Hiking Jabal Umm Ad Dami, the Highest Mountain in Jordan
Jordan is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Middle East for hikers and adventure travelers. Wadi Rum alone is home to some of the most spectacular rock formations in the world.
In this blog post, I will share my experience hiking in Wadi Rum to the summit of Jabal Umm Ad Dami, the highest peak in Jordan. You will learn about the region, how to plan and prepare for this adventure, what to pack, and things I wish I had known before adventuring solo in Wadi Rum.
About Jabal Umm Ad Dami
Jabal Umm Ad Dami is the highest peak in Jordan, standing at 1,854 meters (6,083 feet) above sea level. It offers some of the best views of Wadi Rum and even the border with Saudi Arabia in the Southern part of Jordan.
The hike to the summit takes about 60-90 minutes, and it takes around 30-45 minutes to get back down.
The name Um Ed Dami means "Mother of the bleeding" in Arabic, and it’s said to refer to the red hue of the mountain when illuminated by the sun. The hike to the summit of Umm Ad Dami offers breathtaking views of Wadi Rum and the surrounding desert landscape.
Views from the summit of Jabal Umm Ad Dami.
Getting to Jabal Umm Ad Dami
The highest peak of Jordan is located in historic Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a desert wilderness in southern Jordan known for its stunning red sand dunes, towering sandstone mountains, and ancient rock carvings.
Several prehistoric civilizations left petroglyphs, rock inscriptions, and ruins in Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum protected area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011.
In order to climb the highest peak in Jordan, you need to get to Wadi Rum. The closest major city is Aqaba, which has an airport with flights from Amman and other major cities in the region.
Wadi Rum is about 60 km (37 mi) to the east of Aqaba. From Aqaba, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to take you to Wadi Rum. The drive takes about an hour.
There are many bedouin camps in Wadi Rum where travelers stay to spend the night and enjoy numerous activities in Wadi Rum.
Most of the bedouin camps provide private or group activities such as jeep tours, camel rides, hot air balloon rides, hiking, and rock climbing.
Check with your camp to make sure they offer guided hikes to the summit, and be sure that your stay at the camp is booked before you arrive in Wadi Rum.
A team member from the team will set a meeting point (Usually at the visitor center of Wadi Rum) and will drive you to the camp.
Do I need a guide to hike Jabal Umm Ad Dami?
Jabal Umm Ad Dami is located in the middle of nowhere. The trailhead to start your ascent is not marked, and there are no signs throughout the hike, making it hard to navigate if you are unfamiliar with the area.
It's important to hire a guide who is familiar with the region and the terrain.
Your guide will drive you from your camp (It takes about 45 minutes to get to the trailhead from most camps in Wadi Rum) and lead you to the summit.
How hard is Jabal Umm Ad Dami?
The hike to the summit is moderate to strenuous. The rocky terrain and loose sandy rocks can make it difficult for people with limited mobility.
It takes between 2 to 3 hours to go up and down Jabal Umm Ad Dami.
Pay attention to the sand from the sandstones, as it can get pretty slippery. Your guide will choose the right path for you to stay safe.
The views as you climb up are breathtaking. There wasn’t a moment where I didn’t stop at a loss of words to describe the beauty of the vast Wadi.
Exploring Wadi Rum on the ground is amazing, but it doesn’t compare to what you get from the country's highest point.
On a clear day, you can see all the way out to Saudi Arabia.
What to pack for Jabal Umm Ad Dami?
Here are some essentials you should have with you when hiking Jabal Umm Ad Dami.
Water - There is no water source once you leave your camp. Pack enough water with you (2-3 liters should be good). You can also leave some water in the vehicle for the end of your hike.
Snacks - to keep you fueled during the hike.
Sunscreen - to protect your skin in the desert.
Hat - to protect you from the sun.
Warm layers - Especially if you are opting for a sunrise or sunset hike. the temperature is mild during the day, but it can get pretty cold at night.
Headlamp - If you plan on hiking early in the morning or late around sunset time.
Map and compass - As a backup, if you get separated from your guide for any reason.
Daypack
Sturdy hiking shoes - Opt for hiking shoes with a good grip to help you navigate the rocky terrain. Tennis shoes or sneakers are not the best idea for this hike.
Check my personal day hiking gear here:
Is it safe to visit Wadi Rum solo?
I did not have a positive experience traveling solo in Wadi Rum as a female traveler.
In a decade of traveling solo around the world, Wadi Rum was the only place where I felt unsafe and disrespected.
Some camp managers and personnel are not professional, especially with solo female travelers.
If you are traveling solo to Wadi Rum, do your due diligence to choose a top-rated camp.
Remember that you will be in the middle of nowhere with limited or no service most of the time.
Let someone know where you are staying and when you plan on leaving.
Best hikes in Wadi Rum
Aside from the highest peak in Jordan, there are so many incredible hiking trails in Wadi Rum if you have more time in the area.
Burdah Rock Bridge Trail
This popular hike leads to one of the most iconic rock formations in Wadi Rum. The trail is challenging, but the views from the top are incredible.
Lawrence’s Spring Trail
This moderate hike takes you through stunning desert scenery and to a natural spring named after Lawrence of Arabia. The trail is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of Wadi Rum without a strenuous climb.
Khazali Canyon Trail
This unique hike takes you through a narrow canyon with towering red sandstone walls. You will see ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions carved into the rock walls.
Jebel Burdah Trail
A challenging hike that takes you to the second-highest peak in Wadi Rum after Jabal Umm Ad Dami. The climb requires some rock scrambling, but the views from the summit are spectacular.
Alameleh Inscriptions Trail
This easy hike takes you to a site with ancient Nabatean inscriptions carved into the rock.
Abu Khashaba Canyon Trail
A moderate hike that takes you through a beautiful canyon with towering rock walls. Along the way, you’ll see ancient inscriptions and stunning desert scenery.
Um Fruth Rock Bridge Trail
A moderate hike that takes you to a beautiful natural rock bridge with stunning views of the desert landscape. You can also see this bridge if you are taking a jeep tour.
