Jordan is one of those countries that leaves a lasting impression. It’s not just because of the ancient ruins, the deserts, or the culture. It’s something deeper, tied to the energy of the places you’ll visit and the warmth of the people you’ll meet. From the moment you land, you’ll realize that a trip here is about more than just ticking off must-see spots—it’s about experiences that you can’t find anywhere else.
Why Jordan Is So Special
Tourism in Jordan is special because the country offers a mix of rich history, breathtaking scenery, and a fascinating culture. There’s something for almost every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, outdoor adventures, religious sites, or boutique shopping, Jordan has it.
Think of visiting Petra, marveling at a site that’s been around for over 2,000 years, or floating in the Dead Sea, a salty natural wonder. Here, you get a good mix of old and new. Combine that with Jordanian hospitality, and you’ve got a destination worth every minute of your trip.
An Overview of Jordan
The Basics
Jordan is in the Middle East, bordered by Israel, Palestine, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It’s not a large country, but it packs in a lot of variety. The capital is Amman, which is the hub of the country, and also your likely starting point. The country’s population is just over 10 million, and, despite its size, it holds a significant amount of cultural and historical weight.
The official language is Arabic, though most people in the cities speak some English. The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the official currency, and you’ll find that one dinar is roughly equivalent to 1.41 US dollars as of 2023. When it comes to culture, Jordanians are known for their politeness and hospitality—they pride themselves on making visitors feel welcome.
The Major Cities
Amman is the capital and a bustling city full of modern restaurants and ancient ruins. It’s a city that works as a great mix of the old and the new. You can start at the Citadel to get your history fix, wander down Rainbow Street for some modern vibes, and hit up local markets for souvenirs. Amman is also well-connected to the rest of the country, making it an excellent base.
Next up is Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city, sitting on the Red Sea. It’s a paradise for divers and snorkelers. If you’re looking for reefs and beach vibes, this is the spot. The city also has a laid-back feeling, making it a great place to relax after exploring Jordan’s more intense adventure destinations.
Don’t forget about Madaba. This city is known for its mosaics, particularly the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land in St. George’s Church. It’s about 30 minutes from Amman but feels completely different—a bit slower-paced and quieter than the capital.
History and Heritage
One of the things that makes Jordan stand out is its rich history. This part of the world has been home to countless ancient civilizations, and Jordan’s major tourist sites reflect that. You’ve probably heard of Petra, Jordan’s crown jewel, but there’s much more to the country’s history.
Petra
No visit to Jordan is complete without seeing Petra. It’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to around the 4th century BCE, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. What makes it stand out is how it’s carved directly into rock. The standout feature is the Treasury, which you’ve probably seen in countless photos, but spend time exploring the lesser-known parts too. Don’t skip hiking to the Monastery for amazing views.
Jerash
While Petra gets all the attention, Jerash is also a must-see. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. You’ll walk through ancient colonnades, an amphitheater, and even temples. The city gives you a sense of what Roman life might have been like. It’s enough to blow the minds of any history lover.
The Dead Sea
Then there’s the Dead Sea. It’s the lowest point on Earth and one of the most unique natural wonders in the world. The salty water means you can float naturally without needing to swim. You’ll feel weightless here in a way that’s hard to explain until you try it. Just watch out for those tiny cuts—they sting because of the salt!
The Culture and People
Culturally, Jordan offers a diverse and welcoming experience. Family is very important in Jordanian life, and hospitality is deeply ingrained in the culture. It’s not uncommon for locals to invite visitors into their homes for tea. Jordanians take pride in showing off their food, history, and traditions.
One cool tradition you might experience while traveling in Jordan is having coffee with locals. Inviting someone for coffee is considered a way of welcoming someone, and it communicates respect. It’s always best to accept the offer—even if you’re in a rush, it’s polite to stay for at least a short while.
Food in Jordan
The food in Jordan is another reason to visit. Jordanian cuisine is diverse and delicious. One of the top dishes you’ll try here is “Mansaf”, which is considered the national dish. It’s made of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice. Jordanians usually serve it during special occasions, but you’ll also find it at local restaurants.
Don’t miss trying “Falafel” and “Hummus” either. They’re staple dishes, and you’ll find them at both upscale restaurants and street food stalls. If you love sweets, make sure to eat “Kanafeh”, a popular cheesy dessert soaked in sweet syrup.
The Bedouin Culture
In the southern part of Jordan, especially around Petra and Wadi Rum, you’ll encounter the Bedouin culture. These nomadic people have been living in Jordan’s deserts for centuries. Today, many Bedouins still maintain their traditional ways of life. It’s common for tourists exploring Wadi Rum to stay in a Bedouin camp, giving you a bit of insight into how these people live.
You’ll often see Bedouins herding sheep or offering camel rides near Petra. Spending time with them and learning more about their customs and daily lives can add a deeper level of meaning to your trip.
Best Times to Visit
Jordan has a desert climate, so summers can get really hot, especially in the southern regions like Petra and Wadi Rum. If you’re not a fan of high heat, the best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these months, temperatures are more moderate, and exploring outdoors is much more comfortable.
Winter is an option as well, but it can be especially cold in places like Amman and Petra. You might even see snow! Summers, as you can guess, are boiling. Coastal areas like Aqaba are a bit more bearable thanks to the sea breeze.
Adventure and Nature in Jordan
Jordan isn’t just about ruins and cities: it’s also a fantastic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can hike canyons, camp in the desert, and dive the coral reefs of the Red Sea. Wadi Rum stands out for its remarkable desert landscapes. You’ll see massive rock formations, endless sand dunes, and incredible sunsets. Whether you’re into rock climbing, hiking, or just want to take a 4×4 tour, Wadi Rum delivers.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Another off-the-beaten-path experience is visiting the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of Jordan’s varied ecosystems, including deserts, mountains, and fertile valleys. It’s perfect for trekking. You’ll find a range of accessible trails for all skill levels. Dana is also home to diverse wildlife, including rare species like the Nubian ibex.
Floating In The Dead Sea
If you need a break from hardcore trekking, relax by floating in the Dead Sea. Beyond the novelty of being able to float without effort, the mud and mineral-rich water are said to have healing properties—your skin will feel super soft afterward.
Getting Around
Traveling in Jordan is relatively easy, and the country is small enough that you can visit multiple sites within a few days. Public transportation isn’t extensive outside of larger cities, so many visitors either rent a car or join a tour for certain parts of the trip. That said, Amman has taxis, and there are buses that connect major cities like Amman, Petra, and Aqaba.
If you prefer not to rent a car, another popular option is taking advantage of private drivers or shared taxis, especially if you’re short on time. Some hotels and guesthouses can also help arrange transportation to tourist sites.
Final Thoughts
Jordan offers a little bit of everything: ancient history, stunning landscapes, friendly people, and delicious food. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Petra, floating in the Dead Sea, or sipping tea with Bedouins, you’ll leave with stories you’ll remember for a long time. It’s a unique blend of old and new, nature and culture. A visit to Jordan might just be the adventure you’re looking for.
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