Jordan brings together ancient cities, desert landscapes, welcoming communities and the shores of the Red Sea. From walking through Petra’s sandstone passages to exploring Amman’s neighbourhoods, a journey here offers many ways to experience the country.
Its appeal extends beyond famous landmarks. Local food, traditional crafts, conversations with hosts and time spent discovering smaller communities can become equally memorable parts of your visit.
This introduction will help you understand Jordan and choose where to explore with Excursions Jordan.
Where Is Jordan?
Jordan is in the Middle East, in southwestern Asia. It shares land borders with Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel and the West Bank.
Its western landscape includes the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, while Aqaba, in the southwest, provides access to the Red Sea through the Gulf of Aqaba.
Jordan does not share a land border with Egypt, although the two countries face one another across the gulf.
Within Jordan, landscapes change considerably: elevated cities and northern hills give way to desert plains, sandstone mountains and warmer lowland areas. These differences help make a varied itinerary possible within one country.
A Brief History of Jordan
The territory of modern Jordan has a history stretching far beyond the establishment of the independent state in 1946. Today, its official name is the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Prehistoric communities, ancient kingdoms and successive empires have all left traces across the country. The Nabataeans developed Petra into an important centre connected to regional trade routes. Roman and Byzantine periods contributed cities, theatres, churches and mosaics, while Islamic dynasties added further layers of architecture and culture.
Later medieval fortifications and Ottoman-era heritage form other chapters of this history.
Rather than belonging to one period, Jordan’s archaeological landscape reveals how communities lived, traded and adapted over thousands of years.
Jordan’s People and Hospitality
Hospitality is an important part of Jordanian social life. Visitors may encounter it through a greeting in a shop, coffee offered by a host or a shared meal.
Jordanian society is diverse, with urban, rural and Bedouin communities, different religious traditions and varied family histories. Customs differ between individuals and settings, so approach encounters with curiosity rather than expecting everyone to share the same lifestyle.
Arabic is the official language, while English is commonly used in tourism settings. Learning a few expressions—such as “Marhaba” for hello and “Shukran” for thank you—can make everyday conversations more personal.
Places to Discover in Jordan
Petra: The Ancient Nabataean City
Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut architecture and dramatic sandstone setting.
The walk through the Siq towards Al-Khazneh, the Treasury, is a highlight for many visitors. Beyond it lie tombs, a theatre, temples, ancient streets and the stepped route towards Ad-Deir, the Monastery.
Petra is more than a collection of carved façades. Its water-management systems and surviving structures offer insight into how a substantial city functioned in this landscape.
Allow a full day for an introduction, or longer if you want to explore at a gentler pace. Nearby Wadi Musa provides a practical base.
Wadi Rum: Desert Landscapes and Local Knowledge
Southern Jordan’s Wadi Rum is known for sandstone mountains, open valleys, dunes and ancient rock inscriptions.
A guided excursion can introduce you to the landscape and the knowledge of local communities. Choose between shorter outings, walks and overnight stays according to your interests and abilities.
Confirm the route, camp facilities, transport and guiding arrangements before booking. Allow time to enjoy the setting rather than treating it only as a quick photo stop.
Browse desert adventures and other Jordan experiences
Amman: Jordan’s Capital
Amman combines historic landmarks with contemporary city life.
Visit the Citadel and Roman Theatre, explore downtown markets or spend time in neighbourhood cafés and independent shops. Museums and galleries offer further opportunities to understand the country.
The city also makes a rewarding introduction to Jordanian food, from bakery breakfasts and falafel to shared restaurant meals.
Aqaba: Jordan’s Red Sea Coast
Aqaba offers a coastal contrast to Jordan’s inland destinations.
Visitors can choose beach time, boat outings, snorkelling and diving experiences, alongside exploring the city’s food and historic attractions. Select marine activities suited to your swimming ability and check the provider’s equipment and supervision arrangements.
Aqaba can also fit into a southern itinerary with Petra and Wadi Rum.
Madaba and Mount Nebo: Mosaics and Heritage
Madaba is particularly known for its mosaic heritage, including the historic mosaic map in St George’s Church.
Explore its archaeological sites, workshops and streets, then consider a visit to nearby Mount Nebo, traditionally associated with Moses viewing the Promised Land.
Together, these destinations offer opportunities to explore artistic, religious and cultural history.
Jerash: A Window into an Ancient City
Jerash’s colonnaded streets, temples, theatres and monumental spaces make it a rewarding destination for travellers interested in archaeology.
Give yourself time to walk through the site and appreciate its scale. A knowledgeable guide can help explain how its buildings and public spaces once functioned.
The Dead Sea: A Different Pace
The Dead Sea’s highly salty waters and striking lowland setting offer a change from active sightseeing.
An established beach facility or resort can provide showers, shade and other practical amenities. Follow local bathing guidance and avoid splashing or putting your face underwater.
Food and Everyday Experiences
Food is an enjoyable way to explore Jordan’s communities and regional traditions.
Try hummus, falafel, foul, fresh bread and shared mezze, or discover dishes such as mansaf, made with rice, meat and a sauce prepared using jameed.
Markets, cooking activities and conversations with local providers can add depth to your journey. Explain allergies or dietary requirements clearly before ordering or joining a food experience.
Planning Your Visit
How Long Should You Stay?
You do not need a fixed minimum stay to enjoy Jordan. A short visit can focus on a few destinations, while a week or longer gives you more flexibility.
Choose your priorities and account for travel time. Trying to combine too many distant attractions in one day can leave little time to appreciate them.
Weather and Clothing
Conditions vary by season and elevation. Pack for each destination, including cooler evenings or winter weather where relevant.
Comfortable footwear, adaptable layers and clothing appropriate to the setting will serve you better than packing only for desert heat.
Transport and Activities
Compare transport options around your route, group size and preferred pace. Check collection points, admission charges, guiding and meals when booking activities.
For remote outdoor experiences, confirm the expertise and equipment appropriate to your plans.
Entry Requirements and Current Conditions
Check visa requirements for your nationality and chosen entry point. Review current official travel advice, insurance coverage and any restrictions affecting your route before departure.
Discover Jordan with Excursions Jordan
Jordan offers many ways to build a personal journey: ancient history, local food, desert exploration, cultural encounters or time beside the sea.
Excursions Jordan brings together activities from local providers across the country, helping travellers discover experiences that match their interests.
Compare the available options, review their inclusions and leave enough time for the places and people you encounter along the way.
Explore tours, activities and local experiences with Excursions Jordan