Jordan is a country located in the Middle East, bordering Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. It’s a beautiful and diverse country, with a rich history and culture. The capital city of Amman, and most of the country, is situated in the north of the country. The southern part of the country is dominated by the Dead Sea, which is known for its natural beauty, hot springs, mineral wealth and tourism.
There are many other places to visit in Jordan. Here are a few of our favorite spots:
1. Petra is one of the most popular places to visit in Jordan, and it’s easy to see why. The ancient Nabatean city of Petra was founded in 312 BC, and is situated on the edge of the Red Sea. The ancient city of Petra is made up of several different buildings, including the Treasury, the Royal Tombs, the Treasury Annex and the Monastery. Many people visit Petra because of the breathtaking views and the architecture. It is also famous for its rock-carved fountains and temples, which were carved out of solid rock. You can also visit the Treasury, where you will find some of the best preserved ruins in the world. The Treasury of King Nebuchadnezzar contains beautiful wall paintings and statues from the Neo-Assyrian period.
Petra, Jordan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic archaeological wonders in the world. It offers a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. Here are 30 activities to do in Petra:
Exploring Petra’s Main Attractions:
- Visit the Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Petra’s most famous site and a stunning example of rock-cut architecture.
- Explore the Siq: Walk through the narrow canyon that leads to Petra’s main entrance, experiencing its dramatic beauty.
- Admire the Monastery (Ad-Deir): Hike to this monumental rock-cut structure, similar in design to the Treasury but larger and less crowded.
- Discover the Royal Tombs: Explore the intricately carved tombs, including the Urn Tomb and the Palace Tomb.
- Visit the Roman Theater: See the well-preserved theater, which could accommodate around 6,000 spectators.
- Explore the High Place of Sacrifice: Hike up to this ceremonial platform for panoramic views of Petra.
Hiking and Trekking:
- Al-Khubtha Trail: Hike up this steep trail for a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Treasury.
- Petra to Little Petra Trek: Embark on a scenic trek from Petra to the lesser-visited Little Petra.
- Wadi Al-Mudhlim Canyon: Explore this beautiful canyon on a hike that reveals unique rock formations.
- Al-Mahfur Sinkhole Trail: Hike to a large, collapsed underground chamber known as a sinkhole.
Cave Exploration:
- The Cave Bar: Have a drink in a unique cave bar in Petra.
- Obelisk Tomb Cave: Venture into one of the many cave tombs in Petra for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Photography:
- Capture the iconic Treasury at sunrise when it’s bathed in soft morning light.
- Explore Petra at night when it’s illuminated by candlelight, creating a magical atmosphere.
Cultural Experiences:
- Petra Archaeological Museum: Learn about the history and archaeology of Petra at this museum.
- Attend a Petra by Night event, featuring traditional music and storytelling.
Local Interactions:
- Engage with local Bedouin communities and learn about their way of life.
Shopping:
- Explore the local markets in Petra and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dining:
- Savor traditional Jordanian cuisine at local restaurants and eateries in Petra.
Guided Tours:
- Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide to provide historical and cultural insights.
Conservation:
- Learn about conservation efforts at the Petra National Trust Visitor Center.
Horseback and Camel Rides:
- Take a horse-drawn carriage or camel ride to explore Petra, especially if you have limited mobility.
Religious Sites:
- Visit the Great Temple to see the excavated remains of a grand temple complex.
- Explore the Church of Petra, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.
Nature Exploration:
- Enjoy the natural beauty of Petra’s surroundings, including the mountains and rock formations.
Educational Experiences:
- Attend lectures and workshops on the history and archaeology of Petra.
Relaxation:
- Find peaceful spots to relax and take in the ambiance of this ancient city.
Stargazing:
- Stay overnight in Petra and take the opportunity for stargazing in the desert sky.
Adventure Activities:
- Go on a guided canyoning adventure in the nearby canyons.
- Consider embarking on a multi-day trek along the Jordan Trail, which includes a section through Petra.
These activities offer a rich and immersive experience of Petra, allowing you to appreciate its history, culture, and natural beauty.
