Best Places in Jordan for Adventure Seekers

Craving adventure? Explore Jordan’s stunning landscapes, from Wadi Rum’s vast desert to Petra’s ancient city. Hike the Jordan Trail, a 650km trek, or conquer canyons in Wadi Mujib. Dive into Aqaba’s coral reefs, or soar above it all in a hot air balloon. Discover thrilling activities like sandboarding, rock climbing, and canyoneering. Unforgettable experiences await. Read on to plan your Jordanian adventure!

Important information

• Wadi Rum offers desert adventures like jeep tours, camel rides, camping under the stars, hiking, and sandboarding.
• Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features various trails for hiking and exploring, including the iconic Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs. Little Petra offers a less crowded experience.
• The 650km Jordan Trail stretches from Um Qais to Aqaba, passing through diverse landscapes, historical sites like Petra and Wadi Rum, and natural wonders like the Dana Biosphere Reserve and the Dead Sea. Careful planning is needed due to the challenging terrain.
• Wadi Mujib offers canyoning experiences with varying difficulty levels, including the Siq, Malaqi, and Ibex trails. Proper gear like sturdy water shoes and a waterproof bag is essential.
• Aqaba is a hub for water sports, with excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in the Red Sea’s coral reefs. Other activities include jet skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.

Wadi Rum: Desert Adventures

Experience the magic of Wadi Rum, a breathtaking desert landscape. Explore the vast dunes on a thrilling jeep tour. For a truly immersive experience, camp under the starlit desert sky. Wadi Rum offers more than jeep tours and camping. Embark on a camel riding adventure, hike scenic trails, or challenge yourself with a daring climb up the sandstone mountains. The unique rock formations will leave a lasting impression.

Jeep Tours in Wadi Rum

Experience the thrill of a Jeep tour through Wadi Rum’s stunning desert landscape, where towering sandstone cliffs and narrow canyons showcase nature’s artistry. Local Bedouin guides enhance your journey, sharing insights into their captivating culture and the area’s unique rock formations. For a different perspective, consider a camel ride or a hot air balloon flight. Or, camp beneath the starlit expanse for a truly unforgettable Wadi Rum experience.

Overnight Camping Experiences

Experience the magic of Wadi Rum with an unforgettable overnight camping adventure. Sleep under a breathtaking blanket of stars, choosing between the comfort of a traditional Bedouin tent or the vastness of the open desert sky. Enjoy the warmth of crackling campfires and savor authentic Bedouin cuisine. This unique experience will leave you in awe of the desert night’s splendor.

Desert Exploration and Sandboarding

Wadi Rum is a magnet for thrill-seekers, especially those drawn to the exhilarating experience of sandboarding. Gliding down the dunes offers an unforgettable desert adventure.

Petra: The Adventurer’s Playground

Explore Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an adventurer’s dream. Hikers and explorers will love the rugged paths and steep climbs. Challenge yourself with the trek to the Monastery or ascend to the High Place of Sacrifice, both rewarding you with breathtaking views. Climbers will find irresistible rock formations and cliffs. The Siq, a narrow gorge, adds an element of mystery as it leads to the Treasury. Beyond the well-trodden paths, Petra offers less-traveled routes for a unique, crowd-free experience. Guided treks exploring the surrounding areas provide a fresh perspective on this ancient city, creating truly unforgettable memories.

The Rock-Carved City and Its Trails

Explore Petra’s diverse trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. The Main Trail leads to iconic landmarks:

• the Treasury,
• the Monastery,
• the Royal Tombs.

For panoramic views, hike:

• the High Place of Sacrifice Trail,
• the scenic Wadi Farasa Trail, featuring historical sites.

Experienced hikers can test their skills on the challenging climb to the Monastery.

Exploring Beyond Petra: Little Petra

Escape the crowds of Petra and venture north to Little Petra, or Siq al-Barid. This tranquil site offers a unique glimpse into Nabataean life, complete with fascinating rock-cut facades, hidden caves, and scenic trails. It’s the perfect complement to any Petra adventure.

Hiking the Jordan Trail

The Jordan Trail’s 650km route winds from Um Qais to Aqaba, revealing Jordan’s diverse landscapes. Experience lush valleys, rugged mountains, and the dramatic beauty of desert canyons. It’s an unparalleled journey through Jordan’s natural beauty, rich heritage, and renowned hospitality. This north-to-south trek begins near the Syrian border and culminates at the Red Sea, a 40-day adventure for those seeking a truly immersive experience.

While the trail offers breathtaking scenery, it also presents challenges. Unpredictable terrain and weather require careful planning and thorough preparation to ensure a safe and rewarding hike.

The 650km Journey from North to South

The 650-kilometer Jordan Trail traverses the country from north to south, revealing a diverse tapestry of landscapes. Hikers encounter towering mountains, lush valleys, and the vast expanse of the desert, experiencing Jordan’s natural beauty firsthand. The trail also offers a unique glimpse into Jordanian culture. Along the way, the route passes through ancient ruins, traditional villages, and Bedouin encampments, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and immersion.

