Jordan is one of the most diverse destinations in the Middle East, combining rich history, stunning landscapes, desert adventures, and authentic cultural experiences in one trip. Whether you want to explore the rock-carved city of Petra, float in the Dead Sea, or spend a night under the starlit skies of Wadi Rum, you’ll find that the list of things to do in Jordan is full of experiences to suit every type of traveler.
Why Visit Jordan?
Jordan combines history, nature, adventure, and relaxation in one trip. In just a few days, you can visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, walk among perfectly preserved Roman ruins, take an adventure in water canyons, and then end your trip on the shores of the Red Sea.
What makes Jordan different from many other destinations is the short distances between its main attractions. Traveling from the capital, Amman, to Petra, Wadi Rum, or the Dead Sea doesn’t require long journeys, allowing you to visit several places in just one week.
Best Things to Do in Jordan
Whether you’re planning your first visit to Jordan or returning to explore more, these are the best activities for an unforgettable travel experience.
1- Explore the Ancient City of Petra
When travelers talk about the top things to see in Jordan, Petra invariably tops the list. It is the historic capital of the Nabataeans, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city is distinguished by its facades carved into pink rock, its advanced engineering systems, and the network of passageways that connect temples, tombs, and squares.
2- Visit the Treasury
After crossing the narrow Siq, the Treasury suddenly appears in a scene that is among the most breathtaking in the Middle East. Although it is commonly known as Al-Khazneh, its original function remains a subject of debate among scholars, but its architectural design makes it the most famous rock face in Jordan.
3- Hike to the Monastery
The monastery is one of the largest rock-carved buildings in Petra, and reaching it requires climbing hundreds of stone steps. Despite the effort, the view from the top makes this experience one of the top activities to do in Jordan for hiking and nature lovers.
4- Experience Petra by Night
On certain evenings, Petra transforms into a completely different experience, as thousands of candles are lit along the Siq all the way to the Treasury.
5- Discover Little Petra
Little Petra is an archaeological site located about a 15-minute drive from Petra. It was an important stop for trade caravans traveling from the Arabian Peninsula to the Levant and the Mediterranean. It features narrow rock-cut passageways, chambers carved into the mountains, and halls that were used to receive merchants and travelers. Although smaller than Petra, it offers a chance to explore Nabataean architecture away from the crowds.
6- Float in the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is one of the world’s most famous natural landmarks and the lowest point on Earth. Its highly saline waters offer an exceptional experience, allowing the body to float effortlessly. In addition to the floating sensation, you can enjoy spa treatments and relaxation, as well as use the mineral-rich mud, renowned for its skincare benefits.
7- Experience Wadi Rum Desert
When travelers talk about things to do in Jordan, Wadi Rum comes right after Petra on their list of priorities. This valley is characterized by its giant rock formations, red sand dunes, and tranquil atmosphere. It offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, whether you’re exploring on a 4×4 tour or staying overnight in a Bedouin camp.
8- Take a Jeep Tour
Four-wheel drive tours are the most popular way to explore the valley, passing through:
- Rocky Mountains
- natural arches
- Nabataean inscriptions
- sand dunes
- narrow valleys
9- Ride a Camel
Although jeeps have become the primary mode of transportation, camel riding offers a chance to experience the desert as Bedouins and trade caravans did centuries ago. This experience is best undertaken at sunrise or before sunset when temperatures are more moderate.
10- Sleep in a Bedouin Camp
Staying in a Bedouin camp is not just a place to sleep, but a complete cultural experience. Most camps include:
- Traditional Jordanian dinner
- Sessions around the fire
- Stargazing
- Getting to know Bedouin customs
11- Explore the Roman Ruins of Jerash
If you are a history enthusiast, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. The city boasts a comprehensive network of:
- Column-paved streets
- Public squares
- Roman theaters
- Temples
- Old baths
12- Visit Amman Citadel
Perched atop one of the capital’s highest hills, the Amman Citadel is one of the best places to understand the city’s millennia-long history. The citadel houses the remains of multiple civilizations, including Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad, and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of both old and new Amman.
