Looking for the best things to do in Jordan (country)? Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or relaxation, the safest country of the Middle East has something to offer.
This guide highlights top activities and must-see attractions, from the breathtaking Petra to the red sand cliffs of Wadi Rum. Discover what makes Jordan a unique and unforgettable destination.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the breathtaking ancient city of Petra, including its iconic Treasury, and experience the magical Petra by Night.
- Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and indulge in therapeutic mud for a unique wellness experience.
- Experience Bedouin hospitality in Wadi Rum, savour traditional cuisine and watch the Milky Way in the desert sky.
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- Key Takeaways
- Book Your Tours in Advance and Save Money.
- 5 Essential Travel Tips for Your Jordan Tour
- The 22 Best Things to Do in Jordan – In No Specific Order
- Discover Petra: The Ancient City
- Hike to the Petra Monastery
- Experience Petra by Night
- Float in the Dead Sea
- Explore Wadi Rum Desert on the Back of a Jeep
- Go Stargazing in Wadi Rum
- Visit the Roman Ruins of Jerash
- Relax at Ma’in Hot Springs
- Discover the Mosaics of Madaba
- Hike the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib
- Experience Bedouin Culture in Wadi Rum Camps
- Drive the King’s Highway
- Visit Mount Nebo
- Dive into the Red Sea in Aqaba
- Explore Amman’s Citadel
- Wander through Rainbow Street
- Visit the Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ
- Sample Traditional Jordanian Foods
- Visit Ajloun Castle
- Camel Riding in Wadi Rum
- Go Shopping on Amman’s Friday Market
- Hike the Wadi Rum Trail
- Summary
- FAQs
5 Essential Travel Tips for Your Jordan Tour
If you visit Jordan for the first time, here a five essential travel tips that you should know when preparing for your Jordan tour:
- Buy the Jordan Pass: If you are staying in Jordan for three days or more, buy the Jordan Pass. This tourist pass includes visa fees, entrance fees to Petra and Wadi Rum and much more. For more details and pricing information, visit our dedicated guide on the Jordan Pass.
- Plan Your Jordan itinerary: There is SO much to see in Jordan. In Petra alone, you could wander around for three days and still have things to see. So make sure to set priorities and create a Jordan itinerary for your trip. In this guide, we lined out a possible route for a 7-day trip.
- Make bookings in advance: Most touristic activities and hotels in Jordan are considerably cheaper when you book them online in advance. So make sure to have everything lined up beforehand to avoid the hassle of negotiating on the spot.
- Save by getting travel packages: Booking experiences as packages will save you big bucks. For example, you can save money on transfers, food and accommodation by booking a Wadi Rum Jeep Tour that has all the above included already.
- Be prepared for the weather: Check our guide on the weather in Wadi Rum to pack the right items of clothing. When travelling to the Jordanian desert, you need to be prepared for relentless sun and heat, but also wind and chilly nights. Make sure to pack layers as well as sunglasses and a hat – or a keffiyeh.
The 22 Best Things to Do in Jordan – In No Specific Order
From our experience travelling in Jordan, these are the 22 places and activities you should not miss out on. Of course, you don’t have to do every single one, but make sure to leave some room on your itinerary for the last one! Let’s dive right in:
Discover Petra: The Ancient City
A visit to Jordan would be incomplete without exploring Petra, the ancient city often. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of history and culture, boasting impressive rock-cut structures, tombs, and temples and a monastery.
While the iconic Treasury often steals the spotlight, Petra has much more to offer. Wandering through Petra, you’ll encounter the royal tombs and hilltop temples that tell tales of the so-called Nabateans.
The Nabateans were a semi-nomadic civilisation that left traces all around the Middle East and even interacted with the Romans for some time. This is wyyh you will even find a Roman theater and mausoleum in Petra.
Definitely take at least a full day to explore Petra because the compound is HUGE. Also, remember that the entrance fees to the ruins of Petra are covered by the Jordan Pass. For accommodation, have a look around the town of Wadi Musa that is the modern-day settlement next to Petra.
Hike to the Petra Monastery
For those with a spirit of adventure, the hike to the Petra Monastery, also known as Al-Deir, is a must. This trek, approximately 12.6 kilometers long, typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Starting from the Petra Visitor Center, this hike takes you all the way through the archeological compound, through a rugged mountain trail and onto the plateau of the Monastery.
As the amount of other tourists starts to dwindled and you start questioning if you’ll ever arrive, you’ll finally reach the Monastery. The Monastery itself is a marvel, with its towering cliffs and impressive architecture and the journey is equally rewarding as the destination.
Just make sure to bring enough water and some energising snacks for the hike. Also, protect your skin from the desert sun by applying sun screen, wear a hat and use sun glasses.
