Wadi al-Hasa

Wadi al-Hasa runs west from the plateau to the Dead Sea, a canyon with permanent water along much of its length, hot springs feeding in from the sides, oleander along the banks and walls that close in and open out repeatedly over a route of some forty kilometres. It is walked as a two-day trek with an overnight camp, following the water most of the way and crossing it constantly. The Jordan Trail uses part of it.

What you actually see

• The permanent water - a river running year round in a desert country.
• The hot springs - thermal water feeding in from the canyon sides.
• The oleander - the vegetation along the banks through the gorge.
• The narrows - the sections where the walls close in on the river.

When to go

April to June and September to October are the trekking windows. Winter flash floods make the canyon dangerous. Summer heat is severe.

Honest expectations

Flash floods are a genuine danger and the route should not be attempted with rain forecast. The trek involves constant water crossings and wet feet throughout. Guides and logistics must be arranged.

Nearby

Afra Hot Springs are south, and Karak is north.