12 Things to Do in Jordan

You’ll find Jordan packed with incredible experiences that won’t break your budget. From floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea to exploring Petra‘s ancient corridors, this Middle Eastern gem offers adventures for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to Roman ruins, desert landscapes, or underwater coral reefs, Jordan delivers authentic experiences without the tourist traps you’d find elsewhere. Here’s how you can maximize your time and money while discovering what makes this destination so special.

Explore Petra’s Treasury and Monastery via the Siq

When you enter Petra through the Siq, you’ll set out on a dramatic 1.2-kilometer journey that builds anticipation with every step. This narrow gorge, flanked by towering pink sandstone walls, takes about 20 minutes to walk without stops.

You’ll spot ancient Nabataean features like the Obelisk Tomb along the way before reaching the spectacular Treasury reveal.

The Treasury’s 40-meter-high façade showcases incredible 1st-century craftsmanship, blending Hellenistic and Nabataean styles. Despite its name, it’s actually King Aretas IV’s mausoleum. You can spot bullet holes from historical tomb raiding attempts on the facade.

For the ultimate challenge, climb 820 steps to reach the Monastery—it’s larger than the Treasury and equally impressive. Though demanding, the trek’s worth it.

Pack water and comfortable shoes; you’ll need both for this unforgettable archaeological adventure.

Wander Through Jerash’s Roman Ruins and Colonnaded Streets

Just 48 kilometers north of Amman, you’ll discover Jerash—Jordan’s most spectacular Roman archaeological site and often called the “Pompeii of the East.” This remarkably preserved ancient city sprawls across 200 acres and offers an authentic glimpse into Roman urban planning without the crowds you’d face at similar European sites.

Start at Hadrian’s imposing 13-meter triumphal arch, then enter through the unique Oval Forum surrounded by 56 towering Ionic columns.

Walk the 800-meter Cardo Maximus, lined with hundreds of Corinthian columns that create stunning photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the South Theater, which still hosts performances and seats 3,000 people.

The Temple of Artemis‘s remaining columns showcase the site’s former grandeur. This ancient city once flourished as part of the Decapolis League, a confederation of ten cities formed in the first century AD.

Allow at least half a day to explore properly.

Float in the Dead Sea’s Mineral-Rich Waters

About an hour’s drive from Amman lies one of Earth’s most extraordinary natural phenomena—the Dead Sea, where you’ll experience the surreal sensation of effortless floating in water ten times saltier than the ocean.

You can’t sink here, even if you try. The water’s density makes floating on your back or belly completely natural. Cover yourself in mineral-rich mud for a therapeutic spa treatment that’ll leave your skin silky smooth.

The minerals help with conditions like psoriasis and eczema. The Dead Sea sits 430 meters below sea level, which causes rapid evaporation and creates the extreme salt concentration that makes floating possible.

Stick to public beaches to save money rather than resort fees. Limit your time to under 20 minutes to prevent skin irritation, and don’t submerge your face—the salt stings. Shower immediately afterward to rinse off salt residue.

Take a Jeep Tour Through Wadi Rum’s Desert Landscape

While the Dead Sea offers otherworldly floating, Wadi Rum delivers an equally surreal experience on land—vast red desert landscapes that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped onto Mars.

You’ll explore iconic rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and filming locations from Star Wars and The Martian during your Jeep adventure.

A 4-hour tour hits the major highlights including Lawrence’s Spring, Khazali Canyon, and Burdah Rock Bridge for around 35 Jordanian Dinars per person.

Your English-speaking Bedouin guide will share local stories while you hike through canyons, enjoy desert tea breaks, and try sandboarding on massive dunes. For a deeper desert experience, consider multi-day tours that include overnight stays at Bedouin camps with dinner under the stars.

Book directly at desert camps to save money, and arrive early to catch the stunning sunset over red sand dunes.

Visit the Baptism Site of Jesus at Al-Maghtas

Beyond Jordan’s dramatic desert landscapes, you’ll find one of Christianity’s most sacred sites at Al-Maghtas, where Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist over 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an authentic spiritual experience without breaking your budget.

You can explore ancient Byzantine churches, monasteries, and baptismal pools dating back to the 4th century. Walk down marble steps to the Jordan River, where you’re welcome to be baptized or simply reflect at this biblically significant location.

The site includes fascinating archaeological remains like mosaics, inscriptions, and carved crosses left by centuries of pilgrims. The area also features Tell al-Kharrar, known as Elijah’s Hill, which holds special significance in Jewish tradition as the location associated with the prophet Elijah’s ascent to heaven.

Entry fees are reasonable, and guided tours provide valuable historical context. Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate history, Al-Maghtas delivers a profound cultural experience that’s uniquely Jordanian.

Climb Mount Nebo for Biblical Views Over the Jordan Valley

Standing 800 meters above the Jordan Valley, Mount Nebo delivers one of Jordan’s most spiritually significant experiences at a fraction of what you’d pay for similar biblical sites elsewhere. You’ll follow Moses’s footsteps to the exact spot where he viewed the Promised Land before his death.

The panoramic views stretch across the Dead Sea to Jericho and Jerusalem on clear days – fundamentally the same vista Moses witnessed.

Don’t miss the 4th-century Moses Memorial Church and stunning Byzantine mosaics depicting monastic life. The 9-by-3-meter mosaic is particularly impressive. You’ll also find the distinctive serpentine cross sculpture that symbolizes both Moses’ bronze serpent miracle and Jesus’ crucifixion.

Drive from Madaba (10km) or Amman (30-40km) for easy access. The Franciscan-managed site combines natural beauty with profound biblical history, making it an essential stop that won’t strain your budget.