Experience Petra by Night
Imagine walking through the narrow Siq, the path illuminated by the soft glow of candles, leading you to the Treasury, which is bathed in a gentle, enchanting light. This is Petra by Night. The Petra by Night experience includes a guided walk through the Siq and the sight of the majestic facade illuminated by hundreds of candles.
Petra by Night is a truly unique experience and definitely worth it, if you are looking for a unique experience and a cool photo opportunity. Please note that the Petra by Night experience is not included in the regular Petra entrance ticket.
Float in the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea, situated at 423 metres or 1,388 feet below sea level, holds the title of the Earth’s lowest point on earth. It is renowned for its mineral-rich waters and healing properties, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. Thanks to its high salt concentration, the Dead Sea allows you to effortlessly float on the surface, making for a fun experience and a cool photo opportunity.
Before taking the plunge, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. It’s recommended to avoid shaving a few days before your visit to prevent skin irritation from the saline water. Refrain from entering the water with open cuts or rashes, as the high salt content can cause discomfort. Avoid dunking your face to prevent irritation from the strong salt concentration.
We recommend visiting a resort with a day pass or coming to a public beach. Just remember to bring your own water to rinse the salt off your body after the swim.
Explore Wadi Rum Desert on the Back of a Jeep
Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley located in southern Jordan. It has been inhabited by Bedouins for over 12,000 years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, featuring towering cliffs, vast sand dunes, and striking natural formations. To us, it is not only a must-visit, but the best place to visit when you come to Jordan.
Visitors to Wadi Rum can engage in a variety of activities, from camel riding and hiking to thrilling 4×4 tours that take you deep into the heart of the desert. If you are short on time, we recommend hopping on a jeep tour that gives you the best impression of the Wadi Rum desert.
Whether you’re looking for a quick two-hour excursion or a multi-day adventure, there is something for everyone. These tours take you to some of thee most stunning sights of the desert such as natural stone arches, canyons and including iconic film locations that have featured in movies like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Martian”.
The flexibility in tour durations allows you to tailor your experience. You can also request specific attractions to be added to the mix. One thing is for sure. At Wadi Tribe, every tour includes an English-speaking guide, plenty of water for participants and a snack.
The thrill of riding through the desert in a 4×4, with the wind in your hair and the vast expanse of sand stretching out before you, is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Go Stargazing in Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum’s high altitude and minimal light pollution make it one of the best locations in the world for stargazing. The dry climate and clear skies provide optimal conditions for viewing celestial bodies, particularly during the winter months from November to March.
As you gaze up at the night sky, you’ll see prominent constellations such as Orion, Taurus, and Ursa Major along with the Milky Way. The experience of lying on the cool desert sand, surrounded by the silence of the night and the brilliance of the stars, is truly awe-inspiring. It’s a serene and magical way to connect with nature and the universe and maybe the best thing we did in Jordan.
When picking a place for stargazing in Wadi Rum, try to go for a smaller Bedouin camp in the heart of the desert. This minimises light pollution from the camps and provides a quieter atmosphere. We stayed at Desert Guide Camp and had great view of the stars.
Visit the Roman Ruins of Jerash
Jerash, one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture outside of Italy, is a testament to the grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire. This historic site, which was home to around 20,000 people at its peaking featured colonnaded streets, a roman theater, public baths and temples.
These structures have been meticulously excavated since 1925. Walking through Jerash, you can see tons of ancient Roman ruins and imagine the bustling city it once was. You can reach Jerash within just one hour from the Jordanian capital city of Amman.
Relax at Ma’in Hot Springs
Nestled in a serene setting surrounded by lush palm trees and dramatic travertine cliffs, Ma’in Hot Springs is a haven of relaxation and wellness. Located just 45 kilometers from Amman, this popular destination is easily accessible for day trips.
The mineral-rich waters of the hot springs, with temperatures ranging from 140 to 180°F (60 to 82°C), are known for their therapeutic properties, making them a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The hot springs feature multiple waterfalls and pools designated for different groups, including public, families, and ladies, ensuring a tailored and tranquil experience for everyone.
Discover the Mosaics of Madaba
Madaba, often referred to as the ‘City of Mosaics,’ is home to an extensive collection of ancient mosaics from the Byzantine and Umayyad periods. The most famous of these is the Madaba Mosaic Map, dating back to the 6th century, which is the oldest surviving representation of Byzantine Jerusalem.
The Church of the Apostles, dating to 578 CE, is another notable site in Madaba, featuring mosaics of mythological sea creatures signed by the mosaic artist Salamanios. You can see many of these masterpieces at St George’s Church and other locations throughout the city.
Hike the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib
As you continue to explore Jordan, it’ time to get active. Wadi Mujib, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Jordan, offers an exhilarating hiking experience through the Siq Trail.
