Jordan offers a relatively conservative nightlife scene compared to some other countries, but you can still find plenty of enjoyable evening activities. Here are the top 10 nightlife activities in Jordan:
- Dine at Rooftop Restaurants: Many restaurants in Jordan, particularly in Amman, offer rooftop dining with beautiful views of the city. Enjoy traditional Jordanian cuisine or international dishes while taking in the cityscape.
- Shisha Lounges: Visit a shisha lounge, also known as a hookah or nargile lounge. It’s a popular pastime in Jordan, where you can relax, smoke flavored tobacco, and enjoy tea or coffee.
- Cafés and Coffee Shops: Jordanians love their coffee, and you’ll find numerous cafés and coffee shops open late into the evening. Sip on Arabic coffee or try a cup of traditional mint tea.
- Live Music: Check out venues that host live music performances, including jazz, traditional Arabic music, and contemporary bands. Some popular spots include Amman’s Rainbow Street.
- Clubs and Bars: While the club scene in Jordan may be more subdued than in some other countries, there are still clubs and bars in Amman where you can enjoy music and dancing. Note that nightlife may be quieter during weekdays.
- Wine Tasting: Jordan has a growing wine industry, and you can visit wineries for wine tastings. Try local Jordanian wines and enjoy the scenic vineyard settings.
- Cultural Performances: Look for cultural performances, such as traditional dances and folk music shows, which often take place in restaurants or dedicated venues.
- Late-Night Shopping: Souks and markets in Jordan, such as Amman’s Souk Jara, often have evening hours, allowing you to shop for souvenirs, crafts, and spices after the sun sets.
- Outdoor Cinema: During the summer months, some places in Jordan host outdoor cinema screenings, allowing you to watch movies under the stars.
- Stargazing: Head to a desert location like Wadi Rum for a unique stargazing experience. The clear desert skies offer excellent visibility for observing stars and celestial bodies.
Please keep in mind that Jordan is a conservative country, and it’s essential to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when participating in nightlife activities. While the nightlife scene may not be as vibrant as in some other countries, there are still plenty of enjoyable ways to spend your evenings and soak in the local culture and atmosphere.
Jordan offers a range of exciting winter activities for travelers seeking adventure and cultural experiences during the colder months. Here are the top winter activities in Jordan:
- Visit Petra: Winter is an excellent time to explore the ancient city of Petra. The cooler temperatures make outdoor exploration more comfortable, and you can enjoy the iconic site without the extreme heat of summer.
- Wadi Rum Jeep Tours: Take a 4×4 jeep tour through the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum. The desert’s unique beauty shines in the winter sun, and you can explore the dunes, canyons, and rock formations.
- Hot Air Ballooning: Experience the stunning desert vistas of Wadi Rum from the sky with a hot air balloon ride. Winter offers clear skies and pleasant weather for this unforgettable adventure.
- Dead Sea Wellness: Winter is an ideal time to visit the Dead Sea. The moderate temperatures allow you to relax by the shoreline, float in the buoyant waters, and enjoy therapeutic mud treatments.
- Dana Biosphere Reserve: Explore the Dana Biosphere Reserve’s diverse ecosystems, including canyons, mountains, and wildlife. Winter offers comfortable hiking conditions and bird-watching opportunities.
- Amman’s Cultural Attractions: Spend time in Amman exploring its museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Winter’s mild weather makes city exploration enjoyable.
- Jerash Ruins: Visit the well-preserved Roman ruins of Jerash. Exploring the ancient city is more comfortable in the cooler winter months.
- Winter Hiking: Discover Jordan’s picturesque hiking trails, such as the Jordan Trail or those in the Ajloun Forest Reserve. The crisp winter air and lush landscapes make hiking enjoyable.
- Skiing in Mount Hermon: For winter sports enthusiasts, consider a day trip to Mount Hermon in neighboring Israel, where you can go skiing and snowboarding.
- Cultural Experiences: Winter is an excellent time to immerse yourself in Jordan’s culture. Attend local festivals, visit traditional markets, and enjoy Jordanian cuisine by the warmth of a fireplace.
- Star Gazing: Jordan’s clear winter skies are perfect for stargazing. Head to a desert location like Wadi Rum for an unforgettable celestial experience.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes through cooking classes offered in Amman and other cities. It’s a great way to warm up and savor the local flavors.
