For vacationers seeking to discover all that this exceptional nation has to supply, listed here are 17 of the most effective locations to go to in Jordan.
Jordan is an unbelievable nation, filled with historic wonders and fashionable marvels. From the luxurious Jordan Valley to the majestic desert landscapes, this Center Japanese kingdom has one thing for everybody.
I not too long ago spent 3.5 weeks solo road-tripping round Jordan, which allowed me to discover most of the most unbelievable sights that many vacationers miss throughout their go to, just like the Ajloun Forest Reserve and Wadi Mujib.
Jordan is residence to among the oldest cities on this planet, together with one of many oldest regularly inhabited cities – Jerash.
Whether or not you’re planning a calming Purple Sea seaside getaway or an thrilling expedition into the unknown, these locations in Jordan have one thing particular! So pack your baggage and put together for a journey like no different as we discover among the greatest locations in Jordan!
1. Petra
Sometimes called one of many Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is an historic metropolis carved instantly into sandstone rocks. Petra is without doubt one of the hottest sights in Jordan and for good cause. This once-lost metropolis is stuffed with unbelievable monuments, tombs, and temples that may take your breath away.
Its iconic Treasury is a must-see for any traveler visiting Jordan, and there’s lots extra to discover. It takes a minimum of sooner or later, possibly two or three days if you happen to take your time, to see the whole metropolis of Petra. Wander by way of the previous streets and alleys, get misplaced in its mystique, and marvel at its grandeur.
My favourite two hikes in Petra are the Treasury Viewpoint Path (aka the Al Khubtha Path) and one of many two trails that go to the Al-Deir – additionally known as “Monastery.” These landmarks are the most effective locations to go to in Petra. I additionally actually loved a horseback journey as much as the Place of Excessive Sacrifice. Petra exceeded my expectations!
2. Wadi Rum – The “Valley of the Moon”
The Purple Desert of Wadi Rum is without doubt one of the most lovely locations to go to in Jordan. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Web site as a consequence of its immense magnificence and distinctive geology.
Its crimson sand dunes and superb rock formations make for a spectacular backdrop for tenting or jeep excursions.
Trek up sand dunes and gaze out on the beautiful views of the desert’s vastness. Or, spend an evening tenting beneath the celebs in one in all Wadi Rum’s many campsites or Bedouin tents. My in a single day keep at Reminiscences Aicha Luxurious Camp is one I’ll always remember.
Wadi Rum can also be residence to some unbelievable historic rock drawings and carvings from Nomadic tribes who lived there 1000’s of years in the past. And if you happen to’re taken with photographing the attractive crimson sand or the star-filled night time sky, Wadi Rum ought to undoubtedly be in your record of the most effective locations to go to in Jordan.
3. The Useless Sea
The Useless Sea is the bottom level on Earth, situated greater than 400 meters beneath sea stage. It’s an unbelievable place to go to in Jordan.
Floating within the salty, mineral-rich waters of The Useless Sea is an extremely distinctive expertise that you just gained’t discover wherever else on Earth. With the ability to effortlessly float upon the water’s floor as a consequence of its excessive salinity and excessive mineral content material is totally surreal and soothing.
The Useless Sea can also be extremely wealthy in minerals, and its mud has been used for hundreds of years to assist heal pores and skin illnesses. And don’t neglect to pack a great e book – the waters are so salty that it’s not possible to sink, which makes for an awesome studying spot (and humorous picture opp)!
4. Wadi Mujib Siq Path
The Wadi Mujib Siq Path is without doubt one of the high locations for guests to Jordan who wish to hike. It was one of many highlights of my very own journey!
Situated close to the Useless Sea, this seasonal path affords beautiful canyon views which were described by many as among the most lovely on this planet.
This distinctive hike begins on the Mujib Reserve and follows the trail of a slender river gorge. Don’t neglect your swimwear, since you’ll be mountain climbing (and generally swimming) by way of the water the entire means. You’ll even get a style of easy-level canyoning with the assistance of some ropes – it’s enjoyable, and is unquestionably probably the greatest locations to go to in Jordan.
5. Ma’in Sizzling Springs
For those who’re searching for a singular expertise in Jordan, then think about visiting the Ma’in Sizzling Springs, which you’ll be able to be simply mixed together with your go to to the Useless Sea or Wadi Mujib.
Situated close to the Useless Sea and fed from waterfalls, this pure spring is thought for its therapeutic properties and therapeutic advantages.
The recent springs are nestled deep throughout the mountains of Jordan and have been loved because the days of the Roman empire. You may benefit from the sizzling springs from the close by resort, or stroll 5 minutes to the general public springs.
