Wadi Zarqa Main

1 Days / 0 Nights

From USD $150

Guided Group

Moderate

  • Canyoning near Madaba through a black basalt canyon.
  • Fantastic trail hike alongside and in a water stream.
  • Two impressive waterfalls to abseil.
  • Group size 6 to 16

6KM / 6-9 HOURS (DEPENDING ON GROUP)
This spectacular one-day hike takes you through the Wadi Zarqa Ma'in, a narrow canyon that cuts down from the desert plateau to the hot springs near the Dead Sea. Along the way, you'll abseil down two dramatic waterfalls (about 35 meters) and have the chance to swim and play in the clear pools beneath them.

We begin early in Madaba or Amman and drive to the trailhead. You'll get a safety briefing from your lead guide before heading out between the rocks and descending into the white limestone of the gorge. After a couple of hours' walk, occasionally scrambling down cascades and across boulders, you'll reach the first waterfall, where you can rest while the guides set up the abseil station. We'll abseil the falls one by one, taking our time to make sure everyone is safe and happy. At the bottom we'll have lunch, play in the water, and drink a hot cup of tea. The second waterfall is just 70 meters downstream, so the same procedure applies. After the last guide's rappel, you'll walk another 40 or so minutes to arrive at the hot springs of Ma'in, where you can rest and relive the day's adventure before heading back to Amman by bus.

Sorry, there are no departure dates set for this trip.

Inclusions

Meals
Snack lunch and Water

Make sure you have a good breakfast at your home/hotel. We will provide you with a simple snack lunch (2 Sandwiches, vegetable and fruit), we'll also provide each one with three liters of water to carry along. We very much recommend you bring some dates or dried fruits for a good and fast energy source, but make sure you put them in a water-proof container/bag (the kitchen zip-lock bag can be a solution).

Transport
Transportation from the meeting point and back;
Bus, your feet and our ropes =)

Guides
Two instructors and two assistants. This could vary depending on group size

All our guides / tour leaders are Jordanian locals who have extensive knowledge of the local communities and terrain of the areas you will be visiting. We also make sure that they are properly trained in any specialized activities they may administer i.e. hiking, cycling etc. Your guide will also be in a position to provide information on the places you visit, recommend things to do and where to eat. At certain activities that require specialized expertise such as canyoneering or cycling, you will be joined by our canyoneering or cycling team.

 

 

Wadi Zarqa Main

Trip Duration: 1 Days / 0 Nights

Group Size : 12

Physical Rating :

Moderate : A reasonable level of fitness is required, as these trips can require sustained endurance levels along steep trails and uneven paths. Canyoning trips may include few abseils (rappels), long hikes and occasional climbs. Biking trips include a series of up and downhills but nothing too strenuous. A support vehicle will be always available so weary travelers will be able to hitch a ride. A typical trekking day would be walking 4 to 5 hours a day including a 2 hour ascending a mountain.

Welcome to Terhaal Adventures. We've designed these journeys to help you explore the very best of Jordan. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about the trip. We're here to help. Enjoy!


Itinerary Disclaimer

The holiday itinerary set out below offers a good overview of the trip, but should be taken as a general guide only. We're continually improving these tours, and it's possible we will adjust the itinerary to take advantage of new opportunities or to avoid adverse weather or difficulties with transportation. We recommend that you print out a copy of the trip details a couple of days prior to departure, in case there have been any changes that may affect your plans.

The information in this document does not form part of the contract between the client and Terhaal Adventures.


Meeting Point
There are two meeting points for this trip:

1- Amman at the Safeway Stores parking lot 7th Circle.
Meeting Time: between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM. At 7:00 AM sharp we leave.

2- Madaba at Terhaal operation base, drive west from Madaba towards Mount Nebo, the base is 5.5km from Madaba on the main road on the left side.
Meeting time: at 7:30 AM

Being there on time is essential, especially if you don't want to be left behind!

One reason why we leave early is to have the maximum time of daylight in order not to rush our adventure and have more time for leisure. The other reason is to have spare time in case of unexpected delays.


Finishing Point
Same as the meeting point above, between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.