Jordan’s winter season, which runs from November to February, offers a pleasant escape from the heat of summer, allowing travelers to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage comfortably. Whether you’re interested in adventure, history, or relaxation, Jordan has something to offer during the winter months.
Summer in Jordan can be hot, but it’s also a great time to explore the country’s outdoor attractions and enjoy a range of activities. Here are the top summer activities in Jordan:
- Visit the Dead Sea: The Dead Sea is a popular summer destination. Float in the salt-rich waters, relax on the shores, and apply therapeutic mud to your skin. The hot climate makes the cool waters even more inviting.
- Explore Petra: While the summer heat can be intense, you can make the most of your visit to Petra by going early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Wadi Rum Adventures: Explore the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Summer is an excellent time for camel trekking, jeep tours, and camping under the starry desert skies.
- Red Sea Snorkeling and Diving: Enjoy the Red Sea’s warm waters by snorkeling or diving in Aqaba. The underwater world is teeming with marine life and colorful coral reefs.
- Mountaineering in the Jordanian Highlands: If you’re looking for cooler temperatures, head to the Jordanian Highlands. You can hike or climb in places like Dana Biosphere Reserve, Ajloun Forest Reserve, and the Mujib Nature Reserve.
- Outdoor Adventures: Jordan offers numerous outdoor activities in its nature reserves, such as hiking, canyoning, and rock climbing. The summer months provide more extended daylight hours for outdoor adventures.
- Amman Exploration: Visit Amman’s cultural and historical sites, such as the Amman Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the King Abdullah I Mosque. Due to the city’s elevation, it’s cooler than some other parts of Jordan.
- Nightlife in Amman: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Amman, with restaurants, cafes, and bars staying open late. It’s an opportunity to experience local culture and socialize.
- Camping: Camping is a popular summer activity in Jordan. You can camp in the desert, near the Dead Sea, or in nature reserves. Make sure to bring suitable gear and plenty of water.
- Stargazing: Summer nights in Jordan offer excellent conditions for stargazing. Consider joining an organized stargazing tour in Wadi Rum or another remote location to marvel at the night sky.
- Visit Jerash: Explore the Roman ruins of Jerash early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Festivals and Events: Check the local calendar for summer festivals and events, which may include cultural celebrations, music festivals, and food fairs.
While Jordan’s summers can be hot, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your visit. By planning your activities wisely and staying hydrated, you can enjoy the country’s unique landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences during the summer season.
The desert castles of Jordan are a series of historic and architectural wonders located in the eastern desert regions of the country. These castles, palaces, and fortresses date back to various periods of Jordan’s history and offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Here are some of the notable desert castles in Jordan:
- Qasr Amra: Qasr Amra is one of the most famous desert castles in Jordan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the Umayyad period in the early 8th century, it served as a hunting lodge and a bathhouse. What makes it truly remarkable are the well-preserved frescoes that adorn its interior, depicting scenes of hunting, music, and daily life.
- Qasr Kharana: Qasr Kharana is a large and imposing desert castle believed to have been constructed during the Umayyad period as well. While its exact purpose remains a subject of debate, it is thought to have served as a caravanserai or a meeting place for travelers along ancient trade routes.
- Qasr Azraq: Located in the town of Azraq, this fortress has a rich history dating back to Roman times. It became famous during the early 20th century when T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) used it as his military base during the Arab Revolt. The castle is known for its black basalt architecture and is surrounded by a unique oasis.
- Qasr Mushatta: Qasr Mushatta is another Umayyad-era palace known for its intricate architectural details and decorative motifs, including a remarkable carved stucco façade. Although the palace is not complete, it provides insights into the artistic achievements of the Umayyad period.
- Qasr Hallabat: This Umayyad desert castle is known for its well-preserved mosaics and impressive architectural design. It was likely used for agricultural and administrative purposes.
- Qasr Tuba: Located near the town of Tuba in the northeastern desert, this small desert castle features a square design with corner towers. It’s thought to have served as a caravanserai or a guard post.
- Qasr al-Azraq (Azraq Castle): Azraq Castle is a well-preserved fortress with a history dating back to Roman times. It later served as a key military outpost during various periods, including the Arab Revolt.
These desert castles offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and architecture of Jordan. While some have been heavily restored, others retain their ancient character and provide a sense of the country’s historical heritage. Visiting the desert castles is a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts and travelers interested in Jordan’s cultural and architectural legacy.
