Jordan’s ancient civilisation stretches along the Dead Sea’s coast. It is now a thriving economy, with the capital Amman at its heart, as well as some of the best-preserved archaeological sites of the Roman Empire.
Jordan is regarded as one of the most liberal Arab countries, and it is an exceptionally safe place to visit when compared to many of its Middle Eastern neighbors.
With a small population of only 10 million, Jordan is a destination for nature lovers and history nerds
You’ll visit world-famous biblical sites and lush nature reserves, and you’ll be welcomed by the Jordanians’ generous spirit. Social entertainment is important in daily life, so if you’re lucky, you may receive invitations to dinner or to drop in for tea and coffee, allowing you to experience the country’s unique hospitality.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your trip a success.
Where should you go when you’re in Jordan?
Explore Petra, one of the world’s seven wonders
You can’t visit Jordan without seeing the incredible archaeological site of Petra, located in the southwestern desert. It was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom and dates back to around 300 BC.
Petra is carved into pink sandstone cliffs and has earned the moniker “Rose City.” It is half-built, half-carved into the rock, and surrounded by mountains with numerous passages and gorges.
The ancient city is now recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Float around in the Dead Sea
Jordan’s western border is bounded by the famously buoyant Dead Sea, where you can float on your back and bob up and down peacefully.
The Dead Sea has a salt concentration of 34%, making it nine times saltier than the ocean. Sealife cannot survive in this body of water, hence the name, but you can float safely on the surface.
As soon as you step into the water, you’ll notice your ability to float. You only need to be a foot deep to sit, lean back, and float away. Swimming, on the other hand, is impossible, so don’t even try – and try not to get any water in your eyes (it will burn).
Amman beach is the best spot to take a dip if you don’t want to pay entrance fees
If you don’t want to pay entrance fees, Amman Beach is the best place to swim. It’s simple to get to, there are free sun loungers, and you can rent a towel and locker for the day. Otherwise, OH Beach is the more expensive option for a more luxurious day out. With immaculate sandy beaches, loungers, a pool, and enough bars and restaurants to keep you entertained until the wee hours of the morning.
Visit the Wadi Araba desert
The Wadi Araba desert is a vast, arid expanse of canyons, dunes, and rocky terrain. It runs from Aqaba to the Dead Sea and is part of the Great Rift Valley, which connects the Middle East to Southeast Africa.
If you’re feeling brave, you can take a guided tour on foot, or there are jeep and even camel tours. Most guided tours include the option of spending the night in the desert and visiting a Bedouin camp. While you’re there, you might be able to sample a traditional Bedouin meal, which is slow-cooked on hot coals beneath the sand (usually a selection of meat and roasted vegetables).
Jordan, walk all the way from north to south
Put on your hiking boots and prepare for a 40-day adventure. The Jordan Trail connects the length of Jordan from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south, passing through 75 towns and villages.
The trail is not for the faint of heart; it traverses rolling hills, sheer cliffs, and dramatic mountains over 675 kilometers. However, it is the ideal way to see the country and absorb its rich history, passing through ancient walkways and various civilisations along the way.
What do the experts have to say about being a tourist in Jordan?
You can visit the site of Jesus’ baptism and Jordan is where Moses saw the Promised Land from Mount Nebo
Jordan’s Minister for Tourism, Nayef Hamidi Mohammed Al-Fayez
“It’s an impossible question. There are so many wonderful things to do in Jordan.
“If you’re talking about culture and heritage, we have an incredibly rich offering. If you’re an adventurer, the Jordan Trail is perfect for you and gives you some real exposure to local culture. Religious tourism – where to even begin? You can visit the site of Jesus’ baptism and Jordan is where Moses saw the Promised Land from Mount Nebo.
He continues, “We’re so excited to welcome guests back to Jordan so they can experience the country again. We’ve already seen a huge upturn in tourism and we’re looking forward to what 2022 and the future will bring.”