For vacationers trying to discover all that this exceptional nation has to supply, listed below are 17 of the very best locations to go to in Jordan.
Jordan is an unbelievable nation, filled with historical wonders and trendy marvels. From the luxurious Jordan Valley to the majestic desert landscapes, this Middle Eastern 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 lots of the most unbelievable sights that many vacationers miss throughout their go to, just like the Ajloun Forest Reserve and Wadi Mujib.
Jordan is dwelling to a number of the oldest cities on this planet, together with one of many oldest regularly inhabited cities – Jerash.
Whether you’re planning a calming Red Sea seashore 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 a number of the greatest locations in Jordan!
1. Petra
Often known as one of many Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is an historical metropolis carved instantly into sandstone rocks. Petra is likely one of the hottest points of interest in Jordan and for good motive. This once-lost metropolis is filled with unbelievable monuments, tombs, and temples that can take your breath away.
Its iconic Treasury is a must-see for any traveler visiting Jordan, and there’s loads extra to discover. It takes at the very least someday, possibly two or three days in case you take your time, to see the whole metropolis of Petra. Wander by means 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 Trail (aka the Al Khubtha Trail) and one of many two trails that go to the Al-Deir – additionally referred to as “Monastery.” These landmarks are the very best locations to go to in Petra. I additionally actually loved a horseback experience as much as the Place of High Sacrifice. Petra exceeded my expectations!
2. Wadi Rum – The “Valley of the Moon”
The Red Desert of Wadi Rum is likely one of the most stunning locations to go to in Jordan. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on account of its immense magnificence and distinctive geology.
Its purple sand dunes and wonderful rock formations make for a spectacular backdrop for tenting or jeep excursions.
Trek up sand dunes and gaze out on the gorgeous views of the desert’s vastness. Or, spend an evening tenting beneath the celebs in certainly one of Wadi Rum’s many campsites or Bedouin tents. My in a single day keep at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp is one I’ll always remember.
Wadi Rum can be dwelling to some unbelievable historical rock drawings and carvings from Nomadic tribes who lived there hundreds of years in the past. And in case you’re enthusiastic about photographing the attractive purple sand or the star-filled evening sky, Wadi Rum ought to undoubtedly be in your checklist of the very best locations to go to in Jordan.
3. The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is the bottom level on Earth, situated greater than 400 meters under sea degree. It’s an unbelievable place to go to in Jordan.
Floating within the salty, mineral-rich waters of The Dead Sea is an extremely distinctive expertise that you simply gained’t discover anyplace else on Earth. Being capable of effortlessly float upon the water’s floor on account of its excessive salinity and excessive mineral content material is completely surreal and soothing.
The Dead Sea can 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 an excellent ebook – the waters are so salty that it’s inconceivable to sink, which makes for a fantastic studying spot (and humorous picture opp)!
4. Wadi Mujib Siq Trail
The Wadi Mujib Siq Trail is likely one of the prime locations for guests to Jordan who wish to hike. It was one of many highlights of my very own journey!
Located close to the Dead Sea, this seasonal path provides gorgeous canyon views which have been described by many as a number of the most stunning on this planet.
This distinctive hike begins on the Mujib Reserve and follows the trail of a slim river gorge. Don’t neglect your swimming wear, since you’ll be mountaineering (and generally swimming) by means of the water the entire method. You’ll even get a style of easy-level canyoning with the assistance of some ropes – it’s enjoyable, and is certainly the most effective locations to go to in Jordan.
5. Ma’in Hot Springs
If you’re on the lookout for a singular expertise in Jordan, then contemplate visiting the Ma’in Hot Springs, which you’ll be able to be simply mixed together with your go to to the Dead Sea or Wadi Mujib.
Located close to the Dead Sea and fed from waterfalls, this pure spring is thought for its therapeutic properties and therapeutic advantages.
The sizzling springs are nestled deep inside the mountains of Jordan and have been loved because the days of the Roman empire. You can benefit from the sizzling springs from the close by resort, or stroll 5 minutes to the general public springs.
Looking for Jordan inspo? Check our Jordan photos now!
6. Dana Biosphere Reserve
The Dana Biosphere Reserve is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Jordan, particularly for many who need to spend time within the nation’s stunning landscapes. Located within the south of the nation, it’s one of the crucial biodiverse areas in all of Asia and residential to over 900 species of vegetation and animals.
This great reserve provides guests an opportunity to discover nature at its most interesting with mountaineering trails, wildlife-watching alternatives, and gorgeous views. Whether you’re on the lookout for a peaceable escape or an adventurous trek by means of a number of the world’s most stunning landscapes, Dana Biosphere Reserve has one thing for everybody!
7. Jerash
The historical metropolis of Jerash, which dates again greater than 6,500 years in the past, is likely one of the best-preserved and most full Roman cities on this planet.
From its gorgeous temples and colonnades to its intricate mosaics and theaters, Jerash encapsulates all that’s stunning about classical structure. Stroll by means of cobbled streets lined with centuries-old monuments and marvel on the grandeur of those awe-inspiring ruins.
The ambiance in Jerash appears like getting into one other age altogether – from its majestic views over rolling hillsides to its charming historical past, it’s simple to see why so many vacationers flock right here every year.
I felt like I used to be again in Italy – it jogged my memory of a smaller model of Pompeii! This is certainly the most effective locations to go to in Jordan and may be simply mixed with a go to to Ajloun Castle.
8. Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Jordan. Perched atop a hilltop within the north of Jordan, this Twelfth-century citadel overlooks lush inexperienced hills and gives spectacular views throughout the encompassing countryside.
Built by Saladin throughout his reign as Sultan, Ajloun Castle was designed to guard in opposition to Crusader invasions and stays a powerful fortress at the moment. With its winding staircases, secret passages, and grand halls, it’s simple to think about what Ajloun Castle was as soon as like.
