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Jabal Harun

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

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Jabal Harun, also known as Mount Aaron, is the highest peak in the Petra region of southern Jordan, standing at 1,350 meters above sea level. According to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, it is the burial site of Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first High Priest of the Israelites. A small, white-domed mosque dating from the 14th century sits at the summit, built atop the ruins of an earlier Byzantine monastery. The ascent to the peak is steep and challenging, but it rewards visitors with panoramic panoramic views of the Wadi Araba and the entire Petra archaeological park. The mountain is a significant pilgrimage site for many faiths, and religious processions take place there annually. Its geological structure primarily consists of the red sandstone typical of the southern Jordanian highlands. Due to its spiritual importance and prominent silhouette, Jabal Harun is a major landmark in the region. Archaeological excavations at the mountain's base have revealed a large Byzantine monastery complex dating back to the 5th century.

Location: Jordan
Top sights: Nabataean guard tower · Nabataeans terraces · Khirbet Sufaysif
Nearby: Wadi Dhana / Feynan (27 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	8	11	15	20	23	25	25	23	19	13	8
Rain mm	45	36	19	10	4	0	0	0	1	7	15	26

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

As the highest peak in the Petra region, access is typically on foot or by hiring a local donkey from the basin, following a long and remote trail.

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Best season

Late autumn or early spring are the best times to attempt this long trek, as the extreme summer heat makes the exposed desert trail very dangerous.

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Terrain & paths

The route is a combination of sandy wadi beds, rocky desert trails, and a final, very steep climb up rugged sandstone paths to the traditional burial site.

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What to bring

High-quality hiking boots, layered clothing for wind at the summit, significant water supplies, and sun protection are absolute necessities for this challenging trek.

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Parking

All vehicles must be left at the main visitor center parking lots outside the ancient city, as the mountain is located deep within the protected archaeological area.

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Safety

This is a remote and physically demanding hike; it is highly advisable to hire a local Bedouin guide and inform authorities of your planned route before departing.

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Time needed

The round-trip trek from the city center to the peak and back is a full-day endeavor, typically taking between six and eight hours of strenuous walking.

Geography

Coordinates

30.31600, 35.40500

Facts

The summit stands at an elevation of 1,350 meters above sea level
The current mosque was rebuilt by the Mamluks in 1338
Aaron is revered in Islam as the Prophet Harun
Byzantine ruins at the mountain's base date back to the 5th century
The hike from Petra to the summit takes approximately 2 to 3 hours
The mountain is the highest point in the Sharah range

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)<1 km · NEExplore →

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)4 km · NEExplore →

Great Temple of Petra4 km · NExplore →

The Siq6 km · NExplore →

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)7 km · NEExplore →

Sharah Mountains9 km · NExplore →

Wadi Araba23 km · SExplore →

Arava Valley24 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Jabal Harun (3)

Nabataean guard tower🏺 historical

The sandstone ruins of an ancient defensive tower situated on a strategic ridge overlooking the valley.

Nabataeans terraces🏺 historical

Ancient stone retaining walls built along the slopes to support irrigated agriculture in the desert.

Khirbet Sufaysif🏺 historical

The archaeological remains of a Nabataean hilltop settlement featuring dry-stone walls and cisterns.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who is buried on Dschabal Harun?

According to tradition, this is the burial place of Aaron, the brother of Moses.

How do you reach the summit?

A long, strenuous hiking trail leads up from Petra, often completed with the help of donkeys.

Is a special ticket required?

It is part of the Petra Archaeological Park; the standard Petra entry ticket is required.

When is the best time for the climb?

Early morning to avoid the midday heat. Spring and autumn offer the most handy weather.

Is there water or food at the top?

No, hikers must bring their own sufficient supply of water and snacks.

Jabal Harun: where is it located?

Jabal Harun is located in Jordan.

Jabal Harun: what is there to see?

Highlights include Nabataean guard tower, Nabataeans terraces, Khirbet Sufaysif.

Jabal Harun: when is the best time to visit?