8/7Jordan is a captivating mix of history and modern life, offering travelers a unique experience where ancient civilizations meet contemporary culture. Home to some of the most well-preserved ancient monuments in the world, this desert jewel invites you to explore its breathtaking archaeological sites and bustling cities. Jordan's landscape of contrasts promises an unforgettable journey. This comprehensive guide will help you explore Jordan's dynamic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Useful Information
Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business, tourism, and general communication. This linguistic accessibility ensures that English-speaking visitors can easily navigate and interact within the country.
Currency: The currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas, but having cash on hand is essential for transactions in less commercial regions and local markets. This ensures you’re prepared whether you’re shopping in a bustling city center or exploring a traditional market.
Transport: Public transportation in Jordan includes buses and taxis, with Uber and Careem available in major cities like Amman. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the country at your own pace. For a scenic and cultural experience, consider riding a camel or a horse, especially when visiting historical sites like Petra.
Safety: Jordan is known for its welcoming atmosphere and low crime rates, making it a safe destination for international travelers. However, it’s advisable to maintain a usual level of vigilance regarding personal belongings and surroundings, particularly in crowded places.
Climate: Jordan has a varied climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the outdoors and historical sites.
Must-See Places in Jordan
Petra: Known as the Rose City, Petra is Jordan’s most iconic landmark. This ancient city, carved into pink sandstone cliffs, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Don't miss these highlights: The Treasury, the Monastery, and the Siq.
The Siq is a narrow gorge that leads you into the heart of Petra. The Treasury and the Monastery are stunning examples of Nabatean architecture, carved into the rock over 2,000 years ago. These sites beautifully showcase the ancient city's grandeur. Petra is popular with filmmakers and has appeared in many movies, making it even more attractive and mysterious.
Wadi Rum: Often called the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a vast desert landscape with towering red sandstone mountains and sweeping dunes. This breathtaking area is perfect for adventure seekers, offering rock climbing, sandboarding, and jeep tours. Wadi Rum’s stunning desert scenery also makes it a popular spot for stargazing. Visitors can experience traditional Bedouin hospitality, staying in desert camps and enjoying authentic meals under the stars.
Dead Sea: It's the lowest point on Earth, is famous for its hyper-saline waters that let visitors float effortlessly. The mineral-rich mud is believed to have therapeutic properties, making it popular for skin treatments. The surrounding area is dotted with luxury resorts and spas, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and wellness. Additionally, the region is rich in history, with nearby sites such as the ancient fortress of Masada and the biblical city of Jericho adding to its allure.
Amman: Jordan’s capital city, Amman, is a dynamic place where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Start your visit at the Citadel, where you can explore ancient ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Don't miss the Roman Theater, an impressive relic from the 2nd century AD that still hosts events today. Stroll down Rainbow Street, a lively area brimming with cozy cafes, diverse restaurants, and charming shops.
Amman is also the perfect launchpad for your adventures across Jordan. It offers easy access to iconic sites like Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum. While in the city, immerse yourself in its rich culture by visiting museums, art galleries, and bustling markets. Amman’s mix of old and new makes it a truly captivating destination.
Jerash: One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, Jerash offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. Walk through its impressive ruins, where you’ll find grand temples, ancient theaters, and colonnaded streets that transport you back in time.
Each summer, the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts brings the city to life with vibrant performances and cultural events, showcasing music, dance, and drama. It's a wonderful time to visit and experience the rich heritage of this remarkable city.
While Jerash doesn't have the tragic history of Pompeii, its well-preserved ruins and ancient city layout do remind visitors of Pompeii’s grandeur. Additionally, Jerash is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect spot for a scenic day trip from Amman.
Hidden Gems
Aqaba: Situated on the Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s top coastal city, celebrated for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life. It's a hotspot for diving, snorkeling, and water sports, drawing enthusiasts from all over.
The city boasts a variety of beachfront resorts, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the beautiful scenery. Don't miss the bustling market area, where you can find local crafts, spices, and unique souvenirs. Aqaba also has a rich history, with ancient sites like the Aqaba Fort and the ruins of Ayla adding a touch of cultural exploration to your visit.
Madaba: Known as the City of Mosaics, Madaba is renowned for its incredible Mosaic Map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land, which you can see in St. George’s Church. This ancient map, made in the 6th century, is a stunning piece of art and history.
