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Zarqa River
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River
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The Zarqa River is the second largest tributary of the Jordan River, flowing through some of Jordan's most industrial and densely populated areas. It originates near Amman at the Ain Ghazal spring and travels about 105 kilometers before discharging into the Jordan Valley. In ancient times, the river was known as the Jabbok, cited in the Bible as the location where Jacob wrestled with an angel before meeting Esau. Today, the river is a critical resource but faces severe environmental challenges due to urban and industrial runoff from the cities of Amman and Zarqa. The construction of the King Talal Dam in 1977 was a pivotal development for regulating flow and providing irrigation for downstream agriculture. Despite pollution, the river valley is geologically rich and contains important Neolithic archaeological remains.
- Location: Jordan
- Top sights: Aneiba · Rujm Um Zurur · Dolmen field
- Nearby: Ain Basha (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 21 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 21 | 14 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 43 | 23 | 11 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 18 | 35 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The river is best reached via the roads near the King Talal Dam from Amman or Jerash. The approach leads through steep valleys and features impressive views of the surrounding northern landscape.
Best season
The best time for a visit is spring, when the vegetation turns green after the winter rains. In the hot summer months, the water level can drop significantly and the heat can become very intense.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is characterized by steep valley slopes and rocky paths along the river course. Hikers should be prepared for uneven ground and sometimes slippery spots near the water's edge.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip and sun protection are essential for exploring the valleys. It is also recommended to carry sufficient drinking water and possibly water-resistant gear.
Parking
Parking options are available near the dam or in the adjacent villages. Since there are no large official parking lots, one should ensure a safe position when stopping at the roadside.
Safety
Beware of sudden water level fluctuations and flash floods after rainfall in the mountains. The steep terrain requires sure-footedness and attention, especially near cliffs and precipices.
Time needed
A visit to the river region typically lasts 3 to 6 hours, depending on the extent of the hike. For extensive exploration along the river course, one can easily plan for a full half-day outing.
Geography
Facts
- In antiquity, the river was widely known as the Jabbok.
- The total length of the river is roughly 105 kilometers.
- The King Talal Dam was completed on the river in 1977.
- The river originates from the Ain Ghazal spring in Amman.
- Its drainage basin covers approximately 3,900 square kilometers.
- The river provides crucial water for Jordan Valley agriculture.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zarqa River (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What characterizes the Zarqa River?
It is an important river in Jordan that flows through a historically rich valley.
What can you see near the river?
There are archaeological sites like the ancient city of Jerash in the wider surroundings.
Is the water clean?
Water quality varies significantly due to agricultural and industrial influences.
Can you walk along the river?
Access exists at certain points, but there are no continuous hiking trails.
When is the best time for a trip there?
In spring the landscape is at its greenest and the climate is very pleasant.
Zarqa River: where is it located?
Zarqa River is located in Jordan.
Zarqa River: what is there to see?
Highlights include Aneiba, Rujm Um Zurur, Dolmen field.
Zarqa River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Zarqa River: why is it worth visiting?
The Zarqa River is the second largest tributary of the Jordan River, flowing through some of Jordan's most industrial and densely populated areas.
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Nearby cities
Zarqa
Zarqa is the primary industrial center of Jordan.
Russeifa
Russeifa connects the cities of Amman and Zarqa into a massive metropolitan area.
Azraq
Azraq is an oasis town deep in the eastern desert of Jordan.
Al-Hashimiyah
Al-Hashimiyah is an emerging city in the Zarqa region.
Ain Basha
Ain Basha is located on the edge of the capital on fertile land.
Fuheis
Fuheis is a picturesque town northwest of Amman, inhabited almost exclusively by Jordanian Christians.
Ajloun
Ajloun is surrounded by dense pine and oak forests.
Mahis
Mahis is situated on the hills above the Jordan Valley.
Kufranja
Kufranja is one of the green pearls of the Ajloun Mountains.
Al-Husn
Al-Husn is one of the most traditional towns in the north.
Sahab
Sahab is located southeast of the capital and serves as a major logistics hub.
Irbid
Irbid is the economic hub of northern Jordan.
Mafraq
Mafraq serves as the gateway to the Jordanian desert.
Ar-Ramtha
Ar-Ramtha is situated right on the Syrian border.
History & landmarks
Arch of Hadrian
This massive triumphal arch was erected in honor of the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD at the southern entrance of Jerash.
King Abdullah I Mosque
A distinctive landmark of Amman, known for its magnificent blue mosaic dome.
Umayyad Palace
This ruin complex on the Citadel hill dates from the 8th century.
Qasr al-Abd
A Hellenistic palace near Iraq al-Amir, built from huge stone blocks.
Nature
More places
Zarqa Petroleum Refinery
Jordan's only oil refinery, playing a strategic role in the country's energy supply.
Samra Electric Power Plant
A modern gas turbine power plant that plays a key role in meeting Jordan's electricity demand.
Zarqa Free Zone
A major logistics center for regional trade, especially for the import and export of vehicles.
Quseir Amra
One of the most famous desert castles in Jordan, renowned for its unique early Islamic frescoes and well-preserved bathhouse.
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve
A small reserve established for the breeding and reintroduction of rare desert animals like the Arabian oryx.
Azraq Desert Agriculture
Located in the eastern desert, this area utilizes underground aquifers to transform the arid landscape into green farmlands producing oli…
Qasr Azraq
A desert castle built from black basalt, famously used by T.E.
Azraq Wetland Reserve
This desert oasis was once a vast marshland and is today an important resting place for millions of migratory birds.