The trail operates seasonally from April 31 to October 31, allowing visitors to explore this stunning natural wonder during optimal weather conditions. The total distance of the Siq Trail is approximately 3 kilometers, or about 1.8 miles round trip, and the hike typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours.
The thrill of this hike, combined with the breathtaking scenery of towering cliffs and slot canyon, makes it a must-do activity for adventure seekers visiting the Jordan Valley. Along with Mount Neto and Wadi Rum, Wadi Mujib is one of Jordan’s best hiking destinations.
Experience Bedouin Culture in Wadi Rum Camps
Staying in a traditional Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum offers an immersive cultural experience that transports you back in time. Bedouins have developed a unique nomadic lifestyle over millennia of surviving in the harsh desert environment of Arabia.
Today, Bedouins increasingly offer touristic experiences, such as staying in Bedouin-style tents, to educate others about their culture.
Bedouin camps provide various levels of comfort, from luxury tents to dormitory-style accommodations, catering to different preferences and budgets. The Bedouin hospitality is evident in the communal meals enjoyed in shared tents, where guests can savor traditional dishes like zarb, an underground-cooked feast of meat and vegetables.
Wadi Tribe’s partners focus on creating authentic and real experience of Bedouin culture in the heart of the Wadi Rum desert.
Staying in a Bedouin camp, you’ll get the opportunity to learn about Bedouin culture and traditions. Guests can enjoy traditional Jordanian foods, participate in cultural activities, and engage with the hospitable locals who share their stories and way of life.
Drive the King’s Highway
The King’s Highway runs along an ancient trade route that once connected Syria to the Gulf of Aqaba. By many it is described to be one of the most scenic drives in Jordan. The drive along the King’s Highway from North to South takes approximately 6 hours to cover its length, providing ample time to explore the various tourist attractions and historic sites along the way.
One of the notable stops along the King’s Highway is Kerak Castle, an imposing crusader castle and a remarkable example of medieval architecture and history. We recommend going along Route 35 to make the most of the views along the way. Don’t wanna drive yourself? Book a transfer along parts of the King’s Highway to enjoy the views of Jordan to the fullest.
Visit Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo is believed to be the site where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death and therefore draws lots of religious tourism. From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan River Valley, the Dead Sea, and the Palestinian Territories like Jericho (Ariha), Bethlehem (Beyt Lahm), and Jerusalem (Al-Quds), making it a vantage point of immense historical and spiritual value.
Visiting Mount Nebo not only offers a profound connection to the Holy Land’s history and a chance to reflect on its significance in religious traditions, but also one of the best hikes of the country. The Siyagha Loop of Mount Neto is about 2 kilometres or 1.2 miles long and takes about one hour to complete. While it is not very challenging, this hike is especially adorned for it stunning views.
Dive into the Red Sea in Aqaba
Aqaba, located in southern Jordan, is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, WWII shipwrecks, and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Aqaba is Jordan’s only sea access, giving it a Red Sea coast line of some 27 kilometres. One of the most popular dive sites is the Cedar Pride wreck, offering a unique underwater exploration experience.
For those seeking a different perspective, night dives in Aqaba reveal a whole new marine ecosystem, allowing divers to observe nocturnal species and their behaviors. The combination of historical wrecks, colorful reefs, and the thrill of night diving makes Aqaba an exciting adventure for underwater explorers.
Explore Amman’s Citadel
Located on Jebel Al Qala’a, Amman’s Citadel stands 850 metres above sea level and offers sweeping views of the old city of Amman below. The citadel is home to significant archaeological sites, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace, each showcasing the rich history and architectural prowess of the region.
The Temple of Hercules features remnants of Roman architecture, including a famous hand believed to belong to a statue of Hercules. The Umayyad Palace, dating from the 7th to 8th centuries, is the best-preserved structure within the citadel complex. To add more context to your observations, we highly recommend visiting the Jordan museum in Amman which gives a great overview over
Wander through Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street, also known as Abu Bakr Al Siddiq Street, is a vibrant area in Amman that offers a lively blend of cafés, boutiques, and galleries. This area perched on one of Amman’s many steep hills, is a modern cultural center of the diverse country.
The street has lots of modern restaurants, bars and night clubs as well as cafés, bookshop, souvenir stores and vintage clothing shops.
Some of our favourites along Rainbow Street are ‘The Good Bookshop’ and ‘Authentage’. While ‘The Good Bookshop’ offers a unique blend of coffee culture and literature, ‘Authentage’ is a large vintage store with fashion finds in every other nook and cranny.
Visit the Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ
The baptism site of Jesus Christ, known as Bethany Beyond the Jordan, is a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world. Recognised as the site where Jesus was baptised, it holds immense historical and spiritual importance, making it a critical part of the Holy Land. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015, further cementing its status as a must-visit historic site.
