Open the left menu of Akaba. The most ancient sights of Jordan - photos and description Shopping in Aqaba - what to bring from Jordan
The Jordanian window to the sea is what many people call wonderful Aqaba. After traveling through endless deserts, this city is perceived as a breath of fresh air. Indeed, clean sea air has a healing effect on the human body.
Aqaba is a major seaport, the only one in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The main activity of maritime transport is the transportation of Iraqi oil and Jordanian phosphates. There is also an excellent regular passenger ferry service between Aqab and the cities of Egypt and Israel. Ferries depart from the Jordanian port to Nuweiba, Egypt, three times a week.
Connection
Communication systems in Aqaba have undergone intensive development. Mobile communications have gained the greatest popularity among the local population. For conversations within the country, and even with foreign countries, it is most profitable to purchase a SIM card from local operators " MobileCom" And " FastLink" The cost of domestic calls does not exceed $0.14 per minute. International calls cost approximately $1 per minute.
Many hotels equip their rooms with telephones from which you can make both long-distance and international calls. Regardless of the actual length of the call, many hotels charge a minimum rate of three minutes, which is about $6.
Not only cellular communications, but also network technologies have become widespread. There are small but cozy internet cafes on every street in Aqaba. All of them are equipped with modern computer technology. The cost of one hour of working with the World Wide Web is approximately $2. Many large hotels and inns offer their clients free Wi-Fi Internet access points.
Safety
The Jordanian resort of Aqaba has a reputation as a relatively safe city. No serious offenses were reported here. Pickpocketing or fraud is very rare against foreign citizens. Tourists should be careful about their personal belongings in crowded places. Large sums of money, valuables and jewelry should be left in your hotel or inn room before walking around the city.
Many health experts recommend that tourists from Europe and Russia receive several preventive vaccinations, in particular against tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, hepatitis and typhoid fever.
The sanitary situation in Aqaba is characterized as favorable. True, drinking unboiled water here is still unsafe. It is best to drink bottled drinks.
Fruits and vegetables purchased from the Aqaba market must be thoroughly washed before eating. And fish and meat should be thoroughly fried or boiled. These warnings are especially relevant in the summer, when the average air temperature exceeds +30 °C - at this time the risk of intestinal infections increases.
Business climate
Aqaba, as a modern developing resort, is currently of great interest to foreign investors. An excellent geographical location, developed infrastructure, excellent opportunities for organizing a fun and exciting holiday - this is what makes Aqaba a popular resort among tourists.
Many businessmen, especially from rich countries Persian Gulf, decide to invest their money in the development of the tourism industry in Aqaba. Today, the construction of modern entertainment complexes, discos and clubs, hotels and inns, as well as shopping centers is relevant for this Jordanian resort. All these objects are capable of bringing enormous profits to their owners in a fairly short period of time.
The coast of the Gulf of Aqaba is considered a free economic zone. This circumstance attracts many investors, because this status of Aqaba allows you to register a company with less material and time costs, reduce tax payments to 5%, and most importantly, provides an excellent opportunity to organize a business not only in Jordan, but also in neighboring countries of the Middle East and North Africa .
Real estate
Every year, the Aqaba real estate market is in great demand among foreign buyers. It is worth noting that recently the demand for housing in this beautiful corner of Jordan has significantly exceeded the supply. Many people want to buy a cottage on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba. Such a purchase will allow you not only to get the opportunity to live in one of the most popular resorts of the Red Sea, but also to significantly increase your financial condition, because every year in Jordan there is a steady increase in prices. For example, currently the cost of one square meter of residential space in Aqaba exceeds $1,000.
Absolutely all foreigners can purchase an apartment or cottage in the Jordanian resort of Aqaba; there are no restrictions on the sale of real estate in the country. The only purchase condition for non-residents of Jordan is the inability to sell the property within five years from the date of the transaction.
A stunning, action-packed holiday in the luxurious Jordanian resort of Aqaba requires some important rules.
Firstly, like in any other Muslim city, in Aqaba there are some religious requirements that must be observed. True, the status of a modern resort somewhat weakens the harsh laws of Islam. Women visiting Aqaba may wear light clothing and not cover their heads in public. However, public expressions of feelings, just like in the rest of Jordan, will cause a lot of indignation from local residents.
