3. Khirbet as-Souq to Fuheis

Climb from Khirbet as-Souq to a ridgeline above Wadi Zarqa. Take in the impressive views before descending to the wadi bottom 1,000m below. Then, begin a long climb out of the canyon — a demanding ordeal on hot days! Once you reach the top of the climb, your day is not done. After riding along the opposite rim of the canyon, descend to another valley and climb to Rumeimeen – the waterfall below the town offers a nice break spot – before continuing up to Fuheis.

BEGINNING:
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ON ROUTE:
Wadi al-Bir (at the top of the initial climb from Wadi Zarqa) has a substantial grocery store, bakery, and falafel shop; Rumeimeen has several small stores with basic supplies; the Amman-Salt highway has a number of stores and restaurants.

END:
Fuheis has a number of substantial stores and restaurants.

Rumeimeen: Abu Ragheb can provide accommodation and possibly also meals or other services (00962 7 8843 6068) (Arabic, English and Rumanian)

Salt: (~5km off-route) Beit Aziz (00962 7 9953 5900), Saltus Hotel (00962 7 9542 1790)

Fuheis: Greek Catholic Church (00962 7 9750 5296) (good budget option; shared rooms in apartment; 11 JD pp; English/Arabic)

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• • The climb out of Wadi Zarqa starts slightly below sea level and is long, steep, and exposed to the sun. Carry plenty of water; a stand of trees about halfway up offers some shade.
  • Passing the Rumeimeen waterfall, the route briefly follows a technical single track with one (small) exposed fall. Be careful. It’s likely a hike-a-bike for most. You could potentially camp near the waterfall.
  • Most services on the Amman-Salt road are technically off-route, but you can easily detour along the highway, reconnecting with the official route just ahead.
  • There are ATMs and pharmacies on the Amman-Salt highway, and (off-route) in Fuheis.

• Wadi Zarqa
• Rumeimeen Waterfall
• Carakale Brewery