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6. Dana Biosphere Reserve
The Dana Biosphere Reserve is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Jordan, particularly for many who need to spend time within the nation’s lovely landscapes. Situated within the south of the nation, it’s one of the vital biodiverse areas in all of Asia and residential to over 900 species of vegetation and animals.
This glorious reserve affords guests an opportunity to discover nature at its best with mountain climbing trails, wildlife-watching alternatives, and beautiful views. Whether or not you’re searching for a peaceable escape or an adventurous trek by way of among the world’s most lovely landscapes, Dana Biosphere Reserve has one thing for everybody!
7. Jerash
The traditional metropolis of Jerash, which dates again greater than 6,500 years in the past, is without doubt one of the best-preserved and most full Roman cities on this planet.
From its beautiful temples and colonnades to its intricate mosaics and theaters, Jerash encapsulates all that’s lovely about classical structure. Stroll by way of cobbled streets lined with centuries-old monuments and marvel on the grandeur of those awe-inspiring ruins.
The environment in Jerash looks like getting into one other age altogether – from its majestic views over rolling hillsides to its fascinating historical past, it’s straightforward to see why so many vacationers flock right here annually.
I felt like I used to be again in Italy – it jogged my memory of a smaller model of Pompeii! That is undoubtedly probably the greatest locations to go to in Jordan and may be simply mixed with a go to to Ajloun Citadel.
8. Ajloun Citadel
Ajloun Citadel is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Jordan. Perched atop a hilltop within the north of Jordan, this Twelfth-century fortress overlooks lush inexperienced hills and offers spectacular views throughout the encircling countryside.
Constructed by Saladin throughout his reign as Sultan, Ajloun Citadel was designed to guard towards Crusader invasions and stays a powerful fortress at this time. With its winding staircases, secret passages, and grand halls, it’s straightforward to think about what Ajloun Citadel was as soon as like.
Guests can discover the fortress’s many ranges, discovering hidden chambers and studying about its fascinating historical past alongside the best way. From panoramic views throughout rolling hills to serene strolls by way of historic ruins – there’s one thing for everybody at Ajloun Citadel!
9. Ajloun Forest Reserve
Ajloun Forest Reserve is an unbelievable place to go to in Jordan and probably the greatest nature reserves within the area.
Situated a 1-hour drive north of Amman, this 13 sq. kilometer reserve is residence to many uncommon animals such because the Striped Hyena, Crested Porcupine, and Stone Marten. It has a number of totally different mountain climbing trails to select from of various ranges and distances.
Throughout springtime, guests can discover the beautiful wildflower shows that carpet the realm – from drifts of anemones and rockroses to different lovely blooms.
For these searching for a extra immersive expertise, there are additionally wood cabins the place you possibly can keep in a single day. It may also be simply mixed with a go to to close by Ajloun Citadel or to Jerash.
10. Mount Nebo
Situated simply six miles from town of Madaba, this holy mountain has been an necessary pilgrimage web site since biblical occasions and affords beautiful views throughout the whole area.
It’s mentioned that Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land from Mount Nebo’s summit, and it’s straightforward to see why – Mount Nebo offers breathtaking panoramic vistas over close by Jericho, Jerusalem, and past (when the sky is evident).
Right now, guests can discover a preserved monastery complicated atop Mount Nebo in addition to historic mosaics inlaid into its partitions. The spectacular stays are a testomony to the lengthy historical past of people that have visited right here all through time – making it probably the greatest locations to go to in Jordan!
11. The Baptism Web site of Jesus Christ
The Baptism Web site of Jesus Christ in Jordan is a vital pilgrimage web site and price a go to if you happen to’ll be in Jordan for longer than every week. Situated on the banks of the River Jordan, this sacred location marks the place Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
Right now, guests can discover historic ruins that date again over 2,000 years in the past in addition to go to close by chapels and church buildings inbuilt honor of this particular place. The environment right here is peaceable and serene – with breathtaking views throughout rolling hillsides and luxurious inexperienced landscapes – making it one of the vital lovely locations to go to in Jordan!
12. Madaba
Situated 20 miles south of Amman, the traditional city of Madaba is residence to the oldest surviving map of Palestine and its neighboring territories – making it an important cease for any historical past buff!
The city itself is small and picturesque, with loads of charming cafes and outlets. It’s additionally straightforward to get from Madaba to different locations in Jordan – making it an awesome place to remain in a single day if you happen to’re on a street journey.
