Khazali Canyon

Jebel Khazali, rising to 1,420 meters, offers one of the most culturally rich climbing experiences in Wadi Rum. The journey to its summit takes you through Khazali Canyon, a narrow gorge filled with ancient Nabataean and Islamic rock carvings that date back over 2,000 years.

Khazali Canyon: A Living Museum

The Khazali Canyon is approximately 100 meters long and features some of the finest rock art in Wadi Rum. As you walk through this narrow slot canyon, you'll see:

• • Nabataean Inscriptions: Ancient text carved by the Nabataean people who controlled trade routes through this region 2,000 years ago
• • Animal Carvings: Detailed depictions of ibex, camels, and other animals that were important to desert life
• • Kufic Script: Early Islamic inscriptions showing the continued use of this sacred space
• • Human Figures: Representations of people, some appearing to be in ceremonial poses

Sabbah's Route to the Summit

After exploring the canyon, we continue up Sabbah's Route, a traditional Bedouin path named after one of our community's experienced climbers. This route is a classic example of Bedouin route-finding through seemingly impossible terrain.

Route Details

• • Grade: Moderate (Class 3 scramble)
• • Time: 5-6 hours round trip
• • Elevation Gain: Approximately 600m
• • Character: Steep sandstone steps, short chimney climbs, exposed ridge

The Climb Experience

The route starts from the upper end of Khazali Canyon and immediately begins climbing the east face. You'll encounter:

• 1.
  Steep Sandstone Steps:

  Natural and Bedouin-enhanced steps lead up through the initial section. These require careful foot placement and balance.

• 2.
  Chimney Sections:

  Short chimney climbs where you'll use opposing pressure between walls-a classic Bedouin technique.

• 3.
  Exposed Ridge:

  The final approach follows an airy ridge with spectacular drop-offs on both sides. We secure this section with ropes for safety.

• 4.
  Summit Plateau:

  The top opens onto a relatively flat area with 360-degree views that many climbers say surpass even those from Jebel Rum!

The Summit Views

From the summit of Jebel Khazali, you get a unique perspective on Wadi Rum. You're positioned perfectly to see:

• • Jebel Rum's massive west face rising across the valley
• • The Seven Pillars of Wisdom (Jebel um Ishrin) to the east
• • Burdah Rock Bridge in the distance
• • The vast desert plains stretching to Saudi Arabia
• • Wadi Rum village far below, looking like a tiny oasis

Flora and Wildlife

Khazali Canyon and the route to the summit support surprising biodiversity. You might encounter:

• • Juniper Trees: Ancient trees growing in protected spots, some hundreds of years old
• • Desert Plants: Various herbs and shrubs, some with medicinal properties known to Bedouin
• • Hidden Pools: Small water catchments after rain, supporting unique microecosystems
• • Birds: Various desert species including occasional sightings of eagles and falcons

Best Time to Visit

Khazali Canyon can be visited year-round, but the climb to the summit is best during cooler months (October-April). The canyon provides shade in the morning, making it a good option even on warmer days. For the best light for photographing the inscriptions, visit in the morning when the sun illuminates the canyon walls.

Jebel Khazali offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration and mountain adventure. It's one of my favorite climbs to guide because it shows visitors both the ancient history and natural beauty that make Wadi Rum so special.