Jordan is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that have captivated travelers for centuries. From the rose-red city of Petra to the otherworldly deserts of Wadi Rum and the healing waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you in awe. Before embarking on your Jordanian adventure, ensure you’re prepared with reliable connectivity and the best travel deals to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Essential Jordan Travel Resources
Make your Jordan trip hassle-free with these must-have travel tools:
📶 Get a Jordan eSIM to stay connected
✈️ Find the best deals for flights and hotels
Ancient Wonders of Jordan
Jordan’s rich history spans thousands of years, leaving behind magnificent archaeological sites that tell stories of ancient civilizations. These historical treasures offer a glimpse into the past and are among the best places to visit in Jordan for history enthusiasts.
1. Petra – The Rose City
Location: Ma’an Governorate, southern Jordan
Highlights: The Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Monastery (Ad-Deir), Royal Tombs, and the Siq canyon
Pro tip: Arrive at opening time (6 AM) to experience the Siq and Treasury with fewer crowds and magical morning light.
2. Jerash – Roman Ruins
Location: Jerash Governorate, northern Jordan
Highlights: Oval Plaza, Temple of Artemis, Hadrian’s Arch, and remarkably preserved Roman streets
Pro tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the midday heat and bring a hat as there’s limited shade among the ruins.
3. Amman Citadel
Location: Downtown Amman
Highlights: Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, Byzantine Church, and panoramic views of Amman
Pro tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Roman Theater for a comprehensive ancient Amman experience.
4. Umm Qais
Location: Irbid Governorate, northern Jordan
Highlights: Greco-Roman ruins of Gadara, basalt stone structures, and views of the Sea of Galilee
Pro tip: Stay for sunset when the ancient columns are bathed in golden light with the Golan Heights in the background.
5. Madaba – City of Mosaics
Location: Madaba Governorate, central Jordan
Highlights: St. George’s Church with the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land
Pro tip: Visit the Madaba Archaeological Park to see additional Byzantine mosaics in their original settings.
6. Ajloun Castle
Location: Ajloun Governorate, northern Jordan
Highlights: 12th-century Muslim castle built to defend against Crusaders
Pro tip: Explore the underground passages and climb to the top for spectacular views of the surrounding hills.
7. Karak Castle
Location: Al-Karak Governorate, central Jordan
Highlights: Crusader fortress with impressive stone walls and underground chambers
Pro tip: Hire a local guide to learn about the castle’s fascinating history and hidden areas.
8. Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Location: Near Petra, Ma’an Governorate
Highlights: Smaller Nabatean site with carved facades and the Painted House with rare Nabatean frescoes
Pro tip: Visit in the late afternoon when most tourists have left and the light is perfect for photography.
Natural Wonders of Jordan
Jordan’s diverse landscapes offer breathtaking natural beauty, from otherworldly deserts to lush reserves and healing waters. These natural wonders showcase the country’s geological diversity and are among the best places to visit in Jordan for nature lovers.
Stay Connected in Remote Areas
Many of Jordan’s natural wonders are in remote locations. Ensure you stay connected for navigation and emergencies:
9. Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon
Location: Southern Jordan
Highlights: Red sand dunes, towering sandstone mountains, natural arches, and Bedouin camps
Pro tip: Book an overnight stay in a Bedouin camp for stargazing in one of the world’s clearest night skies.
10. The Dead Sea
Location: Western Jordan, bordering Israel and Palestine
Highlights: Floating in the mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud treatments
Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and heat.
11. Dana Biosphere Reserve
Location: Tafilah Governorate, central Jordan
Highlights: Jordan’s largest nature reserve with diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and hiking trails
Pro tip: Stay at the eco-friendly Feynan Ecolodge for an immersive experience in sustainable tourism.
12. Wadi Mujib
Location: Dead Sea area, western Jordan
Highlights: Jordan’s “Grand Canyon” with the Siq Trail water hike through narrow gorges
Pro tip: Wear water shoes and quick-dry clothing as you’ll be wading through water for much of the trail.