Discover Byzantine Mosaics in Madaba’s Churches

Just 30 kilometers southwest of Amman, Madaba transforms into an open-air museum where you’ll walk directly over some of the world’s finest Byzantine mosaics without paying museum entrance fees.

Start at the Church of Saint George to see the famous Madaba Map from 570 AD—it’s the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land and costs less than a coffee to enter. The mosaic map depicts Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jesus’ baptism site, and other biblical locations across the region.

Don’t miss the Church of the Apostles, where you’ll find an intact 578 AD mosaic signed by master craftsman Salamaino. The marine life and symbolic figures showcase incredible detail using naturally colored stone cubes.

Head to the Church of the Virgin Mary for geometric masterpieces, then explore the Prophet Elijah Church for well-preserved floors featuring winged ribbons and interlaced crosses from 595 AD.

Experience Amman’s Roman Theatre and Downtown Markets

After exploring Madaba’s ancient mosaics, head back to Amman where you’ll find one of Jordan’s most impressive Roman ruins right in the heart of the bustling capital.

The Roman Theatre, built in the 2nd century AD, seats 6,000 spectators across three tiers carved into Jabal Al-Jofeh hill. You’ll notice how it faces north to shield audiences from direct sunlight—clever Roman engineering that still works today. The lower tier was reserved for elite citizens, while soldiers occupied the middle section and common people sat in the upper areas.

The theatre’s advanced acoustics let you hear clearly from any seat, so test it out by whispering on stage. After exploring the structure and its two small museums, wander through downtown’s vibrant markets.

You’ll discover traditional crafts and spices at budget-friendly prices while soaking up authentic local atmosphere.

Go Canyoning in Wadi Mujib’s Seasonal Waters

When April arrives, Wadi Mujib transforms into Jordan’s premier wet canyoning destination, offering you an invigorating adventure through narrow sandstone gorges and cascading waterfalls.

You’ll wade, swim, and climb through the popular Siq Trail during the April-October season, with mandatory guides ensuring your safety through rope-assisted climbs and natural pools.

Book ahead through Wild Jordan since they limit visitors to 150 daily. At 31 dinars ($44), your entrance includes guiding and life jackets.

Arrive early—the site opens at 8 AM with last entry at 2 PM. You’ll need basic swimming skills and moderate fitness for this 2-3 hour round trip.

The trail spans the 212 km² Biosphere Reserve that stretches from the Karak Mountains all the way to the Dead Sea.

Bring water shoes, waterproof gear, and snacks. The adventure center offers limited facilities, so pack essentials like sunscreen and towels for this revitalizing escape.

Snorkel or Dive Aqaba’s Red Sea Coral Reefs

While Wadi Mujib offers freshwater thrills through rocky canyons, Aqaba’s Red Sea presents an entirely different aquatic adventure beneath crystal-clear waters. You’ll discover over 200 coral types and 1,000 fish species in one of the world’s most diverse reef systems. Popular spots like South Beach and Japanese Garden Reef are easily accessible from shore, making them perfect for beginners and budget travelers.

The best snorkeling conditions occur April through November when water temperatures stay comfortable at 22-29°C. You’ll encounter parrotfish, clownfish, sea turtles, and occasionally whale sharks in waters with 20-30 meter visibility. The pristine waters remain remarkably calm throughout most of the year, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.

Many dive centers offer affordable day trips with equipment rental and BBQ lunches. Both day and night excursions reveal different marine life, giving you multiple underwater experiences.

Hike the Trails of Dana Biosphere Reserve

Where else can you experience Jordan’s most biodiverse ecosystem while hiking through four distinct climate zones in a single day? Dana Biosphere Reserve offers exactly that adventure.

You’ll discover over 600 plant species and spot wildlife like sand cats, wolves, and ibex across terraced gardens, rocky canyons, and desert landscapes.

The flagship 16km Wadi Dana Trail descends from Dana village (1,700 meters) to Feynan Eco Lodge, mostly downhill and manageable for average hikers. The trail takes approximately 6-7 hours to complete, depending on your pace and photo stops.

Shorter options include the 8km White Dome Trail or 2km Nawatef Trail if you’re pressed for time.

Many trails require mandatory guides and advance booking through the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature.

Pack sturdy hiking shoes and expect varied terrain from gravel descents to narrow canyon scrambles.

Explore the Crusader Fortress at Kerak Castle

How often do you get to explore a fortress that’s witnessed nearly 900 years of crusades, sieges, and conquests? At Kerak Castle, you’ll walk through immense double-level arched halls where Crusaders once sheltered from enemy missiles and housed their horses.

Built in the 1140s on a strategic hilltop, this fortress controlled vital trade routes between Damascus, Egypt, and Jerusalem.

You’ll discover both Crusader stonework and later Muslim additions throughout the castle’s upper and lower sections. Don’t miss the underground water systems and rock-cut tunnels that helped defenders survive lengthy sieges.

The rectangular towers offer spectacular views of the surrounding plateau. The castle features massive limestone walls and defensive towers that provided crucial lookout points during its military heyday.

Entry costs just a few dinars, making this historically rich experience incredibly budget-friendly for any Jordan itinerary.

The Sum Up

You’ll find Jordan offers incredible value for adventure seekers and history buffs alike. From Petra’s ancient wonders to Wadi Rum’s starlit camping, you can experience world-class attractions without breaking the bank. Pack comfortable hiking shoes, bring reef-safe sunscreen for Aqaba, and don’t forget your camera for those Instagram-worthy shots at the Treasury. Whether you’re floating in the Dead Sea or exploring Roman ruins, Jordan delivers unforgettable experiences that’ll leave you planning your return trip.