Things to Do in Jordan: A Simple Guide

Discover Jordan’s best experiences, from the stunning deserts of Wadi Rum and ancient city of Petra to floating in the Dead Sea. Jordan’s unique mix of natural beauty and history offers something for everyone—whether it’s exploring Jerash’s Roman ruins, hiking Dana Biosphere Reserve, or strolling vibrant Amman.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing. Summer is hot, and winter can bring heavy rain, especially in desert areas.

Top Activities:

  • Amman Walking Tours: Exploring Amman on foot offers a captivating journey through history.

Free walking tours guide visitors through the Old Town’s Roman ruins, including the Citadel with landmarks like the Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace, along with the Roman Theater. Strolling Rainbow Street reveals colorful shops, street art, and local cuisine. These tours are free, but tipping guides is appreciated.

  • Dead Sea Float: Enjoy a natural spa at the lowest point on earth.

For a uniquely fun experience in Jordan, head to the Dead Sea, where you can enjoy a natural spa treatment by floating in its salty waters and applying mineral-rich mud. Located 430 meters below sea level in the Jordan Rift Valley, the Dead Sea’s high salinity ensures effortless floating, while its minerals provide therapeutic benefits. Easily accessible from Amman, it’s ideal for a day trip or an indulgent overnight stay at a resort. For safety, avoid getting the salty water in your eyes and on open wounds.

  • Jerash’s Roman Ruins: Wander through ancient temples, theaters, and arches.

Explore Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities, where you’ll find ancient gates, temples, theatres, and a vast oval forum. Highlights include Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome for chariot races, and the Temple of Artemis. The site also showcases Christian relics, like early churches, among its Roman marvels. Jerash is reachable as a day trip from Amman, and it’s best to start early to avoid midday heat. This journey offers a vivid experience of Jordan’s rich, layered history.

  • Dana Reserve Hikes: Spot diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve, offers diverse landscapes including sandstone cliffs, valleys, and desert. It’s rich in wildlife, with over 600 plant species, 45 mammals, and 180 birds. Hikers favor the 16-km Wadi Dana Trail, leading from Dana Village to Feynan Eco Lodge, where you may spot endangered species. Experienced hikers can explore longer trails, such as the 27-km Wadi Ghuweir Trail through scenic gorges, or take guided hikes to Petra. Spring and autumn provide ideal conditions for hiking, with wildflowers or fall colors enhancing the experience.

  • Wadi Mujib Adventures: Trek through canyons and waterfalls.

Jordan offers a paradise for adventure lovers, with trails across dramatic landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and bio reserves dotted with castles and canyons. The thrilling 8-km Wadi Mujib Canyon Trail, often called the “Grand Canyon of Jordan,” takes trekkers through rocky gorges, river crossings, and waterfalls. Other adventurous routes include Wadi Zarqa Ma’in, Wadi Numeria Siq, and Wadi Al Hasa, while longer trails like Dana to Petra or Petra to Wadi Rum offer unforgettable multi-day experiences for seasoned hikers.

  • Aqaba Red Sea Snorkeling: Explore coral reefs and underwater wonders.

In Aqaba, a family-friendly Red Sea adventure awaits with glass-bottom boat rides that reveal colorful marine life and coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving offer more immersive exploration, including shipwreck sites and over 450 species of fish. Aqaba Marine Park, with its 7-kilometer protected coastline, allows for relaxation on sandy beaches or diving at its 18 sites, home to turtles, stingrays, and vibrant fish shoals. Nearby beach resorts also offer various water sports, creating a versatile and engaging experience for all ages.

Consider hotels in Amman, Dead Sea resorts, or eco-lodges in Dana and Feynan.

  • Wadi Rum Camping: Spend a night in a traditional Bedouin tent and gaze at the stars.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Wadi Rum, or the Valley of the Moon, where red sandstone cliffs and sweeping canyons create a surreal desert backdrop. Visitors can experience Bedouin culture by staying in traditional tents, enjoy stargazing under vast desert skies, or try glamping in luxury bubble tents. Adventurers can hike through ancient canyons, go on thrilling desert safaris, and explore historic cave paintings that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich prehistoric heritage. Wadi Rum’s unique landscape promises a truly unforgettable experience.

  • Petra at Night: Walk the Siq to see Petra’s Treasury lit by candles.

When you think of Jordan, the iconic image of Petra often comes to mind – a 2000-year-old ancient capital of the Nabateans hewn out of sandstone, filled with mysteries and secrets. The dramatic scenery of this Rose City, built into the rocky outcrop, with its unique fissures and formations, evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Trek through the Siq to see the Treasury, hike to the Monastery, admire the Royal Tombs and theatres, explore temples and the High Places of Sacrifice, the city’s crevice-hidden chambers, collonaded streets, and dark caves to get lost in the ethereal charm of Petra.

While Petra demands more than just a day’s visit and merits several days of exploration, experiencing the once-lost city illuminated by thousands of candles at night, casting an enchanting glow through the glowing fissures of the Siq, offers a surreal and magical encounter.

Exploring Jordan in Winter: Castle Hopping in the Desert

Winter is the perfect time to explore Jordan’s ancient castles, where you can experience history amidst the desert’s cool temperatures. A day trip from Amman to the Umayyad Desert Castles is a must, with highlights like Qasr al-Kharaneh, Qasr al-Azraq, and the UNESCO-listed Qasyr Amra. These castles offer a fascinating glimpse into art, architecture, and ancient frescoes.

For a taste of medieval history, don’t miss Kerak Castle. Built in the 12th century, this Crusader fortress offers breathtaking views of the Mer Morte et Wadi Mujib Valley. Explore its towers, chapel, kitchens, dungeons, and underground marketplace while learning about the Medieval Crusades. The occasional winter rains add extra drama to this already captivating experience.

WINTER IN JORDAN

Rainbow Street in Summer: Feel the Vibe

Escape the heat by exploring Rainbow Street in Amman. This lively street is perfect for browsing markets full of crafts and souvenirs or relaxing at cozy cafes. Enjoy traditional Jordanian food like crispy falafel or sip tea with locals. Art lovers can visit galleries like Darat Al Funun et Dar Al Anda, which showcase Arab art.

Located in the historic Jabal Amman district, Rainbow Street is close to key sites like Al Balad (Old Town), the Citadel, and the Roman Theatre. On weekends, the street buzzes with rooftop bars and restaurants. Every Friday during summer, Souk Jala, a vibrant flea market, offers antiques, artworks, and more.

Rainbow Street is a perfect spot to enjoy Amman’s culture, food, and vibrant atmosphere.

Travel Tips:

Budget Activities: Free walking tours, local markets, and affordable day trips to major sites.
Shopping: Souvenirs are plentiful at Amman’s Rainbow Street and Petra.

Where to Stay:

Consider hotels in Amman, Dead Sea resorts, or eco-lodges in Dana and Feynan.