13. Azraq Wetland Reserve
Location: Eastern Jordan
Highlights: Oasis in the desert with seasonal bird migrations and natural pools
Pro tip: Visit during spring (March-May) to see the greatest variety of migratory birds.
14. Aqaba Marine Park
Location: Gulf of Aqaba, Red Sea
Highlights: Coral reefs, colorful fish, and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving
Pro tip: Book a glass-bottom boat tour if you want to see the marine life without getting wet.
15. Dibeen Forest Reserve
Location: Jerash Governorate, northern Jordan
Highlights: Pine and oak forests with hiking trails and picnic areas
Pro tip: Visit in spring when wildflowers carpet the forest floor with vibrant colors.
16. Ma’in Hot Springs
Location: Madaba Governorate, near the Dead Sea
Highlights: Natural hot springs and waterfalls with therapeutic properties
Pro tip: Visit the public springs early in the morning to enjoy them before the crowds arrive.
Cultural Experiences in Jordan
Immerse yourself in Jordan’s rich cultural heritage through authentic experiences that connect you with local traditions, cuisine, and daily life. These cultural hotspots are among the best places to visit in Jordan for those seeking meaningful interactions.
17. Rainbow Street, Amman
Location: Jabal Amman, central Amman
Highlights: Trendy cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and stunning city views
Pro tip: Visit in the evening when locals come out to socialize and the street comes alive with energy.
18. Amman Souks
Location: Downtown Amman
Highlights: Traditional markets selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs
Pro tip: Practice your haggling skills – start at about 60% of the initial asking price.
19. Bedouin Experience in Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum, southern Jordan
Highlights: Traditional Bedouin hospitality, music, food, and desert lifestyle
Pro tip: Join a Bedouin-led camel trek at sunrise for an authentic desert experience.
Book Your Cultural Experiences
Secure the best rates for authentic cultural experiences across Jordan:
20. King Abdullah Mosque
Location: Amman
Highlights: Stunning blue-domed mosque open to non-Muslim visitors
Pro tip: Women should bring a scarf to cover their head, shoulders, and knees (or use provided robes).
21. Beit Sitti Cooking Experience
Location: Jabal Al Weibdeh, Amman
Highlights: Learn to cook traditional Jordanian dishes in a family home
Pro tip: Book in advance as classes fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
22. Umm Qais Village Life
Location: Umm Qais, northern Jordan
Highlights: Traditional village experiences including olive harvesting and local cuisine
Pro tip: Visit during olive harvest season (October-November) to participate in the gathering.
23. Jordan Folklore Museum
Location: Amman
Highlights: Traditional costumes, crafts, and household items from Jordan’s past
Pro tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Roman Theater for a full cultural experience.
24. Royal Automobile Museum
Location: Amman
Highlights: Collection of cars belonging to King Hussein and the royal family
Pro tip: Look for the vehicles used in famous movies filmed in Jordan, including Lawrence of Arabia.
Religious and Historical Sites
Jordan is a land of profound religious significance, with sites sacred to Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. These spiritual destinations are among the best places to visit in Jordan for those interested in religious history and pilgrimage.
25. Mount Nebo
Location: Madaba Governorate, western Jordan
Highlights: Where Moses viewed the Promised Land, with Byzantine church and mosaics
Pro tip: On clear days, you can see Jerusalem and Jericho from the summit viewpoint.
26. Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan)
Location: Jordan Valley, western Jordan
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist
Pro tip: Visit with a guide who can explain the archaeological and religious significance.
27. Cave of the Seven Sleepers
Location: Near Amman
Highlights: Cave mentioned in both Christian and Islamic traditions
Pro tip: Combine with a visit to nearby Amman for a full day of exploration.
28. Lot’s Cave
Location: Near the Dead Sea
Highlights: Archaeological site where Lot and his daughters supposedly took refuge
Pro tip: Visit the nearby museum to learn about the excavations and biblical connections.
