History of

Rock Climbing in Jordan

Jordan's rising popularity as a sport climbing destination is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of the Bedouin people. Nomadic Bedouins were known to scale mountains for essential resources like herbs, water, and hunting. This age-old practice has evolved into a thriving climbing community that is steadily growing. Over the years, foreigners initiated outdoor climbing development in Jordan, with their efforts carried forward by local climbers. Today, the Jordanian climbing scene benefits from community support and the establishment of a climbing federation, making it a diverse and inclusive sport in the country. Climbers can explore the unique landscapes, experience cultural immersion, and be part of a dynamic and evolving climbing culture.

  • Pre 1980s - Nomadic Bedouins climbed the mountain of southern Jordan. Without any kind of safety equipment they would often take easier yet convoluted routes as they gather herbs, collect water and hunt.

  • 1984 - Wadi Rum becomes the seed for the emergence of modern climbing in Jordan as international climbers arrive in the country upon invitation by the Ministry of Tourism and Queen Noor Al-Hussien.

  • 1990s - Thanks to dedicated European experts, like Wilfried Colonna, Tony Howard and Di Taylor. Wadi Rum became a world class destination for rock climbing. Howard and Taylor went on to publish several comprehensive guidebooks on climbing, trekking and canyoning in Jordan, attracting more adventurers to the kingdom.

  • 2000s - International climbers continue to lead the development of climbing in Jordan, particularly Wadi Rum and Ajloun. Their collaborative efforts helped transfer climbing knowledge, equipment and gear to the local adventurers and bedouins. This helped pave the path for adventure tourism and diversified the sources of income for local bedouin guides.

  • Presen

    2007 - 18 crags have been established across the kingdom, with the full support of the local community working to build and maintain other crags.

  • 2008 - The first crag to be bolted by a local climber, in Fuheis by Hakim Tamimi.

  • 2010 - Opening of Climbat Amman, the first indoor climbing gym in the Middle East. This effectively made climbing more accessible to local people in and around the capital.

  • 2011 - Climbat Amman Hosts the International Indoor Climbing IFSC World Cup in Jordan for the first time in the Middle East.

  • 2018 - Establishment of the Jordan Climbing Federation. Recognized by the Jordanian Olympic Committee, the federation set out to popularize sport and support the local climbing community.

  • 2021 - Formation of Jordan’s first national climbing team.

  • 2022 - The first regional climbing competition hosted by the Jordan Climbing Federation, with the participation of over 10 Arab countries.

  • Present Day - The JCF continues to support rock climbing as a whole by: (1) Developing and maintaining outdoor climbing areas. (2) Supporting the local climbing community through workshops, events and competitions. (3) Collaborating with other regional federations to develop and support the Arab climbing community. (4) Train and develop the next generation of climbers.