Jordan
· JO

Jordan

Jordan

Jordan: Where Ancient Wonders Meet Modern Marvels Step into Jordan, a land steeped in history and brimming with breathtaking landscapes. This captivating country, nestled in the heart of the Middle East, offers a tapestr…

#Middle East#Desert#Ancient Ruins#Dead Sea#Petra
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jordan.

Top Hotels in Amman

Top Flights to Amman

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Jordan.

Tours

Petra: The Rose City

Discover the ancient city of Petra with its rock-cut architecture and stunning landscapes.

Amman City Tour

Discover the vibrant capital city with its ancient ruins and modern culture.

Jerash Roman Ruins

Explore the well-preserved ancient Roman city of Jerash.

Shopping

Carakale Brewery

Visit Jordan's first craft brewery and enjoy local brews with an amazing view.

Shopping at Souk JARA

Explore this open-air market for unique souvenirs, crafts, and local goods.

Outdoor

Dead Sea Beach Relaxation

Experience the unique sensation of floating on the hyper-saline waters of the Dead Sea.

Wadi Rum Desert Adventure

Explore the stunning desert landscapes, rock formations, and Bedouin culture in Wadi Rum.

Aqaba Snorkeling

Dive into the Red Sea and explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jordan.

Currency
JD | JOD | Jordanian Dinar The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Population
11.4 million
Languages
Arabic, English, French
Average weather
Jordan
Jan
rain
13°4°
Feb
rain
15°5°
Mar
cloud
18°7°
Apr
sun
24°11°
May
clear
29°15°
Jun
hot
33°19°
Jul
hot
35°21°
Aug
hot
35°21°
Sep
clear
32°19°
Oct
sun
28°16°
Nov
cloud
21°11°
Dec
rain
15°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jordan.

What people love

Traveling to Jordan offers a unique and enriching experience with several pros:

  1. Historical and Cultural Richness: Jordan is home to numerous historical sites such as Petra, the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, and the Roman ruins of Jerash. Visitors can explore these wonders and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

  2. Natural Beauty: From the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum desert to the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan's natural beauty is diverse and breathtaking. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

  3. Warm Hospitality: Jordanians are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors. Travelers can experience the genuine friendliness of the locals and immerse themselves in the local culture through interactions with Jordanian people.

  4. Culinary Delights: Jordanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Middle Eastern flavors and influences. Travelers can savor traditional dishes like mansaf (a rice and lamb dish), falafel, and mezze platters while exploring the local food scene.

  5. Safety and Stability: Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with a stable political environment. Travelers can feel secure while exploring the country's attractions and interacting with the local population.

Overall, traveling to Jordan offers a rewarding and memorable experience filled with history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Jordan include:

  1. Safety concerns: While Jordan is generally considered safe for tourists, it is always important to stay informed about the current political situation and any potential security risks in the region.

  2. Weather extremes: Jordan experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters, which may not be ideal for all travelers. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations and pack accordingly.

  3. Limited transportation options: Public transportation in Jordan may not be as developed as in other countries, making it necessary to rely on taxis or rental cars for getting around.

  4. Language barrier: While many Jordanians speak English, especially in tourist areas, there may still be communication challenges in more remote areas or with older generations.

  5. Cultural differences: Travelers should be respectful of Jordanian customs and traditions, such as modest dress and conservative behavior, to avoid causing offense.

Overall, with proper planning and awareness of these potential challenges, a trip to Jordan can be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Jordan, officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a country located in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and Palestine (West Bank). Its capital and largest city is Amman.

Ancient History

  • Early Settlements: The region of modern-day Jordan has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period. Significant ancient settlements include Petra and Jerash.
  • Petra: This ancient city, carved into rose-red rock, was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom around the 4th century BCE. Petra was a significant trading hub and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Roman Influence: After the Nabataeans, the area became part of the Roman Empire. Jerash, known as Gerasa, is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns.

Islamic and Ottoman Period

  • Islamic Conquests: In the 7th century CE, the region was conquered by Muslim armies, becoming part of the Islamic Caliphates.
  • Ottoman Rule: From the early 16th century until the end of World War I, Jordan was part of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans established administrative control but faced numerous revolts.

20th Century and Independence

  • World War I and Arab Revolt: During World War I, the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule, led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali, was supported by the British.
  • British Mandate: After WWI, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate over Transjordan, a region within the British Mandate of Palestine.
  • Independence: In 1946, Jordan became fully independent as the Hashemite Kingdom of Transjordan, with Abdullah I as its king. The name was changed to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1949.

Modern History

  • Arab-Israeli Conflict: Jordan was involved in the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and later annexed the West Bank, which it lost to Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967.
  • Black September: In 1970, tensions with Palestinian groups led to a civil conflict known as Black September, resulting in the expulsion of the PLO from Jordan.
  • Peace Treaty with Israel: In 1994, Jordan signed a peace treaty with Israel, becoming the second Arab country to do so after Egypt.
  • King Hussein and King Abdullah II: King Hussein, who ruled from 1952 to 1999, is remembered for his efforts in maintaining stability. His son, King Abdullah II, continues to rule, focusing on economic reforms and modernization.

Significant Landmarks

  • Petra: Known for its archaeological significance and stunning rock-cut architecture.
  • Wadi Rum: A desert landscape known for its dramatic scenery and rock formations, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth's surface and a major tourist attraction.
  • Amman Citadel: An ancient site in the capital city with historical ruins and museums.

Cultural and Historical Influence

Jordan is known for its rich cultural heritage, blending Bedouin traditions with influences from various historical periods, including Islamic, Ottoman, and modern elements. The country plays a significant role in regional politics and maintains a reputation for stability in a turbulent region.