13- Walk Along Rainbow Street
If you want to experience the trendy side of the capital, Rainbow Street is the perfect place. Lined with cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries, the street comes alive in the evenings as locals and tourists gather. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts.
14- Shop at Amman’s Traditional Souks
One of the best activities to do in Jordan is to explore the popular markets in downtown Amman, where the smell of spices blends with the voices of vendors and the colors of traditional products.
15- Visit Madaba and its Famous Mosaics
Madaba is renowned as a city of mosaics, home to one of the world’s most famous mosaic maps, located within the Church of St. George. This map is a crucial historical source documenting the geography of the Holy Land during the Byzantine era. In addition to the church, the city boasts workshops where artisans continue to practice the art of mosaic making to this day.
16- Enjoy the view from Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo is one of the most important religious and historical sites in Jordan. It boasts panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and the city of Jericho on clear days. It also features a historic church with well-preserved mosaic floors.
17- Explore Ajloun Castle
Nestled amidst verdant hills in northern Jordan, Ajloun Castle is one of the most prominent Islamic fortresses in the region. Its strategic location, once used to monitor trade routes, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and mountains. After visiting the castle, hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the Ajloun Nature Reserve.
18- Go Canyoneering in Wadi Mujib
If you’re looking for Jordan things to do that combine adventure and nature, Wadi Mujib is one of the best options. Located within the Mujib Nature Reserve, this valley is famous for its deep gorges, waterfalls, and flowing waters that have carved through the rocks over hundreds of years.
Canyoneering involves walking through the water, climbing rocks, and crossing small waterfalls using ropes or with the help of guides, making it an enjoyable activity for adventure enthusiasts.
19- Hike in Dana Biosphere Reserve
Dana Biosphere Reserve is the largest nature reserve in Jordan and one of the top destinations for hikers and nature lovers. The reserve boasts diverse terrain, encompassing mountains, valleys, plains, and desert, and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
20- Walk or Bike the Jordan Trail
Jordan Trail stretches for hundreds of kilometers, passing through mountains, valleys, deserts, and historic villages, and is one of the most popular long-distance hiking trails in the Middle East. It’s not necessary to hike the entire trail; shorter sections can be chosen to suit your travel time and fitness level.
21- Relax at Ma’in Hot Springs
Nestled among the mountains near the Dead Sea, Ma’in Hot Springs is renowned for its natural hot springs. Visitors flock there to relax after days of hiking in Petra or Wadi Rum, and the area also boasts resorts offering spa treatments and mineral water therapies.
22- Take a Scenic Road Trip Across Jordan
Taking a road trip through the Kingdom is one of the best things to do in Jordan country. It gives you the opportunity to discover Jordan’s diversity, from historic cities and archaeological sites to desert landscapes and coastlines, all in one itinerary.
23- Taste Authentic Jordanian Food
Jordanian cuisine is renowned for its diversity and reliance on fresh, local ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes to try include mansaf, maqluba, musakhan, falafel, hummus, fattoush, tabbouleh, and knafeh.
24- Take a Jordanian Cooking Class
If you’d like to return with a different experience, consider taking a Jordanian cooking class. Most classes include:
- Identifying local ingredients
- Preparing traditional dishes
- Eating with the group
- Getting acquainted with the customs associated with Jordanian cuisine
25- Relax in Aqaba on the Red Sea
Aqaba is Jordan’s only seaport, boasting warm waters for most of the year, vibrant coral reefs, and Red Sea resorts. If you’re looking to end your trip relaxing after exploring historical and desert sites, Aqaba is the perfect choice.
Things to Do in Jordan with Kids
Some might think Jordan is only suitable for history buffs or adventure seekers, but it’s also an excellent destination for families. Many attractions and activities offer enjoyable experiences for children while maintaining an educational and entertaining aspect:
- Visit Petra and explore the rose-red city in an adventurous way
- Floating in the Dead Sea is an experience that often piques children’s curiosity due to the ease of floating.
- Camel riding in Wadi Rum
- Stargazing in the desert, far from light pollution
- Spend a day on the beaches of Aqaba and enjoy swimming or snorkeling in suitable areas.