Secondly, women are strictly prohibited from being alone in restaurants and other entertainment venues. Such institutions can only be visited by men or married couples.
Thirdly, all foreigners who come here want to capture the unique views of the resort Aqaba. It is worth remembering that not all objects can be photographed. It is strictly prohibited to photograph military and government buildings and structures, as well as people in military uniform. In Aqaba, it is customary to ask permission for photography and video shooting from any person you want to capture as a souvenir.
And finally, when planning to purchase a souvenir you like, you should remember that expensive antiques, jewelry and antiques must be accompanied by the issuance of a receipt, which in special cases is asked by customs officials when returning home. Interestingly, items older than 100 years are prohibited from being exported outside of Jordan, as is Jordanian currency worth more than 300 dinars.
The Wadi Rum desert, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is located 60 km from Aqaba. Its landscapes are very diverse: mountainous terrain with deep canyons smoothly turns into separate plains with bushes and low trees. Wadi Rum is famous for its skyscraper rocks, which are loved by climbers from all over the world.
The highest skyscraper peak is Mount Um ad-Dami, whose height reaches 1830 meters, and not all climbers with professional experience can climb it. On the territory of some canyons there are ancient wells with rock paintings that are more than four thousand years old. Particularly exciting will be a visit to the Burda stone bridge, which is a rock just over half a meter wide, connecting the sides of a deep canyon at an altitude of 35 meters.
There are several ways to explore the Wadi Rum desert. For example, rent an SUV with a driver and guide to explore the main beauty during the day. Or travel for several days with a guide on a camel, spending the night in a Bedouin tent under the stars, trying local cuisine cooked over a fire. There is even the possibility of traveling through the desert in a hot air balloon.
Aqaba Airport
The location of this airport is strategically advantageous, since within a radius of 20 kilometers there are three countries: Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Israel. The airport has one runway 3000 meters long. The area of the airport is 2600 sq. meters. The terminal's current capacity is 1.5 million passengers per year.
Passengers at King Hussein Airport can take advantage of services such as a parking lot with 200 short-term parking spaces, a post office, a bank, cafeterias, a VIP lounge, a duty free shop, souvenir shops and a medical center. Photography is prohibited on the airport premises.
Although sandstorms are common in Jordan, the weather in this area is usually favorable and flight cancellations are very rare.
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King Abdullah Reef
King Abdullah Reef is a fantastic dive site, sheltered from the wind. This beautiful site is named after King Abdullah II, who is an avid diver. The diving depth in this place ranges from 6 to 40 meters, the distance to the diving center is 1 kilometer.
It is better to dive from the southern side of the slope with a gentler descent. The reef slope is covered with various types of corals of unusual colors. The flora and fauna of the Red Sea amazes with its diversity. Here you can see dolphins and octopuses cutting through huge schools of colorful fish. You need to watch out for turtles in this area; they can be aggressive. Fans of night diving have the opportunity to get acquainted with the nocturnal inhabitants of the sea - lobsters, crabs and shrimp.
Beginner divers dive under the supervision of experienced instructors after completing special courses at the diving center.
The high density of the reef's coral cover is ideal for underwater photography.
The unique and mesmerizing landscapes of the Jordanian desert Wadi Rum are well known to adventure lovers. The majestic red sandstone cliffs and endless dunes amaze with their beauty. The desert covers an area of more than 75 thousand hectares in the south of Jordan.
One of the many attractions of Wadi Rum is the Seven Pillars rock, located in the western part of the desert. Its height is about 70 meters. As a result of weathering over many millions of years, it acquired a bizarre shape. In 1980, it was called "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" after Lawrence's wartime book of the same name. Since prehistoric times, traces of rock paintings have been preserved on it, which are of great historical value.
Wadi Rum is ideal for hiking, mountaineering and trekking. In the tourist center, located near the rock, there is a bar and a cafe where you can have a snack and gain strength for your further journey. Those interested can take a camel ride and get acquainted with the indigenous inhabitants of the desert - the Bedouins.
Natural Bridge Burda
The majestic desert landscape of Wadi Rum in Southern Jordan is well known throughout the world. The high red sandstone cliffs and orange sand dunes are striking in their beauty and uniqueness. The desert covers an area of about 75 thousand hectares. On its territory there are many unique places popular among travelers.
