Top Attractions for Family Travel in Jordan
Dreaming of an unforgettable family adventure? Discover Jordan, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the rock-cut city of Petra, float in the Dead Sea, and experience the magic of Wadi Rum. From thrilling jeep tours to relaxing beach days, Jordan offers something for everyone. Learn about Nabataean culture, hike in nature reserves, and immerse yourselves in Jordanian traditions. Start planning your extraordinary family journey today!
Important information
- Explore Petra’s rock-cut architecture and learn about its history.
- Experience Wadi Rum’s desert beauty with jeep tours and camel rides.
- Float in the Dead Sea and enjoy its therapeutic mud.
- Relax on Aqaba’s beaches and explore coral reefs.
- Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather.
Top Attractions for Family Travel in Jordan
Explore Petra
Discover the rock-cut architecture of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into the wonders of this ancient city.
Experience Wadi Rum
Embark on exhilarating jeep tours and camel rides amidst the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.
Float in the Dead Sea
Enjoy the unique experience of effortlessly floating in the Dead Sea.
Relax in Aqaba
Unwind on Aqaba’s beautiful beaches and enjoy thrilling water sports.
Discover History in Jerash
Explore the fascinating Roman ruins of Jerash.
Hike in Dana Biosphere Reserve
Hike amidst stunning scenery and diverse wildlife in the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Immerse in Jordanian Culture
Explore bustling local markets and participate in a traditional cooking class, perhaps learning to prepare Mansaf, the national dish.
Jordan offers an array of experiences for an unforgettable family adventure.
Explore the Ancient City of Petra
Discover Petra, an ancient city carved into sandstone cliffs, with your family. Expert guides will bring history to life as you walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the iconic Treasury. Explore the site by camel for a unique perspective. Hike to the Monastery for breathtaking panoramic views. Interactive exhibits cater to all ages, delving into Nabataean culture. Informative signs and visitor centers will enrich your experience. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra’s rock-cut architecture and ingenious water systems will leave a lasting impression. Plan your unforgettable journey today.
Walk the Siq: Explore the narrow gorge leading to the Treasury.
Ride a Camel: Experience Petra from a unique perspective.
Hike to the Monastery: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
Visit Interactive Exhibits: Learn about Nabataean culture.
Explore with Guides: Let experts bring history to life.
Discover the Wonders of Wadi Rum
Experience an unforgettable family adventure amidst Wadi Rum’s breathtaking desert landscapes. Explore the stunning rock formations and create lasting memories with a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
Thrilling Adventures
- Embark on a thrilling jeep tour through the desert’s rugged terrain.
- Challenge older children and teens with exhilarating hiking and rock climbing excursions.
Relaxing Experiences
- Enjoy a leisurely camel ride, taking in the serene beauty of the desert.
- Soar above the landscape in a hot air balloon for a unique perspective.
Camp under the stars in a traditional Bedouin tent for an incredible stargazing experience and cultural immersion.
Relax by the Dead Sea
Experience the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest point, where the incredibly high salt content allows effortless floating.
Families especially enjoy the therapeutic Dead Sea mud.
Resorts lining the shore offer amenities such as swimming pools and spas, ensuring a relaxing and unique vacation.
Enjoy Beach Activities in Aqaba
Aqaba’s stunning coral reefs invite visitors to explore them through snorkeling and diving. Families can enjoy a gentler introduction via glass-bottom boat tours, while thrill-seekers might prefer the excitement of other boat trips. Beyond the reefs, Aqaba also offers thrilling water parks and luxurious resorts, as well as the simple pleasure of relaxing on the beach. Enjoy diverse aquatic activities in Aqaba:
- Snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs.
- Family-friendly glass-bottom boat tours.
- Exhilarating boat trips for adventure seekers.
- Thrilling water parks and luxurious resorts.
- Relaxing on the beach.
Thrills at Saraya Aqaba Waterpark
Saraya Aqaba Waterpark is Jordan’s largest waterpark, providing a wide variety of exciting rides and attractions perfect for families. Beyond the thrilling waterpark, Aqaba offers the wonders of the Red Sea, teeming with colorful marine life ideal for snorkeling and diving. Families can also relax on the beach or take scenic boat trips. Several resorts and other water parks provide additional entertainment options, ensuring Aqaba has something for everyone.
Things to Do in Jordan with Kids
Explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through interactive exhibits at the Amman Children’s Museum. Learning comes alive through play.
Embark on a family-friendly hike through Wadi Mujib, a stunning river canyon. The Siq Trail offers a gentle stroll through shallow water. Remember to check water levels and trail conditions beforehand.
Discover diverse plant and animal life at the Ajlun Nature Reserve. Spot various bird species and other fascinating creatures. Consider a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the ecosystem.
Visit the Azraq Wetland Reserve, a desert oasis teeming with wildlife. Observe migrating birds and other animals. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Unwind at Ma’in Hot Springs. Soak in therapeutic, mineral-rich waters and waterfalls. The springs are reputed to have healing properties, offering pure relaxation.
