Jordan

The Kingdom of Jordan, in the Middle East, which once captivated ancient travelers, continues to enthrall a whole new generation as a modern, vibrant nation. There are many astounding sites to be seen, including the capital Amman, the magnificent Nabataean city of Petra, the spectacular Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, Lawrence of Arabia’s famous Wadi Rum, and many other historical and impressive sites throughout the Kingdom.

A well-travelled bridge between sea and desert, east and west, Jordan is a land of mesmerizing beauty and contrasts, from the Jordan Valley, fertile, ever-changing, to the remote desert canyons, immense and still. Visitors can explore splendid desert castles or bathe in the restful waters of the Red Sea.

Marveling at herds of gazelles and Oryx and migrating birds, camping amidst the grandeur of Wadi Rum or Dana Reserve, trekking the ancient caravan trails from the highlands of Moab and Edom, hiking the wooded hills of biblical Gilead, or experiencing the unique, cleansing mud baths of the Dead Sea are just a few examples of the treasures awaiting visitors to this unique kingdom.

Petra

Petra, in southern Jordan, is an important archaeological site and a UNESCO world heritage site. It was established possibly as early as the 4th Century BC as the capital city of the Nabataean Kingdom (the Nabateans were nomadic Arabs) with a population of around 20,000 inhabitants. It is the number one attraction on trips to Jordan and remained unknown to Europeans until it was rediscovered in 1812. It is carved into the rose-colored rock face and is a vast complex initially reached either on foot or by horse-drawn carriage via the Siq, a narrow gorge, a half a mile long flanked by high cliffs.  

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, also known as The Valley of the Moon, is a valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan and is quite isolated and mainly inhospitable to human life. It offers one of the easiest glimpses of the desert in the region. It is possible to stay over at one of the desert camps on a Jordan vacation to really savor Wadi Rum. The only permanent inhabitants are several thousand Bedouin nomads keeping the area unspoiled. There are a large number of soaring cliffs which adds to the attraction. Jebel Rum is the second-highest peak in Jordan rising directly above the Wadi Rum valley. 

Best time to travel

March - May - whole country overall;        September - November - diving in Aqaba

Recommended duration

5-12 days

Pairs well with

Middle Eastern countries, Egypt, Turkey

Cost factors

This country is a moderate budget country.

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