One of these pearls is the Burda Bridge, located on the top of Mount Burda. This is a striking example of the creation of the destructive power of nature, practically untouched by humanity. The bridge-like arch is part of a huge rock mass. Its height is 35 meters. In order to get here, it will take more than one hour of serious effort. Having overcome all obstacles, tourists can enjoy the tranquility of the boundless emptiness, admiring the endless expanses of the desert.
On the territory of Wadi Rum there are cafes and bars, as well as souvenir shops.
Aqaba Castle
Aqaba Castle, or Mamluk Fort, is a significant historical monument. It was built to protect the port area and moored ships from raids by nomads during the prosperous era of the Roman Empire. The castle was rebuilt several times in the mid-16th century, during the reign of the last Mamluk sultan, Kansur al Ghuri.
The fort was built in the shape of a square, with a total area of about 250 square meters, with symmetrical round towers at the corners. Unique writings from medieval Islamic culture have been preserved on its walls. During archaeological excavations of ancient Ayla (present-day Aqaba), gates, ruins of a city wall with towers, a mosque and courtyards were discovered. The archaeological museum, located near the castle, displays an excellent collection of artefacts from the fort, including pottery, jewelry and coins.
Currently, the castle is being actively restored and is open to visitors. The Mamluk fort, standing on the seashore and surrounded by palm trees, is a picturesque backdrop for beautiful photographs to commemorate your holiday in Jordan.
Aqaba Marine Science Station
The marine scientific station, founded in 1986, is located on the southern coast of Aqaba. It was established at the University of Jordan with the aim of studying, conserving and rationally using the rich biodiversity of the coastal zone.
There is a huge amount of educational and outreach activities going on here, including lectures, slide shows and documentaries. Visitors can enjoy a conference hall, exhibition space, a souvenir shop and a restaurant.
Particularly noteworthy is the public aquarium, which displays numerous representatives of flora and fauna, as well as fantastic corals of various shapes and shades. At the diving center you can dive into the depths of the Red Sea under the supervision of qualified instructors, enjoying the beauty of the underwater world. The marine scientific station is a tourist attraction in Jordan, popular among tourists.
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Aqaba International Diving Center
The International Diving Center is a significant landmark of Aqaba. Visitors are offered a full range of services, accompanied by comfort, quality, safety and traditional hospitality.
The center provides the necessary equipment and accessories for diving. Under the guidance of qualified instructors, you can dive into the depths of the Red Sea to admire the beauty of its flora and fauna or explore the remains of shipwrecks. For adventure seekers, the center offers night dives, steeped in mystery and romance. There is a training center where visitors can begin or continue their diving education. Divers who have completed special courses have the opportunity to participate in competitions with valuable prizes.
Among the most striking and unforgettable dives are the “Japanese Garden” and “Rainbow Reefs”. The sea in the Gulf of Aqaba is always calm; dives are made in the area of the coastal reef that runs along the coastline. Diving lovers will find real pleasure here. Memories of these adventures will last a lifetime.
The most popular attractions in Aqaba with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Aqaba on our website.
Individual and group
There are crystal clear waters and good conditions for recreation. Thanks to the mountains, Aqaba has a special microclimate: you can swim all year round; in the winter months the water temperature does not drop below +22 °C, but in the summer the real heat comes only in the afternoon.
For temperature-sensitive tourists, it is better to come to Aqaba in autumn, winter or spring: summer can be too hot.
- Do you need a Jordan visa to travel around the country when entering through Aqaba?
- Do I need to get a visa to Jordan when flying to Aqaba via Amman?
Search for air tickets to Amman (the nearest airport to Aqaba)
Transport
Hundreds of yellow private taxis ply the streets picking up tourists and locals; they are all practically the same, except that some cars are equipped with air conditioning. It is better to agree on the fare in advance, before boarding.
Minibuses connect residential areas of Aqaba with the city center. Passengers can board and disembark anywhere along the route, with stops in Aqaba available upon request. The central station is located opposite the police office on King Talal st, less than 10 minutes walk from the center (Ayla square, Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque).
