Petra
Region: Ma''an Governorate, Wadi Musa
Cultural heritage
UNESCO World Heritage ancient city carved in rose-red sandstone. Famous as the setting for Indiana Jones.
Tourism in Jordan
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Wadi Rum
Region: Aqaba Governorate
Natural
Called the ''Valley of the Moon'', a red desert with striking rock formations. Filming location for The Martian.
Dead Sea
Region: Karak–Madaba border
Natural
A salt lake where you can float due to high salinity, popular for mineral-rich mud packs.
Jerash Ruins
Region: Jerash Governorate
Cultural heritage
Well-preserved Roman city ruins. The oval plaza and colonnaded streets are magnificent.
Ajloun Castle
Region: Ajloun Governorate
Cultural heritage
12th-century Ayyubid mountain fortress. Scenic spot overlooking surrounding olive groves.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Region: Tafilah Governorate
Natural
Vast reserve with canyons and dry steppes. Paradise for hiking and birdwatching.
Mount Nebo
Region: Madaba Governorate
Religious heritage
Mountaintop where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. Panoramic view of the Dead Sea and Jordan River.
Karak Castle
Region: Karak Governorate
Cultural heritage
Massive Crusader fortress with labyrinthine underground passages.
Roman Theater (Amman)
Region: Central Amman
Cultural heritage
2nd-century Roman theater seating 6,000. Still hosts concerts today.
Aqaba Beach
Region: Aqaba Governorate
Natural
Red Sea diving and marine sports hub. Rich in coral reefs and shipwrecks.
Pella (Tell el-Husn)
Region: Irbid Governorate
Cultural heritage
Decapolis city with Hellenistic ruins scattered throughout.
Mujib Nature Reserve
Region: Madaba Governorate
Natural
Adventure park for canyon trekking through gorges flowing into the Dead Sea.
Umm Qais
Region: Irbid Governorate
Cultural heritage
Roman ruins of Gadara. Distant views of Golan Heights and Sea of Galilee.
King''s Highway
Region: Amman–Aqaba
Scenic route
Trade route dating from Biblical times. Scenic drive traversing canyons and plateaus.
Suggested itineraries
World Heritage Highlights 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea
Loop from Amman through the south. One full day at Petra, tent camping in Wadi Rum, and relax at Dead Sea resort on the final day.
Northern Roman Ruins and Mosaics Tour
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Madaba, Mount Nebo
In-depth course through historical heritage near the capital. Mosaic workshop experience available in Madaba.
Outdoor Adventure Week
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Dana Reserve, Mujib Canyon, Wadi Rum Hot Air Balloon, Aqaba Diving
Active itinerary packed with hiking, canyoning, stargazing, and diving.
Travel tips
- Strong sun in summer requires a hat and sunscreen.
- Amman and Petra can drop below freezing in winter; bring warm clothing.
- Female travelers should carry a shawl for mosque visits and air-conditioning.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in urban cafes, but purchasing a SIM is safer in rural areas.
- Tipping guideline: 5–10% even when service charge is included makes a good impression.
- Tap water is not potable in many areas. Use bottled water.
- Confirm taxis use meters. For long distances, negotiate in advance.
- Weekend is Friday and Saturday. Government offices and banks may close Thursday afternoon.
- Ruins have slippery stone steps; shoes with traction recommended.
- Watch for signs prohibiting photography at military or government facilities.
- Dead Sea entry stings severely on open wounds; check beforehand.
- During Ramadan, restaurants get crowded after sunset; book early.