Jordan

Jordan: general info for travelers

Jordan is a Middle Eastern country located in Western Asia and shares borders with Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the West Bank. The official language is Arabic, and the currency is the Jordanian Dinar. Jordan is known for its historical and cultural significance as it is home to ancient cities such as Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea. The landscape is diverse and includes desert terrain, mountain ranges, and an abundance of natural reserves. Jordan is a hub for cultural and religious tourism, and visitors can enjoy authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, hospitality, and traditional Bedouin culture.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Jordan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Jordan: places to visit

Certainly! Jordan is a magnificent country with so much to explore. Here are some main places to visit in Jordan along with a brief description of each.
1. Petra: Known as the "Rose City," Petra is an ancient city that is ranked as one of the 7 Wonders of the World. You can explore the city by walking through the Siq (a narrow canyon), exploring the Treasury, the Monastery, amphitheater, and many other structures each one representing the city's story.
2. Amman: The capital city of Jordan which offers a great mix of ancient and modern sights. Start with the Citadel, Roman Theater, and the Jordan Museum to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Jordan.
3. Wadi Rum: A desert valley that features sand dunes, natural bridges, and distinct rock formations which make it appear like from another planet. Go for a Jeep safari, visit Bedouin camps, or opt for a hot air balloon ride for the ultimate adventure.
4. Dead Sea: Located at the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea is famous for its salty water and mud, which are rich in mineral content. Float in the water, rejuvenate the skin with mud treatments, and indulge in spa treatments.
5. Aqaba: Situated on Jordan's only coastline, Aqaba is a seaside town that offers the best of the Red Sea. It's an ideal location for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on a beach.
These are just some of the top places to visit in Jordan, but there are many more sites to explore, including Jerash, Mount Nebo, Dana Biosphere Reserve, and more. Jordan is a country that will leave you feeling mesmerized with its culture, landscapes and history.
There is more to see and do in Jordan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Jordan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Jordan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Jordan has a hot and dry climate, with large temperature variations throughout the year. The best time to visit Jordan for most visitors is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is sunny and mild, with moderate temperatures during the day and cool nights. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the many historical and cultural sites Jordan has to offer without being too hot or too cold.
The summer months (June to August) are very hot, with temperatures rising to over 100°F (38°C) making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities, particularly during the middle of the day. Winter months (December to February) can be quite cold, with snow and rain. However, this season is still a good time to visit if you're interested in seeing the beautiful snow-capped mountains and enjoying winter activities. Overall, the best time to visit Jordan depends on your preferences, interests, and activities you plan to do during your trip.

Jordan: activities and what to do

Jordan offers a variety of activities and sports for travelers to enjoy while on holiday. Here are some popular options: 1. Hiking and Trekking: Jordan is known for its beautiful landscapes, and there are numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views of the desert, mountains, and canyons. Some of the popular trails include Wadi Mujib, Dana Biosphere Reserve, and Petra.
2. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Jordan’s Red Sea coast is home to some of the world’s best coral reefs and marine life. Aqaba is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, where you can swim with colorful fish, turtles, and even dolphins.
3. Camel and Horse Riding: For a unique experience, you can take a camel or horse ride through the Wadi Rum desert or Petra. It’s an excellent way to explore the area while enjoying the traditional Bedouin lifestyle.
4. Hot Air Balloon Rides: For a bird’s eye view of Jordan’s landscapes, you can take a hot air balloon ride over Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea area.
5. Rock Climbing: Jordan has some of the best rock climbing spots in the world, such as Wadi Rum and Rum village. You can find routes for all levels of climbers, with stunning views to enjoy.
6. Canyoning: Canyoning is an adrenaline-filled activity that involves descending waterfalls and swimming through canyons. Wadi Mujib and other areas offer opportunities for canyoning.
7. Golf: Jordan offers world-class golf courses, with stunning views of the Dead Sea and mountains. The Ayla Golf Club in Aqaba and the Jordan Valley Marriott Resort and Spa are popular spots for golfing.
These are just a few of the fun activities and sports that Jordan offers for travelers to enjoy on their holiday.

Jordan: few words on history and culture

Jordan has a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. The country is home to many archaeological sites, including Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as well as many other Roman, Nabatean, and Byzantine ruins.
Jordan is also a country of great cultural diversity, with a mix of Bedouin, Syrian, Palestinian, and other cultural influences. Its traditional cuisine includes popular dishes such as mansaf, a lamb and yogurt-based dish, and falafel, a chickpea-based street food.
Religion plays an important role in Jordanian culture, with Islam being the predominant religion. Other religions such as Christianity and Judaism are also present. The country celebrates many religious holidays throughout the year, including Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, and Easter.
Jordan is also known for its music and dance, featuring traditional instruments such as the oud and the darbuka, and the famous dabke dance. As a friendly and welcoming nation, Jordanians take pride in their hospitality, making it a wonderful destination for travelers.