Maps of Aqaba
Weather forecast
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Cuisine and restaurants
The Italian restaurant Casalingo at the Movenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay (South Beach Road - Tala Bay Area; opening hours: 18:30 to 23:30) has a modern Mediterranean design and features a wood-fired pizza oven. Casalingo offers traditional Italian dishes, seasonal dishes, excellent pizza and a fine selection of wines. The dishes are prepared by an Italian chef. Visitors can eat on the terrace or in the air-conditioned room.
The Red Sea Grill at Movenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba (not to be confused with the first one, located on King Hussein St, P; opening hours: 19:00 to midnight) is open only during the summer and serves fresh seafood. For example, grilled fish and shellfish combined with Afro-Arab cuisine. Add to this a wonderful view of the Gulf of Aqaba from the restaurant terrace.
In the city center you can find take-out food - hummus, falafel, shawarma.
Alerzal or Al-Erzal (Aqaba Gate complex) is a Lebanese restaurant where you can taste national cuisine and Mezza combined with seafood and grilled meat. This is the best Lebanese restaurant in Aqaba, which has two rooms - on the water and on land. The specially equipped Harmattan Boat offers a sophisticated lunch or dinner cruise around the bay, where you can see the beautiful coral of the Red Sea (with a dive instructor on board).
One of the city's most famous restaurants is located at The Royal Yacht Club. Here you can find seafood cuisine at prices comparable to Western ones. Service is fast. Open - for dinner only.
Not far from the Yacht Club, behind McDonald's, there is an excellent 35 Degrees East (longitude of Aqaba), which opens only after noon. European food is prepared very well here, including steaks and seafood. Prices are European, higher than in other restaurants in Jordan. Also notable is the Syrian Palace restaurant (Raghadan Street, Hayl al madina, on the right side of the Al Shuala Hotel).
Aqaba is a duty-free zone and is partially isolated from the rest of Muslim Jordan. Many shops offer a wide selection of inexpensive alcohol and cigars.
Beaches of Aqaba
Most of the beaches belong to hotels, the rest are publicly accessible, and mostly locals relax on them. In the northern part of the city the beaches are sandy, closer to the south they are rocky, with coral reefs close to the shore.
Aqaba Hotels
The most luxurious hotels in Aqaba, with an international audience and cuisine, are Movenpick Resort and Intercontinental. But the resort also has a lot of budget hotels - without much chic or glitz, but a clean room and a hearty breakfast are guaranteed.
A little advice that applies to all hotels in Aqaba: rooms overlooking the sea, of course, look more prestigious than those overlooking the streets, but since the sea is located in the south, the constant sun in a “sea” room can be very hot.
The Tala Bay luxury complex has opened 9 km from Aqaba with its own 2 km long beach, private estates, infrastructure and hotels. One of them is already operating - Radisson SAS Tala Bay.
Diving in Aqaba
There are 6 scuba diving centers in Aqaba offering training according to the standards of the PADI, SSI or BS-AC associations. Underwater visibility averages 35-40 m. During plankton blooms (April-May), visibility can decrease to 10-15 m, but at the height of summer it reaches 50 m or even more.
The most popular diving center, The Royal Diving Center, located 15 km south of the city, has its own sandy beach with one of the most interesting dive sites. The Al Kazar Hotel's Sea Star Dive Center offers beginner training and night dives upon request. Al Morjan Club has showers, a snack bar, equipment rental and a swimming pool; You can get there by taxi or free bus from the diving center at the Al Kazar Hotel.
In total, the resort has about 30 noteworthy dive sites, which are easily reached by boat. Many reefs are very close to the shore, so you can enjoy the underwater world there lightly, armed with just a mask and snorkel. Even beginners can find an interesting and easy dive there.
Guides in Aqaba
Entertainment and attractions of Aqaba
The fortress near the embankment in the city center, the archaeological excavations on the Tell al-Khalifa hill, the Aqaba Research Station Aquarium, the Museum of Antiquities adjacent to the fort, as well as the museum in the house of Hussein Ben Ali, the great-grandfather of King Hussein.
Who doesn't like to warm their bones on the warm sand near the gentle sea? As a rule, most citizens choose standard holiday destinations - Turkey, Thailand, Vietnam. But there are also those who prefer more exotic beaches. For example, the resorts of Jordan on the Red Sea.
