For most people, knowledge of Jordan tourism begins and ends with Petra. Petra is an awesome start but certainly not the end of wonderful sites and experiences to be had in Jordan.
First and foremost, Jordan tourism is for travelers who are fascinated by history and the physical remains of lost civilizations. If they also happen to appreciate spectacular natural scenery, traveling history buffs will love Jordan.
PETRA
Around 2,000 years ago, the Nabatean city of Petra was a thriving center of trade. What remains today are hundreds of mostly tombs and temples carved into the red canyon walls. With its unique architectural style, grand scale and dramatic setting, Petra is simply enthralling.
JERASH
Jerash is the modern city on the site of ancient Gerasa, a Hellenistic-Roman city. Gerasa is considered one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.
MADABA
The city of Madaba is a rich repository of mosaics discovered in excavated Byzantine-era churches and homes.
MT. NEBO
Mt. Nebo is traditionally believed to be where Moses died. Moses led the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. After wandering in the desert for 40 years, he viewed the Promised Land from Mt. Nebo but died before entering.
DEAD SEA
The Dead Sea forms part of the border between Jordan and Israel. With its surface at approximately 1,400 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth. Because the Dead Sea has no outlet other than evaporation, the sea has a very high mineral concentration, which makes it practically impossible to sink. The geology and geography of the Dead Sea come together to create a unique environment that is conducive to relaxation, rejuvenation and fun.
AMMAN
Amman is the capital city of Jordan. It is a safe, cosmopolitan city with some impressive Roman and Umayyad remains.
DESERT CASTLES
The so-called desert castles of Jordan are a series of lodges/country estates built mostly in the 7th and 8th centuries by the ruling Umayyads. Many of these can be seen on an easy day trip from Amman.
WADI RUM
Wadi Rum is a large desert area in southern Jordan with magnificent mountains and rock formations. Some visitors are happy with a few hours off-roading in Wadi Rum with a local driver and guide.
Camping overnight or for several days is a great option for the slightly more adventurous traveler.
AQABA & THE RED SEA
Aqaba is Jordan’s port on the Red Sea. The Red Sea offers exceptional diving and snorkeling. Some of the world’s best dive sites are there. Petra and Wadi Rum can be visited on day trips from Aqaba.
CRUSADE-ERA CASTLES
Kerak and Shobak are two of the fortresses built by crusaders attempting to take the Christian holy lands from Muslim rulers. Ajloun Castle was built by the Muslim Ayyubids to defend against the crusaders.
BETHANY BEYOND JORDAN
Bethany Beyond Jordan is the site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of Jordan tourism sites, but it’s a very good start. Check out our published Jordan tours or contact us to discuss creating a custom program.
We offer both privately escorted and group bus tours beginning in Amman or in Israel.
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