Jordan: how to move around on holiday

Jordan is well-connected to other countries by air, land, and sea, and there are several options to reach and travel around within the country. Air Travel: Jordan has two international airports, Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman, and King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba. Most international flights arrive at QAIA, and there are regular flights to and from major destinations in Europe, Middle East, Asia, and North America. Land Travel: Jordan shares land borders with Israel, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Visitors can use road transportation to enter Jordan, but it is essential to check visa requirements before travelling. You can hire a private car with a driver, take a taxi, or use public transport like buses or shared taxis for travel within the country. Sea Travel: Aqaba, in the southern part of Jordan, has a seaport, and visitors can take a ferry from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or even Cyprus. However, sea travel is relatively less common and more expensive than air or land travel.
Once in Jordan, visitors can use taxis, buses, or rental cars to travel between cities. It is also possible to explore Jordan on organized tours or by hiring private guides. To hire a car to visit Jordan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Jordan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Jordan with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Jordan! 1. Mansaf - This is the national dish of Jordan, consisting of lamb or goat meat cooked in a sauce made of fermented dried yogurt called jameed, served on top of a bed of rice pilaf and garnished with pine nuts and parsley.
2. Falafel - This is a popular Middle Eastern food made of ground chickpeas or fava beans, formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior. It is often served in a pita pocket with hummus and vegetables.
3. Maqluba - This is an Arabic word which means "upside-down." It is a traditional dish made of layered rice, vegetables, and meat, cooked in one pot and then flipped over onto a serving platter, revealing the colorful layers.
4. Kebabs - Jordan is known for its kebabs, which are skewers of marinated meat (usually beef, chicken, or lamb) grilled over an open flame. They are often served with grilled vegetables, rice, and pita bread.
5. Shawarma - This is a popular street food in Jordan, made of thinly-sliced meat (usually chicken or beef) that is cooked on a rotating spit. The meat is then shaved off and stuffed into a pita pocket with vegetables and sauces.
Overall, Jordanian cuisine is rich in flavor and influenced by a variety of cultures, including Arabic, Mediterranean, and Ottoman.

Jordan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Jordan can be moderately expensive for tourists, especially when compared to some of the neighboring countries in the region. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can add up quickly, although there are some budget options available. It's also worth noting that certain tourist attractions and activities in Jordan can come with high entrance fees.
That being said, with some careful planning and budgeting, it's definitely possible to have an enjoyable trip to Jordan without breaking the bank. There are budget-friendly options for accommodation and food, and some attractions and activities are even free or very affordable. Additionally, haggling skills can come in handy when shopping in markets, and it's always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any purchases.

Jordan: where to find accodation

There are many options for accommodation in Jordan, depending on your preferences and budget. Some popular areas to look for accommodation include: 1. Amman: The capital city has a range of hotels, hostels and apartments to suit all budgets and needs.
2. Petra: The ancient city is a popular destination and there are many hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity.
3. Aqaba: This coastal city has a variety of beachfront resorts and hotels.
4. Dead Sea: The area around the Dead Sea has many luxury resorts and hotels that specialize in spa treatments.
5. Wadi Rum: This desert landscape has many Bedouin camps for visitors who want to experience a more traditional way of living.
You can also find accommodation options on popular travel sites like Booking.com, Agoda and Airbnb. It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous guests to get a sense of the quality and service of the accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Jordan here:
Booking.com

Jordan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Jordan Tourism Board, Jordan welcomed around 5.9 million international visitors in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists has decreased significantly in 2020 and 2021. In terms of crowded periods, the peak season for tourism in Jordan is usually from March to May and from September to November. During these months, you may encounter more tourists at popular attractions and experience higher prices for accommodations and tours. However, it's still possible to enjoy a visit to Jordan during the off-peak season from December to February and from June to August when there are fewer tourists and milder weather conditions.
Jordan is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any country, there are areas that may be less safe than others. It is recommended to avoid traveling near the Syrian and Iraqi borders due to ongoing conflict in those regions. Additionally, it's important to exercise caution in crowded areas and during large gatherings. As long as tourists follow the guidance of local authorities and exercise common sense, Jordan is a great place to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Jordan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Jordan: events for tourists