2. Jerash is a beautiful Roman city located about an hour outside Amman.
At the beginning of the Christian era, it was the capital of the Roman province of Arabia. The city is now home to a large number of Roman ruins. The Ancient City was home to many temples, including the Temple of Bacchus, the Temple of Diana, the Theatre, the Basilica, the Basilica and the Temple of Alexander. The ruins of the Ancient City are easy to access and provide great views of the surrounding area. You can also just wander around the ancient streets and take it all in.
3. Wadi Rum is a magical place in Jordan, carved over thousands of years by wind and rain. This desert is rich in nature and history, and is a beautiful place to explore. The landscape is full of hills and caves, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the many wild animals that call the desert home. The location has been home to Bedouin tribes since 8000 BC, and today it is a major tourist attraction.
4. The Roman Ruins of Jerash. Jerash is another beautiful Roman city in Jordan, located about an hour outside Amman. The Ancient City was founded in 72 AD, and is made up of many of the ruins of the Roman city of Apamea.
The Ancient City was declared a Roman Catholic titular see in
5. Karak is known for its beautiful landscape, ancient cities and wildlife. The ancient Nabatean city of Karak is situated on the edge of the desert, and is one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination that is rich in history and culture. The Nabateans were known as brilliant artisans, and their legacy can be seen today in the many archaeological sites that are located throughout the city. The city has many historic buildings from the Roman, Byzantine and Islamic periods, including the Citadel of Karak, the Great Mosque of Karak, the Old Church of St. George and the Mausoleum of Makedonius.
6. Dana Biosphere Reserve is a remarkable natural and cultural heritage site located in southern Jordan. It is Jordan’s largest nature reserve, covering an area of approximately 320 square kilometers (123 square miles). Dana Biosphere Reserve is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance. Here are some key features and information about Dana Biosphere Reserve:
- Diverse Landscapes: Dana Reserve encompasses a wide range of landscapes, including rugged mountains, deep canyons, plateaus, and desert terrain. The reserve’s elevation ranges from 50 meters below sea level to 1,500 meters above sea level.
- Biodiversity: The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 800 plant species, 215 bird species, and numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is considered one of the most important bird-watching sites in Jordan.
- Unique Flora: Dana is particularly renowned for its unique and rare plant species, some of which are endemic to the region. The diverse habitats support a variety of plant life, including medicinal herbs and aromatic shrubs.
- Cultural Significance: The area has a long history of human habitation, dating back thousands of years. You can find evidence of ancient civilizations and archaeological sites within the reserve, including Neolithic villages and Bronze Age tombs.
- Local Communities: Several local Bedouin communities reside within and around the reserve, maintaining traditional lifestyles and cultural practices. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with these communities and learn about their way of life.
- Hiking and Trekking: Dana Biosphere Reserve offers a network of well-marked hiking trails that cater to various fitness levels. Popular hikes include the Dana to Petra trek, which takes several days and offers stunning scenery along the way.
- Dana Village: The charming village of Dana, perched on the edge of the reserve, offers accommodations and serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the reserve. Staying in the village allows for an immersive cultural experience.
- Ranger-Guided Tours: The reserve offers ranger-guided tours and activities, including nature walks, birdwatching tours, and stargazing experiences.
- Conservation Efforts: Dana Biosphere Reserve is dedicated to the conservation of its unique ecosystems and wildlife. Conservation initiatives include efforts to protect endangered species and preserve the area’s cultural heritage.
- Sustainable Tourism: The reserve promotes responsible and sustainable tourism practices to minimize the environmental impact and support local communities.
Visiting Dana Biosphere Reserve provides a chance to experience Jordan’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and conservation efforts in a unique and meaningful way. It’s an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, birdwatchers, and those interested in cultural encounters.
7. The Jordan River. Jordan is known as the “River of the Two Borders”. The name itself sounds beautiful, and it’s a great place to explore. The river flows through the country from east to west, and there are many ancient sites along the banks of the river. The river has natural springs, and the flow of water is affected by the rains and the snow melting in the mountains. The river water is very salty, and the shores are covered in salt.
8. The Nabatean Temples. The Nabateans were a group of people that lived in the desert, and they were known for their beautiful architecture. Many of the temples that have been discovered are in Jordan, and they can be seen in the pictures of this video.