Arrival Complications

We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to begin your trip as scheduled, please contact us immediately at one of the following numbers:
+962(0)77 751 5919
+962(0)79 879 5680


Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Wadi Zarqa Main

6KM / 6-9 HOURS (DEPENDING ON GROUP)
This spectacular one-day hike takes you through the Wadi Zarqa Ma'in, a narrow canyon that cuts down from the desert plateau to the hot springs near the Dead Sea. Along the way, you'll abseil down two dramatic waterfalls (about 35 meters) and have the chance to swim and play in the clear pools beneath them.

We begin early in Madaba or Amman and drive to the trailhead. You'll get a safety briefing from your lead guide before heading out between the rocks and descending into the white limestone of the gorge. After a couple of hours' walk, occasionally scrambling down cascades and across boulders, you'll reach the first waterfall, where you can rest while the guides set up the abseil station. We'll abseil the falls one by one, taking our time to make sure everyone is safe and happy. At the bottom we'll have lunch, play in the water, and drink a hot cup of tea. The second waterfall is just 70 meters downstream, so the same procedure applies. After the last guide's rappel, you'll walk another 40 or so minutes to arrive at the hot springs of Ma'in, where you can rest and relive the day's adventure before heading back to Amman by bus.

Inclusions

Meals
Snack lunch and Water

Make sure you have a good breakfast at your home/hotel. We will provide you with a simple snack lunch (2 Sandwiches, vegetable and fruit), we'll also provide each one with three liters of water to carry along. We very much recommend you bring some dates or dried fruits for a good and fast energy source, but make sure you put them in a water-proof container/bag (the kitchen zip-lock bag can be a solution).

Transport
Transportation from the meeting point and back;
Bus, your feet and our ropes =)

Guides
Two instructors and two assistants. This could vary depending on group size

All our guides / tour leaders are Jordanian locals who have extensive knowledge of the local communities and terrain of the areas you will be visiting. We also make sure that they are properly trained in any specialized activities they may administer i.e. hiking, cycling etc. Your guide will also be in a position to provide information on the places you visit, recommend things to do and where to eat. At certain activities that require specialized expertise such as canyoneering or cycling, you will be joined by our canyoneering or cycling team.

 

 


What to Take

During the trip your baggage will be carried by bus and by 4WD vehicles. The only baggage weight limit is that imposed by the airline. However, we ask that you restrict your luggage to one main bag plus a small daypack. In general we recommend that you travel as light as possible as this will make transiting between airports and carrying your bag to hotel rooms a lot easier for you. You may find that wheeled luggage is more convenient on a trip of this nature.

Temperatures in Jordan can be hot, with little rain from late spring through until late autumn. The heat can become extreme during the summer months of July and August. In the months of November to March it can be cool at night, particularly in the desert where the temperatures can drop to 5C or even less. Even in the hot months out in the desert it can get cold at night.

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country and tends to be quite conservative, so you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times.

A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat is essential. From mid November to late February, a sleeping bag is essential for your nights in the desert. At other times a sleeping sheet will suffice. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the heat.

Check List

> Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets etc.
> Health requirements arranged
> Money: travelers cheques/cash/credit card
> Money pouch
> First aid kit
> Backpack to carry your personal needs during the day(the type with a lower-back pad support and waist strap are very much recommended)
> Alarm clock and torch/flashlight (headlights are best)
> Insect repellent
> Ear plugs can be useful
> Tampons can be difficult to buy in rural areas or in the desert
> Lock for your bag
> Bedding - a bed sheet to be used over the mattress provided in the desert- the travel bed sack is even better
> Sleeping bag if you wish - mattresses and blankets are available in the desert
> Small travel towel - for use in the desert
> Your personal hygiene kit
> Toilet paper
> Eye shades
> Hiking shoes
> Foot powder or Vaseline can be useful against blisters.
> Sandals
> Light clothes; long sleeves and light colors are advisable in summer time
> A hat or head dress that also covers the neck
> Warm clothes for cooler nights
> Sun protection lotion
> Dates, fruits, or candy bars (to provide instant calories during outdoor activities)
> Water flask

> Insect repellent

 


Health
It is recommended that all travelers be in good physical health prior to embarking on a Terhaal trip as all our trips are active/adventurous. We also advise all our guests to consult their doctor beforehand. Group leaders reserve the right to exclude any guest from a trip whom they believe may be of an unjustifiable risk to themselves or to the rest of the group without refund.
Local Dress
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Jordan. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot climate.


