Visit Jordan: Explore Its Most Beautiful Treasures

Jordan is a land of history, and its numerous historical and religious sites will leave a lasting impression. When it comes to nature, this country does not disappoint either. With the Wadi Rum desert, Aqaba as a diving hotspot, the Dana Nature Reserve, and the Dead Sea, you can alternate between cultural visits and nature adventures. In just one to two weeks, you can explore one of the Middle East’s most beautiful countries, offering a multitude of activities and unexpected wonders for solo travelers, couples, or families.

Amman, the Capital

With 4 million inhabitants, Amman is rich in culture and has a unique atmosphere. The Citadel, with the Temple of Hercules overlooking the city, is a must-see. You can discover these ancient remnants on the highest hill of the capital, and you’ll also enjoy stunning views of the city.

Don’t miss the Roman theater in the heart of the city. Accommodating up to 6,000 people, it is one of Amman’s highlight sites. Morning is the best time to visit for better lighting for photography.

Stroll through the souk for souvenirs and, most importantly, for the ambiance. Prices are negotiable with a smile, and the vendors are not pushy.

Where to Stay?

Sydney Hotel: Located in the heart of the downtown area, you can explore the city on foot. The hotel offers dormitories and private rooms for couples and families, making it ideally situated at reasonable prices.

Where to Eat: Hashem: You can’t miss it! This typical restaurant blends locals with tourists. Their specialties include falafels.

Habibah: This is the oldest pastry shop in Amman and the best place to enjoy Kunafa. Recommended by Jordanians, it’s tried and approved.

Around Amman

Amman can serve as your central point for visiting these sites. The capital allows you to take day excursions. Driving in the city can be quite sporty but manageable. Alternatively, each hotel offers excursions, and some taxis can take you for a day trip—just negotiate the fare!

Discover Jerash, just an hour’s drive north of Amman, with its ancient ruins that constitute one of Jordan’s main attractions. Often compared to Pompeii, this immense site can be explored in 3-4 hours. You can wander among numerous theaters, hippodromes, churches, and temples that will captivate you.

Thirty minutes from Jerash lies Ajloun Castle. Perched for nearly 1,000 years, this monument reveals the castle life of its time. The visit lasts about an hour, offering magnificent views of the surrounding region. The castle has many rooms featuring exhibits of its remnants.

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Adventure awaits kids here; it’s definitely worth a visit if you have time!

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Madaba, the City of a Thousand Mosaics

Madaba is located less than an hour’s drive south of Amman. This charming town is mainly known for its mosaics and can easily be explored on foot. Discover the Church of Saint George and its famous mosaic map, the oldest existing map of Palestine. Madaba is a city where Muslims and the largest Christian community in Jordan coexist in harmony.

Where to Stay?

Black Iris Hotel: A family-run hotel in the city center, simple, clean, and fairly priced.

Bethany, the Baptism Site of Jesus

For believers and non-believers alike, this site is emotionally powerful. The site is bordered by the Jordan River, a simple river that separates Jordan from Israel. It is highly protected, and you’ll visit the site with a guide and by bus. The guide will explain the entire history of this location, which is about 1 hour and 10 minutes west of Amman. This guided visit lasts for one hour, but it is essential for understanding the historical and geographical significance of the place.

Petra, the Magnificent

An ancient Nabatean city, Petra has become one of the seven “new” wonders of the world, with numerous buildings carved directly into the rock, making it a unique destination. Its extensive history and vastness require at least two days to fully explore. A guide is not essential for understanding the site, as each monument has its explanation. However, good physical condition is necessary for traversing the steep and high pathways.

To see the monastery, one of the site’s most beautiful buildings, you can climb the old processional route of about 800 steps. Alternatively, a quieter back route allows you to explore the country’s hinterlands before reaching the monastery, where a café awaits for a well-deserved break. You can descend via the usual path lined with souvenir stalls.