29. Machaerus
Location: Dead Sea region
Highlights: Fortress where John the Baptist was imprisoned and beheaded
Pro tip: The hike up is challenging but rewards with spectacular Dead Sea views.
30. Umm ar-Rasas
Location: Amman Governorate
Highlights: UNESCO site with Byzantine church floors featuring spectacular mosaics
Pro tip: Look for the mosaic map of the Nile Delta in the Church of St. Stephen.
31. Shobak Castle
Location: Ma’an Governorate
Highlights: Crusader castle with secret passageway and stunning mountain views
Pro tip: Explore the underground passage that leads to a spring (bring a flashlight).
Adventure Activities in Jordan
For thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, Jordan offers a variety of adventure activities against stunning backdrops. These exhilarating experiences are among the best places to visit in Jordan for active travelers.
Adventure Ready
Before heading to remote adventure spots, ensure you’re prepared:
📶 Get reliable connectivity with a Jordan eSIM
✈️ Book adventure tours at the best rates
32. Hiking the Jordan Trail
Location: Traverses Jordan from Um Qais to Aqaba
Highlights: 675km trail through diverse landscapes and 52 villages
Pro tip: If you can’t hike the entire trail, the Dana to Petra section offers the most spectacular scenery.
33. Canyoning in Wadi Mujib
Location: Dead Sea region
Highlights: Climbing, swimming, and scrambling through narrow canyons with waterfalls
Pro tip: The Siq Trail is open from April to October; bring a waterproof bag for valuables.
34. Scuba Diving in Aqaba
Location: Red Sea coast, southern Jordan
Highlights: Coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life
Pro tip: The Cedar Pride wreck is perfect for intermediate divers with its accessible depth and rich marine life.
35. Hot Air Ballooning over Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum, southern Jordan
Highlights: Aerial views of the desert landscape at sunrise
Pro tip: Book well in advance as flights are weather-dependent and often sell out.
36. Rock Climbing in Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum, southern Jordan
Highlights: Traditional climbing routes on sandstone formations
Pro tip: Hire a local Bedouin guide who knows the best routes and climbing conditions.
37. Mountain Biking in Dana Biosphere Reserve
Location: Dana Biosphere Reserve, central Jordan
Highlights: Challenging trails through varied terrain with spectacular views
Pro tip: The best season for mountain biking is spring (March-May) when temperatures are moderate.
38. Paragliding in Aqaba
Location: Aqaba, southern Jordan
Highlights: Soaring over the Red Sea with views of four countries (Jordan, Egypt, Israel, and Saudi Arabia)
Pro tip: Book tandem flights with certified instructors for the safest experience.
Practical Information for Visiting Jordan
To make the most of your journey to the best places to visit in Jordan, here’s some essential practical information to help you plan your trip.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring. Summer (June-August) can be extremely hot, especially in desert areas and the Dead Sea region, while winter (December-February) can be surprisingly cold and rainy, particularly in the highlands.
Getting Around
Public transportation in Jordan is limited, so renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended for flexibility. For major tourist routes, organized tours are a convenient option. Having reliable navigation is essential, especially in remote areas.
Plan Your Jordan Adventure
Make your Jordan trip seamless with these essential resources:
📶 Get a Jordan eSIM for reliable connectivity
✈️ Find the best deals on flights, hotels, and tours
Conclusion
Jordan offers an incredible diversity of experiences, from ancient wonders and natural landscapes to cultural encounters and adrenaline-pumping adventures. Whether you’re floating in the Dead Sea, exploring the magnificent ruins of Petra, or stargazing in the deserts of Wadi Rum, the best places to visit in Jordan will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
To make the most of your Jordanian adventure, ensure you stay connected with a reliable eSIM and secure the best deals on accommodations and experiences. Jordan’s hospitality, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes await your discovery!
Ready for Your Jordan Adventure?
Take the first steps toward your unforgettable journey:
