About Jordan
Jordan stands as a vibrant collage of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep-rooted history that beckons travellers from around the globe. This Middle Eastern gem offers more than just dramatic desert vistas and historical ruins; it’s a place where the past meets the present, cultures intertwine, and every corner tells a story. From the mystical allure of Petra to the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan promises a plethora of enriching experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers.
Jordan's historical tapestry is richly woven with threads of early civilisation and grand empires. Petra, the jewel in Jordan's archaeological crown, was carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs by the Nabateans over 2,000 years ago. As you walk through the Siq and witness the majestic Treasury emerge from the shadows, it's easy to feel transported back in time.
Wadi Rum, known for its towering cliffs and crimson sands, offers another kind of escape—this time into the vast tranquilly of the desert. Exploring this lunar landscape via a jeep safari can feel like navigating another planet, especially under the canvas of star-lit skies.
In northern Jordan lies Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Here, you can wander among colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, and spacious public squares that narrate stories from millennia ago. The city’s annual festival brings these ruins to life with music and cultural performances that bridge the past with today.
Amman, Jordan's capital, is a city layered with history yet pulsing with modern life. The ancient citadel presides over a cityscape of white houses and below sprawling, bustling markets like Al Bukharyeh, where spices and traditional crafts offer an immersive sensory feast.
Jordan’s natural reserves are as varied as they are stunning. The Dead Sea's mineral-rich waters invite visitors to float effortlessly while enjoying therapeutic benefits known since antiquity. Further south at Aqabah along Jordan’s small coastline, coral reefs teem with colourful marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling or diving.
The Dana Biosphere Reserve showcases different bio-geographical zones ranging from mountainous highlands to rocky slopes and sand dunes. Home to endangered species such as the Arabian oryx and Nubian ibex, Dana offers trails that provide both challenges for hikers and rewards with breathtaking views.
To truly understand Jordan, one must experience its culture through its people. Bedouin hospitality is legendary; sharing a cup of sweet tea or a plate of mansaf (lamb cooked in yoghurt) under a tent canopy can be one of your most memorable cultural experiences.
Music and dance play an integral role in Jordanian society. Traditional dabke dance performances provide an energetic glimpse into local customs that have been passed down through generations.
Jordanian cuisine is a sumptuous feast for the senses. From traditional dishes like zarb (bedouin barbecue) cooked underground to street food staples such as falafel and shawarma overflowing with flavoursome ingredients, every meal invites you to taste Jordan’s history and cultural diversity.
This guide delves into the heart of Jordan's tourism, exploring local sweets like knafeh—a cheesy pastry soaked in sweet syrup—are must-try delicacies often enjoyed with a strong cup of Arabic coffee or mint tea.