Jordan is a fascinating country with so many interesting events and attractions to offer to tourists. Here are some of the most interesting events that you might want to consider: 1. The Jerash Festival: The Jerash Festival is an annual event held in the ancient city of Jerash, usually during July. This festival is a celebration of Jordanian culture, heritage and traditions. The festival includes performances of dance, music, and theater, as well as handicraft exhibitions and traditional food.
2. Petra by Night: Petra by Night is an enchanting event that takes place in the ancient city of Petra. Visitors are guided on candle-lit pathways leading to the Treasury, which is illuminated with hundreds of candles. Along the way, Bedouin musicians and storytellers entertain visitors with traditional music and tales.
3. Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival: This festival takes place in the coastal town of Aqaba, usually in August. The festival is a showcase of the traditional arts and crafts of Jordan, including pottery, textile weaving, and glassblowing. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase their creations.
4. Amman International Book Fair: This event is held in the capital city of Amman, usually in October. The Amman Book Fair is one of the biggest cultural events in the country, with hundreds of bookstores and publishers from around the world showcasing their latest publications.
5. Wadi Rum Camel Festival: The Wadi Rum Camel Festival is an annual event held in the Wadi Rum desert, usually in March. The festival includes camel races, Bedouin poetry readings, and traditional music performances.
These are just a few of the many interesting events that take place throughout the year in Jordan. I hope this information helps you plan your trip!

Jordan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Jordan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! A two-week trip to Jordan will give you ample time to explore the country's history, culture and natural beauty. Here is a suggested itinerary for your trip: Day 1-2: Arrive in Amman - spend the day settling in and exploring the city's highlights, including the Citadel, the Amphitheater, and Rainbow Street.
Day 3-4: Jerash - visit the ancient Roman city and explore the well-preserved ruins.
Day 5-6: Ajloun - visit the Ajloun Castle and the beautiful nature reserve.
Day 7-8: Dead Sea - Relax at the lowest point on earth and enjoy the unique experience of floating in the Dead Sea and visiting some of the great resorts.
Day 9-11: Petra - Explore the ancient city of Petra, one of the seven wonders of the world. Spend a full day exploring Petra and watch Petra by Night. On the following day, head out to visit the other interesting places in the area such as Little Petra, Wadi Rum for a unique desert experience, and the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Day 12-14: Aqaba - spend the last few days on the Red Sea coast, where you can snorkel in the beautiful underwater world of the Red Sea and enjoy some of the great beaches and resorts on the shoreline. You can visit the protected area of Wadi Mujib, or go on a day trip to see Wadi Rum and back.
Day 15: Departure - Transfer from Aqaba to capital, Amman and fly home from there.
Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted according to your preferences and interests, but it offers a diverse range of activities and sights to ensure a memorable trip to Jordan.

