Edom Mountains

The Edom Mountains stretch across southern Jordan, forming a rugged highland landscape that was historically the territory of the Kingdom of Edom. The mountains feature a complex geology, with a basement of Precambrian granite topped by colorful layers of sandstone that have been eroded into spectacular formations over millions of years. Reaching elevations of over 1,700 meters, this region is one of the highest in the country and frequently experiences snowfall during winter. The centerpiece of the range is the ancient rock city of Petra, built by the Nabataeans within the protection of deep gorges and high cliffs. This strategic location allowed them to dominate the lucrative Incense Route connecting Arabia to the Mediterranean world. Beyond Petra, the mountains host significant conservation areas like the Dana Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a vast ecological diversity. The raw beauty of the landscape, with its steep drops toward the Wadi Araba, makes it one of the most important tourist destinations in Jordan.

Nearby cities

Tafilah

Tafilah is nestled within the rugged mountains of southern Jordan.

Busaira

Busaira sits atop a mountain ridge and looks back on a long history.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Jordan's largest nature reserve offers incredible biodiversity and spectacular hiking trails.

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Wadi Dhana / Feynan

A spectacular biosphere reserve featuring diverse wildlife and hiking trails through desert valleys.

Ghor es-Safi

Ghor es-Safi lies deep below sea level on the edge of the Dead Sea.

Al-Mazar al-Janubi

Al-Mazar al-Janubi is a significant pilgrimage site south of Karak.

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Ma'an

Ma'an is the largest city in Jordan's arid south.

Dead Sea (Ein Bokek)

The lowest point on Earth, famous for its hypersaline water that lets you float effortlessly and mineral-rich mud.

Wadi Bin Hammad

A spectacular rainforest canyon in Jordan featuring hanging gardens and hot springs.

History & landmarks

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

This remote site north of Petra once served as a suburb for passing merchants.

Royal Tombs of Petra

This imposing row of tombs is carved into the rock face of Jabal al-Khubtha.

The Siq

The narrow canyon is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra.

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)

The Monastery is one of the largest monuments in Petra and requires climbing over 800 steps.

Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)

This mountain is the highest peak in the Petra area.

Dead Sea Basin

The Dead Sea Basin is the lowest point on the Earth's surface on dry land.

Nature

Wadi Numeira

An extremely narrow and deep sandstone gorge by the Dead Sea, also known as the water Petra.

Wadi Mujib (River)

This spectacular canyon is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Jordan and carries water year-round.

More places

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Jordan's largest nature reserve encompasses four distinct biogeographical zones and enormous biodiversity.

Wadi Ghuweir

A spectacular river valley with lush vegetation, hanging gardens, and dramatic sandstone formations.

Tafilah Wind Farm

The first commercial wind energy project in the Middle East, producing clean energy for the Jordanian grid.

Shobak Castle

A Crusader castle situated on a conical mountain, offering a dramatic and rugged appearance.

Sharah Mountains

A striking mountain massif near Petra, characterized by deep valleys and steep cliffs.

Fifa Nature Reserve

This low-lying wetland south of the Dead Sea is an important habitat for endangered desert pupfish.

Arab Potash Company

A major mining company on the Dead Sea that extracts minerals and exports them worldwide.

Arava Valley

Part of the Great Rift Valley, stretching from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba in the south.