Burdah Rock Bridge

The Burdah Rock Bridge is perhaps the most photographed natural feature in Wadi Rum. This massive natural arch, perched high on a mountain ridge, offers one of the most spectacular and rewarding climbs in the desert. Standing on top of this bridge, with nothing but air beneath your feet and the vast desert spread out around you, is an experience you'll never forget.

The Bridge

The Burdah Rock Bridge is a natural sandstone arch approximately 35 meters long and sits at an elevation of about 1,200 meters. Unlike the more famous Burdah Arch (which you can walk through at ground level), this bridge requires a serious climb to reach. The arch itself is about 3-4 meters wide at its narrowest point-wide enough to walk across, but exposed enough to get your heart racing!

The Climb

Route Details

• • Grade: Moderate to Challenging (Class 3-4)
• • Time: 4-6 hours round trip
• • Elevation Gain: Approximately 400m
• • Character: Scrambling, chimney climbing, exposed ridge walking

The Approach

We drive by 4x4 to the base of Jebel Burdah, approaching from the south. The mountain is located in the southern part of Wadi Rum, about 45 minutes from the village. The initial approach is a pleasant walk through desert terrain, gradually gaining elevation as we circle around to find the climbing route.

The Climbing Route

The route to the bridge involves several distinct sections:

• 1.
  Initial Scramble:

  We start with moderate scrambling up broken terrain, following cairns that mark the traditional route. This section is relatively straightforward but requires sure-footedness.

• 2.
  The Chimney:

  The crux of the route is a narrow chimney system. This requires chimney climbing techniques-using opposing pressure between walls to ascend. It's physically demanding but well-protected by the rock itself. We secure this section with ropes for safety.

• 3.
  Ridge Traverse:

  After the chimney, we emerge onto an exposed ridge. This section requires careful foot placement and a head for heights-there are significant drop-offs on both sides. The views here are already spectacular.

• 4.
  The Bridge Approach:

  The final approach to the bridge involves some more scrambling and route-finding through the upper rock formations. Then suddenly, there it is-the magnificent arch spanning the gap.

Walking the Bridge

Once you reach the bridge, you have the option to walk across it. The arch is about 35 meters long and 3-4 meters wide at its narrowest point. While it's wide enough to walk comfortably, the exposure is significant-you can see straight down on both sides.

Most people walk across, and it's an incredible experience. We can set up a safety rope for those who want extra security. The feeling of standing in the middle of this natural arch, suspended high above the desert, is absolutely unforgettable.

The Views

From the Burdah Rock Bridge, you have 360-degree views of southern Wadi Rum:

• • The vast red desert stretching to the horizon
• • Distant mountains including Jebel Rum to the north
• • The Saudi Arabian mountains to the south
• • Dramatic rock formations and canyons below
• • The ground arch of Burdah far below

The lighting changes throughout the day, but sunset from the bridge is particularly spectacular. The entire desert turns shades of red, orange, and purple as the sun sets. If you're comfortable with a headlamp descent, timing your climb to be on the bridge at sunset is magical.

Photography

The Burdah Rock Bridge is incredibly photogenic. Popular shots include:

• • Silhouettes: People walking across the bridge against the sky
• • Through the Arch: Framing the desert landscape through the bridge opening
• • From Below: The bridge from the approach, showing its dramatic position
• • Panoramas: 360-degree views from the bridge itself

Bring a good camera or smartphone-you'll want to capture this experience. I'm happy to take photos of you on the bridge from various angles.

Best Time to Climb

Season: October through April are the best months. Summer can be extremely hot for this climb.

Time of Day: We usually start early morning to avoid heat and reach the bridge by late morning or early afternoon. For sunset on the bridge, we time the climb to arrive about an hour before sunset.

Weather: Avoid this climb in high winds-the exposed ridge and bridge can be dangerous in strong wind. Clear days offer the best views.

What to Bring

• ✓ Sturdy hiking/climbing shoes with good grip
• ✓ Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person)
• ✓ Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• ✓ Camera or smartphone for photos
• ✓ Light jacket (it can be windy on the ridge)
• ✓ Headlamp (if planning sunset climb)

Safety Considerations

The Burdah Rock Bridge climb is serious mountaineering. While it's achievable for fit climbers with some experience, it requires:

• • Good physical fitness and endurance
• • Comfort with exposure and heights
• • Basic climbing/scrambling skills
• • Mental composure in exposed situations
• • Ability to follow instructions and trust your guide

As your guide, I provide all safety equipment, rope protection for exposed sections, and constant supervision. I've climbed this route hundreds of times and know every hold, every step. Your safety is my top priority, but you also need to be honest about your abilities and comfort level.

The Burdah Rock Bridge is more than just a climb-it's a journey to one of nature's most spectacular creations. Standing on that bridge, feeling the desert wind, seeing the vast landscape spread out below, you'll understand why this is one of Wadi Rum's most sought-after adventures.