Jordan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Jordan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ajloun Castle is a historic fortress located in Ajloun Governorate, Jordan. It was built in the 12th century by Muslim leader Saladin to protect the region and control the iron mines nearby. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ajloun Castle
- Ajloun is a small town located in the northwestern part of Jordan, approximately 70 kilometers north of the capital city, Amman. It is situated on a hillside in the fertile Ajloun Highlands and surrou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ajloun
- Al-Jafr is a town located in the southern part of Jordan, roughly halfway between Aqaba and Amman. It is situated in a desert region and is known for its hot and arid climate. The town is home to a nu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Jafr
- Al-Maghtas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Jordan, along the eastern bank of the Jordan River. It is believed to be the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ. The site contains ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Maghtas
- Al-Mu'tah is a town located in the southern part of Jordan, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of the city of Karak. It is famous for the historical Battle of Mu'tah, which took place in 629 AD bet... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Mu'tah
- Al-Salt is a city located in the northwest of Jordan, about 20 kilometers northwest of the capital Amman. It is situated on a hill at an elevation of 811 meters above sea level. With its traditional a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Salt
- Amman is the capital and largest city of Jordan, located in the northwestern part of the country. It is a bustling city with a population of over 4 million people, offering a mix of ancient history an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amman
- Aqaba is a coastal city in the southern part of Jordan, along the Red Sea. It is the country's only coastal city and serves as the main seaport and gateway for Jordan's international trade. Aqaba is f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aqaba
- Azraq is a town located in the eastern region of Jordan, approximately 100 kilometers east of Amman. It is situated on the edge of the Azraq Oasis, which is an important wetland area and natural reser... CONTINUE here for a trip to Azraq
- Azraq Wetland Reserve is a protected area and natural oasis located in the eastern part of Jordan, around 100 km east of the capital city of Amman. With an area of approximately 12 sq km, it is one of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Azraq Wetland Reserve
- Dana is a natural reserve located in Jordan, covering an area of over 308 square kilometers of diverse landscapes including mountains, valleys, and wadis. It is home to a wide range of plant species, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dana
- The Dead Sea is a salt lake located in Jordan, bordered by Israel and the West Bank to the west. It is famous for its high salt concentration, which allows swimmers to float on the surface without any... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dead Sea
- Deir Alla is an archaeological site located in Jordan, about 10 kilometers north of the city of Madaba. It was an ancient town that was inhabited from the Bronze Age to the Islamic period. It is well-... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deir Alla
- Irbid is a city in northern Jordan, located about 80 kilometers north of the capital, Amman. It is the second-largest city in the country, with a population of around 1.2 million people. Irbid is a hu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Irbid
- Jebel Umm Al-Jamal is a mountain located in the eastern part of Jordan, near the border with Saudi Arabia. It is also known as the "Mother of Camels Mountain" due to its significance as a major trade ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jebel Umm Al-Jamal
- Jerash is a city in northern Jordan, famous for its ancient Greco-Roman ruins. It was once a thriving trading hub and was known as the "City of a Thousand Columns". The city was founded by Alexander t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jerash
- Kerak is a city located in the southern part of Jordan, about 150 kilometers from Amman. It is famous for its ancient Crusader castle, known as the Kerak Castle, which was built in the 12th century. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kerak
- Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid, is an archeological site located in Jordan, just a few kilometers away from the more famous ancient city of Petra. It was once a suburb of Petra and served as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Little Petra
- Ma'in is a small town located in the eastern part of Jordan, near the Dead Sea. It is famous for its hot springs and waterfalls, which are considered as natural wonders of the world. The town is surro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ma'in
- Madaba is a small city in central Jordan, located about 30 kilometers southwest of Amman. It is known for its ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land, which dates back to the 6th century AD and is located... CONTINUE here for a trip to Madaba
- Nebo Mountain (also known as Mount Nebo) is a prominent peak in Jordan that is known for its religious and historical significance. It is believed to be the place where Moses was granted a view of the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nebo Mountain
- Petra is an ancient city located in the southwestern part of Jordan. It is known for its stunning architecture carved into the rock, including the famous Treasury, Monastery and Siq (a narrow canyon).... CONTINUE here for a trip to Petra
- Ramtha is a city in the north of Jordan, near the Syrian border. It is the fourth largest city in the country and has a population of approximately 160,000 people. It is known for its diverse economy,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ramtha
- Sahab is a city located in the eastern region of Jordan, approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Amman. It has a population of around 160,000 people and is known for its commercial and industrial act... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sahab
- Shobak is a historic town located in the Ma'an Governorate of Jordan. It is situated about 51 kilometers north of Petra and is known for its well-preserved Shobak Castle, which dates back to the 12th ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shobak
- Shuneh is a small town located in the western part of Jordan, along the Dead Sea. It is known for its hot springs and mineral-rich mud that is believed to have therapeutic benefits. The town is a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shuneh
- Tafilah is a small town located in the southern part of Jordan, about 80 kilometers southwest of the capital city Amman. It is situated in the mountainous region of southern Jordan, and it is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tafilah
- Umm Al-Jimal is an ancient city located in northern Jordan, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of the city of Mafraq. The archaeological site is believed to have been inhabited since the Bronze Age... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umm Al-Jimal
- Umm Al-Rasas is an archaeological site located in Jordan, about 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Madaba. It is known for its well-preserved Byzantine-era mosaics, which feature intricate geometr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umm Al-Rasas
- Umm Ar-Rasas is an ancient town located in Jordan, about 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Madaba. It was originally a Nabataean settlement and later became an important Roman and Byzantine town.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umm Ar-Rasas
- Umm Qais is an ancient city located in northern Jordan, situated on a hill overlooking the Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee, and the Golan Heights. It was originally known as Gadara and was one of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umm Qais
- Wadi Mujib is a popular nature reserve located in Jordan, near the eastern coast of the Dead Sea. It is known for its stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity, making it a popular destination for n... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Mujib
- Wadi Rum is a protected desert wilderness area located in the southern part of Jordan. It covers around 720 square kilometers and has dramatic sandstone mountains, natural arches, and narrow gorges. I... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Rum
- Wadi Zarqa Ma'in is a popular natural hot springs spa located in Jordan, approximately 60 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Amman. The spring waters originate from rainfall and underground a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Zarqa Ma'in


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: