Located in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is the melting pot where several cultures combine to form a unique one. The country has been a tourist destination for many years. And that is why there are numerous things to do in Jordan.
From superb beaches to ancient ruins to golden deserts, places to visit in Jordan are varied and plentiful. If you are interested in visiting The Hashemite Kingdom take a look at some of the many experiences you can enjoy there.
Go swimming in the Dead Sea
One of the top things to do in Jordan, swimming in the Dead Sea is an experience not to be missed.
A body of water like no other, during windless days the Dead Sea looks like a large pool of oil. It doesn’t even matter if you cannot swim, the salty water will do all the work for you.
Moreover, due to the richness of sea salt and minerals, the water holds many healing properties. The coast is lined with wonderful resorts and spas. If time permits, take a couple of days to relax and melt the hastiness of modern life in the salty sea. If time is short, you can take a day trip from the capital Amman, it is close by.
Visit Petra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, the magnificent sandstone city of Petra was built by the Nabataeans in the 3rd century BC.
The city features palaces, temples, tombs and other buildings carved from the soft stone cliffs. And because the stone in which the city was carved features a stunning rose color many people call it the Rose City.
You can access Petra through a 1.2 kilometer long canyon called the Siq. This tight corridor leads directly to Al Khazneh or the treasury, which is one of the masterpieces among Petra’s elaborately designed and carved buildings.
The ancient city is one of the most visited Jordan tourist spots. It can be reached through the adjacent town of Wadi Musa.
Whether you visit the imposing city by night or day, Petra is guaranteed to take your breath away.
Enjoy nature in Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve
As rich with diverse wild life as it strikingly beautiful, visiting Wadi Mujib near the east coast of the Dead Sea is definitely one of the top things to do Jordan. Featuring some stunning scenery, The Mujib Reserve is the lowest nature reserve in the world.
The gorge enters the Dead Sea at 410 meters below sea level, and extends to the Karak and Madaba mountains reaching 900 meters above sea level in some areas. This 1,300 meter deviation in elevation allows for striking biodiversity.
The reserve was originally established for the captive breeding of the Nubian ibex. However, it is currently home to a wide variety of more than 400 species of plants, 186 species of birds and 250 species of animals.
Scuba dive in Aqaba
Jordan may not boast long stretches of coasts, but what the kingdom lacks in size it makes for in beauty and facilities.
Aqaba is a wonderful small seaside city on the Red Sea; it comprises amazing hotels and resorts offering a wide set of water sports. The coral reefs in the area make scuba diving a favorite sport among tourists.
Just outside of Aqaba you can find Tala Bay, which features some magnificent hotels and resorts as well.
When in the area, do not forget to take a day cruise in the Red Sea, it is one of the most brilliant things to do in Jordan.
Camp under the stars in Wadi Rum
Colorful sand dunes and unbelievable rock formations, Wadi Rum is not like any other desert you may have seen in the past.
This stupefying stretch of desert holds a magnificent beauty that you have to see to believe. Camping in one of the superb camps in the area will provide you with an experience to be remembered.
After the first night under the desert stars you may start wondering if you ever want to go back to living in hectic cities!
Take a tour in Amman
The cosmopolitan capital of Jordan is a wonderful place to tour indeed. From beautiful old streets to contemporary attractions, the city has got it all and more.
Make sure to visit the citadel, it is a striking monument. And while you are there check out Al Balad, which is the old downtown where the old souk is.
And also pay a visit to Rainbow Street, sit at one of the many cafes there, sip a nice cup of tea and take the striking city in.