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Jordan represents a significant section of the Arabian Peninsula. Positioned between the more tumultuous nations of contested Israel, Iraq, and Syria, it has long been acknowledged as one of the few stable enclaves in the region, housing remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites and notable cultural hubs. Among these are the remarkable ancient Nabatean ruins of Petra and the site believed to be the baptism place of Jesus Christ.
Located in southern Jordan, the historic archaeological site at Petra is among the most frequented destinations in the country.
Adventurous travelers are drawn toJordanto explore the ancient sites ofPetra, the expansive landscapes ofWadi Rum, exhilarating hikes, warm Arab hospitality, and, of course, the renownedkunafeh.
Jordan, a compact nation distinguished by its hospitality, ancient heritage, and vibrant culture, boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites that provide an abundance of adventure.
You can explore a significant portion of Jordan during your initial visit, considering its relatively compact size (it is less than three-quarters the size of New York State).
Jordan is a compact nation rich in remarkable attractions and experiences; however, its size should not mislead you—covering the prominent sites within a single trip can be challenging.
There are many compelling reasons to place Jordan on your travel checklist.
Intrepid travelers come to Jordan to experience the ancient ruins of Petra, the wide open spaces of Wadi Rum, heart-pumping hikes, Arab hospitality, and, of course, the delectable kunafeh.
Exploring Jordan on a road trip affords you access to places unreachable by public transportation, giving you the freedom to choose your own adventure along the way rather than being tied to the timeline of a set tour.
You can cover a lot of ground on your first visit to Jordan, given its small size (it’s less than three-quarters the size of New York State).
Hiking in the desert is one of life’s most meaningful experiences, serving up incomparable views you can’t see from your car, shared meals with people you meet along the way, and quiet, wide-open spaces for reflection and storytelling under the stars. Moreover, hiking in Jordan—amongst fields of wildflowers, ancient sites, rugged mountains, and breathtaking desert landscapes—takes things to the next level.
When you connect to the land, you can connect more deeply to a place. Although Jordan is small, opportunities to experience the culture, learn the history, and engage with local people through outdoor adventures are plentiful.
In 1972, my grandfather travelled to Jordan for work and ended up falling in love with the country and its people, documenting his time with a series of incredible photographs. Some 47 years later in September 2019, I ventured to Jordan armed with his printed 1970s slides, a whole lot of excitement and a smidge of trepidation to see how Jordan has changed.
Visiting Jordan during the month of Ramadan is an extraordinary opportunity to experience local life and culture, and it’s unlike any other time of the year. The holy month is known as a period of spiritual discipline for Muslims, but it’s also incredibly festive with family gatherings, decorative lights, late-night eats, and entertainment. For the most part, the tourism industry operates as usual. However, some services – such as alcohol sales – and opening hours are noticeably affected, so it’s wise to be prepared. Here’s what travellers can expect to encounter in Jordan during Ramadan.
Although many travellers to Jordan have their sights set on the architectural marvels of Petra and the magical martian landscapes of Wadi Rum, the capital of Amman is worth at least 48 hours of your time. It’s easy to fill two days with well-loved historic sites, restaurants, and cafes; however, after a couple of days in this spirited city, you may realize you could spend many more.
Epic desert landscapes, hospitable people, and ancient ruins are Jordan’s most obvious drawcards. However, a closer look reveals that, despite its arid environment, the kingdom is also wonderfully rich in lush oases. From a biblical river to saline soaks and secret canyon pools, here are eight places to dive deeper into the life aquatic of Jordan.
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Jordan might not immediately strike travellers as a hotspot for a romantic getaway, but it certainly should. The warm hospitality, exquisite sunsets, endless outdoor adventures, and otherworldly landscapes create a magical setting for making memories with your partner.
When you connect to the land, you can deepen your relationship with the stunning surroundings. While Jordan may be small, it offers endless opportunities to experience rich culture, learn about its history, and engage with the local community through an array of outdoor adventures.