Safety

Jordan is generally considered a safe country. There is very little petty crime here, especially in rural areas. However, we recommend you take normal precautions to ensure your safety and that of your belongings, as you would for any other destination. Take good care of your passport, wallet, and other valuables. In crowded streets, keep your bag closed and in front of you. There will be free time during this trip - you can always ask your local guides for their advice about where to go and what to avoid. Please make sure you have adequate footwear and clothing for the hiking trips you will be taking.


Hospitality 

Jordanians are famously friendly and welcoming towards guests, especially in rural areas. It is quite normal for Jordanians to invite foreigners in to drink tea or have a meal in the family home. Meeting the local people in spontaneous encounters of this sort is one of the great pleasures of travelling in Jordan.


Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. Business hours are shortened, including opening hours at all tourist attractions. Alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours [except in 5-Star Hotels] and many restaurants will be closed. While you definitely need to expect some delays and inconveniences during this period, the month of Ramadan is a fantastic time to travel to Jordan as you'll be able to participate in the feasting and holiday atmosphere that follows the breaking of the fast as sunset each day. You'll also get to taste special sweets that are only baked for Ramadan. You do not have to fast, and no-one will expect you to; however, you should try to eat and drink discreetly, if possible, rather than in crowded public places.


Visas

Most nationalities are able to obtain a single-entry visa at the airport, at the land borders, or at the port in Aqaba, valid for 14 days and costing JOD 40. However, you should consult the Jordanian embassy in your home country to make sure you are not subject to any special visa requirements.


Departure tax

You will be required to pay a JOD 5 Departure Tax upon leaving Jordan (does not generally apply when exiting through airports, but travellers on some budget airlines may be required to pay it).


Money Exchange

The Jordanian Dinar is fixed at a rate of JOD 0.709 against USD 1.


Spending Money

It is difficult to say how much spending money you should bring as each person is different! However, you'll need some cash for any meals not included in the itinerary, plus snacks, drinks, gifts etc.


Emergency Funds

It is a good idea to have access to extra funds in case of any emergency (urgent healthcare / travel costs etc.). This is highly unlikely, of course, but best to be prepared.


Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance (and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number) has been seen by your trip leader. If your insurance is provided through your credit card, your tour leader will require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt or credit card statement) with the credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


Emergency Contact

In case of an emergency Terhaal's Amman Office can be reached on -

+962(0)77 751 5919
+962(0)79 879 5680

+962(0)79 778 4433
+962(0)79 5536351

Alternatively you can email [email protected]


Your Fellow Travelers

Group trips entail all the pleasures and occassionally some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the group's needs and preferences. Patience and flexibility really help to create a relaxed and happy atmosphere. Please remember that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and again that the best trips are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Many thanks in advance!


Responsible Travel

We believe in low impact or ‘positive impact' tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit, while maximising the positive aspects of the encounter. Jordan is a small country with few natural resources. Water scarcity is a big issue in the region, so please go easy on the water. Terhaal designs these tours in a way that maximizes benefits for local communities. Whenever possible we hire local staff in the areas where we operate, and our guests stay in locally owned hotels. We also include some volunteering activities where appropriate, such helping farmers to harvest their olives. Terhaal also contributes towards efforts that strengthen environmental advocacy and the environmental education of Jordan's children.


A Couple of Rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make your destinations such special places. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession. It is also unsafe to drink alcohol while out hiking / cycling, so please wait until you're back at the hotel to enjoy a drink.

 


Feedback

After your trip we hope you will send us your photos and any stories or feedback you may have. Your feedback not only helps us to improve the trips, but also helps other travelers to decide on the right tour for them. We would appreciate it if you could take a couple of minutes to complete our feedback form, just follow this link: http://www.terhaal.com/feedback-form 


Our blog

Our blog - ‘Treks & Trails of Jordan' - is a collection of stories posted by a variety of people that reflect the natural, environmental and cultural aspects of Jordan. It is also a great way to give feedback and to share your Jordan experience with others. All you need to do is write one or two paragraphs about your trip with Terhaal, attach some photos if available and send it to us at this email: team[at]terhaal.com
You can find the blog here -
blog.terhaal.com


Single Travelers

Our trips are designed with shared accommodation in mind whereby single travelers are paired with individuals of the same sex in twin shared accommodation. Forced singles are free of charge.
Single accommodation is available on request pending availability.