Highlights and Challenges of the Trail

Experience an unforgettable adventure trekking the Jordan Trail, a captivating journey through Jordan’s diverse landscapes. From the majestic depths of desert canyons to the surprising lushness of green forests, the scenery is breathtaking. Discover ancient wonders like Petra and immerse yourself in the vibrant Bedouin culture as you hike this historic path. However, be prepared for the challenges the trail presents. Careful planning is essential for a safe and rewarding experience due to the rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited water sources.

Thrilling Activities in Wadi Mujib

Wadi Mujib offers stunning canyons and waterfalls ready for exploration. Adventure seekers can choose from a variety of experiences: the Siq Trail, the Malaqi Trail, and the Ibex Trail.

Proper gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable canyoning experience in Wadi Mujib. Sturdy water shoes with good grip are essential for navigating the riverbed and slippery rocks. Pack quick-drying clothing and protect valuables like phones and cameras in a waterproof bag. A helmet and harness are required for safe abseiling and scrambling. With the right preparation, your Wadi Mujib adventure awaits. Here’s a list of essential gear:

• Sturdy water shoes with good grip,
• Quick-drying clothing,
• Waterproof bag for valuables,
• Helmet and harness.

Conquering Canyons and Waterfalls

Embark on an exhilarating canyoning adventure in Wadi Mujib, starting with the popular Siq Trail, a captivating trek along the Mujib River. Picture yourself navigating between towering sandstone cliffs, swimming and scrambling through the refreshing waters of the gorge. For seasoned adventurers, more challenging canyons and waterfalls beckon, offering a true test of skill. However, these advanced adventures require essential gear and expert guidance.

Essential Gear for Canyoning

Aqaba: A Hub for Water Sports

Aqaba, a burgeoning hub for water sports, attracts scuba divers and snorkelers eager to explore the Red Sea’s remarkable coral reefs and translucent waters. Boat trips provide access to remote beaches and optimal snorkeling locations. Jet skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding further diversify Aqaba’s range of aquatic activities.

The Red Sea’s excellent visibility creates ideal conditions for underwater exploration. Guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured experience.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Aqaba

Discover Aqaba, Jordan, a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Red Sea’s coral reefs teem with vibrant marine life, and the crystal-clear water offers exceptional visibility, perfect for divers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll be amazed by the stunning underwater scenery. Explore captivating shipwrecks, such as the Cedar Pride, and unique underwater landscapes like the must-see Japanese Gardens. With easy access to guided tours and rentals, exploring Aqaba’s underwater world is effortless. Encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and a variety of other marine species. Aqaba’s underwater wonders await.

Exploring Coral Reefs and Marine Life

Aqaba, a jewel on the Red Sea, is a haven for snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Guided dives cater to everyone from beginners to experts. Equipment rentals are readily available for independent exploration. Discover fascinating fish, graceful sea turtles, and even mysterious shipwrecks. Beyond diving, Aqaba offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat trips to hidden beaches, providing a unique perspective on this stunning coastal environment.

Other Must-Do Adventure Activities in Jordan

Seeking an adrenaline rush? Jordan has you covered. From skydiving and paragliding to rock climbing and mountain biking, there’s an adventure for everyone. For a truly unique perspective, soar above Wadi Rum or Petra in a hot air balloon, taking in the breathtaking scenery below.

Skydiving and Paragliding Experiences

Experience the thrill of paragliding over Jordan’s magnificent landscapes. Witness breathtaking views from a unique aerial perspective as you soar above stunning scenery.

Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking Spots

Wadi Rum, a rock climber’s paradise, boasts sandstone cliffs with routes for every skill level. Beyond climbing, Wadi Rum offers breathtaking mountain biking experiences across its vast desert landscape. While Petra and Ajloun also provide climbing opportunities, Wadi Rum’s unique appeal lies in the combination of challenging climbs and exhilarating biking adventures.

Hot Air Ballooning Over Scenic Landscapes

Experience an unforgettable adventure soaring over Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes in a hot air balloon. Witness stunning panoramic views of Wadi Rum’s desert and float above the ancient city of Petra.

Unique Adventure Spots and Activities

Experience Jordan’s diverse landscapes. Ascend Jebel Umm Ad Dami, the nation’s highest peak at 1,854 meters, for stunning desert views. Discover the tranquility of Ajloun Forest Reserve, where oak and pine forests teem with wildlife. Finally, explore the historic Ajloun Castle, a captivating fusion of nature and history.

Jebel Umm Ad Dami: Highest Peak in Jordan

At 1,854 meters (6,083 feet), Jebel Umm Ad Dami stands as Jordan’s highest peak, overlooking the Wadi Rum desert in the country’s south. Hikers and adventurers are drawn to its challenging slopes.

Ajloun Forest Reserve: Hiking and Wildlife Tours

Explore the breathtaking Ajloun Forest Reserve, a nature lover’s paradise. Discover diverse plant and animal life while hiking scenic trails suited for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Enjoy the stunning natural beauty and lush forests with breathtaking views.