Red sea
Don’t think that if the sea is called Red, then the water in it is of that color. Not at all. Its name is a literal translation from Greek, and there are several versions of a similar name. One of them, for example, connects the origin of such a name with the cardinal directions: in the myths of many nationalities, each cardinal direction has its own color. And in the south it is red (the Red Sea is just in the southern part). Another version suggests that the algae in this sea are colored scarlet, and it is because of them that the reservoir received its name.
The Red Sea is inland in the Indian Ocean basin, located between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It washes the African and Asian shores: for example, Egypt, Israel, and Jordan have access to it. In size it reaches four hundred and fifty thousand square kilometers.
A special feature of the Red Sea is its incredibly clear water. In the north there are two gulfs by the sea - Aqaba and Suez. It is the first of them that washes the shores of Jordan.
Jordan
The country is an Arab state. Its closest neighbors are Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestine. Jordan is a kingdom, the leader of the country is the king, who has his own council of ministers.
Almost the entire territory of the kingdom is occupied by deserts and semi-deserts. However, vacationers come to this country because of the stunning beauty of the Dead and Red Seas, as well as to see a new wonder of the world - the ancient city of Petra.
Jordan: resorts on the Red Sea
The most popular resorts in Jordan are: Aqaba, Amman, Wadi Rum, Petra, Jerash, Irbid and the Dead Sea. In close proximity to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba are the city of the same name, as well as Wadi Rum and Petra. Strictly speaking, in Jordan there are almost no resorts on the Red Sea - but first things first.
Gulf of Aqaba
Most of the coastal area of the Gulf belongs to Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Only a small piece of land in the north is shared between Israel and Jordan. It is there that the only seaport in Jordan with the same name as the bay is located, also known as the popular resort of Aqaba.
In addition to the fact that people come here for the crystal clear waters and rich underwater fauna, the Gulf of Aqaba is also an excellent place for diving. This sport brings about ten percent of the region's income.
Before dwelling in more detail on the sights and life of Aqaba, it is worth at least briefly mentioning Petra and Wadi Rum. Tourists in reviews of Jordan note the extraordinary beauty of these places.
Petra
As mentioned above, the ancient city of Petra is considered one of the new wonders of the world. It is located north of Aqaba; it takes about three hours to drive from one city to another. In general, the location of Petra is quite interesting - from one sea (Dead) to another bay (Red). Another peculiarity of Petra is that it was built in the mountains, which change their color depending on the time of day. At different times you can see Petra in pink, orange or red colors.
The age of this city is more than two thousand years. Thriving in antiquity, later, abandoned and dilapidated, it fell into oblivion until the beginning of the nineteenth century, when a researcher who happened to be here was inspired by the beauty of the ancient settlement. However, real excavations began in Petra only a century later, and it was added to the UNESCO heritage list even later - only at the end of the last century.
Since Petra is not just a city, but a whole park with attractions, you have to pay to enter it. In terms of Russian currency, the cost of a ticket is just over four thousand rubles. It’s not cheap (especially considering the road from Aqaba and back), but there is something to see here: a treasury more than forty meters high - a palace carved out in the first century (how old!). It is called a treasury because, according to legend, enormous wealth was previously stored in it. The area of the facades, the Roman amphitheater, the royal tombs, the Ad-Dair monastery - all this and much more can be seen in Petra with your own eyes.
Wadi Rum
The Wadi Rum desert (its other name is the Valley of the Moon) is located only sixty kilometers from Aqaba. Tourist and excursion routes constantly run here.
Wadi Rum is Jordan's most famous natural attraction, and if you are visiting this country, the wonderful valley is definitely worth seeing. It has a tourist campsite, and guides conduct excursions both on their own and by car or even a camel - it all depends on the wishes of the guests. In addition, extreme sports enthusiasts can go snowboarding on the blood-red sands of the desert. Another option to see Wadi Rum is to view the valley from a bird's eye view in a hot air balloon. The combination of black mountains, carved by the wind, and pink sands will not leave anyone indifferent. By the way, in spring there is a green paradise here, inhabited by birds and flowers.