Petra is a genuine playground for children! They can climb everywhere and cover miles without realizing it. While a one-day visit is possible, to truly discover and appreciate all the site has to offer, take two days. Many Bedouins are present on-site to sell souvenirs or drinks, and they also offer tours on horses, donkeys, and camels.

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Petra by Night is also available. The Siq and the Treasury are illuminated by hundreds of small lights, accompanied by a concert of traditional music. Beautiful, but quite touristy.

Where to Eat?

There are two restaurants on-site. Opt for a packed lunch and enjoy it in the area or in one of the many cafés, which offer stunning views of the monuments.

In town, Al-Wadi Restaurant is one of the most well-known spots, popular yet tasty.

Where to Stay? Petra is a very touristy town, so there is an extensive range of hotels and restaurants. We tried the Town Season Hotel, which offers free shuttles to the Petra site.

Wadi Rum

The desert of Lawrence of Arabia! With its red hue, you cannot visit Jordan without spending a night in the desert. There are numerous villages where you can spend a night around a spectacle and in a tent. However, Bedouin Friends organizes excursions ranging from one day to several days in the desert. There are no tents or shows, just a fire in a cave that offers a unique desert experience. Falling asleep under the stars and waking up in the heart of the desert is an unforgettable memory. Kids will love this adventurous night.

You can also spend just one day exploring the well-known sites of the desert. However, a night in the desert remains a magical experience.

The Dead Sea

It’s a funny and surprising experience to swim in the Dead Sea! You can’t sink—just let go and float effortlessly. The best option is to rent a hotel room to fully enjoy the sea, especially early in the morning when tourists are still sleeping or having breakfast. The sea is all yours!

However, hotels in this area tend to be pricey. Some hotels allow day visitors for a fee. The salt does irritate the skin, so a shower is necessary after swimming. Public beaches are nonexistent, although you can stop by the roadside and swim.

Don’t forget to cover yourself in mud and rinse off in the sea. Guaranteed skin softness!

What Routes to Take Across the Country?

There are three routes to traverse the country. The Desert Highway, as its name suggests, crosses the desert. The road is decent, and you will see the desert stretch as far as the eye can see.

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The King’s Highway is slightly longer as it takes you through towns and villages. However, many sites are available along the route.

The third is the Dead Sea Road, which runs along the sea with stunning views.

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Other Suggestions in Jordan

Aqaba: This city remains very touristy, especially known as a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.

Dana Nature Reserve: Ideal for hiking.

Wadi Mujib: You can try canyoning here. Children under 18 are not permitted, and a guide is necessary for exploring this area. There is an information center on the Dead Sea Road where hiking trails begin.

Safety Level

Although geographically located in an area where countries are largely unstable, Jordanians are quite neutral and incredibly welcoming. They remain friendly and often ask where tourists come from. We were very pleasantly surprised by their hospitality. At no point did we feel unsafe in this country. With two children, we often had conversations with locals inquiring about our origins. Politically stable, this country is very pleasant and safe.

Traveling with Children?

No worries! Jordanians were very warm with our children, and we could engage in conversations with locals thanks to them. Cultural sites are full of climbing spots, making them a playground for kids anywhere you go. However, outside of Amman, it’s better to use a baby carrier than a stroller…

Transportation?

When it comes to transportation, the best option is to rent a car. Apart from Amman, where driving is quite sporty, the rest of the country is accessible. Roads are decent, and parking is available at all tourist sites.

Jordan Pass

This is a pass you can purchase online that covers all the sites to visit and includes the visa. I recommend it to avoid standing in line at every monument. (https://www.jordanpass.jo).

Jordan is thus a perfect destination for couples, solo travelers, or families. Between culture and adventure, you will find joy in this country of a thousand treasures. It’s truly a huge favorite for this warm and beautiful nation.

Article updated on 22 October 2024

Mohamed SAKHRI
Mohamed SAKHRI

I am Mohamed, the creator and editor-in-chief of this Blog, "Exploring Earth's Wonders" is your ultimate travel guide, offering expert tips, destination insights, and inspiration for every traveler. Discover new horizons with endless adventures, unique experiences, and world-class travel advice

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