Visiting the baptismal site requires a tour, which offers a comprehensive understanding of its significance and history. We recommend booking the tour of Bethany Beyond the Jordan along with your Jordan Pass as you will be given a considerable discount of 33 %.
Sample Traditional Jordanian Foods
Jordan’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Mansaf, considered the national dish, features rice, lamb, and jameed, a fermented goat milk yogurt, creating a savory and satisfying meal. Falafel, made from ground chickpeas and spices, is known for its light and fluffy texture, making it a popular street food.
Other notable dishes include kanafeh, a sweet pastry with cheese and semolina drenched in syrup, and warak enab, grape leaves stuffed with rice and meat. If you are keen on trying kanafeh, make sure to head to Habibah Sweets in Amman, a local legend for it Nabulsi kanafeh.
Visit Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle, constructed in the late 12th century by a general of Saladin, was built to defend against Crusader attacks. The castle’s elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, providing a strategic advantage and a picturesque setting.
Despite damage from earthquakes over the years, renovation efforts have preserved the castle, allowing visitors to explore its historical significance. The best time to visit Ajloun Castle is during spring or autumn when the weather is milder and more pleasant for exploration.
Camel Riding in Wadi Rum
While in Wadi Rum, you can use one of your mild mornings in the desert to embark on a camel ride. Camels and nomads have co-existed in the Jordanian desert for centuries. Because of their durability, camels were used extensively in caravan trade.
To Bedouins specifically, camels are of immense value. Bedouins nurture camels in the Wadi Rum desert, drink their milk, use them for transport, race them and occasionally eat their meat. Recently, camels have become more of a tourist attraction in the wider Middle East.
But while you will see significant sings of mistreatments on camels at the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza, the camels of Wadi Rum enjoy good care, ample rest times and plenty of food. This is mainly because beyond its use, a camel is considered a status symbol in Wadi Rum. Mistreatment would results in severe punishment by the community. To learn more about ethical camel riding, read our full article on the topic.
Go Shopping on Amman’s Friday Market
If you are looking for a break from all the heavy food, history and culture, you should make some time to visit the Friday Market in Amman. Located in the First Circle of Amman, this market takes place every Friday from the morning til the evening.
The Friday Market has become a paradise for vintage shoppers and Jordanian locals alike. With just a handful of JDs, you can find anything from vintage clothing, leather belt and branded shoes to Jordanian antiquities, food and even live animals. We recommend arriving early to get the best deals before everyone else.
Hike the Wadi Rum Trail
We’ve had plenty of hiking recommendations already: the Siq Trail at Wadi Mujib and the Siyagha Loop. But little did you know, we saved the best for last.
The Wadi Rum Trail is the newest long-distance hiking trail of the Middle East and takes a whooping ten days to complete. With a total length of a bit more than 120 kilometres it is also one of the longer hikes you can squeeze into your itinerary when you visit Jordan.
Unlike other long-distance hiking trails, the Wadi Rum Trail is not suitable for solo hikers. Covering large patches of uninhabited desert and unmarked paths, this hike is organised and executed with the help of the Bedouins of the local community. Taking you around Wadi Rum in a full loop, this route takes you to places only a handful of tourists have ever seen.
If you like the idea of hiking in Wadi Rum, but do not have another ten days to spare on your Jordan trip, we recommend you take one of the shorter day hikes in Wadi Rum. The hikes of Burdah Rock Bridge, Jabal Al Hash and Jabal Um Adami, the highest peak of Jordan, all offer great daily challenges with rewarding views of the desert. For hiking tour bookings, check out the packages of Wadi Tribe.
Summary
From the ancient ruins of Petra and Jerash to the natural wonders of the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, each destination in Jordan provides a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage.
Whether you’re hiking the Siq Trail, exploring Bedouin culture, sampling traditional Jordanian foods, or hunting vintage clothing, your journey through Jordan will be filled with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover all that Jordan has to offer.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Petra?
The best time to visit Petra is during the spring and autumn months, making your experience enjoyable with mild and comfortable weather perfect for exploring this magnificent site. You’ll appreciate the beauty of Petra even more in these ideal conditions!
Can you swim in the Dead Sea?
Yes, you can float in the Dead Sea due to its high salt concentration, making for a uniquely enjoyable experience! It’s a must-try adventure!
Are there any entry fees for visiting Wadi Rum?
Yes, there is an entry fee for Wadi Rum, but if you book the Jordan Pass the entry fee is covered by it. Otherwise, your entry fee to Wadi Rum will cost you 5 JDs per person.
Is it safe to hike the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib?
Absolutely, hiking the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib is safe and can be an incredible experience! Just remember to wear a life jacket and closed-toe water shoes for a comfortable and secure adventure.
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