Aqaba
There are few resorts on the Red Sea in Jordan, or rather, Aqaba is the only one. The length of its coast is only twenty-seven kilometers, but this figure fits a sufficient number of beaches, hotels and recreation areas. Aqaba is famous for its more relaxed attitude to appearance - the Islamic religion here is not as strong as in other cities, and women dress much more simply. In addition, shopping is quite developed here, so there is plenty to do.
It has been said more than once about the stunning underwater world and clear water, but the beauty of Aqaba is by no means limited to this, so sitting exclusively on the beach, you will not recognize the city. While here, you should definitely take a walk through the narrow streets of the village - this is the only way to immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. Old houses are replaced by elite new buildings and fashionable hotels, luxurious mansions. Until eight in the evening there is silence on the streets of the city, but after and until about midnight life is in full swing.
In addition to lying on the beach, tourists can visit a wide variety of attractions, windsurfing, fishing, diving, water skiing and many other activities.
Where to stay in Aqaba, Jordan?
There are plenty of accommodation options in Aqaba, despite the fact that the resort is relatively small. Tourists can choose accommodation to suit every taste and budget - both richer and more modest. Luxury hotels are located in the new Tala Bay area, nine kilometers from Aqaba. The hotels here are five-star, each with its own beach, tennis court, fitness center, shops, and beauty salons. And, of course, the service is at the highest level.
But such hotels are not available to everyone who comes to the resorts of Jordan on the Red Sea. Prices here are prohibitive for many. Such tourists can find cheaper accommodation - and even if there are no beauty salons and royal services, clean, comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts can be found in every hotel in Aqaba.
For comparison: a room at the Amir Palace hotel will cost about 2,300 rubles. per day, and at the Cedar Hotel - already 3800 rubles. Captains Hotel, which ranks ninth among Aqaba hotels, will let guests through its doors for four and a half thousand, and Movenpick Resort, which is in fifth place, costs eight four hundred. Reviews on the prices of holidays in Jordan on the Red Sea are different, but, in general, everyone agrees that you can find an option for every pocket.
Aqaba: what to see?
Aqaba has a lot of different attractions that are definitely worth seeing. For example, the Aquarium of the Marine Science Center - it contains hundreds of different species of fish, invertebrates, and corals. This is a kind of underwater reserve. It is also worth visiting the Archaeological Museum in Aqaba, where all the local history is collected. And off the coast of the city is the wreck of the Cedar Pride, a cargo ship that the Prince of Jordan donated to divers to scuttle. The depth at which the ship lies is shallow enough that even beginners in scuba diving can dive and see it with their own eyes.
Another attraction of Aqaba is the Mamluk Fort, a several centuries old fortress that was formerly a military facility. You can visit it for free when you purchase a ticket to the Archaeological Museum, so it makes sense to combine two in one. By the way, near the fort there is an Akaba symbol - a huge flag installed thirteen years ago.
Since Aqaba is both a seaside resort and a port, it is not surprising that one of its main attractions is a marine park. A museum, shops, excursions, the opportunity to dive with an instructor - all this awaits visitors on the territory of the park complex.
Jordan is an Arab kingdom in the Middle East, considered the safest and most civilized of the Arab countries. There are many unique historical monuments, impressive landscapes, access to the Dead Sea and the excellent resort town of Aqaba. Let's take a look at the best attractions in Jordan. There will be photos and descriptions too :). I counted nine of the most important attractions, but of course there are many more.
A map with the sights of Jordan will be at the end of the article.
9. Aqaba
Aqaba, with its idyllic setting and warm climate, is one of the region's top resorts. The city is located on the shores of the Red Sea, surrounded by the medieval city of Ayla. Aqaba is home to pristine sandy beaches, diverse marine life and excellent hotels with world-class amenities. Of course, the main entertainment in Aqaba is diving. After all, this is the Red Sea, with its coral reefs and fish of all colors of the rainbow.
Resort holidays in Jordan are expensive, but surprisingly, last year in November and early December, Russian tour operators offered very interesting prices for holidays in Aqaba. You just need to know when to go to this country. Let me remind you that Russians do not need a visa to Jordan; more precisely, they issue one immediately upon arrival for 30 days, which is especially pleasant.
Aqaba borders Eilat (Israel). Just 15 km and you are already in another country. I think it’s a good idea to visit two countries in one trip.
