpected for travelers coming to see a desert. The deep valleys and steep, rocky peaks flow from Sandstone to Limestone to Granite, giving the place a dramatic flair. The place is also alive with both plants and animals, extending its diversity even further.
But of course, the crown jewel of Jordan tourism is Petra, a 2500+ year old city that has been carved out of the very rock walls of the region. The site was first brought to the attention of the western world in 1812, and it seems to have been capturing imaginations ever since. It is definitely a magical place, all the more enhanced by the system of narrow canyons that must be navigated to reach the site.
Peter and the group he was traveling with on this expedition made the journey on foot, far from the well trammeled trails of the tourist track. They actually approached Petra, after six days of hiking, through a series of “back doors” that aren’t used by most other visitors, who usually make their way from the bus in the parking lot out front.
Along the trek, the group moved through four different climate zones, with cool alpine giving way to lush orchards, followed by a comfortable, moderate zone, and finally the scorching heat of the Sahara itself. It is quite a diverse hike that mixes culture, beautiful landscapes, and ancient history all into one spectacular trek. It seems amazing, and although I didn’t know it was a possibility, it is on my radar now.
Check out the article for yourself and see if you agree. Seems like a fantastic adventure.
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I want to go! Ever since I saw it in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade….! Would be an awesome adventure.
Totally agree Clay. I had the opportunity to go when I was in Egypt a few years back, and passed as I didn't really have the funds at the time. But this trek looks like the perfect way to make the journey. Maybe we should organize one together!
Hi there,
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By the way, I want to go be Indiana Jones too! Jordan, amazing!
Thanks!
Michelle
Michelle@dairymilk.ca http://www.dairymilk.ca http://www.twitter.com/dairymilkcanada http://www.facebook.com/dairymilkcanada
Perhaps the Jordanian ministry of tourism would like to sponsor our trip?
Beautiful pictures, and indeed a great tour. In fact I have visited the area before and it was a great and spectacular attraction.
This is a really nice attraction to visit, also there is more to do in Jordan.