Visitors can discover the citadel’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 means of historical ruins – there’s one thing for everybody at Ajloun Castle!
9. Ajloun Forest Reserve
Ajloun Forest Reserve is an unbelievable place to go to in Jordan and the most effective nature reserves within the area.
Located a 1-hour drive north of Amman, this 13 sq. kilometer reserve is dwelling to many uncommon animals such because the Striped Hyena, Crested Porcupine, and Stone Marten. It has a number of completely different mountaineering trails to select from of various ranges and distances.
During springtime, guests can discover the gorgeous wildflower shows that carpet the world – from drifts of anemones and rockroses to different stunning blooms.
For these on the lookout for a extra immersive expertise, there are additionally picket cabins the place you’ll be able to keep in a single day. It can be simply mixed with a go to to close by Ajloun Castle or to Jerash.
10. Mount Nebo
Located simply six miles from town of Madaba, this holy mountain has been an vital pilgrimage web site since biblical occasions and provides gorgeous 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 simple to see why – Mount Nebo gives breathtaking panoramic vistas over close by Jericho, Jerusalem, and past (when the sky is obvious).
Today, guests can discover a preserved monastery advanced atop Mount Nebo in addition to historical 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 the most effective locations to go to in Jordan!
11. The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ
The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ in Jordan is a vital pilgrimage web site and price a go to in case you’ll be in Jordan for longer than per week. Located on the banks of the River Jordan, this sacred location marks the place Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
Today, guests can discover historical ruins that date again over 2,000 years in the past in addition to go to close by chapels and church buildings in-built honor of this particular place. The ambiance right here is peaceable and serene – with breathtaking views throughout rolling hillsides and luxurious inexperienced landscapes – making it one of the crucial stunning locations to go to in Jordan!
12. Madaba
Located 20 miles south of Amman, the traditional city of Madaba is dwelling 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 retailers. It’s additionally simple to get from Madaba to different locations in Jordan – making it a fantastic place to remain in a single day in case you’re on a highway journey.
The spotlight right here is the gorgeous mosaic map constructed proper into the ground of an historical church rediscovered in 1884. This unbelievable piece of artwork and the historical past it represents will take your breath away.
13. Karak Castle
Karak Castle is a superb place to go to in Jordan for anybody trying to discover the nation’s historical past. Built within the 1140s, this huge crusader citadel stands on a excessive hilltop and gives spectacular views throughout the encompassing countryside.
With winding staircases, secret passages, and grand halls, it’s simple to think about why Karak Castle was as soon as thought-about impenetrable.
Visitors can discover its many ranges, discovering hidden chambers and studying about its fascinating historical past alongside the best way.
You can simply rent a information on the gate who will present invaluable perception into this historical fortification, which I like to recommend since there’s little or no info posted across the citadel. There are some eating places close to the doorway in case you get hungry, and it prices 3 JD to park.
14. King’s Highway
The King’s Highway is a tremendous place to go to in Jordan that has been part of the nation’s historical past for hundreds of years.
This historical freeway connects Syria and the Gulf of Aqaba by method of what’s now Jordan, and it was talked about within the Old Testament.
The exceptional highway was renovated by Roman emperor Trajan (reigned 98-117 CE), making it an much more vital thoroughfare through the Crusades. Today, 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.
If you’re getting round Jordan with a rental automotive as I did, then you definately’ll doubtless be driving the King’s Highway sooner or later, because it’s nonetheless one of the crucial 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
Built through the reign of Emperor Antonius Pius within the 2nd century AD, this magnificent Roman theater provides guests a glimpse into historical historical past and tradition.
Not solely is it the most effective locations to go to in Jordan, however you’ll get an excellent exercise once you’re climbing up and down the traditional steps.
The theater continues to be used at the moment — live shows, performs, and different performances are commonly 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.
Visitors can discover the numerous ranges of this gorgeous construction and study its fascinating previous alongside the best way. With a capability of 6500 folks, it will have as soon as hosted some grand spectacles!
16. Amman Citadel
Located within the coronary heart of town, this historical fortress is steeped in historical past and gives gorgeous 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 trendy skyline.
The Citadel itself has been occupied by varied civilizations all through time; it was first constructed by the Romans but additionally served as an vital stronghold through the Crusades. Today, you’ll be able to discover ruins that date again centuries, together with historical temples and Byzantine church buildings.
There are additionally loads of artifacts on show on the web site’s museum – good for many who need to be taught extra about Jordan’s fascinating previous! The Citadel is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Amman and may be mixed with a go to to the Roman Theater.
17. Aqaba
Located on the Red Sea, the attractive coastal metropolis of Aqaba boasts a number of the greatest snorkeling and scuba diving on this planet. With crystal clear waters and a various array of marine life, Aqaba provides guests an unforgettable expertise that they gained’t quickly neglect.
The space round Aqaba is dwelling to a number of the most spectacular coral reefs in all of Jordan, making it the most effective locations to go to in Jordan for each novice and skilled divers alike. With its gorgeous seashores and vibrant tradition, Aqaba is certainly one vacation spot you don’t need to miss out on whereas touring by means of Jordan – you’re going to wish some relaxation after all of the exploring!
Aqaba has an airport that could be a handy possibility for vacationers.
Wrap-Up: Best Places to Visit in Jordan
Jordan is a tremendous vacation spot for vacationers trying to discover the Middle East. With its gorgeous landscapes, numerous tradition, and historical relics, it’s simple to see why this nation is so fashionable amongst vacationers.
From the Lost City 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 prime of your checklist!
Let us know within the feedback that are your favourite, and another locations in Jordan you go to throughout your journey.
Cat runs the journey weblog Cat is Out of the Office.