Touring in Jordan

Jordan is a spellbinding land of rust-red deserts and Bedouin nomads, scattered with the remnants of the civilisations that once held sway here. The fertile Jordan Valley traces the eastern edge of the Holy Land and is home to many important Biblical sites, including the spot where Jesus is said to have been baptised. As you follow in the sandy footsteps of T.E. Lawrence you’ll discover the exceptional hospitality of the Jordanian people; this remains a safe and welcoming country in which to travel, in spite of the issues affecting its neighbours.

The famous ‘Rose City’ of Petra is the focal point of most itineraries, and it’s incredible to think that this place lay hidden from view for some 600 years, concealed by a deep valley and known only to the local tribesmen. Take some time to explore the temples and tombs, including the famous Treasury, then journey south into the desert expanse of Wadi Rum. Here you can ride a camel amongst the dunes and weather-beaten cliffs, or spend an unforgettable night camped under the stars with the Bedouin. The mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea are another must-see, while to the north you’ll find impressive Roman ruins and Crusader castles.

Touring Highlights of Jordan

• The ancient Nabataean city of Petra, hewn from the rose-red desert rock, is one of the most breathtaking man-made sights on earth.
• Spend the night at a desert camp and discover why T.E. Lawrence fell in love with the magnificent dunes and spectacular sunsets of Wadi Rum.
• The Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth at 400 metres below sea level, is famous for its salt-heavy, mineral-rich water, and is steeped in religious significance, near to the spot where John is said to have baptised Jesus.
• The laid back resort town of Aqaba is an ideal base for exploring the deserts of southern Jordan and the colourful coral reefs of the Red Sea.
• The remarkably well preserved Roman ruins of Jerash, a sprawling city that dates back nearly 2,000 years, make for an easy day trip from Jordan’s capital, Amman.