Interactive Fun at the Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum offers exciting, hands-on science exhibits for kids to explore, making learning fun.
Adventure Hiking in Wadi Mujib
Wadi Mujib, located in the mountains of Jordan, offers families a spectacular river canyon hiking experience. Its main attraction is a massive rocky crevasse, promising a true adventure.
Wildlife Encounters at Ajlun Nature Reserve
Looking for a family-friendly hike? Ajlun Nature Reserve offers trails suitable for all ages, even the youngest hikers. This reserve, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, provides opportunities to spot Roe Deer. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the numerous avian species. Situated within the vast Ajloun Forest, the reserve boasts stunning and varied landscapes, creating a truly beautiful hiking destination.
Explore the Azraq Wetland Reserve
Jordan’s Azraq Wetland Reserve provides a unique ecosystem and sanctuary for endangered species, such as the Arabian oryx. Migratory birds also find refuge in this important habitat. Families visiting the reserve can explore its fascinating history, including an ancient, naturally formed water management system with remarkable pools, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of the past.
Relaxation at Ma’in Hot Springs
Escape to Ma’in Hot Springs for a rejuvenating family retreat. This tranquil oasis offers a unique experience far from the crowded tourist scene. Cascading waterfalls and inviting pools soothe and refresh, promoting wellness and a truly relaxing getaway.
Family-Friendly Accommodations in Jordan
Aqaba boasts family-friendly resorts with great amenities. These include kids’ clubs, water parks, and babysitting services. For a unique experience, consider a Bedouin camp. Families can enjoy storytelling, stargazing, and camel rides there. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable Jordanian adventure.
Stay at Family-Friendly Resorts in Aqaba
Aqaba offers numerous family-friendly resorts with various activities for children. Kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and playgrounds are common amenities, with many resorts providing direct beach access. The InterContinental Aqaba Resort and Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba are great choices for a comfortable family vacation. Other exceptional resorts offer age-specific programs, ensuring a memorable experience.
Camping Experience in a Bedouin Camp
Experience the magic of Bedouin culture with a night under the desert stars. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and captivating activities such as stargazing. Savor authentic Bedouin cuisine and immerse yourself in their rich heritage. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
Practical Information for Family Travel in Jordan
Planning a trip to Jordan? The Jordan Pass offers incredible value, covering over 40 attractions, including iconic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash. It also waives your visa fee. Choose from the Jordan Wanderer, Explorer, or Expert pass based on the duration of your Petra visit.
Best Time to Visit Jordan for Families
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal temperatures for exploring with children. The weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
Seasonal Considerations
Summers (June-August) can be extremely hot, particularly in desert areas like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. Winters (December-February) are generally mild, but you might experience some rainfall.
Getting Around Jordan
Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available within cities. For independent exploration, rent a car. JETT buses efficiently connect major cities like Amman, Petra, and Aqaba.
Exploring Further
For longer trips or venturing off the main routes, consider hiring a driver. This provides flexibility and local expertise.
What is the Jordan Pass?
Explore Jordan’s wonders with the Jordan Pass, your key to saving both time and money. This all-inclusive pass unlocks over 40 incredible attractions, including must-see sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash. As a bonus, it waives the visa fee, making your trip even more affordable. To benefit from the Jordan Pass, your stay must be a minimum of three nights. Choose from three tiers based on how many days you want to experience the magic of Petra.
Best Time to Visit Jordan with Family
Experience Jordan’s beauty during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) for the most pleasant temperatures.
These shoulder seasons offer perfect conditions for exploring Petra, Wadi Rum, and other outdoor sites.
Summers (June to August) can be intensely hot in the desert.
Winters (December to February) are milder but experience more rainfall.
For an ideal family trip, spring or autumn is recommended.
Transportation Tips for Families
Traveling in Jordan with your family offers several convenient options. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car, allowing you to explore at your own pace. If you prefer a budget-friendly alternative, Jordan boasts a comprehensive public transport system. Buses and taxis connect cities across the country, with Jett buses serving many popular tourist routes. For shorter distances, taxis and ride-hailing apps are readily available.
I’m Zayd El-Mahdi, a desert guide, traveler, and passionate blogger living in the heart of the Sahara. Growing up among the vast dunes and hidden oases, I’ve spent my life exploring the beauty and history of this incredible desert. As a guide, I have the privilege of sharing the stories and wonders of the Sahara with travelers from all over the world, showing them not just the landscape, but the rich culture and timeless spirit of this place. For me, the Sahara is more than just a desert—it’s a living story. Through my blog, Sands of Time, I offer a glimpse into my daily life, share travel tips, and introduce the hidden gems of the Sahara. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural insights, or simply a sense of the vastness of the desert, I hope to inspire you to discover the magic of this incredible land. The Sahara is my home, and I’m honored to guide others through its mysteries and beauty.