The spotlight right here is the beautiful mosaic map constructed proper into the ground of an historic church rediscovered in 1884. This unbelievable piece of artwork and the historical past it represents will take your breath away.
13. Karak Citadel
Karak Citadel is a good place to go to in Jordan for anybody seeking to discover the nation’s historical past. Constructed within the 1140s, this huge crusader fortress stands on a excessive hilltop and offers spectacular views throughout the encircling countryside.
With winding staircases, secret passages, and grand halls, it’s straightforward to think about why Karak Citadel was as soon as thought of impenetrable.
Guests can discover its many ranges, discovering hidden chambers and studying about its fascinating historical past alongside the best way.
You may simply rent a information on the gate who will present invaluable perception into this historic fortification, which I like to recommend since there may be little or no data posted across the fortress. There are some eating places close to the doorway if you happen to get hungry, and it prices 3 JD to park.
14. King’s Freeway
The King’s Freeway is an incredible place to go to in Jordan that has been part of the nation’s historical past for 1000’s of years.
This historic freeway connects Syria and the Gulf of Aqaba by means of what’s now Jordan, and it was talked about within the Previous Testomony.
The exceptional street was renovated by Roman emperor Trajan (reigned 98-117 CE), making it an much more necessary thoroughfare through the Crusades. Right now, guests can discover quite a few fortified castles nonetheless standing alongside its route, every with its personal distinctive story to inform about this historic journey.
For those who’re getting round Jordan with a rental automotive as I did, then you definitely’ll seemingly be driving the King’s Freeway in some unspecified time in the future, because it’s nonetheless one of the vital handy methods to get across the nation. It’s not unusual to see camels and different animals alongside the desert freeway, so maintain your eyes peeled!
15. Roman Theater in Amman
Constructed through the reign of Emperor Antonius Pius within the 2nd century AD, this magnificent Roman theater affords guests a glimpse into historic historical past and tradition.
Not solely is it probably the greatest locations to go to in Jordan, however you’ll get a great exercise whenever you’re climbing up and down the traditional steps.
The theater remains to be used at this time — concert events, performs, and different performances are frequently held right here all year long.
The theater itself has been effectively preserved over time; its spectacular stone arches nonetheless stand tall and supply breathtaking views of Amman’s skyline.
Guests can discover the numerous ranges of this beautiful construction and find out about its fascinating previous alongside the best way. With a capability of 6500 individuals, it might have as soon as hosted some grand spectacles!
16. Amman Citadel
Situated within the coronary heart of town, this historic fortress is steeped in historical past and offers beautiful views throughout the whole area. From the Citadel’s lofty heights, guests can soak up all of Amman’s magnificence – from its bustling markets to its fashionable skyline.
The Citadel itself has been occupied by varied civilizations all through time; it was first constructed by the Romans but in addition served as an necessary stronghold through the Crusades. Right now, you possibly can discover ruins that date again centuries, together with historic temples and Byzantine church buildings.
There are additionally loads of artifacts on show on the web site’s museum – excellent for many who need to be taught extra about Jordan’s fascinating previous! The Citadel is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Amman and may be mixed with a go to to the Roman Theater.
17. Aqaba
Situated on the Purple Sea, the attractive coastal metropolis of Aqaba boasts among the greatest snorkeling and scuba diving on this planet. With crystal clear waters and a various array of marine life, Aqaba affords guests an unforgettable expertise that they gained’t quickly neglect.
The realm round Aqaba is residence to among the most spectacular coral reefs in all of Jordan, making it probably the greatest locations to go to in Jordan for each novice and skilled divers alike. With its beautiful seashores and vibrant tradition, Aqaba is unquestionably one vacation spot you don’t need to miss out on whereas touring by way of Jordan – you’re going to wish some relaxation after all of the exploring!
Aqaba has an airport which may be a handy choice for vacationers.
Wrap-Up: Greatest Locations to Go to in Jordan
Jordan is an incredible vacation spot for vacationers seeking to discover the Center East. With its beautiful landscapes, various tradition, and historic relics, it’s straightforward to see why this nation is so common amongst vacationers.
From the Misplaced Metropolis of Petra to the arid desert of Wadi Rum, there’s one thing distinctive and particular round each nook. From the hustle and bustle of Amman to the tranquil waters of Aqaba, Jordan is certain to impress.
These nice locations to go to in Jordan ought to undoubtedly be on the high of your record!
Tell us within the feedback that are your favourite, and some other locations in Jordan you go to throughout your journey.
Cat runs the journey weblog Cat is Out of the Workplace.