Jordan Sightseeing - Our top highlights in the country

The desert state of Jordan is becoming an increasingly popular destination among travelers, vacationers, and backpackers. Bolle and Marco were there this year and are still absolutely thrilled by the country’s history and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the vastness of the Wadi Rum Desert, the fascinating rock city of Petra, swim in the Dead Sea, hike through deep gorges, and relax on the Red Sea. In the following article, I’ll introduce you to the top Jordan sights and highlights.

You should also know:

You should also know:
Jordan Sights
Aqaba on the Red Sea
Wadi Rum Desert
Rock City of Petra
The Dead Sea
Wadi Mujib
Capital City of Amman
Ma’in Hot Springs
Ruined City of Jerash (Gerasa)
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Mount Nebo
Baptismal Site of Bethany
Yarmouk Nature Reserve

Jordan Sights

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Aqaba on the Red Sea

The port city of Aqaba, with its 27 kilometers of coastline, is the country’s only beach resort on the Red Sea. Here, water sports enthusiasts will find everything they need, both above and below water. Aqaba is therefore also considered an El Dorado for water sports enthusiasts. The warm water makes the marine world an absolute highlight. Discover the biodiversity of the coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, water lilies, sea urchins, whale sharks, and much more. But don’t worry if diving adventures aren’t your thing. There’s also plenty to do above water, with waterskiing, sailing, surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing; there’s no room for boredom here.

Jordanien-Rundreise-Aqaba-Strand

Wadi Rum Desert

Are you an absolute desert fan, do you love dry sandy landscapes and the sight of a mesmerizing starry sky at night? Then you should definitely plan a trip to the Wadi Rum Desert. 1000-meter-high rocky mountains rise vertically into the air and amaze visitors. The desert is around 100 km long and up to 60 km wide. There’s a lot to experience here.

It’s best to book a guided tour, where you spend the night in one of the Bedouin camps there. This way, you can get a glimpse of desert life and enjoy the silence and vastness of this breathtaking desert in the evening. You can find our detailed article here: Wadi Rum Jordan.

Rock City of Petra

An entire city made of stone and rock? It’s hard to imagine. But the rock city of Petra is proof of this. It was discovered quite by chance in 1812 and is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World! It is estimated that only 20 percent of the city has been excavated to date, so it will remain exciting to see what else will be uncovered in the coming years.

You will be amazed during your visit. Bolle and Marco still rave about their days in the rock city of Petra. The Treasury, the facade street, the temple, and the monastery are particularly beautiful to see. Our detailed article on this topic can be found here: Petra in Jordan.

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea got its name because its 33% salinity makes it (almost) possible for small life to survive in this body of water. Among tourists and vacationers, it is primarily known for the fact that you can float on the surface like a buoy and not sink. This is due to the density of the water. If you’re traveling in Jordan, you shouldn’t miss this experience. However, since there are no public beaches, it’s not that easy.

My tip: Treat yourself to an overnight stay in one of the hotels and resorts with a private beach and access to the Dead Sea. You’ll pay only slightly more than at one of the paid bathing spots, and you’ll have an overnight stay with a delicious breakfast included. You can find our detailed article on this here: Dead Sea in Jordan – All Highlights and Tips.

Wadi Mujib

Just about 90 km outside the capital, Amman, lies Jordan’s “Grand Canyon.” At an altitude of 410 meters below sea level, Wadi Mujib is the lowest national park in the world. Water from seven different tributaries flows into this massive gorge, which is why you can experience plenty of action alongside the breathtaking scenery. With a guide, you can enjoy amazing water activities like canyoning. There are also hot springs in Wadi Mujib, which are said to have healing properties.

Capital: Amman

Amman is the capital of Jordan, and I’ll say this right away: Opinions are divided here. While some are totally enthusiastic about the city, others can’t stand it at all. I would advise you to plan at least a day and see for yourself. Immerse yourself in the bustling capital, which today is the financial and trading center, as well as the political center of the country.

The main attractions are the historic citadel, from which you have a view of the city, as well as the Roman Theater and the imposing King Abdullah Mosque. Bolle and Marco were also very impressed by the street art scene, the cool cafés, Rainbow Street, and the bustling souks. Everything about Amman here: The top highlights in Amman.

Ma’in Hot Springs

The Ma’in Hot Springs are located between the Dead Sea and Madaba. A series of hot mineral springs and waterfalls await you, forming a small oasis 264 meters below sea level. The Ma’in Spring Resort* is located about 37 km from the city of Madaba and offers every luxury you could wish for in terms of relaxation. Book a beautiful room, take advantage of the fantastic wellness offerings (mud packs, bubble baths, underwater massages, etc.), and enjoy a small, charming oasis amidst the rocky landscape. Book your day tour to the Hot Springs here*.

Ruined City of Jerash (Gerasa)

45 km north of Amman lies a small ancient city with a rich history. The enormous ruined city of Jerash is ancient, with a settlement history dating back 6,500 years. However, it was the Romans who transformed it into a metropolis with 20,000 inhabitants. Today, you can still admire numerous buildings and remains, such as two colossal temples, hundreds of columns, thermal baths, and triumphal arches, and immerse yourself in a fascinating history. Admission costs 10 JD, but is free with the Jordan Pass. You can book your day tour here*.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

Between Aqaba and Amman lies another scenic highlight: the 320-square-kilometer Dana Biosphere Reserve, which is the largest nature reserve in Jordan. Explore the reserve and its inhabitants on one of the many hikes through deep valleys and over high mountains. The reserve is home to 600 plant species and 250 bird, mammal, and reptile species.

The tours all vary in length and difficulty. The best time and the greatest selection are between April and October. However, some tours can only be started with a guide. Be impressed by the fascinating landscape, enjoy the view from the rocky plateaus, and hear the wolves howling. The entrance fee is 8 JD and is not included in the Jordan Pass.

Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo is located just 36 km south of Amman and, at 808 meters, offers a magnificent view of the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley. Moses is said to have visited this mountain shortly before his death because God wanted to show him the Promised Land of Israel, which he glimpsed from the summit. Guests from all over the world make pilgrimages to the mountain to commemorate this event at a gravestone. The Moses Memorial Church, with walls dating back to the 4th century, also stands enthroned on the mountain. You can book your day tour here*.

Bethany Baptismal Site

It takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car from Amman to reach the Bethany Baptismal Site on the Jordan River. It is said that Jesus was baptized by John at this spot. Since 2015, the baptismal site has been a World Heritage Site and is a popular destination for pilgrims, believers, and tourists to relive the act of baptism or to watch others being baptized. You can book an exciting tour to this historic site here*.

Yarmouk Nature Reserve

The Yarmouk Nature Reserve is part of an ecosystem management project that aims to establish a network of reserves and nature reserves in the Jordan Rift Valley region. Covering approximately 20 square kilometers, it is located in northwest Jordan on the border with the Golan Hills. Between the mountains and valleys, 59 different plant species grow and approximately 20 mammal species live. Very special inhabitants that you can discover in the reserve include the Arabian gazelle, the jungle cat, and the Asiatic jackal.

Jordan Sightseeing – The most beautiful highlights in the country