Explore the city's archaeological park and museum for more insights into Madaba’s rich cultural heritage. Wander through its charming streets, where you’ll find workshops creating beautiful mosaics, and visit the local markets to experience the vibrant daily life. Madaba’s blend of history, art, and culture makes it a must-visit destination in Jordan.
Ajloun: Ajloun is a beautiful area in Jordan, most famous for its striking Ajloun Castle. This fortress, built in the 12th century by one of Saladin’s generals, offers incredible views of the rolling hills and valleys below. Walking through its ancient walls, you can almost feel the history come alive.
Nearby, the Ajloun Forest Reserve is a great spot for nature lovers. The reserve is full of greenery and wildlife, making it perfect for a hike or a picnic. The trails are well-marked and easy to navigate, and the fresh air and scenic views are truly refreshing. If you're up for an overnight adventure, the eco-lodges in the reserve offer a cozy and peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Um Qais: This ancient city offers stunning views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. It's known for its impressive ruins, including a Roman theater and Byzantine churches. The cobblestone streets and ancient columns tell the story of its rich history.
The views from Um Qais are truly breathtaking, making it a peaceful spot for visitors. It's perfect for history enthusiasts who can explore the artifacts in the local museum. Nature lovers will also appreciate the serene landscape and beautiful scenery. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Um Qais a must-visit destination in Jordan.
Culinary Delights
Mansaf: As Jordan’s national dish, Mansaf is a flavorful and aromatic meal made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt (jameed) and served over rice. This hearty dish is often garnished with pine nuts and almonds, adding a delightful crunch. Traditionally, Mansaf is eaten with the hands, bringing a communal and authentic dining experience. It’s not just a meal but a symbol of Jordanian hospitality and culture, often served at large gatherings and celebrations.
Maqluba: Meaning "upside-down" in Arabic, Maqluba is a hearty and flavorful dish made with layers of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables such as eggplant, potatoes, and cauliflower. This dish is cooked slowly in a pot, allowing the flavors to meld together.
When ready, it’s flipped upside-down onto a serving platter, revealing a beautifully layered and visually impressive meal. Maqluba is often served with yogurt or a simple salad on the side, making it a complete and satisfying meal that's perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Mujadara: It is a staple in Jordanian kitchens, combining just lentils and rice with a hefty helping of caramelized onions on top. These onions turn sweet as they cook, offering a perfect counterbalance to the earthy lentils and rice beneath. The dish is seasoned simply with cumin and coriander, which infuse it with a subtle warmth.
Often, it’s served alongside a dollop of yogurt or a crisp salad, making the meal even more comforting. Mujadara isn't as internationally recognized as some other Middle Eastern dishes, but it's a real favorite locally, cherished for its straightforward, nourishing flavors. It's definitely worth a try if you're exploring Jordanian cuisine and want to eat like a local.
Kunafa: A beloved dessert in the Middle East, Kunafa is made with thin, noodle-like pastry called kataifi. The pastry is soaked in sweet syrup and layered with a filling of soft cheese or rich cream, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This rich and indulgent treat is typically garnished with crushed pistachios, adding a slight crunch. Often enjoyed warm, Kunafa pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong Arabic coffee, making it a delightful end to any meal.
Souvenirs to Cherish
Pottery and Ceramics: Jordanian pottery is celebrated for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. These pieces often feature traditional geometric patterns or scenes from Jordanian culture and history. Each piece is typically hand-painted and glazed, making it both a work of art and a functional item.
Jewelry: Traditional Jordanian jewelry features silver and gold work, often embellished with semi-precious stones, beads, and ancient motifs like those found in Islamic and Bedouin designs. Artisans may use techniques like filigree, which involves twisting thin wires of metal to create delicate and intricate patterns.
Glassware: Jordanian glassware includes a range of items from simple, beautifully colored drinking glasses to elaborate glass lamps and decorative bowls. The glass is often blown by hand and can include intricate patterns or incorporations of metals like gold and silver.
Scarves: Lightweight scarves, often made of cotton or silk, are adorned with traditional Jordanian embroidery or weaving techniques. These scarves can be used as head coverings or neck scarves and come in a variety of colors and designs, making them versatile for fashion use and practical in warmer climates.
Rugs: Jordanian rugs are typically hand-woven and feature patterns that are unique to specific tribes or regions. These rugs can range from simple and utilitarian to highly artistic, with detailed motifs and vibrant colors. Bedouin rugs, for example, are often made from goat or camel hair and have geometric patterns that tell stories or symbolize Bedouin life.
Staying Connected with JetSet eSIM
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