- Visiting Amman’s gardens, museums, and public parks
Tips for Families
Traveling with children requires some extra planning to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for the whole family. The following tips will help organize your daily itinerary and avoid exhaustion, especially when visiting archaeological and natural sites in Jordan:
- Start tours in the morning to avoid the summer heat
- Carry enough water and snacks
- Choose hotels or resorts that offer activities for children.
- Don’t set a busy schedule; visiting one or two sites a day is enough for families.
Things to Do in Jordan in December
December is a great time to visit Jordan if you prefer milder weather and want to avoid the summer heat. Here are some of the best places to visit in December:
- Petra, where the weather is suitable for walking.
- Wadi Rum with its cool nights and clear skies for stargazing
- The Dead Sea, which is characterized by more moderate temperatures compared to the north
- Aqaba remains a relatively warm destination during the winter.
Unusual Things to Do in Jordan
Besides the famous landmarks, there are lesser-known experiences that give your trip a different character:
- Visiting rural villages and learning about traditional crafts
- Attending a mosaic-making workshop in Madaba
- Participate in astronomy tours to observe the stars
- Explore the less crowded routes in Petra
- Experience staying in an eco-lodge such as Feynan Eco-Lodge
Best Time to Visit Jordan
Jordan can be visited any time of year, with each season offering different experiences to suit a variety of travelers. However, the best time to visit depends on the activities you plan to do and the destinations you wish to explore. Generally, spring and autumn are ideal for most visitors, as temperatures are mild and perfect for hiking in Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash, and the likelihood of heat exhaustion is lower. If you’re planning a cruise or want to enjoy diving and snorkeling, Aqaba is a suitable destination year-round thanks to its relatively warm climate.
Is Jordan Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Jordan is one of the most stable destinations in the region, welcoming visitors from all over the world year-round. Tourist cities such as Amman, Petra, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum boast excellent tourist services and infrastructure.
Visiting Jordan as a woman is a suitable option for many female travelers, especially considering the importance of respecting local customs and wearing modest clothing when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Meanwhile, tourist destinations and resorts offer a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all nationalities.
Language and Communication Essentials
Arabic is the official language of Jordan, but it’s not a barrier for most visitors, especially in major cities and tourist areas. In places like Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba, many hotel, restaurant, tour operator, and shop staff speak English well, making everyday communication easy for most travelers.
However, when visiting smaller villages or rural areas, English may be less common. Therefore, it can be helpful to learn a few simple Arabic phrases, such as greetings or words of thanks, which will leave a positive impression on locals and show respect for Jordanian culture.
Final Tips Before Traveling to Jordan
To enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free trip, it is helpful to consider some practical tips before traveling to Jordan:
- Book tickets to popular attractions in advance during peak seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes because many of the sites rely on walking.
- Carry sunscreen and a hat, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum.
- Make sure to drink water regularly, especially during the summer.
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites or villages.
- Make time to interact with local people; this is one of the most distinctive aspects of the travel experience in Jordan.
In conclusion, if you are looking for things to do in Jordan or want to create a program that suits your length of stay and interests, planning ahead will help you make the most of your time and choose activities that suit your travel style and budget.
Are you planning a visit to Jordan? Book your trip now and get ready for a comfortable and unique travel experience!
People Also Ask
Is Jordan Friendly to American Tourists?
Yes, Jordan welcomes visitors of all nationalities, including American tourists. The Jordanian people are known for their hospitality and respect for guests.
What Is Worth Seeing in Jordan
The most notable landmarks worth visiting include Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash, Aqaba, Amman Citadel, Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Ajloun Castle.
Is 7 Days Enough in Jordan?
Yes, 7 days is enough to visit the most important tourist destinations if the trip program is well organized, with the possibility of combining historical cities, nature and the sea in one trip.
Is Jordan Good for Tourists?
Yes, Jordan is a suitable destination for most types of travelers, whether they are looking for adventure, history, religious tourism, or relaxation.
What Is Famous in Jordan for Shopping?
Jordan is famous for buying Dead Sea products, spices, olive oil, hand embroidery, mosaics, pottery, silver jewelry, and traditional sweets such as knafeh.