8. Jerash
Located a few tens of kilometers from Amman, the city of Jerash is the second most popular destination in Jordan. This is a very ancient city, whose history goes back thousands of years. Jerash boasts Roman heritage and attractions such as Hadrian's Arch, the Hippodrome and the Jerash Archaeological Museum.
Every year (in July) a large festival of culture and art is held in Jerash, which attracts connoisseurs from all over the world. The festival lasts for two whole weeks and amazes with its scope.
7. Dead Sea
Located on the border of Palestine and Jordan, the Dead Sea is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon and the lowest point on the surface of the planet. The sea has an incredible level of salinity. The Jordan Valley includes only a small part of the sea, but this does not prevent you from enjoying all its beneficial properties, relaxing at one of the resorts and admiring the beautiful sunsets.
The Dead Sea coast on the Jordan side is literally strewn with hotels of all different classes. Popular resorts: Amman Touristic Beach, O Beach, Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea (in the Swaymekha area), Dead Sea Spa Hotel - a large complex.
6. Dana
Comprising many granite and sandstone cliffs, Dana Nature Reserve is the largest in the country. The location is ideal for hiking and photography due to its sweeping canyons and spectacular valleys. Be sure to stock up on your camera and you will be guaranteed fantastic pictures.
There are several exciting routes (from 1 to 6 hours) throughout the reserve. Travelers can come here for a few days and stay in a tourist camp or campsite.
5. Madaba
Madaba is a small town 40 km from Amman. The main value of Madaba is the grandiose mosque and mosaics from the Umayyad and Byzantine eras. The most famous mosaics are the map of the Holy Land and Jerusalem. Surprisingly, Madaba is the only Christian city in Jordan.
If you are planning to come to Madaba for a few days, then be sure to visit the hot waterfalls of the Hammamat Main resort.
4. Wadi Rum
Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is Jordan's largest desert and features breathtaking peach-colored sand dunes. Travelers will definitely be fascinated by the unique colors and lunar landscapes of the place. You can explore the region on an off-road vehicle or camels, and spend the night in a camp admiring the countless stars.
You can go to the “sandbox” (as the locals affectionately call Wadi Rum) on a guided tour for 30 euros. The excursion in Russian “” starts from Aqaba. The drive is only an hour, but it is better to go to the desert in spring or autumn. This is the most pleasant time for a walk. The duration of the excursion is 3 hours.
3. El Mujib
The El Mujib or Arnon River is one of the most remarkable features of the country. Around the river, in the Wadi Mujib area, there is a reserve that is the lowest in the world - it is located at a depth of 500 meters. The place has stunning scenery and biodiversity. A visit to the reserve will be interesting for all active travelers.
2. Amman
Amman is the cultural, political and financial capital of Jordan and one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. The city is full of historical and modern attractions.
On a hill above the modern city are the ruins of the Citadel, including the Temple of Hercules, Byzantine churches and Roman theaters. Travelers should also explore the city's traditional markets, especially those who enjoy authentic oriental products.
1. Petra
Ancient Petra - the pearl of Jordan! Considered the country's best attraction, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Petra was lost for centuries and rediscovered at the beginning of the 19th century. The archaeological park contains many amazing monuments, including a treasury, a Roman theater, a monastery, as well as countless burial halls, temples and gates.
“Petra” literally means “stone,” and indeed, the entire city was hewn from stone by its patient inhabitants. It is better to come to Petra for two days to thoughtfully and with pleasure see all its treasures. If you don’t have much time, it is better to book a tour in Russian in advance. With "" in 4 hours you will get acquainted with all the sights of Petra and listen to an interesting story from the guide. Please note that there are additional costs (transport and tickets).
There are two international airports in Jordan - in Aqaba (named after King Hussein) and Amman (named after Queen Alia). Aqaba is designed for resort tourism and is more suitable for those who come to Jordan to relax on the Red Sea. From Aqaba you can go to Petra and Wadi Rum.
Amman Airport is the country's main air gateway. It is more suitable for travelers who want to improve their health on the shores of the Dead Sea, as well as for hunters of historical attractions. Local airlines fly between the two cities; travel time is only 1 hour. The cost of a one-way flight is about 4,500 rubles. A round trip ticket will be cheaper.